Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Explore the Best of Costa Rica in 7 Days

Viewed by 117 travelers

Day 1: Arrive in San José

San José, Costa Rica on April 9, 2025

10:00AM

Poás Volcano National Park

Explore this stunning volcano, which features one of the largest craters in the world. Don’t miss the breathtaking views from the lookout point.
USD15, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Criollita

Enjoy traditional Costa Rican meals such as casado and gallo pinto in a cozy local eatery.
USDF20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Museo del Oro Precolombino

Discover Costa Rica's rich history through its incredible collection of Pre-Columbian gold artifacts.
USD12, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Walk through Barrio Escalante

This trendy neighborhood is filled with art, specialty coffee shops, and boutique stores perfect for an afternoon stroll.
USD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Silvestre

A fine dining experience offering contemporary dishes made from local ingredients; a must-try for food enthusiasts.
USDF30, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San José

Day 2: Arenal Volcano Adventure

Arenal, Costa Rica on April 10, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast included at your hotel, perfect to fuel up for your adventure.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Arenal Volcano National Park

Hike the trails around Arenal Volcano and enjoy stunning views and rich biodiversity specific to this region.
USD15, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Fortuna Waterfall

Grab a quick bite nearby, enjoying local favorites like ceviche while witnessing the beautiful waterfall.
USDF15, 1 hour

2:30PM

La Fortuna Waterfall

Take a short hike down to the waterfall and enjoy a refreshing swim in its natural pool.
USD18, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Tabacón Hot Springs

Unwind in the natural hot springs while surrounded by lush tropical gardens; a perfect way to end the day.
USD70, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Don Rufino

Savor a unique fusion of traditional and modern Costa Rican cuisine in a stylish setting.
USDF25, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Arenal

Day 3: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde, Costa Rica on April 11, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at the hotel before heading out to the cloud forest.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

Experience the beauty and biodiversity of the cloud forest, with opportunities for birdwatching and spotting wildlife.
USD20, 3.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Tree House Restaurant

Enjoy a unique dining atmosphere built around a tree while tasting local dishes and fresh juices.
USDF20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Sky Walk Canopy Tour

Get an adrenaline rush as you walk through suspension bridges high above the forest floor.
USD50, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Monteverde Cheese Factory

Learn about the cheese-making process and sample some delicious Local cheeses.
USD10, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Sabor Tico

Dine on authentic traditional Costa Rican dishes in a relaxed setting with warm service.
USDF15, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Monteverde

Day 4: Beach Day in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica on April 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel your day with a tropical breakfast served at your hotel, often including fresh fruits and local specialties.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore the stunning biodiversity of this coastal park known for its beautiful beaches and wildlife.
USD16, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Milagro

Indulge in fresh seafood tacos or home-cooked meals at this popular spot near the beach.
USDF20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at Playa Espadilla

Spend your afternoon lounging or swimming at this beautiful beach, perfect for relaxing.
USD0, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at El Avion

Dine in a former airplane overlooking the ocean, offering amazing views and delicious fusion cuisine.
USDF30, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Day 5: Adventure in Osa Peninsula

Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica on April 13, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a fresh breakfast at your hotel to prepare for the day's explorations.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Corcovado National Park

Dive into one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, perfect for hiking and spotting unique wildlife.
USD15, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Osa Wild

Enjoy organic and locally-sourced meals at this sustainable restaurant located near the park.
USDF25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Horseback Riding on the Beach

Experience the Osa Peninsula’s natural beauty on horseback, riding through lush landscapes and sandy beaches.
USD40, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at your hotel

Take the evening to relax, enjoying the amenities and beautiful surroundings of your accommodation.
USD0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante El coco

Savor fresh seafood and tropical flavors at this beachside restaurant with a casual vibe.
USDF20, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Osa Peninsula

Day 6: Discover Tortuguero

Tortuguero, Costa Rica on April 14, 2025

6:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on your journey to Tortuguero.
Included, 1 hour

7:30AM

Travel to Tortuguero by boat

Enjoy a scenic boat ride through the canals to reach the beautiful Tortuguero National Park.
USD30, 3 hours

11:30AM

Check into hotel

Get settled at your eco-lodge and refresh before your next adventure.
USD0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy a local meal at your eco-lodge's restaurant with an emphasis on fresh ingredients.
USDF20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Tortuguero National Park Tour

Explore the lush jungles and diverse wildlife on a guided tour through the park’s breathtaking landscapes.
USD50, 3 hours

5:30PM

Free time at lodge

Relax and explore the surroundings or enjoy guided nature walks available at the lodge.
USD0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Lodge

Indulge in a delicious buffet dinner featuring local cuisine, served in the lodge's dining area.
USDF25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Tortuguero

Day 7: Return to San José

San José, Costa Rica on April 15, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at lodge

Finish off your tortuguero experience with a refreshing breakfast at your eco-lodge.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Travel back to San José

Take a scenic boat ride back to the mainland and then transfer to your hotel in San José.
USD30, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mercado Central

Explore this bustling market and sample local dishes like chifrijo and empanadas at the various food stalls.
USDF15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit National Museum of Costa Rica

Discover the country’s cultural heritage through a diverse array of exhibits showcasing history and art.
USD12, 2 hours

4:30PM

Last-minute shopping at Paseo de las Flores

Spend your last hours in Costa Rica picking up souvenirs and gifts at this popular shopping spot.
USD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell dinner at Restaurante Ricon de la Vieja

Celebrate your trip with a delightful dinner featuring local Costa Rican delicacies and a warm atmosphere.
USDF25, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San José
0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

More About Costa Rica

Trip Packing List: San José, Costa Rica (late February)
Packing List
Trip Packing List: Costa Rica (Late February)
Packing List
San José, Costa Rica Weather: Your Year-Round Climate Guide
Weather Guide
Costa Rica Weather: A Comprehensive Year-Round Climate Guide
Weather Guide
San José, Costa Rica: Essential Travel Guide and Tips
Travel Expert
Essential Tips for Visiting Costa Rica Safely and Smartly
Travel Expert
Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your Costa Rica Trip

Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go