Costa Rica is one of the smallest countries in the Central American region and yet it is one of the most diverse and popular tourist destinations in the world. With dense rainforests that are teeming with life, stunning waterfalls, and beautiful coastlines that are lined with beaches on the Pacific and Caribbean sides, it’s safe to say that Costa Rica has it all. No matter if this is your very first time in the country or if you’re back for more, you will be surprised at how many things you can do here in a week.
Here is a suggested itinerary about 10 days in Costa Rica ; continue reading for more useful information and valuable recommendations.
Why Costa Rica?
Because of its location on the globe and the measures taken to protect its surroundings, Costa Rica is considered to be one of the ideal tourist spots for those that want to experience nature and the environment. Some reasons why you may fall in love with this small country in Central America are the following:
Thick Rainforests And Wildlife Parks: Costa Rica is notable for its lush rain forests, which contain an incredible variety of flora and fauna. There are more than 30 national parks within the country including Corcovado National Park in which the rainforest is considered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site which offers tourists the chance to see animal life such as the three toed sloth and a jaguar. Another national site of interest is Santa Rosa National Park where guided hiking and wildlife watching are offered. Near Quepos is the Manuel Antonio National Park, which comprises wildlife, rain forests, and beaches, thus promoting environmental tourism.
Pura Vida Lifestyle: This translates to a pure life and is a common motto in Costa Rica which is more or less the way of life for Costa Ricans as it depicts a casual and happy lifestyle filled with gratitude.A superb lifestyle is how one would describe living in Costa Rica and pitching the country as a home does leave an everlasting impression of joy.
Surfing and Thrilling Beaches: Costa Rica has perfect inch waters along both the Caribbean and pacific coasts both seasoned and novices’ surfers will surely enjoy the unmatched waves while Puerto viejo and Jaoc provide an amazing ride while Guatemala ensures larvae beach for those who want to be submerged in still water Water sports alongside surfing include Boogie boarding diving and snorkeling.Spaning the country are white and black sand beaches ensuring diversity while enhancing a breathtaking view to the country.
Exhilarating Adventure Sports: Explorers will find themselves with ample opportunities in Costa Rica for example canyoneering coupled with rock climbing and waterfall rappelling to soaring adrenaline pumping activities Costa Rica is a hotspot for all things thrilling. Eco tours allow you to witness exotic nurtures, horseback riding through Ranches is also a touristic activity practiced along with strolling the natural parks.Clean” is how one would define the lifestyle there and to your surprise custom and tradition dictates the Costa Rican way of life which greatly differs from North America making for a unique cultural blend. ”Pura Vida’ is a common phrase there and in it you will find a spirit that could inspire anyone, it’s all inspiring.
Itinerary Overview
If you have 10 days to explore Costa Rica, here is a quick outline of how you could split your time:
- Day 1: Fly into San Jose (Juan Santamaría International Airport), immediately travel to La Fortuna
- Days 1–3: Explore La Fortuna and the Arenal area
- Days 4–6: Monteverde Cloud Forest Region
- Days 6–10: Manuel Antonio National Park and beaches
- Day 10: Drive back to San Jose, fly out
This route encompasses all that Costa Rica has to offer from beaches, volcano views, hot springs, cloud forests, and adventure activities all in one.
Transportation in Costa Rica
Car Rental
Summer is a great time to visit as hiring a car allows you to cover greater distances faster which enhances your overall experience. Do remember this:
- Potholed roads and log crossings are a common occurrence in the mountainous terrain.
- A 4×4 is ideal for areas with heavy rainfall.
- Always allow for extra time just in case as roads can often be busy and in poor condition.
Public Transportation
- The bus system in Costa rica is quite large however it can often be very slow and is sometimes quite costly.
- Cars and shuttle services are a better option for those who have limited time or are looking to visit specific locations.
Things to Know Before Traveling
Tap Water
In Central America, The case of Costa Rica is not the same with all. Whereas Tap Water is not safe in other coutries ,in Costa Rica it is completely safe. You can also make sure from your AirBnB host.
Currency
- The official currency is Colones, but USD is well received.
