5-Day Costa Rica Adventure: Weather, Cuisine, and Essential Tips

Day 1: Arrival & San José

San José, Costa Rica on May 10, 2025

9:00am

Arrival and Hotel Check-in

Arrive in San José and settle into your hotel. Prepare for warm weather with occasional afternoon showers by wearing lightweight, quick-dry clothing.
CURRENCY0, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Soda Tapia

Try traditional Costa Rican dishes like casado or gallo pinto. Soda Tapia is a popular local spot known for authentic flavors.
CRC1500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit National Museum of Costa Rica

Open from 9am to 4pm, learn about Costa Rican history and culture in a converted fortress, a great introduction to the country.
CRC3500, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Restaurante Grano de Oro

Enjoy fine dining with a fusion of French and local Costa Rican cuisine in a charming setting.
CRC12000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Arenal Volcano Adventure

La Fortuna, Costa Rica on May 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at your hotel

Start your day with a fresh tropical fruit platter and Costa Rican coffee to energize your adventure.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Travel to La Fortuna / Arenal Volcano

Head north to La Fortuna to explore Arenal Volcano National Park. Wear hiking shoes and bring rain protection.
CURRENCY0, 3h0m

12:00pm

Hiking and Hot Springs

Enjoy a 3-hour guided hike around Arenal Volcano, followed by a relaxing soak in natural hot springs open until 10pm.
CRC15000, 4h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at La Choza de Laurel

Savor hearty Costa Rican dishes with fresh local ingredients in a casual setting.
CRC10000, 1h0m
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Day 3: Monteverde Cloud Forest

Monteverde, Costa Rica on May 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with eggs, fresh fruit, and Costa Rican coffee before heading to the cloud forest.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Travel to Monteverde

A 3.5-hour drive to the lush Monteverde Cloud Forest reserve; bring layers and waterproof gear as it’s cooler and often misty here.
CURRENCY0, 3h30m

12:00pm

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Open 7:00am to 4:00pm for hiking and wildlife viewing, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the cool moist climate.
CRC20000, 3h0m

4:00pm

Dinner at Tramonti

Enjoy Italian cuisine with Costa Rican ingredients, a cozy spot for a warm meal after a cool day.
CRC12000, 1h30m
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Day 4: Manuel Antonio Beach

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica on May 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast

Light breakfast with tropical fruits and juice to prepare for a day at the beach.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Manuel Antonio National Park

Drive 3.5 hours to the Pacific Coast for stunning beaches and wildlife; wear swimwear and sun protection.
CURRENCY0, 3h30m

12:00pm

Explore National Park and Beach

Open from 7:00am to 4:00pm, hike trails surrounded by tropical plants and monkeys, then relax on white-sand beaches.
CRC16000, 4h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at El Avion

Dine at a unique restaurant built around an old airplane offering seafood and Caribbean flavors.
CRC15000, 1h30m
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Day 5: Return to San José

San José, Costa Rica on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or nearby cafe before departure.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Travel back to San José

Drive approximately 3 hours back to the capital city. Prepare for warm weather by wearing lightweight clothing.
CURRENCY0, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Mercado Central

Sample street food and fresh juices at this vibrant market, perfect for last minute souvenir shopping.
CRC8000, 1h0m

3:00pm

Departure preparation

Return to your hotel to pack and get ready for your flight home.
CURRENCY0, 2h0m
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