3-Day Adventure Itinerary in Costa Rica

Day 1: Adventure Begins

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Dios

Kick off your adventure with a delicious Costa Rican breakfast featuring Gallo Pinto – a must-try local dish made of rice and beans paired with eggs.
Head to Cafe Dios, conveniently located near the Arenal Volcano.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Arenal Volcano National Park

Explore the stunning trails of Arenal Volcano National Park, where you can marvel at the lush scenery and volcanic landscapes while learning about the area's biodiversity.
Drive or take a shuttle to the park entrance.
USD15, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Choza de Laurel

Enjoy a hearty lunch featuring Casado, a traditional dish served with rice, beans, vegetables, plantains, and your choice of meat.
Return to town, the restaurant is central and easy to find.
USD12, 1 hour

2:30PM

La Fortuna Waterfall

Embark on a short hike to the breathtaking La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can take a refreshing dip in its emerald waters.
Drive to the La Fortuna Waterfall Park, about 10 minutes from the center.
USD18, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Ecotermales Hot Springs

Unwind in the natural thermal springs at Ecotermales, surrounded by lush rainforest– the perfect end to a busy day.
A short 30-minute drive from La Fortuna.
USD38, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Don Rufino

Indulge in a gourmet dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients and fresh seafood, accompanied by a glass of Costa Rican wine.
Back in La Fortuna, the restaurant is situated in the main area.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cloud Forest Discovery

Monteverde, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Tree House Restaurant

Enjoy a breakfast fit for adventurers with freshly brewed coffee alongside a Costa Rican fruit platter.
The Tree House is in Santa Elena, Monteverde, a scenic place to start your day.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Venture into the unique atmosphere of the cloud forest, where you can hike among lush foliage and a diverse array of wildlife.
A short drive from Santa Elena; parking is available at the entrance.
USD25, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sabor Tico

Dig into traditional Costa Rican dishes like Enchiladas or Tacos with fresh local ingredients.
Located nearby in Santa Elena.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Sky Adventures Park

Experience the thrill of zip-lining above the rainforest, providing breathtaking aerial views of the cloud forest canopy.
Take a short drive to the park, clearly marked along the main road.
USD60, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Celajes

Savor a creative dinner while watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean, sampling seasonal menus that highlight local flavors.
Drive to the restaurant which is a bit elevated for stunning views.
USD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Beach Bliss

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Milagro

Enjoy a hearty breakfast burrito and a cup of their locally roasted coffee before heading to the beach.
Located in the heart of Manuel Antonio, easy to spot.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Manuel Antonio National Park

Spend your morning exploring the trails and beaches of this stunning national park, known for its rich biodiversity.
The park entrance is about a short walk from the parking lot.
USD18, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Emilio's Café

Relish a light lunch with fresh salads, smoothies, and typical Costa Rican fare, enjoying the local vibe.
Located just outside the park, perfect for a lunch break.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax at Manuel Antonio Beach

After lunch, soak up the sun on one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica, where you can swim, sunbathe or simply relax.
The beach is a short walk from the café, easily accessible.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Quepos

Stroll through the vibrant coastal town of Quepos, taking in the shops and lively atmosphere.
Drive or take a short taxi ride from the beach to Quepos.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at El Avión

Dine at this unique restaurant built around an airplane, while enjoying a diverse menu with seafood specialties and a spectacular view of the sunset.
Situated in Manuel Antonio, it’s an iconic dining spot.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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