Start your trip with a visit to Arenal Volcano National Park. This active volcano is one of the most popular attractions in Costa Rica, with its smoking crater and beautiful hiking trails. Take a guided tour, enjoy a dip in natural hot springs or walk around the stunning Arenal Lake.
Visit the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area. Take a leisurely walk or zip line through the canopy and spot monkeys, birds and even a sloth. Relax in the quaint town of Monteverde and visit local coffee plantations.
Head to the stunning beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park to enjoy the sun, sand and surf. Hike through the lush rainforest and spot monkeys, sloths, and toucans. Relax on a boat tour or enjoy some of the local water activities like kayaking, snorkeling and surfing.
Make your way to Uvita Beach to see the unique whale tail-shaped sandbar. During low tide, walk out to the island and enjoy the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. Take a guided tour to see humpback whales and dolphins, or enjoy some of the local water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing.
Visit the remote Corcovado National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning beachfront. Hike through the park and spot monkeys, macaws, tapirs and even jaguars. Enjoy a dip in the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean and soak up the sun on the secluded beach.
Visit the remote and tranquillity of Tortuguero National Park, known for its turtle nesting sightings. Take a boat tour to explore the canals and observe the park's wildlife, including monkeys, crocodiles, and caimans. Night tours are also available to observe turtles laying their eggs on the beach.
Head to the laid-back village of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, nestled on the Caribbean coast. Sunbathe under palm trees, swim at pristine beaches, or take a dip in a natural pool. Don't miss out on the delicious local seafood, jerk chicken, and Caribbean-style cocktails.
Explore the rich biodiversity of Cahuita National Park, home to coral reefs, white sand beaches, and an abundance of wildlife. Take a guided hike through the rainforest and see sloths, monkeys and exotic birds. Snorkel or go scuba diving, and spot colorful fishes, and marine turtles.
End your trip in the bustling capital city of San Jose. Take a walking tour around the city's historic neighborhoods, visit museums like the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum orthe National Museum of Costa Rica that are rich in history and culture. Enjoy the nightlife and try out the local food.
Costa Rica has an extensive bus system that connects all major cities and villages. However, it's advisable to rent a car to better explore the remote areas of the country. Car rental costs about $35-60 per day. Private shuttles and taxis are also available, but they are much more expensive. Domestic flights between major cities like San Jose, Liberia, Tamarindo, and Quepos cost approximately $100-150.
If you have more time, add in a visit to the Marino Ballena National Park to experience another famous costa rican whale tail shaped beach, a visit to the Pacific coast town of Tamarindo for great surfing and nightlife, or a trip to La Fortuna town to enjoy hot springs and other adventure tours. If you have less time, consider skipping Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and Cahuita National Park, combine a couple of destinations, or fly between cities to save time.
The main airport in Costa Rica is Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) located 17 km from the capital city of San Jose. Another major airport is Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, located in the northwest part of the country, near the Pacific coast. Travelers can also fly into Tobías Bolaños International Airport (SYQ), located about 8 km from San Jose.