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12-Day Eco Friendly Adventure in Costa Rica: Nature, Culture, and Relaxation

Viewed by 114 travelers

Day 1: Arrive in San Jose

San Jose, Costa Rica

10:00AM

Arrive at San Jose Airport

Welcome to Costa Rica! After a smooth landing, you'll be greeted and transported to your hotel in the city.
20-minute drive from the airport.
USD50, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Soda Tapia

Enjoy a delightful introduction to Costa Rican cuisine with a traditional Casado, featuring rice, beans, plantains, and your choice of protein.
5-minute drive from hotel.
USD10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the National Museum

Dive into Costa Rican history by visiting the National Museum, constructed in a former fortress, showcasing pre-Columbian artifacts and colonial history.
30-minute walk from lunch spot.
USD15, 2 hours

4:00PM

Coffee Plantation Tour

Engage in the rich coffee culture of Costa Rica with a guided tour of a local plantation, learning about its sustainable practices.
30-minute drive from the museum.
USD25, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Silvestre

Indulge in a gourmet dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients with an emphasis on seasonal dishes.
20-minute drive from plantation.
USD35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in San Jose

Day 2: Travel to La Fortuna

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Miel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast including omelets and fresh local fruit, energizing for your next adventure.
15-minute walk from hotel.
USD8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shuttle to La Fortuna

Enjoy the scenic drive towards La Fortuna, passing through picturesque landscapes and coffee fields.
Direct shuttle transportation.
USD30, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Parrilla de Tita

Try their incredible wood-fired grilled meats and salads while soaking in views of the Arenal Volcano.
Short walk from shuttle drop-off.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

Hike down to the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall and take a refreshing swim in its crystal-clear pool.
10-minute drive from lunch.
USD15, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Don Rufino

Experience a culinary delight with their modern twist on classic dishes, perfectly paired with local wines.
20-minute drive from the waterfall.
USD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in La Fortuna

Day 3: Arenal Volcano Exploration

Arenal Volcano Area, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a buffet breakfast featuring tropical fruits, pancakes, and local dishes to prepare for a day of adventure.
At the hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Arenal Volcano National Park

Embark on hikes through the lush park trails while spotting diverse flora and fauna and enjoying breathtaking views of the volcano.
30-minute drive from the hotel.
USD15, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante La Ventanita

Savor fresh fish tacos or a mountain-style burger while enjoying the charming atmosphere.
5-minute drive from park.
USD12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax in Ecotermales Hot Springs

Unwind in the natural hot springs surrounded by beautiful flora, a perfect blend of relaxation and nature.
10-minute drive from lunch.
USD40, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Lava Lounge

Dine on delightful wood-fired pizzas and eclectic dishes, showcasing both local and international flavors.
15-minute drive from hot springs.
USD20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Arenal Volcano Area

Day 4: Travel to Monteverde

Monteverde, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast with options ranging from fresh fruit smoothies to traditional Gallo Pinto.
At hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Transfer to Monteverde

Travel to the cloud forests of Monteverde via a scenic road, enjoying views of rolling hills and coffee plantations.
2.5-hour shuttle ride.
USD35, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Avocado

Indulge in fresh salads, avocado toasts, and health-focused dishes in an eco-friendly setting.
5-minute walk from shuttle drop-off.
USD12, 1 hour

2:00PM

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Wander through the mystical cloud forest trails, showcasing unique ecosystems and stunning views.
15-minute drive from lunch.
USD25, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Casa Jardin

Savor delicious home-cooked meals crafted with organic ingredients from local farmers.
30-minute drive from reserve.
USD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Monteverde

Day 5: Nature and Beach Day

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a variety of options from fruits to made-to-order omelets, replenishing your energy for the day.
At hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Transfer to Manuel Antonio

Head to Manuel Antonio National Park, home to lush landscapes and diverse wildlife.
3-hour shuttle ride.
USD30, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Avion

Dine at this unique restaurant beautifully built around a vintage airplane, featuring fresh seafood and local dishes.
Short walk from the park entrance.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Manuel Antonio National Park

Hike through trails, relax on stunning beaches, and spot monkeys and sloths in their habitat.
Directly at the park.
USD15, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Cantina

Enjoy local Costa Rican dishes with a twist in a casual atmosphere filled with vibrant art.
15-minute drive from the park.
USD25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Day 6: Relaxation and Culture

Quepos, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start with a tropical breakfast, indulging in all that Costa Rica has to offer.
At hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Quepos Marina

Explore the vibrant marina area filled with shops, art galleries, and cafes, soaking in local culture.
20-minute walk from hotel.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Marisqueria El Sueno

Sample authentic seafood dishes just steps from the marina, blending flavors and freshness.
5-minute walk.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax at Playa Espadilla

Enjoy a stress-free afternoon lounging on the beach, cooling off in the ocean, and soaking up the sun.
10-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at El Gran Escape

