Ultimate 4-Day Costa Rica Adventure Road Trip

Day 1: Exploring San José

San José, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café del Parque

Start your day with a delicious Costa Rican breakfast featuring gallo pinto, eggs, and fresh fruit in this charming café.
Walk from your hotel in downtown San José to the café.
CRC7000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica

Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Costa Rica at the National Museum, housed in an old fortress.
A short 10-minute walk from Café del Parque.
CRC15000, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercado Central

Dive into local flavours with a hearty casado at one of the bustling eateries in this vibrant market.
Drive 5 minutes to Mercado Central.
CRC5000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum

Discover ancient artefacts and learn about indigenous cultures at this fascinating museum.
5-minute drive from Mercado Central.
CRC8000, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Departure to La Fortuna

Enjoy the scenic drive to La Fortuna, with breathtaking views and opportunities for photos.
Around 2.5-hour drive from San José to La Fortuna.
Rental Cost Included, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Don Rufino

Indulge in a delightful dinner featuring traditional Costa Rican dishes with a modern twist at this highly-rated restaurant.
Located in La Fortuna town centre.
CRC20000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventures in La Fortuna

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at La Fortuna Café

Fuel up with a tasty breakfast of fresh smoothies and organic coffee at this local favourite.
Just a short walk from your accommodation.
CRC6000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Arenal Volcano National Park

Hike the trails of this stunning national park, offering spectacular views of the mighty Arenal Volcano.
10-minute drive from La Fortuna.
CRC9000, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Rancho Perla

Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican meal at this picturesque eatery with views of the volcano.
15-minute drive from the national park.
CRC8500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Relax in Hot Springs

Unwind in the natural hot springs, letting the thermal waters soothe your muscles after a morning of hiking.
Short drive to Tabacón Hot Springs.
CRC50000, 3 hours

5:00PM

Explore La Fortuna Waterfall

Take a refreshing swim and enjoy the stunning views of the waterfall, a must-see in the area.
20-minute drive from the hot springs.
CRC4000, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Laparrilla de Coto

Savour a delicious grilled steak or seafood meal at this popular local grill.
Located conveniently in La Fortuna.
CRC12000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Mystical Monteverde

Monteverde, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Revive Cafe

Start your day with an energising smoothie bowl or vegan breakfast at this health-conscious café.
5-minute drive from your hotel.
CRC7000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel to Monteverde

Scenic drive to Monteverde, renowned for its cloud forests and biodiversity.
Around 3.5-hour scenic drive from La Fortuna to Monteverde.
Rental Cost Included, 3.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tree House Restaurant

Dine at the uniquely structured restaurant surrounded by lush gardens and trees, offering a local menu.
Located in the heart of Monteverde.
CRC10000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Embark on a guided walk through the breathtaking cloud forest, spotting rare wildlife and flora.
15-minute drive to the reserve.
CRC20000, 3 hours

5:00PM

Canopy Tour

Experience an exhilarating zip-line adventure through the forest canopy, a highlight of Monteverde.
Reserve tour in advance, location nearby the forest.
CRC60000, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Sabor Tico

Enjoy a delightful selection of traditional Costa Rican meals in a rustic setting close to nature.
Return to town for dinner.
CRC11000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Sunshine at Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Café Milagro

Enjoy fresh, organic coffee and traditional breakfast dishes in this vibrant café to fuel your day of adventure.
5-minute drive from your hotel.
CRC8000, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Manuel Antonio

Enjoy the picturesque drive through winding roads leading to beautiful beachscapes.
Around 3 hours drive from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio.
Rental Cost Included, 3 hours

11:30AM

Visit Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore lush trails and encounter diverse wildlife, including monkeys and sloths in this stunning coastal park.
Park entrance is nearby.
CRC18000, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Barba Roja

Savour delicious seafood while taking in views of the Pacific Ocean from this iconic restaurant.
Short drive from the national park.
CRC12000, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Relax on the Beach

Spend the afternoon unwinding on the beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio, soaking up the sun.
Direct access from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at El Avión

Dine at the unique restaurant built around an old cargo plane, offering local and international dishes.
Located in Manuel Antonio.
CRC15000, 1.5 hours
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