15-day itinerary
Whether you’re booking your trip independently or through a travel advisor, here are helpful ideas of what you may like to see and do to find the relaxation you seek.
day 1
arrive in san josé
Touch down at Juan Santamaría Airport. Then travel to Monteverde Cloud Forest.
days 2-3
monteverde cloud forest
This tropical jungle is home to unique flora and fauna, as well as an ever-present mist – or cloud. Ride sky trams, zip line and cross suspension bridges through this incredible landscape. You may spot big cats, such as ocelots or jaguars, or incredible bird species. Explore this oasis by day or night to see different species and activities.
Nearby the cloud forest, you can also visit local coffee, cacao and sugar cane farms to experience how these delicacies are created and enjoy samples.
day 4
arenal volcano national park
Just outside of Fortuna, a soaring volcano dominates the landscape and a namesake lake just below. Conservation efforts keep this land pristine, so you can hike, kayak, fish or soak in one of the nearby hot springs.
Make your way to La Fortuna Waterfall to experience the 70-meter natural wonder. Swim in the pool at the foot to bring yourself closer to nature and the incredible spectacles it creates.
days 5-6
tenorio volcano national park and the celeste river
This site is famous for its trails, waterfall, sky-blue river and abundant natural surroundings. This park sits on the dividing line between the Alajuela and Guanacaste provinces. Take a tour through the tropical forest, take in the scenery, visit the Rio Celeste waterfall, see the fumaroles (volcanic cracks where sulfurous gasses escape), spot the “teñidero” (the point where the river takes on its famous light-blue color) and soak in the thermal hot springs.
days 7-10
manuel antonio park
This protected area includes rainforests, beaches and coral reefs, meaning you can spot some incredible wildlife in astounding settings. Whether you’re walking white-sand beaches or trying to spot sloths in the forest, this is a fantastic post to dive into natural splendor. Take guided tours of the area, go ziplining or cruise on a catamaran.
days 11-12
jacó beach and hermosa beach
Jacó Beach isn’t only known for its incredible surfing and sunsets, but also for its impressive assortment of restaurants and lounges. It’s a fantastic spot to rest on the beach and enjoy the sound of the waves.
Travel just outside Jacó Beach to find Playa Hermosa, which translates to “beautiful beach,” and it lives up to its name. Ride the tide, relax in the sand and eat ceviche while watching the sun set.
days 13-14
tamarindo
Visit Tamarindo Beach, one of the biggest and most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. You can go diving, surfing, kayaking, sailing or fishing. Close by, you can also visit Las Baulas National Marine Park. This wilderness area was created to protect the leatherback sea turtle populations that nest on the Grande, Ventanas and Langosta beaches. About 117 species of trees and shrubs and 139 different species of birds have been identified here. Three species of turtles visit this park: the Atlantic ridley sea turtle, the black river turtle and, of course, the leatherback sea turtle.
day 15
departure from Liberia Guanacaste Airport
Head over to the Liberia Guanacaste Airport to catch your departing flight and start planning your next trip to Costa Rica.