Relax in Costa Rica
Explore Costa Rica's beaches, rainforests, and culture with this 14-day itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in San José
Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport and take a taxi or shuttle to your hotel in the Escalante neighborhood. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Pre-Columbian Gold Museum and the National Theatre of Costa Rica.
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
The museum features a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, including gold jewelry and ceramics. The museum is open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, and admission is around $12 USD.
Day 2: San José to Arenal
Take the 8:00 am Interbus shuttle from San José to La Fortuna, the town near Arenal Volcano. Check into your hotel and spend the afternoon soaking in the hot springs at Tabacon Thermal Resort.
Tabacon Thermal Resort
The resort features multiple hot spring pools, a spa, and a restaurant. Admission is around $70 USD per person, and it's open from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Day 3: Arenal Volcano
Hike the Arenal Volcano National Park trail, which takes around 2-3 hours to complete. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the volcano.
Arenal Volcano National Park
The park is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, and admission is around $15 USD per person.
Day 4: Arenal to Monteverde
Take the 8:00 am Interbus shuttle from La Fortuna to Monteverde. Check into your hotel and spend the afternoon exploring the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
The reserve features multiple hiking trails, suspension bridges, and stunning views of the surrounding cloud forest. Admission is around $25 USD per person, and it's open from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Day 5: Monteverde
Spend the day exploring the town of Monteverde, including the Monteverde Cheese Factory and the Frog Pond.
Monteverde Cheese Factory
The factory offers tours and tastings of their famous cheese and ice cream. Admission is around $12 USD per person, and it's open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Day 6: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio
Take the 8:00 am Interbus shuttle from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio. Check into your hotel and spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach.
Manuel Antonio National Park
The park features stunning beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Admission is around $16 USD per person, and it's open from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Day 7: Manuel Antonio
Spend the day exploring the town of Manuel Antonio, including the Manuel Antonio National Park and the nearby beach town of Quepos.
Quepos
The town features a charming marina, restaurants, and shops. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the local seafood.
Day 8: Manuel Antonio
Spend the day taking a guided tour of the Manuel Antonio National Park, including hiking and wildlife viewing.
Guided Tour
The tour costs around $50 USD per person and includes a guided hike and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Day 9: Manuel Antonio to Tortuguero
Take the 8:00 am shuttle from Manuel Antonio to Tortuguero. Check into your hotel and spend the afternoon exploring the town and the nearby Tortuguero National Park.
Tortuguero National Park
The park features stunning canals, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Admission is around $15 USD per person, and it's open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Day 10: Tortuguero
Spend the day exploring the town of Tortuguero, including the Tortuguero National Park and the nearby beach.
Tortuguero Beach
The beach features stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to see sea turtles nesting.
Day 11: Tortuguero
Spend the day taking a guided tour of the Tortuguero National Park, including hiking and wildlife viewing.
Guided Tour
The tour costs around $50 USD per person and includes a guided hike and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Day 12: Tortuguero to San José
Take the 8:00 am shuttle from Tortuguero to San José. Check into your hotel and spend the afternoon exploring the city.
San José
The city features a rich cultural scene, including museums, theaters, and restaurants.
Day 13: San José
Spend the day exploring the city of San José, including the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum and the National Theatre of Costa Rica.
Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
The museum features a collection of pre-Columbian artifacts, including gold jewelry and ceramics. The museum is open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, and admission is around $12 USD.
Day 14: Departure from San José
Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring the city before departing from Juan Santamaría International Airport.
Weather & Climate Guide
| Month | Weather | Temperature (°F) | Precipitation (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| December | Dry season | 70-85 | 2-3 |
| January | Dry season | 70-85 | 1-2 |
| February | Dry season | 75-90 | 1-2 |
| March | Transition to rainy season | 75-90 | 2-3 |
| April | Rainy season | 70-85 | 4-5 |
| May | Rainy season | 70-85 | 5-6 |
| June | Rainy season | 70-85 | 6-7 |
| July | Rainy season | 70-85 | 5-6 |
| August | Rainy season | 70-85 | 4-5 |
| September | Transition to dry season | 75-90 | 3-4 |
| October | Dry season | 75-90 | 2-3 |
| November | Dry season | 75-90 | 2-3 |
Essential Travel Tips
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases, such as 'gracias' (thank you) and '¿dónde está...?' (where is...?), to help you navigate the country.
- Be sure to try some of the local cuisine, including gallo pinto, empanadas, and ceviche.
- Respect the local environment and wildlife by not littering and not touching or feeding the animals.
- Stay safe by being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.
- Purchase the Costa Rica 500MB/Day eSIM for $1.60 USD before your trip to stay connected and avoid expensive roaming fees.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent to protect yourself from the sun and insects.
ConnectMeGuru Travel Desk Verification✓
This itinerary was created by travel specialists and verified by our connectivity engineering desk. Data network coverage, roaming tips, and eSIM compatibility profiles have been checked for Costa Rica to ensure seamless global roaming.