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Exploring San Jose and Jaco: A 7-Day Itinerary

Saturday, September 30: Arrival in San Jose

Welcome to San Jose, Costa Rica! Start your trip by exploring the capital city. In the morning, visit the iconic National Theater, a stunning architectural gem. Afterward, head to the Mercado Central for a traditional Costa Rican lunch. Spend the afternoon exploring the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum to learn about the country's rich history. In the evening, relax at a local restaurant and taste delicious Costa Rican cuisine.

  • National Theater: $10, 2 hours
  • Mercado Central: $10 (lunch), 2 hours
  • Pre-Columbian Gold Museum: $15, 2 hours
Sunday, October 1: San Jose City Tour

Embark on a guided city tour to further discover the charm of San Jose. In the morning, visit the Jade Museum and admire its impressive collection of indigenous art. Then, explore the beautiful La Sabana Metropolitan Park and enjoy a picnic surrounded by greenery. In the afternoon, take a stroll through Barrio Escalante, known for its trendy cafes and vibrant street art. Wrap up the day with dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Jade Museum: $15, 2 hours
  • La Sabana Metropolitan Park: Free, 2 hours
  • Barrio Escalante: Cost of food/beverages, 2 hours
Monday, October 2: Jaco Beach

Leave San Jose and head to the beautiful coastal town of Jaco. Spend the morning relaxing on Jaco Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean. In the afternoon, go on an exhilarating ATV tour through the rainforest, experiencing the natural beauty of the area. End the day with a delicious seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

  • Jaco Beach: Free, 4 hours
  • ATV Tour: $80, 3 hours
  • Seafood Dinner: $30, 2 hours
Tuesday, October 3: Manuel Antonio National Park

Take a day trip to Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning beaches. Start the day with a guided hike through the park, spotting monkeys, sloths, and colorful birds along the way. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, relax on the pristine beaches within the park, swimming in the crystal-clear waters. Return to Jaco in the evening and have dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Manuel Antonio National Park: $16, 6 hours
  • Picnic Lunch: $15, 1 hour
  • Dinner in Jaco: $25, 2 hours
Wednesday, October 4: Surfing Lessons in Jaco

Get ready for an exciting day of surfing in Jaco. Start the morning with a surfing lesson from experienced instructors who will teach you the basics. Practice your newly acquired skills and ride the waves of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a beachside lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach. In the evening, explore the local nightlife and dine at a popular surf-themed restaurant.

  • Surfing Lesson: $50, 4 hours
  • Beachside Lunch: $20, 1 hour
  • Evening Entertainment: Cost of drinks/activities, 3 hours
Thursday, October 5: Carara National Park

Experience the biodiversity of Costa Rica by visiting Carara National Park. Start the day with a guided nature walk through the park, spotting scarlet macaws, monkeys, and other fascinating wildlife. After the hike, have a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, take a boat tour along the Tarcoles River to observe crocodiles in their natural habitat. Return to Jaco in the evening for a relaxing dinner.

  • Carara National Park: $10, 4 hours
  • Picnic Lunch: $15, 1 hour
  • Tarcoles River Boat Tour: $30, 2 hours
  • Dinner in Jaco: $25, 2 hours
Friday, October 6: Canopy Tour and Horseback Riding

Experience the thrill of a canopy tour in the morning, zipping through the lush rainforest of Jaco. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch. In the afternoon, go horseback riding along the scenic trails, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area. Spend the evening exploring Jaco's souvenir shops and local crafts market.

  • Canopy Tour: $60, 3 hours
  • Traditional Lunch: $15, 1 hour
  • Horseback Riding: $50, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have some extra time, consider visiting the Poas Volcano, located just outside San Jose. The volcano offers breathtaking views and the chance to witness geological wonders. Another local favorite is the town of Atenas, known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful coffee plantations. Don't miss the opportunity to taste some of Costa Rica's finest coffee during a tour. Finally, if you're a wildlife enthusiast, visit the Wildlife Rescue Center in Jaco, where you can learn about conservation efforts and interact with rescued animals.

Check hotel and flight prices on kayak.com.

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