- When using USD, you will be given change in Colones so it is important to understand the exchange rate.
Travel Insurance
- Due to the number of adventure sports that Costa Rica has, accidents and injuries can occur without prior notice.
- It is highly recommended to have travel insurance. You can consider well known companies such as World Nomads to get the best quotes.
Gas Prices
- The cost of gasoline is controlled and rather stable throughout the country.
- There is no difference in the prices whether you are near an airport or in a touristic area.
Book in Advance
- Nature reserves like Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and Manuel Antonio National Park often sell out during peak season and on weekends.
- Purchase online tickets a day or two ahead to ensure availability.
Safety & Common Scams
- Parking Scams: Watch out for unofficial parking attendants around free attractions.
- Currency Exchange Scams: Rely on banks or official exchanges if you truly need Colones. However, USD is accepted almost everywhere.
- Taxi Scams: Use licensed taxis with meters or Uber to avoid inflated fares.
- Overcharging Tourists: Some local vendors or shops may charge tourists more. Always research prices beforehand.
Day 1 – Fly into San Jose, Then Drive to La Fortuna
The majority of tourists land at San Jose’s Juan Santamaria International Airport. Upon leaving the customs, you want to head to La Fortuna, and this is where your adventure begins.
Drive Time
From San Jose to La Fortuna, it will take you roughly 2. 5 to 3 hours.
This time may be increased due to such factors as traffic and weather, so it is advisable to schedule for it.
Overnight in La Fortuna
At the end of the day, drop off at your accommodation and enjoy the remainder of the day.
If you get there before time, you can always go for a meal at a local restaurant or just tour around La Fortuna Town.
Days 1–3 – Exploring La Fortuna
Among all the places to visit in Costa Rica, La Fortuna is one of the most favored locations because it is near to Arenal Volcano, Arenal National Park and many hot springs. Here are the top things to do:Here are the top things to do:
Arenal National Park
Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges: These are the hanging bridges through which you are exposed to the rainforest ecosystem.
Arenal 1968 Volcano Trail: Hike through the fields of lava and enjoy the view of the Arenal Volcano. The cost is about $25 include the entrance fee.
Mirador el Silencio: It is also perfect for viewing from a distance at a much cheaper cost of about $10. There are also lava field trails here if you want to avoid bigger crowds.
Adventure Activities
Ziplining: Enjoy the thrill of the zip line through the treetops of the rainforest while gazing at the beautiful scenery below.
Canyoning & Waterfall Rappelling: Descend from a waterfall and get wet while being in the middle of the rainforest.
White Water Rafting: Enjoy the thrilling ride in one of the beautiful rivers that are located near La Fortuna.
La Fortuna Waterfall
- Entrance fee: Around $20 per person.
- Hiking down: Prepare yourself for 400+ stairs in order to reach the base.
- Swimming: While you can swim near the falls, be careful as they can be very strong.
- River Nearby: Head left if the area near the falls is too busy to swim.
Rio Celeste Waterfall
- Location: within Volcan Tenorio National Park. About 1.5 hours away from La Fortuna.
- Highlights Famous Gatorade blue color. The vibrant colors are best seen during the dry seasons.
- Visitor Tip: Arrive Early (8:00am) to Avoid Crowds
Hot Springs
- El Choyin Hot Springs – Free Option: Natural setting, with the same thermal water that fills pricier resorts.
- Resort Hot Springs Day Passes: Tabacon ($89), The Springs Resort & Spa (118 dollars for 2 days), Baldi or Ecotermales ($45), offer a luxurious getaway.
Sloth Tours
- In the wild, you can find 3-toed and 2-toed sloths.
- Self-guided: Try Bogarin Trail in La Fortuna Town.
- Guided Tours: Tours are well reviewed and guarantee better sightings. You can ask about seeing a sloth at its habitat.
Tours of Coffee & Chocolate
- Learn about the production and processing of sugar cane, coffee, and chocolate on a Plantation Tour.
- Don Jorge’s Farm is one of the top options where you can taste fresh coffee, sugarcane juice and even make chocolate.
