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8 Days Costa Rica Itinerary: Beach, Rainforest and Volcano

December 10, 2023 By Sammi 5 Comments

If you are looking for an 8 days Costa Rica itinerary, here is a fantastic one that goes to La Fortuna for rainforest and volcano and Playas del Coco for beach.

Playas del Coco and La Fortuna are two very tourist friendly destinations with plenty of things to do, hotels and restaurants. This itinerary works for all travelers, particularly families . It’s not too crazy, with plenty of downtime but still lots of great activities.

There are affiliate links in this post.

8 Days Costa Rica Itinerary Details

You will fly in and out of Guanacaste Airport (LIR airport code). This international airport is 3 hours from La Fortuna and 25 minutes from Playas del Coco.

This itinerary includes your flying in and out days and travel days.

How to Get Around

You can rent a car , take the bus or book private/shared shuttles for this itinerary. However, renting a car is the best option for the most flexibility and is the best way to maximize your time in Costa Rica. You do not need a 4wd for this itinerary, a sedan is fine for 1-4 people (2+ people with light luggage).

If you do not want to drive, we recommend to book private shuttles . Then you can book tours that include transportation in La Fortuna and Playas del Coco. We offer discounts for La Fortuna tours and Guanacaste tours – check them out in the links!

Want to book private shuttles? Contact us for a quote!

Good for all travelers, especially families

This one week Costa Rica itinerary is excellent for every traveler: solo, couples, honeymooners, backpackers, families, multi general families, young families and seniors. Both destinations are easy to get to, have good infrastructure and all the services for tourists.

This is a particularly good itinerary for families of all ages as Fortuna and Coco are extremely family friendly destinations in Costa Rica.

You can choose to stay at a different beach or at a resort

You don’t exactly have to stay in Playas del Coco though it is the most convenient for those without a car as it is the main town in the area. Other beaches to stay at are Ocotal , Hermosa and Panama.

There are also many luxury resorts in the Gulf of Papagayo area (close to Coco, like 15 minute drive away) such as Riu Palace , Occidental Papagayo , Secrets Papagayo , Riu Guanacaste . Planet Hollywood , Four Seasons and Andaz Papagayo . Some of those are all inclusive resorts.

You can switch to have 3 full days at the rainforest and 2 days at the beach instead

If you’re not big beach people, you can switch the days to stay 4 nights in La Fortuna and 3 nights in Playas del Coco instead.

Click here to go to our map of this 8 days Costa Rica itinerary with driving routes, destinations, hotel and restaurant recommendations and activities.

Day 1: Land in Liberia, Travel to La Fortuna (~3 Hour Drive)

Once you clear customs and immigration at Guanacaste Airport (airport code LIR), you will collect your rental car and drive to La Fortuna. La Fortuna is the main tourism hub near Arenal Volcano in the Northern Lowlands rainforests.

If you book a private shuttle, the cost is approximately $220 USD one way for 1-8 people.

Driving Route

The drive is around 3.5 hours and it is a beautiful drive as it goes around Lake Arenal . You can watch a video and read more about driving to Arenal from Guanacaste here.

There are a ton of hotels in La Fortuna so there is one for every budget and travel style. A few cheap hotels in town are Hotel Las Colinas , El Secreto and Arenal Xilapolo .

One of our favorite hotels in Costa Rica is the Arenal Observatory Lodge , the only hotel in the Arenal Volcano National Park. Another is Lost Iguana .

For luxury, you can read our list of luxury hotels in La Fortuna here.

Day 2 and 3: La Fortuna

You have two full days to explore La Fortuna! Here are some of our recommendations on how to spend your days.

Don’t forget we have a discount on tours in La Fortuna ! You can also read about other things to do in La Fortuna and Arenal in the link.

Day 2: Adventure!

For a full day of outdoor adventure, go ziplining in the morning and white water rafting Class 2 and 3 in the afternoon.

For a combination of nature and adventure, we love a specific tour that goes horseback riding around Arenal Volcano and then visits the La Fortuna waterfall .

You’ll end the day by visiting one of the hot spring resorts like Tabacon, Baldi, Paradise or Ecotermales if your hotel doesn’t have their own hot springs. Read more about other Arenal hot spring resorts .

