Pura Vida: A 5-Day Adventure in Costa Rica

Day 1: City Exploration

San Jose, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Miel

Start your day with a delicious Costa Rican breakfast of gallo pinto and fresh fruit at the charming Cafe Miel in San Jose.
10 USD, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore National Museum of Costa Rica

Immerse yourself in Costa Rican history and culture at the National Museum, housed in a stunning 19th-century building.
15 USD, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Soda Tapia

Head to Soda Tapia for a traditional Casado lunch, featuring rice, beans, plantains, salad, and your choice of protein.
12 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

Admire the intricate gold artifacts and learn about the craftsmanship of the indigenous people at the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum.
14 USD, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Grano de Oro Restaurant

Indulge in a gourmet dinner at the renowned Grano de Oro Restaurant, known for its innovative fusion cuisine and elegant ambiance.
40 USD, 2 hours

Day 2: Adventure in Arenal

Arenal, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe y Macadamia

Savor a hearty breakfast with a view of Arenal Volcano at Cafe y Macadamia, known for its organic and locally-sourced ingredients.
15 USD, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall

Embark on a scenic hike through the lush rainforest to reach the breathtaking La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing swim in the natural pool.
15 USD (entrance fee), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Choza de Laurel

Relax and enjoy a traditional Costa Rican meal amidst nature at La Choza de Laurel, offering authentic dishes and a tranquil setting.
20 USD, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore Arenal Volcano National Park

Discover the diverse flora and fauna of Arenal Volcano National Park on a guided nature walk, with opportunities to spot wildlife and admire volcanic landscapes.
25 USD (entrance fee and tour), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Fortuna Steak House

Treat yourself to a delicious steak dinner and locally-inspired cocktails at La Fortuna Steak House, known for its cozy atmosphere and exceptional cuisine.
30 USD, 2 hours

Day 3: Cloud Forest Experience

Monteverde, Costa Rica

9:00AM

Breakfast at Orchid Coffee Shop

Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at Orchid Coffee Shop, offering a variety of freshly brewed coffees and delectable pastries.
12 USD, 1 hour

10:30AM

Zip Lining at Selvatura Park

Get your adrenaline pumping as you soar through the cloud forest canopy on a thrilling zip lining adventure at Selvatura Park, surrounded by stunning greenery and diverse wildlife.
50 USD, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tree House Restaurant

Dine amidst the treetops at the unique Tree House Restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of gourmet dishes while taking in panoramic views of the cloud forest.
25 USD, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Embark on a guided nature walk through the mystical Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, home to an extraordinary biodiversity of flora and fauna, including the famous Resplendent Quetzal.
20 USD (entrance fee), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Morpho's Restaurant

Savor a dinner featuring farm-to-table cuisine and local ingredients at Morpho's Restaurant, known for its eco-friendly practices and delectable menu inspired by the surrounding cloud forest.
35 USD, 2 hours

Day 4: Beach Paradise

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

8:30AM

Breakfast at Emilio's Cafe

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Emilio's Cafe, known for its beachfront location and mouthwatering dishes, including freshly squeezed tropical fruit juices.
18 USD, 1 hour

10:00AM

Relax on Manuel Antonio Beach

Unwind on the pristine white sands of Manuel Antonio Beach, where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters and bask in the tropical sunshine with views of lush rainforest surroundings.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Avion Restaurant

Dine in a unique setting at El Avion Restaurant, housed in a converted airplane with stunning ocean views, serving up delicious seafood and international cuisine.
30 USD, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore the rich biodiversity of Manuel Antonio National Park on a guided tour, with opportunities to encounter monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds amidst the park's coastal rainforest.
25 USD (entrance fee and tour), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Gabriella's Steak and Pasta

Indulge in a delectable dinner of prime steaks and exquisite pasta dishes at the elegant Gabriella's, where you can enjoy a romantic ambiance and fine wine selection.
40 USD, 2 hours

Day 5: Farewell to Costa Rica

San Jose, Costa Rica

9:00AM

Breakfast at Mercado Central

Experience the vibrant local culture at Mercado Central while savoring a traditional Costa Rican breakfast of tamales, tortillas, and tropical fruits from the bustling food stalls.
15 USD, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Barrio Amon

Take a leisurely stroll through the historic neighborhood of Barrio Amon, known for its charming colonial architecture and vibrant street art, offering a glimpse into San Jose's cultural heritage.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tin Jo

Savor a vegetarian-friendly lunch at Tin Jo, known for its innovative Asian fusion cuisine and serene garden setting, perfect for a relaxing midday meal.
20 USD, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Pre-Colombian Jade Museum

Delve into the mesmerizing world of ancient jade artifacts at the Pre-Colombian Jade Museum, showcasing intricate pieces that reflect the artistry and spirituality of Costa Rica's indigenous cultures.
18 USD, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Grano de Oro Restaurant

Indulge in one last unforgettable dinner at Grano de Oro Restaurant to conclude your Costa Rican adventure, savoring the culinary artistry and warm hospitality that embodies the essence of 'Pura Vida'.
50 USD, 2 hours