Where to Stay in La Fortuna
There is something for everyone in La Fortuna in terms of accommodation. Here are some standout options:
Luxury: Nayara Springs (only for adults, has villas), The Springs Resort & Spa, Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa.
Midrange: Baldi Hot Springs Hotel, Volcano Lodge Hotel, Arenal Springs Resort & Spa which features a pool with a view of the volcano.
Budget & Backpacker: Hotel Los Lagos, Arenal Montechiari, Selina La Fortuna, Arenal Poshpacker
Eating and Partying in La Fortuna
Sloffee: Small and cozy open air café which offers coffee and pastries.
Travesía Restaurant: A combination of International cuisine and Local cuisine with a view of the Arenal Volcano.
El Chante Verde: Vegan restaurant located in a lush garden.
Tierra Mia Restaurante: The restaurant serves traditional Costa Rican food in a comfortable environment.
Days 4-6 – Venturing to Monteverde
After exploring the wonders of La Fortuna you can take a 2.5 hour drive (or shuttle) to the highlands Monteverde. Monteverde’s cool climate and abundance of bird species are renowned.
Cloud Forests
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve The largest and most famous reserve, $25 entry fee.
- Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve – less crowded option with $19 entry fee
- Children’s Eternal Rainforest – Entry by donation, less frequented but equally magical
Curi-Cancha Reserve
- Wildlife Spotting – Pizotes, spider monkeys and more.
- Less crowded: Recognized for its lower visitor numbers, and abundance of bird species.
Ziplining in Monteverde
- The best ziplining is often referred to as the best in Costa Rica due to the mountainous terrain, and the high altitude.
- 100% Adventure: Features the longest zipline of the country as well as a Tarzan swing, a hammock bridge and the longest zipline.
- Selvatura park: A popular option that offers canopy tours and hanging Bridges.
Tours at Night
- You can see nocturnal species such as frogs and tarantulas.
- Prices vary from $30 to $ 60, depending on company size and group size.
Birdwatching Guided
- Monteverde is the home of rare birds such as the resplendent Quetzal.
- Hiring a tour guide will increase your chances of finding hidden birds in the canopy.
Monteverde Accommodation: Where to Stay?
- Luxury: El Silencio Hotel, Hotel Belmar, Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
- Midrange: Hotel Poco a Poco, Cloud Forest Lodge, Cala Lodge
- Budget & Backpacker: La Guayaba Monteverde, Selina Monteverde, Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast
Monteverde Restaurants: Where to Eat?
- Stella’s Monteverde: An enchanting local cafe surrounded with gardens teeming full of birds.
- Restaurante Tcos: Authentic Costa Rican food with breathtaking mountain views.
- San Lucas Treetop Dining: An unforgettable, high-end dining experience in treetops.
- Taco Station – A mother-daughter taco stand with amazing birria.
Days 6-10 – Beach Time in Manuel Antonio
From Monteverde, head to the Central Pacific Coast and enjoy sun, sand and wildlife. It usually takes between 3 and 4 hours to drive, but it could take longer if there is heavy traffic or bad weather. Manuel Antonio’s National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most popular attractions.
Manuel Antonio National Park
- Abundant wildlife: Sloths and monkeys. Iguanas. Raccoons.
- Highlights of the Park: A number of hiking trails lead to stunning coastal views.
- Beautiful Beach: Manuel Antonio Beach in the park is known to have calmer waters, ideal for swimming.
Canyoning Adventures
- Try Quepo Canyoning to experience waterfall rappelling, suspension bridge crossing and “monkey-drop” free-fall.
- Prepare to get soaked if you visit during the rainy season.
Beach Hopping
- Playa Espadilla & Espadilla South: Main public beaches, great for surfing.
- Biesanz beach: A secluded cove with calmer waters that are perfect for swimming, snorkeling and diving.
- Playa Tulemar : Private Beach Area Known for its Scenic Beauty and Family-Friendly Atmosphere.
Surf Lessons
- The waves at Manuel Antonio and nearby beaches are beginner friendly.
- Many surf schools, such as Dante’s Water Sports, offer private or group lessons.
