7-Day Costa Rica Adventure Itinerary

• Day 1: Explore San Jose - Start your trip by exploring the capital city of Costa Rica. Visit the National Museum to learn about the country's history, then wander around Barrio Escalante to taste some delicious local cuisine. End the day with a rooftop sunset view at El Steinvorth.
• Day 2: Arenal - Head to the Arenal Volcano area and hike the trails around the volcano, soak in the Baldi Hot Springs to relax and unwind, then end the day with a stunning view of the La Fortuna Waterfall.
• Day 3: Monteverde - Take a morning zip-lining tour across the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, go hiking in the Curi-Cancha Reserve, and try some of the world's best coffee at the Café de Monteverde.
• Day 4: Manuel Antonio - Visit the Manuel Antonio National Park to see unique wildlife and beautiful beaches, then end the day by hiking to the top of Cerro Nara for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
• Day 5: Uvita - Go whale watching at the Marino Ballena National Park in the morning, then relax on the Uvita Beach in the afternoon.
• Day 6: Corcovado - Take a guided tour of the rugged Corcovado National Park, known for its diverse plant and animal life, and visit the San Pedrillo Wildlife Station to see more than 400 bird species.
• Day 7: Back to San Jose - Enjoy a day of shopping, art, and live music in the city before departing home.

Time and Costs Estimates

• National Museum (2 hours, $5)
• Barrio Escalante (2-3 hours, varies)
• El Steinvorth (1-2 hours, varies)
• Arenal Volcano (3 hours, $15)
• Baldi Hot Springs (2-3 hours, $35)
• La Fortuna Waterfall (2-3 hours, $18)
• Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve (4-5 hours, $25)
• Curi-Cancha Reserve (2-3 hours, $10)
• Café de Monteverde (1 hour, varies)
• Manuel Antonio National Park (4-5 hours, $16)
• Cerro Nara (1-2 hours, $10)
• Marino Ballena National Park (3 hours, $35)
• Uvita Beach (2-3 hours, free)
• Corcovado National Park (6-7 hours, $175)
• San Pedrillo Wildlife Station (2-3 hours, $25)
• Total Estimated Costs: $399

Transportation

Consider renting a car or hiring a driver for a more convenient and safe travel experience. The estimated cost of travel by car is $300-400, and it takes about 4-5 hours to travel between destinations. Alternatively, public transportation such as buses and taxis can be used, but it may take longer and be less comfortable.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding a day trip to the Tortuguero National Park to see sea turtles or the Osaka National Park for a more rugged, off-the-beaten-path adventure. If you have less time, consider skipping Corcovado, as it is the most time-consuming destination on this itinerary. Also, be sure to pack comfortable shoes and clothing, as well as insect repellent and sunscreen for the jungle environments.