Itinerary

Costa Rica is a beautiful country with so much to offer, and a week is a perfect amount of time to soak in its natural beauty, wildlife, and vibrant culture. Let’s create a relaxed yet adventurous itinerary for your 7-day trip, complete with day plans, tours, and local tips.

## Day 1: Arrival in San José

Morning/Afternoon:

• Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José.
• Check into your 4-star hotel. I recommend the Grano de Oro Hotel, a charming boutique hotel with a lovely restaurant and a great location.

Evening:

• Take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood. Visit the National Theatre and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum if time allows.
• Dinner at Restaurante Silvestre, known for its innovative Costa Rican cuisine.

Local Tip: Don’t forget to try a traditional “casado” dish, which is a typical meal consisting of rice, beans, salad, and your choice of protein.

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## Day 2: Arenal Volcano

Morning:

• Early breakfast at the hotel, then take a shuttle to Arenal Volcano (about 3 hours).
• Check into Arenal Observatory Lodge, which offers stunning views of the volcano.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a guided tour of the Arenal Volcano National Park. Explore the trails and learn about the unique flora and fauna.

Evening:

• Relax in the Tabacón Hot Springs. Book a package that includes dinner for a perfect end to your day.

Local Tip: Bring a swimsuit and a waterproof phone case for those hot springs!

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## Day 3: La Fortuna Waterfall & Hanging Bridges

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to La Fortuna Waterfall. Take a short hike down to the waterfall and enjoy a refreshing swim.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park for a guided tour. Walk through the treetops and spot wildlife like monkeys and sloths.

Evening:

• Dinner at Don Rufino, a local favorite for its delicious food and ambiance.

Local Tip: Bring a camera for the hanging bridges; the views are breathtaking!

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## Day 4: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Monteverde (about 3.5 hours). Check into Hotel Belmar, a beautiful eco-friendly hotel.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve with a guided tour. Look out for the famous quetzal bird!

Evening:

• Dinner at The Tree House Restaurant, where you can dine in a treehouse setting.

Local Tip: Wear layers; the cloud forest can be cool and misty!

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## Day 5: Coffee Tour & Zip-lining

Morning:

• Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then take a guided coffee tour at a local plantation like Don Juan Coffee Tour. Learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy tastings.

Afternoon:

• Get your adrenaline pumping with a zip-lining tour through the cloud forest. Sky Adventures offers a fantastic experience.

Evening:

• Relax with dinner at Sabor Tico, where you can enjoy traditional Costa Rican dishes.

Local Tip: Don’t forget to buy some local coffee to take home as a souvenir!

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## Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to Manuel Antonio (about 3.5 hours). Check into Hotel Costa Verde, which has stunning ocean views.

Afternoon:

• Spend the afternoon exploring Manuel Antonio National Park. Take a guided tour to spot wildlife like sloths, monkeys, and colorful birds.

Evening:

• Dinner at El Avión, a unique restaurant built around a retired airplane.

Local Tip: Arrive early at the park to avoid crowds and see more wildlife!

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## Day 7: Relaxation & Departure

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some time at the beach. Relax and soak in the sun!

Afternoon:

• Depending on your flight time, you can take a short hike or visit a local market for last-minute souvenirs.

Evening:

• Head back to San José (about 3 hours) for your departure flight. If time allows, grab a final meal at La Criollita for some local flavors.

Local Tip: Always leave a little extra time for traffic, especially when heading to the airport!

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And there you have it! A week filled with adventure, relaxation, and the beauty of Costa Rica. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌴✨