4-Day Vegetarian Road Trip Itinerary from San José to La Fortuna and Monteverde in Costa Rica

Day Day 1: San José to La Fortuna

San José to La Fortuna, Costa Rica on March 24, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Café Miel Garage

Start your day with a delicious vegetarian breakfast in San José featuring fresh tropical fruit bowls and avocado toast in this artsy cafe.
USD 10, 1h

9:00 AM

Depart San José to La Fortuna

Drive approximately 3 hours north, enjoying scenic views and lush landscapes on the route toward La Fortuna.
Fuel cost approx USD 20, 3h

11:30 AM

Stop at Zarcero for Coffee and Lookout

Pause at the quaint town of Zarcero to explore the whimsical topiary garden and enjoy a coffee with tropical fruit pastries at Café El Mirador.
USD 8, 1h

1:00 PM

Lunch at Organico Fortuna

Relish organic vegetarian dishes including tropical fruit smoothies and fresh salads in this cozy, eco-friendly restaurant in La Fortuna.
USD 15, 1h

2:30 PM

Check-in and Relax

Arrive at your hotel in La Fortuna and get settled in before your afternoon activities.
Varies by hotel, 1.5h

4:00 PM

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

Take a short drive to La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can enjoy majestic views and take a refreshing dip if you wish.
USD 18, 2h

7:00 PM

Dinner at Lava Lounge

Enjoy a vegetarian-friendly dinner at Lava Lounge, which offers creative dishes emphasizing fresh local ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere.
USD 25, 1.5h
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Day Day 2: Explore La Fortuna and Drive to Monteverde

La Fortuna to Monteverde, Costa Rica on March 25, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Café Mediterraneo

Start with a vegetarian breakfast featuring tropical fruit platters and Costa Rican coffee in a charming ambiance in La Fortuna.
USD 10, 1h

9:00 AM

Visit Arenal Volcano National Park

Explore hiking trails with spectacular views of the Arenal Volcano and surrounding rainforest; keep an eye out for exotic wildlife.
USD 15, 2h

11:30 AM

Depart for Monteverde

Drive approximately 3.5 hours to Monteverde; enjoy scenic hills and possible stops at local fruit stands to sample fresh tropical produce.
Fuel cost approx USD 20, 3.5h

1:00 PM

Lunch Stop in Tilarán

Stop in the small town of Tilarán at Café de Monteverde for fresh tropical fruits and vegetarian wraps in a quaint setting.
USD 12, 1h

4:30 PM

Check-in Monteverde Lodge

Arrive and unwind at your rustic eco-lodge nestled in nature.
Varies, 1h

6:00 PM

Sunset at Mirador La Ventana

Visit this nearby vantage point for magical views of the Nicoya Gulf and surrounding cloud forests during sunset.
Free, 1h

7:30 PM

Dinner at Restaurante Rufus

Dine vegetarian with fresh salads, soups and homemade tropical fruit desserts in a friendly, local eatery.
USD 20, 1.5h
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Day Day 3: Monteverde Adventures

Monteverde, Costa Rica on March 26, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Enjoy a hearty vegetarian breakfast featuring tropical fruit bowls and Costa Rican coffee.
Included, 1h

8:30 AM

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Explore trails in the famous cloud forest with expert guides spotting rare birds and butterflies.
USD 25, 3h

12:00 PM

Lunch at Taco Taco

Enjoy vegetarian tacos filled with fresh vegetables, beans, and tropical salsas in this quaint Monteverde eatery.
USD 12, 1h

1:30 PM

Visit Monteverde Butterfly Gardens

A close glimpse of tropical butterflies and their habitats, perfect for nature lovers.
USD 14, 1.5h

3:30 PM

Coffee and Fruit Break at Café Colibri

Relax with an exotic fruit smoothie and freshly brewed coffee near the lush gardens of Monteverde.
USD 8, 45m

5:00 PM

Free Time or Optional Zipline Tour

Optional thrilling canopy zipline tour (vegetarian-friendly energy bars available), or stroll through Monteverde’s quaint town centre.
USD 50 (zipline), Free (town stroll), 2h

7:30 PM

Dinner at Tramonti

Enjoy hearty vegetarian pasta and tropical fruit dessert options in this popular Monteverde Italian restaurant.
USD 25, 1.5h
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Day Day 4: Return to San José

Monteverde to San José, Costa Rica on March 27, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Monteverde Bakery

Grab a vegetarian-friendly breakfast pastry and freshly cut tropical fruit to energise your journey back.
USD 8, 1h

8:30 AM

Depart Monteverde for San José

Drive about 4 hours back to San José taking time to appreciate rural towns and mountain views.
Fuel approx USD 20, 4h

12:00 PM

Stop in Sarchí Craft Town

Explore Costa Rica’s renowned handicrafts and vibrant painted ox carts. Enjoy fresh tropical juices and small vegetarian snacks at local cafés.
USD 10, 1h

2:00 PM

Arrival in San José and Lunch at Café Rojo

Have a wholesome vegetarian lunch featuring tropical fruit smoothies and hearty salad bowls before heading to your accommodation.
USD 15, 1h

3:30 PM

Relax or Visit Central Market

Spend your afternoon leisurely at your hotel or explore San José Central Market for fresh tropical fruit and artisan souvenirs.
Free to explore, 2h

7:00 PM

Dinner at Verde y Mas

Conclude your trip with a delicious vegetarian dinner emphasizing fresh, organic ingredients in a cosy setting in San José.
USD 20, 1.5h
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