What to do in Manuel Antonio?
- Luxury: Arenas del Mar Beachfront Resort, Tulemar Resort, Gaia Hotel & Reserve
- Midrange hotel: Hotel La Mariposa, Parador Nature Resort and Hotel Costa Verde
- Backpacker & Budget: Hotel Villas Lirio, Peace of Paradise, Selina Manuel Antonio, Hostel Plinio
What to Eat in Manuel Antonio
- Street Food “En Todas”, a converted school bus.
- El Avion A unique, converted plane restaurant that serves fresh seafood and local food.
- Emilio’s Cafe – Great coffee, desserts and ocean views.
- El wagon: Casual restaurant serving wood-fired pizzas, comfort food and more.
Day 10 – Return To San Jose
- If you are leaving San Jose in the afternoon or evening, leave Manuel Antonio as soon as possible.
- Driving time is usually around three hours, unless traffic is heavy.
- Before you leave for the airport, grab a last-minute snack or souvenir in San Jose.
Alternative 7-10 Day Itinerary
Looking for a different itinerary or short on time? Here is a 7-10-day version of the itinerary that highlights the highlights of the country:
Day by Day Breakdown
- Day 2: San Jose, explore the city. Visit the Teatro Nacional or Museo de Jade.
- Day 2: Travel to La Fortuna – Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs.
- Day 4: Arenal Adventure- Hikes, waterfalls and an evening soak at thermal springs.
- Day 4 : Transfer from Monteverde to Santa Elena – optional night hike.
- Day 5: Ziplining in Monteverde – Selvatura or 100% Aventura.
- Day 7: Relax on the local beaches.
- Day 7: Manuel Antonio National Park, Wildlife Watching and Beach Time.
- Day Eight: Additional Day in Manuel Antonio to enjoy water sports and day trips.
- Day Nine: Option of heading to Tortuguero for more wildlife viewing.
- Day 10. Fly out of San Jose.
This itinerary shows the diversity Costa Rica has to offer–volcanoes and cloud forests, beaches and rainforest adventures all in one compact trip.
The conclusion of the article is:
Costa Rica offers a wide range of natural beauty, adventures and relaxation in a relatively small area. The 10-day itinerary will give you an overview of the country, from the Arenal Volcano to the lush rainforests in La Fortuna. You can also explore the cloud forests of Monteverde which are both tranquil and adventurous. Finally, the coastal paradise of Manuel Antonio is a stunning destination.
Plan ahead to maximize your vacation and see the most famous sights in Costa Rica. Book popular tours and nature reserves in advance to avoid disappointment. Also, remember to pack appropriate clothing to wear on rainforest hikes or beach days. Leave room in your schedule to enjoy unexpected.
Pura Vida is the spirit to embrace. Slow down, enjoy nature and immerse yourselves in local culture. Costa Rica is a destination you will want to visit again and again. You’ll have a great time and create lasting memories with just ten days.
Quick Reference Checklist
Travel Tips & Essentials
- Documents Passport valid at least six months, and driver’s licence for rental.
- Insurance: Highly Recommended–look for coverage that covers medical expenses and adventure sports.
- Driving: Four-wheel drive recommended in rainy season
- Clothing: Lightweight and breathable outfits.
- Bug Spray & Sunscreen : Must for rainforests and beaches
Must-Try Foods & Drinks
- Gallo Pinto: Classic rice-and-beans breakfast dish.
- Casado : A dish featuring rice, beans and salad with plantains.
- Fruit juices (Refrescos). Tropical fruits such as mango, pineapple and passion fruit.
- Costa Rican Coffee – The best coffee in the world
- Imperial Beer Local Lager, ideal for hot days.
Environmental Responsibility
- Stay On Trails: Help preserve fragile habitats and respect wildlife.
- Limit plastic use: Bring your own reusable bottle of water; tap water can be safely consumed.
- Choose eco-friendly tour operators:
This detailed itinerary for 10 days in Costa Rica (and other suggestions) will prepare you to have the adventure of your life. Pura Vida, and safe travels to you!
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