8 day itinerary for Costa Rica

Itinerary

Costa Rica is a fantastic destination, especially for nature lovers, and it’s great to hear you’re planning a trip with a friend. Let’s create a relaxed, budget-friendly itinerary that allows you to soak in the beauty of the parks and green spaces while ensuring safety for female travelers. Here’s a delightful 8-day plan for you:

## Day 1: Arrival in San José

• Morning: Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport. Take a shuttle or a taxi to your accommodation in San José. Look for budget-friendly hostels or guesthouses in the city center.
• Afternoon: Explore downtown San José. Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica (Museo Nacional de Costa Rica) and stroll through the beautiful Central Park (Parque Central).
• Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at a local soda (small restaurant) to try some traditional Costa Rican food like casado or gallo pinto.

## Day 2: San José to La Fortuna

• Morning: Take an early bus to La Fortuna (around 3-4 hours). Buses are affordable and safe.
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon exploring La Fortuna Waterfall. It’s a short hike down, and the view is absolutely worth it!
• Evening: Relax at a local café or grab dinner at a restaurant with a view of Arenal Volcano.

## Day 3: Arenal Volcano National Park

• Morning: Head to Arenal Volcano National Park. You can hike the trails and enjoy the stunning views of the volcano and surrounding rainforest.
• Afternoon: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park. Afterward, visit the hot springs in the area (like Tabacón or Baldi) for a relaxing soak.
• Evening: Have dinner in La Fortuna and maybe catch some live music at a local bar.

## Day 4: La Fortuna to Monteverde

• Morning: Take a shuttle or bus to Monteverde (around 3-4 hours). The scenic drive is beautiful!
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and then visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Enjoy the lush greenery and unique wildlife.
• Evening: Have dinner at a cozy restaurant in Santa Elena. Try the local cheese, as Monteverde is known for its dairy products!

## Day 5: Monteverde Adventures

• Morning: Go for a canopy tour or zip-lining adventure in the cloud forest. It’s a thrilling way to see the forest from above!
• Afternoon: Visit the Monteverde Butterfly Garden or the hummingbird gallery. Both are budget-friendly and offer a close-up look at the local fauna.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner and perhaps a night walk to see the nocturnal wildlife.

## Day 6: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

• Morning: Travel to Manuel Antonio (around 4-5 hours). Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
• Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and then head to Manuel Antonio National Park. Spend the afternoon exploring the trails and relaxing on the beautiful beaches.
• Evening: Have dinner at a beachfront restaurant and enjoy the sunset.

## Day 7: Beach Day and Relaxation

• Morning: Spend the morning at the beach! You can swim, sunbathe, or even try some water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.
• Afternoon: Explore more of Manuel Antonio National Park. Keep an eye out for monkeys and sloths!
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Try some fresh seafood!

## Day 8: Return to San José

• Morning: Take a leisurely morning before heading back to San José (around 3 hours).
• Afternoon: Depending on your flight time, you can visit the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum or shop for souvenirs at the Central Market.
• Evening: Head to the airport for your departure.

Tips for Safety and Budget:

• Stick to well-traveled areas and avoid walking alone at night.
• Use reputable transportation options like buses or shuttles.
• Always keep your belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings.
• Look for budget accommodations like hostels or guesthouses, and consider cooking some meals if your place has a kitchen.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Costa Rica! Enjoy the pura vida lifestyle! 🌿🌞