5-Day Luxury Itinerary for Costa Rica

  1. Day 1: Arenal Volcano
    3 hours 30 minutes (135km) from San Jose

    Explore the active Arenal Volcano at La Fortuna. You can go on a hiking tour or take a horseback ride to the base of the 1,633-meter-high volcano. Relax at the thermal hot springs nearby or take a dip in the waterfall of La Fortuna.

  2. Day 2: Manuel Antonio National Park
    4 hours 45 minutes (168km) from Arenal Volcano

    Visit Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica's most beautiful parks famous for its white-sand beaches and lush greenery. Spot monkeys, sloths, iguanas and tropical birds. Relax on Playa Manuel Antonio and enjoy the park's stunning lookout points and walking trails.

  3. Day 3: Tortuga Island
    2 hours 45 minutes (118km) from Manuel Antonio National Park

    Take a yacht or catamaran to Tortuga Island, a hidden gem in the Gulf of Nicoya. Relax on the island's pristine, white-sand beach, snorkel in crystal-clear waters or take a hike to spot the island's diverse wildlife. The island's waters are protected, so the marine life is abundant.

  4. Day 4: Tabacon Resort and Spa
    4 hours (176km) from Tortuga Island

    Soak in the mineral-rich thermal waters at the luxurious Tabacon Resort and Spa near La Fortuna. Get pampered with a relaxing massage amidst the tropical gardens, walk along the hanging bridges, and indulge in fine dining at the resort's restaurants.

  5. Day 5: Corcovado National Park
    6 hours 30 minutes (397km) from Tabacon Resort and Spa

    Visit one of the world's most pristine rainforests, Corcovado National Park, located on the Osa Peninsula. Experience the park's abundant wildlife including jaguars, monkeys, and sloths, trek through primary forest, and end the day with a refreshing swim at the park's stunning beaches.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Arenal Volcano Hiking Tour (3 hours, $130)
  • Manuel Antonio National Park Entry Fee (3 hours, $16)
  • Tortuga Island Catamaran Tour (7 hours, $140)
  • Tabacon Resort Spa Services (varies, $200+)
  • Corcovado National Park Entrance Fee (5 hours, $15)
  • Total Estimated Costs ($501+)

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, consider adding a coffee plantation tour in the Central Valley to learn about Costa Rica's coffee making process. If you have less time, consider skipping Tortuga Island and spending more time at Arenal Volcano and Tabacon Resort and Spa to relax and recharge. Remember to pack comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent.

0