8-Day Nature Adventure from Salt Lake City to Costa Rica via Arunachala Hill

  • Day 1: Arunachala Hill
    30 minutes (17 miles) from Salt Lake City

    A sacred hill in India, Arunachala Hill is known for its spiritual significance and scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy a hike to the top for panoramic views or relax at the base and meditate.

  • Day 2: Manuel Antonio National Park
    3 hours and 30 minutes (138 miles) from Arunachala Hill

    Manuel Antonio National Park is a must-see destination for nature lovers visiting Costa Rica. The park is home to various species of monkeys, sloths, and birds, as well as stunning beaches and hiking trails.

  • Day 3: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
    2 hours and 30 minutes (75 miles) from Manual Antonio National Park

    The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a natural wonder located in the mountains of Costa Rica. Visitors can explore the dense forests and observe unique flora and fauna, such as the elusive quetzal bird.

  • Day 4: Arenal Volcano National Park
    2 hours and 30 minutes (72 miles) from Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

    The active Arenal Volcano is a sight to behold, surrounded by lush rainforests and thermal hot springs. Visitors can choose from hiking trails or guided tours to get the most out of this natural wonder.

  • Day 5: La Fortuna Waterfall
    20 minutes (5 miles) from Arenal Volcano National Park

    The La Fortuna Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction located near Arenal Volcano. Visitors can swim in the pristine waters of the waterfall, surrounded by lush rainforest.

  • Day 6: Tortuguero National Park
    5 hours and 30 minutes (160 miles) from La Fortuna Waterfall

    Tortuguero National Park is a unique destination in Costa Rica, accessible only by boat or plane. Visitors can observe sea turtles laying their eggs on the beach or explore the park's canals and mangroves by boat.

  • Day 7: Corcovado National Park
    9 hours (286 miles) from Tortuguero National Park

    Corcovado National Park is a remote and biodiverse park located in the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica. Visitors can observe a vast array of wildlife, including jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws, as well as hike through lush rainforests and beach habitats.

  • Day 8: Nosara Beach
    6 hours and 30 minutes (195 miles) from Corcovado National Park

    Nosara Beach is the perfect place to end a nature adventure, with a beautiful beach, relaxing atmosphere, and various surf options. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility before heading back to San Jose for their departure back home.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Arunachala Hill (2 hours, free)
  • Manuel Antonio National Park (5 hours, $16 entry fee)
  • Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve (4 hours, $25 entry fee)
  • Arenal Volcano National Park (2 hours, $16 entry fee)
  • La Fortuna Waterfall (1 hour, $15 entry fee)
  • Tortuguero National Park (1 day, $15 entry fee)
  • Corcovado National Park (1 day, $15 entry fee)
  • Nosara Beach (6 hours, free)

  • Total Estimated Costs: $87

Transportation

Travelers will need to rent a car to travel between the various nature destinations in Costa Rica. Average car rental cost $30 - $50 per day, depending on the rental company and the type of car rented. Another recommended option is to take a shuttle bus service which cost $50 and above per day, depending on the service provider. Travel time varies depending on distance and road conditions. Plan for an average of 2-5 hours of driving per day.

Useful Tips

For travelers with less time, we recommend visiting fewer destinations and spending more time at each location. For travelers with more time, we recommend visiting additional nature destinations, such as Corcovado National Park or the Guanacaste National Park. Consider visiting during the dry season (December-April) for the best weather and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.

Airports

Visitors to Costa Rica can arrive at either Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) or Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (LIR). Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) is located in San Jose and is the largest and busiest airport in Costa Rica, while Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (LIR) is located in Liberia and is closer to popular tourist destinations in the northwestern region of the country. Travel time from both airports can vary depending on traffic and road conditions.

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