Conclude your day with a delicious meal featuring fresh ingredients and local specialties.
15-minute drive from beach.
USD25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Quepos

Day 7: Adventure in Osa Peninsula

Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

6:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before heading out on your adventure.
At hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Osa Peninsula

Journey towards the wild and biodiverse Osa Peninsula, ready for an unforgettable experience.
3-hour shuttle ride.
USD40, 3 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Restaurante Concha

Savor a fresh and delicious seafood lunch, a highlight of Osa’s coastal flavor.
15-minute drive from shuttle drop-off.
USD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Corcovado National Park

Step into one of the most biologically intense places on Earth, guided through rich jungles and spotting incredible wildlife.
30-minute drive from lunch.
USD60, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Cabinas Jimenez

Enjoy a relaxed meal after your adventure featuring locally inspired dishes and warm hospitality.
20-minute drive from the park.
USD25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Osa Peninsula

Day 8: Discover Corcovado

Drake Bay, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Indulge in a satisfying breakfast that prepares you for the day ahead.
At hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Boat Trip to Caño Island

Enjoy a scenic boat ride to Caño Island, exploring its lush landscapes and rich marine life through snorkeling.
30-minute boat ride.
USD75, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a local eatery on Caño Island

Savor a packed lunch with local flavors as you explore this pristine piece of paradise.
On Caño Island.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Return to Drake Bay

Head back, enjoying the serene ocean views while cruising.
30-minute boat ride.
Included in previous activity., 1 hour

3:30PM

Swim at the beach

Spend your afternoon relaxing on the beach, basking in the sun or swimming in the warm ocean.
Nearby beach.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Las Brisas

Enjoy fresh local dishes with a stunning sunset view at this charming waterside restaurant.
5-minute drive.
USD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Drake Bay

Day 9: Wildlife and Nature

Drake Bay, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your day with a wholesome breakfast to prepare for your exploration of the Costa Rican wilderness.
At hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Guide Tour of Corcovado National Park

Venture deeper into Corcovado National Park with a guided tour, focusing on wildlife spotting and educational insights.
Meet guide at hotel.
USD65, 6 hours

2:00PM

Packed lunch in the park

Enjoy a gourmet picnic prepared by your hotel while immersed in nature.
In the park.
Included in tour., 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at the hotel

Relax and reflect on your adventures over dinner featuring local seafood and traditional dishes.
At hotel.
Included in stay, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Drake Bay

Day 10: Travel to Tortuguero

Tortuguero, Costa Rica

6:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up for a travel day with a hearty breakfast to keep you energized.
At hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Transport to Tortuguero

Travel to Tortuguero, known for its captivating canals and abundant wildlife, via boat shuttle über scenic jungle waterways.
3-hour boat journey.
USD50, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tortuguero Village

Enjoy a delightful meal at a local eatery, sampling Caribbean flavors and refreshing drinks.
Short walk from boat dock.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Tortuguero National Park Exploration

Discover the natural beauty and biodiversity of this unique park via guided canoe tours through the intricate canal system.
At the national park.
USD25, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at your lodge

Unwind with local dishes made with freshly sourced ingredients from the surrounding area.
At lodge.
Included in stay, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Tortuguero

Day 11: Wildlife Encounter in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

6:30AM

Breakfast at your lodge

Savor a fresh breakfast featuring tropical fruits, eggs, and locally sourced bread as you prepare for a new journey.
At the lodge.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Commute to Puerto Viejo

Travel by shuttle to Puerto Viejo, passing through beautiful coastal landscapes.
2-hour shuttle ride.
USD30, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Jaguar Rescue Center

Explore this non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating wild animals, fostering conservation efforts.
15-minute drive from shuttle drop-off.
USD20, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Nena

Taste the delightful Caribbean flavors with fresh catches of the day, including local specialties.
10-minute drive from rescue center.
USD15, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax at Puerto Viejo Beach

Spend your afternoon unwinding on the beach, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal town.
Nearby beach.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Point

Conclude your day with a delicious meal while enjoying views of the sunset over the ocean.
10-minute walk.
USD25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Puerto Viejo

Day 12: Return to San Jose

San Jose, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast, reflecting on your incredible adventure across Costa Rica.
At hotel.
Included in stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Transfer back to San Jose

Enjoy the journey back to the capital, reminiscing about the fantastic experiences shared.
4-hour shuttle ride.
USD30, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Criollita

Wrap up your adventure with a delicious farewell lunch featuring traditional dishes.
Short walk from shuttle drop-off.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

Delve into the history of Costa Rica through its gold artifacts before your final evening.
10-minute drive from lunch.
USD10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Rest. La Esquina de Buenos Aires

Celebrate the culmination of your trip with an elegant dinner at this renowned Argentinian steakhouse.
15-minute drive from the museum.
USD40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Jose
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