Costa Rica
Costa Rica, a paradise of lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife, offers adventure and relaxation in equal measure. San José, the capital, is rich in culture and history, while Arenal boasts hot springs and an iconic volcano. Monteverde’s cloud forests are home to rare biodiversity, and Manuel Antonio National Park blends wildlife with stunning beaches. For thrill-seekers, Costa Rica offers zip-lining, surfing in Tamarindo, and whitewater rafting. The country’s commitment to eco-tourism and sustainability makes it a haven for nature lovers. Whether hiking to waterfalls, exploring volcanoes, or relaxing on the Pacific or Caribbean coast, Costa Rica has it all.
Itenarary
- Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport
- Check-in at a boutique hotel
- Explore downtown San José (National Theatre, Pre-Columbian Gold Museum)
- Stroll through Mercado Central for local souvenirs
- Dinner at a traditional Costa Rican restaurant
Day 2: Arenal – Volcano & Hot Springs
- Drive to Arenal (3-hour drive)
- Hike around Arenal Volcano National Park
- Visit La Fortuna Waterfall for a refreshing swim
- Relax in natural hot springs
- Optional: Night hike to see nocturnal wildlife
Day 3: Arenal – Adventure Activities
- Try zip-lining over the rainforest canopy
- Take a boat tour on Lake Arenal
- Go on a wildlife safari along the Peñas Blancas River
- Optional: Whitewater rafting on the Balsa River
- Enjoy a relaxing evening at the resort
Day 4: Monteverde – Cloud Forest & Wildlife
- Drive to Monteverde (3.5-hour drive)
- Walk along hanging bridges in Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
- Visit the Butterfly Garden & Hummingbird Gallery
- Optional: Night tour to spot sloths, frogs, and other nocturnal creatures
Day 5: Manuel Antonio – Beaches & National Park
- Drive to Manuel Antonio (3.5-hour drive)
- Check-in at a beachfront hotel
- Relax at Manuel Antonio Beach
- Explore Manuel Antonio National Park for wildlife spotting
- Sunset dinner at a clifftop restaurant
Day 6: Manuel Antonio – Water Sports & Adventure
- Try kayaking, snorkeling, or paddleboarding
- Take a catamaran tour with dolphin spotting
- Relax at Playa Espadilla
- Explore the town’s lively bars and restaurants
Day 7: Tamarindo – Surfing & Relaxation
- Drive to Tamarindo (4-hour drive)
- Enjoy surfing lessons or relax on the beach
- Visit Las Baulas National Marine Park (turtle nesting season: Oct–Mar)
- Optional: Horseback riding along the beach
Day 8: Departure
- Return to San José
- Last-minute shopping at Avenida Central
- Transfer to the airport for departure
Places to Visit
Braulio Carrillo National Park
Diamante Eco Adventure Park
Dominical
Irazu Volcano National Park
Jaco
Kiteboarding in Costa Rica
La Paz Waterfall Gardens
Mal Pais and Santa Teresa
Manuel Antonio National Park
Monteverde and the Cloud Forests
Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
Tamarindo
The Crocodile Bridge on the Tarcoles River
The National Theater in San Jose
Tortuguero National Park
Wildlife Viewing
Must-Know Facts About Costa Rica
Costa Rica has no standing army since 1949.
Over 25% of its land is protected as national parks and reserves.
It is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world.
Pura Vida (“Pure Life”) is not just a saying but a way of life in Costa Rica.
The country runs on over 99% renewable energy.
Costa Rica has five active volcanoes, including Arenal and Poás.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest is home to over 2,500 plant species and 400 bird species.
Sea turtles nest in Tortuguero from July to October.
Coffee is one of Costa Rica’s biggest exports and a key part of its culture.
It has some of the best surfing spots in Central America.
Over 25% of its land is protected as national parks and reserves.
It is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world.
Pura Vida (“Pure Life”) is not just a saying but a way of life in Costa Rica.
The country runs on over 99% renewable energy.
Costa Rica has five active volcanoes, including Arenal and Poás.
The Monteverde Cloud Forest is home to over 2,500 plant species and 400 bird species.
Sea turtles nest in Tortuguero from July to October.
Coffee is one of Costa Rica’s biggest exports and a key part of its culture.
It has some of the best surfing spots in Central America.
