How many days do you need in costa rica?

This itinerary covers 7 days in costa rica, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for costa rica?

Plan your perfect 7 days trip to costa rica. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Pura Vida Paradise: 7-Day Family Escape

Day 1: City Exploration

San Jose, Costa Rica on February 5, 2024

8:00AM

Explore Mercado Central

Immerse in the local culture and sample tropical fruits at the vibrant market.

Free entry, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Museo Nacional de Costa Rica

Discover the history of Costa Rica and its rich biodiversity through interactive exhibits.

Adults $10, Children $5, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Soda Tala

Savor traditional Costa Rican cuisine in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Approx. $20 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Children's Museum (Museo de los Niños)

Let your kids engage in hands-on learning experiences and interactive displays.

Adults $8, Children $7, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Grano de Oro

Enjoy a relaxed family dinner in a charming setting with a menu featuring local and international flavors.

Approx. $30 per person, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in San Jose

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Arenal, Costa Rica on February 6, 2024

8:00AM

Transfer to Arenal

Travel to Arenal with stunning views of the countryside and Arenal Volcano along the way.

Cost of transfer, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Choza de Laurel

Relish a hearty meal in a garden setting with volcano views.

Approx. $25 per person, 1 hour

2:00PM

Arenal Eco Zoo

Encounter wildlife native to Costa Rica and participate in guided tours and animal feeding.

Adults $15, Children $10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Hotel Springs Resort & Spa

Unwind in the natural hot springs and enjoy the stunning surroundings.

Included in hotel stay, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Que Rico Arenal

Indulge in a family dinner featuring Costa Rican and international dishes in a cozy setting.

Approx. $30 per person, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Arenal

Day 3: Adventure in the Cloud Forest

Monteverde, Costa Rica on February 7, 2024

9:00AM

Transfer to Monteverde

Travel to Monteverde, enjoying the scenic beauty and lush greenery along the way.

Cost of transfer, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tree House Restaurant

Dine in a unique treehouse setting surrounded by nature and breathtaking views.

Approx. $20 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Embark on a guided nature walk through the mystical cloud forest and admire its diverse flora and fauna.

Adults $25, Children $15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Morpho's Restaurant & Lounge

Enjoy a cozy family dinner with a variety of international and local dishes in a warm ambiance.

Approx. $25 per person, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Monteverde

Day 4: Wildlife and Beach Fun

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica on February 8, 2024

9:00AM

Transfer to Manuel Antonio

Travel to Manuel Antonio, known for its beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife.

Cost of transfer, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Avión Restaurant

Dine in a unique restaurant set inside a historic cargo plane with ocean views.

Approx. $30 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Manuel Antonio National Park

Embark on a family-friendly hike through the park to spot monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds.

Adults $16, Children under 12 free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Relax at Playa Biesanz

Unwind on the tranquil beach and enjoy family time by the ocean.

Free entry, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Gabriella's Restaurant

Savor a delightful dinner in a cozy atmosphere with a menu featuring fresh seafood and local flavors.

Approx. $35 per person, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Day 5: Beach Relaxation

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica on February 9, 2024

9:00AM

Explore Playa Espadilla

Spend a fun-filled day at the beach with calm waves, perfect for family swimming and beach games.

Free entry, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Wagon

Enjoy a beachfront meal with a range of fresh seafood and tropical drinks in a casual setting.

Approx. $25 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Family Surfing Lesson at Playitas Beach

Experience a thrilling surfing lesson suitable for all ages with professional instructors.

Approx. $50 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at El Gran Escape

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with an extensive seafood menu and a welcoming ambiance.

Approx. $30 per person, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Day 6: Adventure and Nature

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica on February 10, 2024

9:00AM

Manuel Antonio Mangrove and Ocean Kayaking Tour

Embark on a guided kayaking adventure through the mangroves, observing wildlife and enjoying the serene surroundings.

Approx. $60 per person, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Emilio's Cafe

Savor a delicious lunch in a casual setting with a diverse menu suitable for the whole family.

Approx. $20 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Kids Saving the Rainforest

Visit the wildlife sanctuary and learn about conservation efforts, perfect for a family educational experience.

Donation-based entry, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Runaway Grill Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful dinner with ocean views and a diverse menu featuring grilled specialties.

Approx. $35 per person, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica on February 11, 2024

9:00AM

Family Yoga at the Beach

Unwind and relax with a family yoga session on the beach, embracing the peaceful surroundings.

Free activity, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Souvenir Shops

Browse local artisan shops for unique souvenirs to remember your family adventure in Costa Rica.

Cost of souvenirs, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Falafel Bar

Enjoy a casual lunch with a variety of falafel options and refreshing beverages.

Approx. $15 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Enjoy some leisure time by the pool or take a leisurely walk around the hotel's surroundings.

Free activity, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at El Avión Restaurant

Indulge in a memorable farewell dinner with panoramic ocean views and a diverse menu suitable for the whole family.

Approx. $40 per person, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Pura Vida Paradise: 7-Day Family Escape

Day 1: City Exploration

8:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

8:00AM

12:00PM

2:00PM

5:00PM

7:30PM

Day 3: Adventure in the Cloud Forest

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Wildlife and Beach Fun

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

8:00PM

Day 5: Beach Relaxation

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 6: Adventure and Nature

9:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 7: Relaxation and Departure

9:00AM

11:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

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