Costa Rica 8-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive San José (SJO)

Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica, from León, Gto.

Clear customs and collect your luggage.

Ensure you have all necessary travel documents. Consider pre-booking an airport transfer.

Transfer to La Fortuna

Take a scenic transfer from San José to La Fortuna, the gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park.

The journey offers beautiful views of the Costa Rican countryside.

Private shuttles or shared vans are popular options for this route. Consider booking in advance.

Check-in Tree Houses Hotel

Check into your unique accommodation near the Arenal Volcano, surrounded by nature and wildlife.

Take some time to explore the hotel grounds and relax after your journey.

Dinner in La Fortuna

Enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant in La Fortuna, sampling traditional Costa Rican cuisine.

Many restaurants offer stunning views of Arenal Volcano (weather permitting).

La Fortuna River Tubing

Embark on an exciting river tubing adventure with professional guides and lush natural surroundings, experiencing fun rapids safely.

Wear swimwear, comfortable shoes, and bring sunscreen. Product Code: 5591273P1. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/La-Fortuna/La-Fortuna-River-Tubing/d821-5591273P1?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Lunch in La Fortuna

Grab a casual lunch in La Fortuna town.

The Chela Cooking Experience

Learn to prepare traditional Costa Rican dishes with Doña Chela, using garden-fresh ingredients and a wood-fired kitchen.

A hands-on cultural experience. Product Code: 304219P1. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/La-Fortuna/Private-Class-of-Authentic-Costa-Rican-Cuisine-in-San-Francisco/d821-304219P1?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Hotel Relaxation

Enjoy the amenities of your hotel, perhaps a dip in the pool or relaxing in the natural surroundings.

Listen for the sounds of the jungle and spot local wildlife from your treehouse.

Tio Leo Coffee Tour

Experience a real cultural journey into the world of coffee, chocolate, cooking, and sugarcane.

Feel like part of the family at this local farm.

This tour offers a comprehensive look at local traditions. Product Code: 5523936P2. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/Liberia/Tio-Leo-4-ON-1-cultural-tour/d22740-5523936P2?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Local Lunch

Enjoy a simple, authentic Costa Rican lunch at a 'soda' (local eatery).

La Fortuna Waterfall Visit

Hike down to the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can swim in its cool waters (conditions permitting) and enjoy the lush surroundings.

Requires a short, steep hike. Bring swimwear and sturdy shoes. Entrance fee is typically around USD 18 per person.

Dinner at Hotel

Dine at your hotel or a nearby restaurant for a relaxed evening.

Tubing in Rio Celeste

Embark on an exciting tubing adventure on the Celeste River, perfect for those looking for an unforgettable experience. Glide through crystal-clear waters.

The iconic blue river is a natural wonder. Product Code: 487602P1. Booking: https://www.viator.com/tours/La-Fortuna/Tubing-in-Rio-Celeste/d821-487602P1?mcid=42383&pid=P00266106&medium=api&api_version=2.0

Lunch near Rio Celeste

Enjoy a casual lunch at a local restaurant after your tubing adventure.

Arenal Hot Springs

Relax and unwind in one of the many natural hot springs around the Arenal Volcano, known for their therapeutic mineral waters.

Popular options include Tabacon, Baldi, or EcoTermales. Prices vary significantly depending on the resort. Bring swimwear and a towel.

Farewell Dinner La Fortuna

Enjoy a final dinner in the La Fortuna area, reflecting on your adventures.

Check-out & Depart La Fortuna

Enjoy a final breakfast and check out from your hotel in La Fortuna, preparing for your journey to the Pacific coast.

Ensure you have all your belongings and are ready for a longer travel day.

Transfer to Manuel Antonio

Take a transfer from the La Fortuna/Arenal area to Manuel Antonio, a popular coastal destination known for its national park and beautiful beaches.

This journey will take you across the country, offering diverse landscapes.

Consider booking a direct shuttle for convenience. The journey can take 4-5 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. There will be stops for restroom breaks.

Arrive Manuel Antonio

Arrive in the Manuel Antonio/Quepos area, ready to explore the Pacific coast.

Details for accommodation and further activities in Manuel Antonio will be provided in the second part of your itinerary.

Leisure & Orientation

Spend the afternoon settling into your new surroundings and familiarizing yourself with the Manuel Antonio area.

Explore nearby beaches or enjoy the views from your accommodation (to be detailed in Part 2).

Transfer to Manuel Antonio

Enjoy a scenic private transfer from La Fortuna to the beautiful coastal region of Manuel Antonio.

Relax and take in the changing landscapes as you head towards the Pacific coast.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your hotel in Manuel Antonio and have lunch at a local restaurant.

Enjoy the ocean breeze and prepare for an afternoon of exploration.

Customized Nature Walk

Embark on an exclusive nature walk in Manuel Antonio National Park with a certified guide.

Explore the park's stunning flora and fauna, spot monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds.

Tickets entrance to the park are not included and must be purchased separately. Wear comfortable shoes and bring binoculars. The park is closed on Tuesdays.

Sunset & Dinner in Quepos

Enjoy a beautiful sunset view from a restaurant in Quepos, followed by a delicious dinner.

Quepos offers a variety of dining options with fresh seafood.

Surfing Classes Manuel Antonio

Learn to surf with experienced local instructors on the beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio. Our team has over 20 years of experience coaching.

All necessary equipment provided. No prior surfing experience needed. Certified lifeguards on site.

Relax at Manuel Antonio Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon relaxing on the pristine white sands of Manuel Antonio Beach, swimming in the warm Pacific waters, and enjoying the tropical surroundings.

Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. Beware of curious monkeys who might try to steal snacks!

Casual Beachside Lunch

Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many restaurants or soda stands near Manuel Antonio Beach.

Sunset Cocktails

Find a perfect spot to enjoy cocktails as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking views.

Fresh Seafood Dinner

Indulge in a dinner featuring fresh, locally caught seafood at a restaurant with a great ambiance.

White Water Rafting

Experience the thrill of white water rafting on the Naranjo River, known for its exciting rapids and beautiful scenery.

This half-day adventure is perfect for those seeking an adrenaline rush.

Available April 15th to January 10th. All equipment and safety instructions provided. Small group tours ensure a personalized experience.

Farewell Lunch

Enjoy a final Costa Rican lunch, perhaps trying a traditional casado or another local specialty, reflecting on your incredible trip.

Last Minute Souvenirs

Grab some last-minute souvenirs to remember your Costa Rican adventure.

Transfer to San José Airport (SJO)

Begin your journey back with a private transfer from Manuel Antonio to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, anticipating your flight back home.