Itinerary

A week in Costa Rica sounds like an adventure of a lifetime! With your love for road trips, raccoons, turtles, volcanoes, and a bit of pampering at a spa, I’ve crafted an exciting itinerary just for you. Buckle up, and let’s hit the road!

## Day 1: Arrival in San José

Morning:

• Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José. Pick up your rental car and get ready for your adventure!

Afternoon:

• Head to the National Museum of Costa Rica to get a taste of the country’s rich history and culture.

Evening:

• Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional dishes like Casado or Gallo Pinto.

Overnight:

• Stay in San José. Rest up for the journey ahead!

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## Day 2: Arenal Volcano

Morning:

• Drive to Arenal Volcano National Park (about 3 hours). The views are stunning, so take your time and enjoy the scenery!

Afternoon:

• Explore the park’s trails and get up close to the majestic Arenal Volcano. Keep an eye out for raccoons; they love to hang around the park!

Evening:

• Treat yourself to a relaxing evening at one of the hot springs in the area, like Tabacón or Baldi. Soak in the warm waters surrounded by nature.

Overnight:

• Stay in La Fortuna, the town near Arenal.

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## Day 3: La Fortuna Adventures

Morning:

• Start your day with a thrilling zip-lining adventure through the rainforest canopy. The views are breathtaking!

Afternoon:

• After lunch, visit La Fortuna Waterfall. You can take a dip in the cool waters and enjoy the lush surroundings.

Evening:

• Head back to your hotel for a spa treatment. Many hotels offer fantastic spa services, so indulge in a massage or facial to unwind.

Overnight:

• Stay in La Fortuna.

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## Day 4: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Morning:

• Drive to Monteverde (about 3.5 hours). The winding roads through the mountains are beautiful, so enjoy the ride!

Afternoon:

• Visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Take a guided tour to learn about the unique ecosystem and keep an eye out for wildlife, including raccoons!

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try the fresh, local coffee; Monteverde is famous for it!

Overnight:

• Stay in Monteverde.

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## Day 5: Turtle Time at Tortuguero

Morning:

• Early morning drive to Tortuguero (about 4 hours). You’ll need to take a boat to reach the village, so prepare for a scenic ride!

Afternoon:

• Explore the Tortuguero National Park. Take a guided boat tour through the canals to spot wildlife, including turtles if you’re lucky!

Evening:

• If you’re visiting during turtle nesting season (July to October), take a night tour to see the turtles laying their eggs on the beach. It’s a magical experience!

Overnight:

• Stay in Tortuguero.

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## Day 6: Relaxation and Spa Day

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take a morning stroll along the beach or through the village.

Afternoon:

• Head back to the mainland and drive to a nearby spa resort (consider heading to the Nicoya Peninsula). Spend the afternoon indulging in spa treatments and relaxation.

Evening:

• Enjoy a sunset dinner at the resort, soaking in the beautiful views and the sounds of nature.

Overnight:

• Stay at the spa resort.

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## Day 7: Return to San José

Morning:

• After breakfast, take your time to enjoy the resort amenities one last time.

Afternoon:

• Drive back to San José (about 3-4 hours). Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to explore a bit more of the city or do some last-minute shopping.

Evening:

• Return your rental car and head to the airport for your departure.

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And there you have it! A week filled with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences in Costa Rica. Don’t forget your camera to capture all those raccoons, turtles, and stunning landscapes! Safe travels! 🌴✨