10-Day Honeymoon in Costa Rica

  • Day 1: San Jose
    Estimated Travel Time: 20 minutes (15 miles) from Juan Santamaria International Airport

    Start your honeymoon exploring the stunning capital city of San Jose. Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica and explore the history and culture of the country. Afterward, visit the Central Market for a taste of local cuisine and culture. End the day by sampling several varieties of coffee at the Cafe Britt Coffee Plantation.

  • Day 2: La Fortuna
    Estimated Travel Time: 3 hours (86 miles) from San Jose

    Today, head to the charming town of La Fortuna, known for its stunning waterfalls, hot springs, and proximity to the Arenal Volcano National Park. Explore the lush vegetation at the Mistico Hanging Bridges or take a dip in the hot springs at the The Springs Resort and Spa.

  • Day 3: Monteverde
    Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours (88 miles) from La Fortuna

    Take a bumpy but scenic ride through the mountainous regions of Costa Rica to reach the cloud forest region of Monteverde. Hike through the mystical Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve while keeping an eye out for hummingbirds, monkeys, and sloths. End the day by exploring the lively Santa Elena town.

  • Day 4: Manuel Antonio
    Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours (89 miles) from Monteverde

    Next stop: the stunning beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park. Take a guided tour of the park and spot howler monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds. Visit the Playa Espadilla Sur Beach for a romantic sunset walk along the shore.

  • Day 5: Jaco
    Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (43 miles) from Manuel Antonio

    Hit the waves at the popular surfing destination of Jaco. Enjoy a surfing lesson followed by a beachfront dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants on the strip.

  • Day 6: Uvita
    Estimated Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (37 miles) from Jaco

    Head to Uvita, the gateway to Ballena Marine National Park. Explore the unique marine life at the Whale Tail Formation or go on a snorkeling excursion to spot tropical fish and sea turtles.

  • Day 7: Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
    Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours (133 miles) from Uvita

    Immerse yourself in the Afro-Caribbean culture of Puerto Viejo. Visit the Playa Cocles Beach and relax on the sandy shores or take a hike through the lush rainforests at the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge. End the day with drinks and dinner at one of the many beachfront bars.

  • Day 8: Tortuguero
    Estimated Travel Time: 4 hours (108 miles) from Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

    Catch a boat tour through the jungle canals of Tortuguero National Park and spot toucans, monkeys, and caimans. After the tour, head to the Tortuguero village and learn about the conservation efforts taken to protect the sea turtles that visit the shores.

  • Day 9: Rincon de la Vieja National Park
    Estimated Travel Time: 5 hours (160 miles) from Tortuguero

    The adventure continues at Rincon de la Vieja National Park. This natural wonder boasts zip-lining, hiking, hot springs, and more. Enjoy a guided hike through the dense forest and admire the stunning Oropendola Waterfall. End your visit with a relaxing soak in the Blue Lagoon Hot Springs.

  • Day 10: Tamarindo
    Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (47 miles) from Rincon de la Vieja National Park

    End your honeymoon in the sunny town of Tamarindo. Explore the famous Playa Tamarindo Beach and go surfing, paddleboarding, or snorkeling. Take a stroll down the vibrant Langosta Beach during the sunset and end your trip with a romantic dinner at Pangas Beach Club.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • National Museum of Costa Rica (1.5 hours, $12)
  • Cafe Britt Coffee Plantation (2 hours, $25)
  • Mistico Hanging Bridges (3 hours, $45)
  • The Springs Resort and Spa (4 hours, $150)
  • Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve (2 hours, $15)
  • Manuel Antonio National Park Tour (4 hours, $55)
  • Playa Espadilla Sur Beach (1 hour, free)
  • Surfing Lesson in Jaco (2 hours, $75)
  • Whale Tail Formation (2 hours, $25)
  • Snorkeling Excursion in Uvita (3 hours, $60)
  • Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge (2 hours, free)
  • Tortuguero National Park Boat Tour (3 hours, $60)
  • Tortuguero Village (1 hour, free)
  • Rincon de la Vieja National Park Guided Hike (4 hours, $65)
  • Oropendola Waterfall (1.5 hours, free)
  • Blue Lagoon Hot Springs (2 hours, $30)
Total Estimated Costs: $712

Transportation

Transportation in Costa Rica may be challenging, therefore, consider hiring a private driver or renting a car. A private driver may cost around $100 per day. Car rentals start at $40 per day. Make sure to have a GPS, and always allow for extra travel time in case of unexpected delays.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a few extra days to explore the Osa Peninsula, known for its pristine and untouched jungles, and the Manuel Antonio National Park. If you have less time, skip Puerto Viejo or Tortuguero. Be aware, many places may not have Wi-Fi, so prepare accordingly, and carry cash as many places do not accept credit cards.

Airports

Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) is Costa Rica's primary international airport, located in the city of Alajuela, approximately 12.5 miles from the capital city, San Jose.

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