Itinerary

A week in Costa Rica sounds like an amazing adventure, especially with friends. Let’s create a fun and exciting itinerary that includes Manuel Antonio and Monteverde, along with some other fantastic spots. Buckle up for a road trip filled with stunning landscapes, wildlife, and unforgettable experiences!

## Day 1: Arrival in San José

Morning:

• Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José. Pick up your rental car (make sure it’s a 4x4 for those mountain roads!).

Afternoon:

• Head to your hotel in San José to drop off your bags. Grab a bite at a local restaurant—try some “casado” (a traditional Costa Rican dish).

Evening:

• Explore downtown San José. Visit the National Theatre and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum if you have time. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery, and maybe check out a bar for some live music!

## Day 2: San José to Manuel Antonio

Morning:

• After breakfast, hit the road to Manuel Antonio (about a 3-hour drive). Enjoy the scenic views along the way!

Afternoon:

• Check into your hotel or Airbnb. Then, head to Manuel Antonio National Park. Spend the afternoon hiking the trails and spotting wildlife—monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds are all around!

Evening:

• Relax on the beach and watch the sunset. For dinner, try a beachfront restaurant—fresh seafood is a must!

## Day 3: Manuel Antonio Adventures

Morning:

• Start your day with a guided tour of the national park. A guide can help you spot wildlife you might miss on your own.

Afternoon:

• After the tour, enjoy some beach time! Playa Espadilla is great for swimming and sunbathing. You can also try out some water sports like paddleboarding or surfing.

Evening:

• Dinner in town. Check out the local nightlife—there are plenty of bars and clubs to enjoy!

## Day 4: Manuel Antonio to Monteverde

Morning:

• After breakfast, pack up and drive to Monteverde (about a 3.5-hour drive). The road is bumpy, but the views are worth it!

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Monteverde and check into your accommodation. Grab lunch at a local café, then head to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Explore the trails and marvel at the unique flora and fauna.

Evening:

• Dinner at a cozy restaurant. If you’re up for it, consider a night walk tour to see nocturnal wildlife!

## Day 5: Monteverde Adventures

Morning:

• Start your day with a thrilling zip-line tour through the cloud forest! It’s an exhilarating way to see the stunning landscape from above.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Monteverde Butterfly Garden or the hummingbird gallery. You can also check out the hanging bridges for a different perspective of the forest.

Evening:

• Enjoy a nice dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Costa Rican coffee for dessert!

## Day 6: Monteverde to La Fortuna

Morning:

• After breakfast, drive to La Fortuna (about a 3.5-hour drive). Keep your eyes peeled for beautiful views of Arenal Volcano along the way!

Afternoon:

• Check into your hotel and grab lunch. Then, visit La Fortuna Waterfall. You can swim in the pool at the base of the waterfall—just be ready for a bit of a hike down!

Evening:

• Relax in one of the hot springs in the area. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 7: La Fortuna to San José

Morning:

• If you’re up for it, start your day with a hike in Arenal Volcano National Park. The trails offer stunning views of the volcano and the surrounding rainforest.

Afternoon:

• After lunch, begin your drive back to San José (about a 3-hour drive). Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to explore more of the city or do some last-minute shopping.

Evening:

• Return your rental car and head to the airport for your departure. If you have a late flight, enjoy a farewell dinner in San José!

Tips:

• Make sure to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable hiking shoes.
• Keep your camera ready; you’ll want to capture all the beautiful moments!
• Always check the weather and road conditions, especially in the rainy season.

I hope this itinerary helps you and your friends have an unforgettable week in Costa Rica! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌴🌺