Begin your trip with a visit to Arenal Volcano National Park, home to the Arenal Volcano which stands over 5,400 feet tall. Take a hike around the park to experience the lush rainforest and the incredible view of the volcano, while learning about the local history, flora, and fauna.
Explore the beautiful beaches and rich biodiversity of Manuel Antonio National Park. You can spot hundreds of monkey species, sloths, and other wildlife here. Relax on the white sand beaches or hike the trails through the rainforest to enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean at sunset.
Experience the home of numerous species of birds, orchids, and other diverse flora and fauna in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Try the zip-line tours or take a stroll on the hanging bridges over canyons to immerse yourself in the true beauty of the cloud forest. You can also visit the Butterfly and Hummingbird Gardens for close encounters of these natural wonders.
Spend your last day in Costa Rica relaxing on the black sand beaches of Jaco, a surfer's paradise. Take surf lessons or simply bask in the sun on the beach. Dine on fresh seafood, local cuisine, or grab a refreshing drink and enjoy the Pura Vida lifestyle at the beachfront bars.
It's recommended to rent a car to get around Costa Rica, but if you prefer not to drive, you can take private shuttles, buses or taxis. The estimated cost for renting a car is about $35-$40 per day. The entry fee for a rental car will be $18. There will also be some additional expenses for fuel and parking. The average time taken for traveling between two locations is 2.5-4 hours. Make sure to plan sufficient travel time for each leg of the journey.
If you have more time, you can add visits to Poas Volcano National Park, Tortuguero National Park, and Tabacon Hot Springs Resort in La Fortuna. If you have less time, consider doing a two-day tour combining Arenal Volcano with Tabacón Hot Springs Resort.
Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) is the primary airport in Costa Rica located near San Jose, the country's capital. It is located about 11.5 miles from the city center. Liberia International Airport (LIR) is another option for those traveling to the Guanacaste area, located about 7.5 miles from the city center. Both airports offer transportation services to and from the airport to your destinations in Costa Rica.