Four-Day Itinerary: Cartagena, Costa Rica, and Los Cabos Mexico

  • Day 1: Cartagena, Colombia
    Estimated time: 7 hours, 15 minutes | Estimated distance: 2,650 miles

    Explore the colorful streets of the walled city in Cartagena, Colombia. Visit historical sites like the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas or wander through the lively Getsemani neighborhood for local food and street art. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach in front of the city walls or take a boat tour around the harbor.

  • Day 2: Costa Rica
    Estimated time: 3 hours, 45 minutes | Estimated distance: 1,340 miles

    In Costa Rica, explore lush rainforests and stunning beaches. Go ziplining or whitewater rafting in Arenal, hike through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, or take a surf lesson in Tamarindo. For wildlife lovers, visit the sloth sanctuary or go on a guided tour to see monkeys and toucans in their natural habitats.

  • Day 3: Los Cabos, Mexico
    Estimated time: 6 hours, 30 minutes | Estimated distance: 1,100 miles

    In Los Cabos, Mexico, enjoy the beautiful beaches and turquoise waters. Spend the day snorkeling at Santa Maria Bay or lounging on the white sands of Medano Beach. For adventure-seekers, go on a whale watching tour or visit the El Arco rock formation. At night, explore Cabo San Lucas' bustling nightlife scene.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Castillo San Felipe de Barajas (2 hours, $7)
  • Boat tour in Cartagena (3 hours, $25)
  • Whitewater rafting in Arenal (6 hours, $95)
  • Sloth sanctuary tour in Costa Rica (2 hours, $35)
  • Snorkeling in Los Cabos (3 hours, $60)
  • Whale watching tour in Los Cabos (3 hours, $80)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $302

Transportation

Flights are the best option for this itinerary. A direct flight from Cartagena to San Jose, Costa Rica is approximately 3.5 hours with a cost of $150-$300. A direct flight from San Jose to Los Cabos is approximately 6 hours with a cost of $200-$400. Taxis or ride-sharing services can be used to get from the airport to accommodations and between destinations.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider exploring other areas of Colombia such as Bogotá or Medellín, or extending your trip in Costa Rica and visiting Manuel Antonio or the Osa Peninsula. If you have less time, consider skipping Costa Rica and spending more time in Cartagena or Los Cabos.

Airports

In Cartagena, the airport is Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG), located approximately 3 miles from the city center. In San Jose, Costa Rica, the airport is Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO), located approximately 12 miles from the city center. In Los Cabos, the airport is Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), located approximately 7 miles from the city center.

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