3-Day Adventure from San Jose to Arenal and La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Day 1: Travel and Relaxation

San Jose to Arenal, Costa Rica on July 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café Miel y Canela

Enjoy a delicious Costa Rican breakfast amidst charming decor, offering fresh local coffee and traditional dishes like gallo pinto to start your journey.
CRC3500, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive from San Jose to Arenal Volcano National Park

Embark on a scenic 3-hour drive northwest to Arenal, soaking in lush landscapes and volcanic mountain views along the route.
CAR Rental or Shuttle Cost, 3h0m

12:00pm

Check-in at Hotel in La Fortuna

Settle into your accommodation in La Fortuna, the gateway town to Arenal Volcano, preparing for afternoon exploration.
Varies by Hotel, 30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Soda Viquez

Enjoy classic Costa Rican comfort food like casado or ceviche in this highly rated casual spot open daily from 11am to 3pm.
CRC4000, 1h0m

2:30pm

Arenal Volcano National Park

Explore the well-marked trails with stunning views of the active volcano and surrounding rainforest; park hours are 8am to 4pm.
USD15, 2h0m

4:30pm

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

Descend the stairway to the majestic waterfall famous for its turquoise blue waters, open until 5pm for a refreshing dip.
USD18, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Don Rufino

Savor innovative Costa Rican cuisine with a modern twist, featuring fresh local ingredients in a lively atmosphere; open until 10pm.
USD25-35, 1h30m
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Day 2: Adventure and Nature

Arenal and La Fortuna, Costa Rica on July 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at the hotel

Start fresh with a buffet breakfast featuring tropical fruit and eggs before an active day.
Included with hotel, 1h0m

8:30am

Canopy Zipline Tour

Experience thrilling zipline rides through the rainforest canopy, offering spectacular views of the volcano and wildlife; tours operate from 8am to 3pm.
USD65, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Nene’s Restaurant

Taste authentic traditional Costa Rican dishes with a homely ambiance; open daily from 11am to 4pm.
USD10-15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Ecocentro Danaus

Visit this ecological reserve to learn about conservation efforts and spot exotic birds, butterflies, and sloths; open from 8am to 5pm.
USD15, 2h0m

3:30pm

Relax in Hot Springs

Unwind in natural geothermal hot springs such as Baldi or Tabacon, open until 9pm, perfect after a day of adventures.
USD40-50, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Lava Lounge

Enjoy a varied menu of international and Costa Rican dishes with great cocktails in La Fortuna’s central area; open till 10pm.
USD20-30, 1h30m
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Day 3: Return Journey

La Fortuna to San Jose, Costa Rica on July 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Mediterraneo

Start your day with expertly prepared coffee and fresh pastries available from 7am to 11am.
USD7, 1h0m

8:00am

Visit Proyecto Asis Wildlife Rescue Center

Take a 1.5-hour guided tour at this wildlife rescue center that rehabilitates native animals; open from 8am to 4pm.
USD20, 1h30m

10:00am

Drive back to San Jose

Depart La Fortuna for the 3-hour drive back to San Jose, enjoying the scenic drive one last time.
CAR Rental or Shuttle Cost, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Soda Tapia, San Jose

Stop for a final taste of traditional Costa Rican fare such as casado or arroz con pollo, open 6am to 5pm daily.
CRC4000, 1h0m

3:00pm

End of Tour

Arrive back in San Jose, concluding the trip.
Free, 0h0m
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