5-Day Vegetarian Road Trip Itinerary: 2 Nights in La Fortuna and 1 Night in Monteverde, 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

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

9:00 AM

Depart San José for La Fortuna

Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive north to La Fortuna with beautiful landscape views along the way.
Fuel cost approx USD 20, 3h

11:30 AM

Coffee and View at Zarcero

Stop at the whimsical topiary garden in Zarcero and enjoy a coffee alongside tropical fruit pastries at Café El Mirador.
USD 8, 1h

1:00 PM

Lunch at Organico Fortuna

Savour organic vegetarian dishes with fresh salads and tropical smoothies in this eco-friendly restaurant in La Fortuna.
USD 15, 1h

2:30 PM

Check-in and Rest

Settle into your hotel in La Fortuna and take some time to rest and refresh after your journey.
Varies by hotel, 1.5h

4:00 PM

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

Take a short excursion to admire the impressive La Fortuna Waterfall and, if you desire, enjoy a refreshing swim beneath it.
USD 18, 2h

7:00 PM

Dinner at Lava Lounge

Dine on creative vegetarian dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients at this relaxed La Fortuna restaurant.
USD 25, 1.5h
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Day Day 2: Explore La Fortuna

La Fortuna, Costa Rica on March 25, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Café Mediterraneo

Enjoy a vegetarian breakfast of tropical fruit platters and Costa Rican coffee in this charming La Fortuna café.
USD 10, 1h

9:00 AM

Arenal Volcano National Park

Spend your morning hiking the trails near Arenal Volcano, taking in stunning views and spotting wildlife in the rainforest.
USD 15, 3h

12:30 PM

Lunch at Rainforest Café

Relax with a vegetarian lunch offering fresh salads and tropical fruit smoothies at this rainforest-themed eatery close to the park.
USD 15, 1h

2:00 PM

Ecocentro Danaus

Visit this ecological reserve to spot sloths, butterflies, and exotic birds in a natural habitat, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
USD 15, 2h

5:00 PM

Relax at Hotel or Visit Hot Springs

Unwind at your hotel or enjoy a visit to one of La Fortuna’s famous hot springs for a relaxing evening soak.
Varies USD 30-50, 2h

7:30 PM

Dinner at Restaurante Nene’s

Indulge in vegetarian Costa Rican dishes cooked with care using local produce in a welcoming atmosphere.
USD 20, 1.5h
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Day Day 3: La Fortuna to Monteverde

La Fortuna to Monteverde, Costa Rica on March 26, 2025

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Organico Fortuna

Enjoy a fresh vegetarian breakfast of tropical fruit and hearty options before departing La Fortuna.
USD 12, 1h

8:30 AM

Depart for Monteverde

Drive approximately 3.5 hours through scenic hills en route to Monteverde, stopping for tropical fruit along the way if desired.
Fuel cost approx USD 20, 3.5h

12:30 PM

Lunch in Tilarán

Stop in Tilarán for a light vegetarian lunch featuring fresh produce and smoothies at a local café.
USD 12, 1h

2:00 PM

Check-in at Monteverde Lodge

Settle into an eco-lodge surrounded by cloud forest and prepare for afternoon exploration.
Varies, 1h

3:30 PM

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Explore the renowned cloud forest trails with a guide to spot rare birds, butterflies and unique flora in this mystical ecosystem.
USD 25, 3h

7:00 PM

Dinner at Restaurante Rufus

Enjoy a creative vegetarian dinner with salads, soups and tropical fruit desserts in a friendly local restaurant.
USD 20, 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

Start your morning with vegetarian pastries and fresh tropical fruit to energise for your drive back.
USD 8, 1h

8:30 AM

Depart Monteverde for San José

Enjoy a 4-hour scenic drive back to the capital, taking time to appreciate rural towns and mountain views.
Fuel approx USD 20, 4h

12:30 PM

Visit Sarchí Craft Town

Explore artisan crafts and admire colorful ox carts, with options for fresh tropical fruit juices and vegetarian snacks.
USD 10, 1h

2:00 PM

Lunch at Café Rojo, San José

Enjoy a healthy vegetarian lunch featuring tropical fruit smoothies and fresh salad bowls before relaxing in San José.
USD 15, 1h

3:30 PM

Relax or Explore Central Market

Spend your afternoon resting at the hotel or dive into the bustling San José Central Market to find fresh fruit and souvenirs.
Free to explore, 2h

7:00 PM

Dinner at Verde y Mas

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