Explore the Natural Wonders of Costa Rica: A Vegetarian-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary with Local Commuting

Day 1: Arrival in San José

San José, Costa Rica on March 23, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Café Tico

Start your day with a vegetarian-friendly Costa Rican breakfast featuring Gallo Pinto, eggs, and fresh fruit, in a family-run café known for its local charm.
USD10, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Explore the National Museum of Costa Rica

Discover Costa Rica's history and culture through engaging exhibits and beautiful gardens housed in a former fortress.
USD12, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Visit the Central Market

Wander through this bustling market where you can taste local vegetarian snacks, buy souvenirs, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at La Criollita

Savour a delightful vegetarian Mediterranean-inspired lunch, featuring fresh ingredients and local flavours in a cosy restaurant.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Use Local Bus to Arenal Volcano

Catch a comfortable local bus from San José to La Fortuna, which takes about 4 hours, providing a scenic experience through Costa Rican countryside.
USD10, 4 hours

5:30 PM

Check into your hotel

Settle into your accommodation and take some time to relax before dinner.
Varies, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Don Rufino

Enjoy a sophisticated dining experience featuring vegetarian options made from local ingredients in a beautifully designed space.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Arenal Volcano Adventure

Arenal, Costa Rica on March 24, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a hearty vegetarian breakfast at your hotel before embarking on your day's adventure.
Included, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Arenal Volcano National Park

Hike through the stunning landscapes of the park, with opportunities to see diverse wildlife and the impressive volcano, suitable for all fitness levels.
USD15, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at La Fortuna Waterfall Restaurant

Enjoy delicious vegetarian lunch options with views of La Fortuna Waterfall, a perfect spot to recharge.
USD18, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

Take a refreshing swim in the cool waters of the spectacular waterfall after a short hike down.
USD10, 2.5 hours

3:30 PM

Public Shuttle for Zip-lining Tour

Join a public shuttle that will take you to the zip-lining location, experiencing the thrill of flying through the treetops with stunning views.
USD10 (shuttle), 1 hour (including transport)

4:30 PM

Zip-lining Tour

Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the treetops, offering stunning views of the Arenal area—all equipment and safety briefings are provided.
USD75, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Return Shuttle to Hotel

Take the shuttle back to your hotel after an exciting day of adventure.
USD10 (shuttle), 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Restaurante Mi Casa

Enjoy a casual dinner with a variety of local vegetarian dishes in a friendly atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after an active day.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde, Costa Rica on March 25, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Indulge in a satisfying vegetarian breakfast at your hotel before setting out for the day.
Included, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Local Shuttle to Monteverde

Ride a shared shuttle to Monteverde, enjoying picturesque views along the way; this trip takes about 3 hours.
USD25, 3 hours

11:30 AM

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Explore the famous cloud forest with guided tours showcasing the unique biodiversity and stunning views.
USD25, 3 hours

2:30 PM

Lunch at The Treehouse Restaurant

Dine in a unique treehouse setting with various vegetarian options while enjoying the sounds of nature around you.
USD20, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Suspension Bridge Tour

Walk along the suspension bridges offering breathtaking views of the forest canopy and wildlife, a thrilling experience for nature lovers.
USD30, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Check into your hotel

Settle into your accommodation in Monteverde and relax before dinner.
Varies, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Sabor Tico

Enjoy traditional Costa Rican cuisine with a modern vegetarian twist in a lovely atmosphere.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Relaxation at Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica on March 26, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a delicious vegetarian breakfast at your hotel before heading to the beach.
Included, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Public Shuttle to Manuel Antonio

Take a public shuttle for a scenic 3-hour journey to Manuel Antonio, known for its stunning beaches and national park.
USD25, 3 hours

11:30 AM

Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore the national park with trails leading to beautiful beaches and opportunities to spot diverse wildlife such as monkeys and sloths.
USD16, 3 hours

2:30 PM

Lunch at Restaurante El Avión

Enjoy lunch with a unique view of the jungle and ocean, featuring a selection of vegetarian dishes served in a repurposed airplane.
USD22, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Beach Time at Manuel Antonio

Spend a relaxing afternoon swimming and sunbathing on one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica.
Free, 3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Amigos Del Mar

Experience a delightful dinner featuring fresh seafood and vegetarian options with a beachside view.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Return to San José

San José, Costa Rica on March 27, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Savour a final breakfast at your hotel, soaking in the beautiful views and vegetarian offerings one last time.
Included, 1 hour

8:30 AM

Public Shuttle to San José

Leave early for your return trip to San José via a public shuttle, allowing about 3 hours for travel.
USD25, 3 hours

11:30 AM

Visit the Jade Museum

Explore the history and significance of jade in Costa Rican culture through stunning exhibits.
USD10, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Mercado Escalante

Dine at this trendy food market with a variety of vegetarian food stalls showcasing local flavours.
USD15, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Last-minute Shopping at Avenida Central

Take some time to shop for souvenirs and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of San José's main shopping street.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Return to the Airport

Complete your adventure by heading to the airport for your departure flight via a local taxi service.
USD40 (transport), 1 hour
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