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, hikes, animals, waterfalls, and the ocean, 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. Depending on your flight time, check into your hotel and freshen up.

Afternoon: Explore downtown San José. Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica and the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum to get a taste of the local culture.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some traditional Costa Rican dishes like "casado" or "gallo pinto."

## Day 2: La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Morning: Head to La Paz Waterfall Gardens (about 1.5 hours from San José). This is a great spot to see beautiful waterfalls and a variety of wildlife.

Afternoon: Explore the gardens, where you can see animals like jaguars, toucans, and monkeys. Don’t miss the stunning waterfalls!

Evening: Return to San José and relax. Maybe grab a drink at a local bar to unwind after a day of exploration.

## Day 3: Arenal Volcano National Park

Morning: Depart early for Arenal Volcano National Park (about 3 hours from San José). The drive is scenic, so enjoy the views!

Afternoon: Hike one of the trails in the park. The Arenal 1968 Trail offers fantastic views of the volcano and the surrounding landscape. Keep an eye out for wildlife!

Evening: Check into a hotel near La Fortuna. If you have time, relax in one of the hot springs in the area. It’s a perfect way to end the day!

## Day 4: La Fortuna Waterfall & Wildlife

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

Afternoon: Spend some time at the La Fortuna Wildlife Reserve or take a guided tour to spot sloths, toucans, and other wildlife.

Evening: Enjoy dinner in La Fortuna. Try some local cuisine, and if you’re up for it, take a night walk to see nocturnal animals!

## Day 5: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Morning: Depart for Monteverde (about 3.5 hours from La Fortuna). The drive is beautiful, with lots of greenery and mountain views.

Afternoon: Once you arrive, explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Hike through the misty trails and look for unique wildlife, including the elusive quetzal.

Evening: Check into your accommodation and enjoy a cozy dinner. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a night tour to see the cloud forest come alive!

## Day 6: Beach Day at Manuel Antonio

Morning: Head to Manuel Antonio National Park (about 3.5 hours from Monteverde). This park is famous for its stunning beaches and diverse wildlife.

Afternoon: Spend the day hiking the trails in the park and relaxing on the beautiful beaches. Keep an eye out for monkeys and sloths!

Evening: Enjoy a sunset dinner at a beachside restaurant. The views are breathtaking, and the fresh seafood is a must-try!

## Day 7: Relax and Return to San José

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a final swim at the beach.

Afternoon: Start your journey back to San José (about 3 hours). If time allows, stop at a local market for some souvenirs.

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

Tips:

• Make sure to pack comfortable hiking shoes, swimwear, and a good camera for all the wildlife and beautiful landscapes!
• Consider renting a car for flexibility, or you can book guided tours for each destination.
• Don’t forget to try some local coffee; Costa Rica is famous for it!

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