5-Day Eco-Friendly and Budget-Conscious Itinerary in Costa Rica

Day 1: Arrival in San José

San José, Costa Rica

9:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Miel

Start your day with a delicious locally-sourced breakfast at Cafe Miel, famous for their organic coffee and fresh fruit bowls.
Located in the heart of San José.
USD8, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the National Museum

Explore the rich cultural history of Costa Rica at the National Museum, set in an old fort with beautiful gardens.
A short 15-minute walk from Cafe Miel.
USD6, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercado Central

Enjoy a budget-friendly, authentic Costa Rican lunch at Mercado Central where you can taste local dishes like Casado.
10-minute walk from the museum.
USD5, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit La Sabana Park

Relax at La Sabana Park, a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a scenic stroll or a picnic amidst nature.
Take bus 7 from Mercado Central to La Sabana.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tin Jo

Indulge in a delicious, budget-friendly Asian fusion meal at Tin Jo, known for its eco-friendly practices.
A short taxi ride or 20-minute walk from La Sabana.
USD10, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure in La Fortuna

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Bakery La Fortuna

Fuel your day with artisanal pastries and coffee at Bakery La Fortuna, renowned for its sustainability.
Short walk from your accommodation.
USD6, 1 hour

8:30AM

Hike Arenal Volcano National Park

Experience breathtaking trails and incredible views while hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park, a must-do for eco-warriors.
Take a local bus or shuttle to the park entrance.
USD15, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tiranobar

Stop for lunch at Tiranobar, an eatery that focuses on using fresh, local ingredients.
Return to La Fortuna center and walk to Tiranobar.
USD8, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

Take a refreshing dip at La Fortuna Waterfall, surrounded by lush rainforest; an unforgettable nature experience.
Local bus to the waterfall entrance.
USD6, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Don Rufino

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Don Rufino, offering delicious options with an emphasis on local ingredients and eco-friendly practices.
Short bus or walk back to La Fortuna town.
USD12, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Explore Monteverde

Monteverde, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Green Restaurant

Have a hearty breakfast featuring organic ingredients at The Green Restaurant in La Fortuna before heading to Monteverde.
Short walk from your hotel.
USD7, 1 hour

8:30AM

Shuttle to Monteverde

Take a scenic shuttle ride to Monteverde, enjoying the stunning landscapes along the way.
Book a shared shuttle in advance.
USD25, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Monteverde

Savor your meal at Cafe Monteverde, a charming spot with plenty of vegetarian options and a commitment to sustainability.
Located close to the shuttle drop-off point.
USD10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Cloud Forest Reserve

Immerse yourself in nature as you explore the enchanting Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, home to diverse wildlife.
Short taxi or bus ride to the park entrance.
USD20, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Tree House

Dine at The Tree House, an amazing restaurant built around a tree, offering a delightful menu focusing on local produce.
Short walk from the Cloud Forest area.
USD12, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Beach Day at Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at El Avion

Enjoy a breakfast with a view at El Avion, overlooking the ocean and surrounded by lush greenery.
Short walk from your accommodation.
USD8, 1 hour

8:30AM

Shuttle to Manuel Antonio

Catch a shuttle to Manuel Antonio, a popular beach destination with stunning natural beauty.
Book in advance; departure near your hotel.
USD20, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Relax and Swim at Manuel Antonio Beach

Spend your day relaxing on the sandy beaches, swimming, or taking part in optional water sports.
Walk from the shuttle drop-off point to the beach.
Free, 4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Restaurante Bambu

Refuel with fresh seafood and tropical flavors at Restaurante Bambu, just steps from the beach.
A short walk from the beach.
USD10, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Marisqueria Nahualli

Enjoy an eco-conscious dinner at Marisqueria Nahualli, celebrating the local bounty in a laid-back atmosphere.
Just off the main road, a short walk from the beach.
USD12, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Return to San José

San José, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe de los Deseos

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Cafe de los Deseos, known for their local and fair-trade coffee.
Close to your accommodation.
USD7, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shuttle back to San José

Take a relaxing shuttle back to San José, reflecting on your amazing journey through Costa Rica.
Departure near your hotel.
USD20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Criollita

Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at La Criollita, a local favorite with budget-friendly options.
Located in San José, short walk from the shuttle drop-off.
USD6, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Barrio Escalante

Wander around the trendy neighborhood of Barrio Escalante and check out eco-friendly shops and cafes.
Take bus 5 from La Criollita.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Al Mercat

End your journey with a sustainable dinner at Al Mercat, featuring local ingredients in delightful dishes.
Return to downtown San José via bus.
USD12, 1.5 hours
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