7 day itinerary for San Jose Costa Rica

Itinerary

San José, Costa Rica, is a fantastic starting point for an adventure-filled week. With your love for beaches, hiking, and animals, I’ve crafted an exciting 7-day itinerary that balances all your interests. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in San José

Morning: Arrive in San José. Check into your hotel and freshen up. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab a quick breakfast at a local café. Try a “gallo pinto” (rice and beans) for a true Costa Rican experience!

Afternoon: Explore downtown San José. Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. Stroll through the vibrant Central Market for some local snacks and souvenirs.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try “casado,” a traditional dish with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and your choice of protein.

## Day 2: Arenal Volcano National Park

Morning: Early breakfast, then head to Arenal Volcano National Park (about a 3-hour drive). The scenery along the way is stunning, so keep your camera handy!

Afternoon: Arrive and hike the trails in the park. The “Las Coladas” trail offers great views of the volcano and the chance to see wildlife like monkeys and various bird species.

Evening: Relax in one of the hot springs nearby, like Tabacón or Baldi. Soaking in the warm waters surrounded by nature is a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking.

## Day 3: La Fortuna Waterfall & Wildlife

Morning: After breakfast, visit La Fortuna Waterfall. It’s a short hike down to the waterfall, and you can take a refreshing dip in the pool below.

Afternoon: Head to the La Fortuna area for a wildlife tour. You can choose a guided tour to spot sloths, toucans, and other exotic animals.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in La Fortuna. There are plenty of great restaurants with local cuisine.

## Day 4: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Morning: Depart for Monteverde (about a 3.5-hour drive). The drive is scenic, so take your time and enjoy the views!

Afternoon: Check into your accommodation and then head to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Hike the trails and keep an eye out for the famous resplendent quetzal and other wildlife.

Evening: Consider a night walk tour to see nocturnal animals in their natural habitat. It’s a unique experience!

## Day 5: Zip-lining and Coffee Tour

Morning: Get your adrenaline pumping with a zip-lining adventure through the cloud forest! It’s an exhilarating way to see the lush landscape from above.

Afternoon: After lunch, take a guided coffee tour at one of the local coffee plantations. Learn about the coffee-making process and enjoy some tastings.

Evening: Relax and enjoy a quiet dinner in Monteverde. The atmosphere is cozy, and you can reflect on your adventures.

## Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park

Morning: Depart for Manuel Antonio (about a 3-hour drive). This park is famous for its stunning beaches and diverse wildlife.

Afternoon: Spend the day hiking in Manuel Antonio National Park. The trails are well-marked, and you’ll likely see monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds. Don’t forget to take a break at one of the beautiful beaches!

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a beachside restaurant. Fresh seafood is a must-try here!

## Day 7: Relaxation and Return to San José

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a final swim at the beach. Take in the beautiful ocean views one last time.

Afternoon: Head back to San José (about a 3-hour drive). If time allows, stop at a local artisan market for some last-minute shopping.

Evening: Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a farewell dinner in San José. Reflect on your amazing week in Costa Rica!

Tips:

• Always check the weather and trail conditions before heading out.
• Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent for hikes.
• Consider renting a car for flexibility, or look into guided tours for convenience.

I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your trip! Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers, and you’re in for a treat! 🌴🌊🐒