5-Day Costa Rica Adventure: Weather, Clothing, and Culinary Experience

Day 1: Welcome to San José

San José, Costa Rica on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Miel

Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican breakfast with gallo pinto (rice and beans) accompanied by fresh tropical fruit and strong Costa Rican coffee to start your day.
CRC3500, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit National Museum of Costa Rica

Explore Costa Rican history and culture, housed in a fort with beautiful gardens. It’s an easy introduction to the country’s heritage.
CRC3500, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Soda Tapia

Sample local dishes like casado or ceviche at this popular and authentic spot in San José.
CRC4000, 1h0m

2:00pm

Walk around Central Market

Experience local life, shop for crafts, and taste snacks like empanadas or plantain chips.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Nuestra Tierra

Enjoy traditional Costa Rican dishes in a cozy setting, ideal for your first evening.
CRC7000, 1h30m
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Day 2: Arenal Volcano Adventure

La Fortuna, Costa Rica on May 9, 2025

7:30am

Travel to La Fortuna

Drive approximately 3 hours northwest to the Arenal Volcano area, known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities.
USD50 (transport), 3h0m

11:00am

Breakfast at Soda La Hormiga

Try hearty Costa Rican breakfasts such as tortillas con natilla and fresh juice.
CRC3500, 1h0m

12:30pm

Arenal Volcano National Park Hiking

Explore well-marked trails with views of the spectacular volcano and rainforest, suitable for all levels.
USD15, 3h0m

4:00pm

Relax in hot springs

Visit Tabacón or Ecotermales hot springs to unwind in naturally heated mineral waters.
USD40, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Don Rufino

Enjoy contemporary Costa Rican cuisine with dishes like tilapia or ropa vieja in La Fortuna’s best restaurant.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 3: Explore Nature and Wildlife

La Fortuna, Costa Rica on May 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Rainforest Café

Begin your day with fresh fruits, eggs, and coffee while enjoying rainforest views.
CRC4000, 1h0m

8:30am

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

Hike down to this stunning waterfall for a refreshing swim. The area is open from 7am to 5pm.
USD16, 2h0m

11:00am

Canopy zipline tour

Experience an adrenaline rush with a ziplining adventure across the canopy of the rainforest.
USD65, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Cafe Mediterraneo

Taste fusion cuisine combining Costa Rican ingredients with Mediterranean flavors.
USD20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Wildlife sanctuary visit

Visit the Ecocentro Danaus, a private ecological reserve for wildlife conservation including sloths and frogs.
USD10, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Choza de Laurel

Enjoy homestyle Costa Rican dishes like picadillo or chifrijo in a friendly atmosphere.
CRC6000, 1h30m
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Day 4: Beach Getaway

Tamarindo, Costa Rica on May 11, 2025

7:00am

Travel to Tamarindo Beach

Drive about 3.5 hours west to reach the Pacific coast beach town of Tamarindo, known for surfing and nightlife.
USD50 (transport), 3h30m

11:00am

Breakfast at Nogui's

Beachfront dining serving Costa Rican-style breakfast with eggs, beans, and fresh fruit smoothies.
USD10, 1h0m

12:30pm

Surf or relax at Tamarindo Beach

Take a surfing lesson or simply relax on the sandy shores of this popular beach.
USD35 (lesson), 3h0m

3:30pm

Explore Tamarindo town

Visit local shops, art galleries, and cafés in this vibrant beach town.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Pangas Beach Club

Enjoy fresh seafood dishes with ocean views, perfect for a relaxed evening.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 5: Relax and Return

Tamarindo to San José, Costa Rica on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Backyard Coffee

Start with gourmet coffee and light breakfast like pastries or fruit bowls.
USD8, 1h0m

9:30am

Morning at Playa Langosta

Visit the quieter Playa Langosta beach nearby for a peaceful walk or swim.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Green Papaya Taco Bar

Savor tasty tacos with fresh ingredients and tropical flair before heading back.
USD12, 1h0m

1:30pm

Travel back to San José

Return trip to the capital, approximately 4 hours drive, preparing for departure or next destination.
USD50 (transport), 4h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Restaurante Grano de Oro

Celebrate your trip with exquisite Costa Rican-European fusion cuisine in San José’s elegant dining room.
USD40, 1h30m
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