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Magical Honeymoon Retreat: Chicago to Costa Rica Adventure

Viewed by 120 travelers

Day 1: Travel Day

Chicago, USA on September 19, 2025

9:00AM

Flight to Costa Rica

Catch a flight from Chicago O'Hare to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica. Flights are available via airlines like American Airlines and United Airlines with a flight time of around 5 hours.
USD350, 5 hours

4:00PM

Transfer to Arenal

Once you arrive at SJO, take a pre-booked shuttle or private transfer to Nayara Gardens in the Arenal area, which is about a 3-hour drive away. Enjoy the scenic views along the way.
USD120, 3 hours
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Day 2: Exploring Arenal

Arenal, Costa Rica on September 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Resort

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Nayara Gardens’ restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh fruits and Costa Rican coffee.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Arenal Volcano National Park Visit

Explore the breathtaking Arenal Volcano National Park with hiking trails and incredible scenery. Don’t miss the lava fields and the waterfall.
USD15, 3-4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at La Fortuna

Dine at Restaurante La Fortuna for authentic Costa Rican dishes. The casado and ceviche are highly recommended!
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Hot Springs Experience

Relax at Tabacón Hot Springs, where you can soak in natural thermal waters. It’s the perfect romantic end to a day of adventure.
USD80, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Altamira Restaurant

Enjoy fine dining at Altamira, known for its gourmet dishes and exquisite local ingredients.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 3: Adventure Activities

Arenal, Costa Rica on September 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Resort

Indulge again in a hearty breakfast at Nayara, perhaps trying different local specialties.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Zip-Lining Tour

Experience the adrenaline rush of zip-lining through the rainforest with Arenal Mundo Aventura. Stunning views await!
USD85, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Soda La Hormiga

Taste local food at Soda La Hormiga. The gallo pinto is a must-try!
USD15, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relaxing at the resort

Return to Nayara, lounge at your private terrace, or explore the lush gardens for a more relaxing afternoon.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at the Resort

Enjoy dinner at Nayara Gardens, choosing from a variety of local and international dishes to satisfy your craving.
USD60, 2 hours
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Day 4: Final Arenal Day

Arenal, Costa Rica on September 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Resort

Enjoy your last morning at Nayara with breakfast and stunning views of the volcano.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

La Fortuna Waterfall

Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall, a spectacular sight where you can swim in the cool waters below. It’s a must-see!
USD15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café Mediterráneo

Dine at Café Mediterráneo, known for fresh salads, seafood, and local coffee.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Chocolate Tour

Experience a chocolate tour at the Rainforest Chocolate Tour farm and learn how chocolate is harvested and produced.
USD40, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Don Rufino

Savor a fantastic meal at Don Rufino, known for an excellent selection of wines and innovative dishes.
USD65, 2 hours
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Day 5: Beach Bliss!

Playa Cocles, Costa Rica on September 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Resort

Have a final breakfast at Nayara before checking out and heading to your next adventure.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Transfer to Playa Cocles

Take a private transfer or shuttle to Playa Cocles, which is around a 2-hour drive from Arenal, known for its stunning beaches.
USD120, 2 hours

11:30AM

Check-in at Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel

Arrive at Le Cameleon, an adults-only hotel with beach access and private pool options available.
USD250/night, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at the Hotel Restaurant

Dine at the hotel's restaurant, offering a variety of local and international cuisine with ocean views.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Spend leisure time on the gorgeous sandy beaches of Playa Cocles, enjoying cocktails and the sun.
Free, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at the Restaurant at Le Cameleon

Enjoy a romantic dinner by the beach, taking in the sunset while savoring gourmet local dishes.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 6: Beach Activities

Playa Cocles, Costa Rica on September 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the Le Cameleon’s restaurant featuring tropical fruits and hearty options.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Snorkeling Tour

Take a half-day snorkeling tour to Cahuita National Park, where you can explore the vibrant marine life.
USD65, 5 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Café Moringa

Savor fresh smoothies and delicious wraps at Café Moringa, a local favorite.
USD20, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Relaxing by the Private Pool

Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing by your private pool at the hotel.
Free, 3 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at La Nena

Dine at La Nena, famous for its Caribbean cuisine and lively atmosphere, perfect for a fun evening.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 7: Leisure Day

Playa Cocles, Costa Rica on September 25, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Treat yourselves to a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, enjoying the morning sun.
Included, 1 hour

10:30AM

Wander Local Markets

Spend time exploring local shops and markets in Puerto Viejo, full of unique crafts and souvenirs.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bread & Chocolate

Enjoy a delightful lunch at Bread & Chocolate, specializing in vegan and vegetarian options.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Final Beach Relaxation

Head back to the beach for your final stretch of relaxation, soaking in the beauty of this tropical paradise.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Stashu's Con Fusion

Excite your palate with a fusion of Caribbean and Asian cuisines at Stashu's.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 8: Travel Back

Playa Cocles to San José, Costa Rica on September 26, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast by the beach, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere before checking out.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Check-out from Le Cameleon

Check out and prepare for your transfer back to San José.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Transfer to San José

Private transfer back to SJO for your return flight. Allow approximately 4 hours for this journey.
USD120, 4 hours

3:00PM

Flight to Chicago

Catch your flight back to Chicago O'Hare from San José, cherishing memories from your amazing honeymoon.
USD350, 5 hours
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