Day 3 : Wildlife and Nature

Today is an easy wildlife watching day.

In the morning, you’ll visit the Arenal Hanging Bridges for spectacular rainforest and volcano views. On the 3 kilometer trail that goes through several bridges, your guide will point out various flora and fauna.

Then in the afternoon, you’ll do a river safari float for a quiet, easy and peaceful wildlife watching tour to see animals like sloths, monkeys and iguanas.

In the evening, you can go back to the hot springs or sit in the local park to people watch and have an ice cream or shaved ice.

Other Ideas

For one day: Ziplining, canyoning or hiking at the national park in the morning. Then nap, relax, lay by the pool or go souvenir shopping in the afternoon. If you are a coffee drinker, we highly recommend a coffee tour in La Fortuna . If you are a foodie, then a La Fortuna farm tour and cooking class has to be on your list!

Day 4: Drive to Playas del Coco (~4 Hours)

On day 4 of this 8 days Costa Rica itinerary, you’ll drive to Playas del Coco , the main beach town in the Gulf of Papagayo . It’s a small fishing village that has grown to become a very popular North American retiree destination. For ocean activities and beach, this is an excellent place for first timers (or even second timers) in Costa Rica.

Stop at Rio Celeste: If you are up for a hike, you can stop by Rio Celeste , the sky blue river in the rainforest on the way. Leave La Fortuna early in the morning at 8 AM, drive to Rio Celeste (around 1.5 hours), hike the park (around 3 hours), have lunch in Bijagua and drive to Coco (around 2.5 hours). It’s doable and you will get to see one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica!

Hotels in town and near the beach are Laura’s House B&B , Hotel Colono , Toro Blanco , Cafe la Playa Suites (beach front) and La Puerta del Sol .

There are also many vacation rentals in Coco which you can find on Airbnb or VRBO which I recommend over a hotel since you get a furnished kitchen, secure parking, laundry and pool (for most of them). Popular neighborhoods are Las Palmas and Breeze Residences in Pacifico and Los Tucanes.

Day 5, 6 and 7: Playas del Coco

You have 3 full days to soak up the sun, check out town and enjoy the beach. Here are ideas of what to do for your two days.

Beach hopping and snorkeling

This is a must do in this area! The Gulf of Papagayo has many little bays that are home to beautiful white sand beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters and snorkeling spots.

A private boating tour in Playas del Coco is the best way to experience the Gulf of Papagayo as you can visit as many beaches and snorkel spots as you want, everything is on your schedule. You can do a half or full day trip.

Fishing in Costa Rica is excellent and Playas del Coco is one of the top places for it. Many locals live off of fishing and it’s a great area to do in shore and off shore fishing. You can catch snapper, tuna, mahi mahi on in shore trips and off shore, you can go for the bigger fish like marlin and rooster.

Happy Hour and Relax

In Playas del Coco, many of the bars have happy hour from 11 AM to 7 PM, so it’s more like happy day! Have a drink, people watch, check out the town, go souvenir shopping, take it easy.

Itinerary Ideas

First day: Just relax, sleep in, walk on the beach, lay by the pool, walk around town, watch the sunset on the beach

Second day: Full day private beach hopping and snorkeling tour in the Gulf of Papagayo. Add fishing if you like to fish. This is the best way to experience all the beautiful bays, beaches and clear water in the gulf!

Third day: Drive to Playa Ocotal in the morning (10 minutes) to check out that beach. Have lunch at Father Rooster and then head back to your hotel/rental in Coco to relax, pack and enjoy your last night in Costa Rica.

Day 8: Fly Out

And your vacation has come to a close on your last day of this 8 days Costa Rica itinerary. You’ll drive to Liberia Airport to fly home. Remember to arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before your flight.

Read more Costa Rica itineraries below!

2 week Costa Rica itinerary : Rainforest, cloud forest, volcano and beach

1 month Costa Rica road trip : Visiting both coasts driving throughout the country

5 days Arenal and Monteverde : Ideas for La Fortuna and Monteverde cloud forest

10 day waterfall itinerary : Chasing some of the best waterfalls in Costa Rica

Costa Rica 13 days itinerary: Specifically for those not renting a car

*There are affiliate links in this post*.

Reader Interactions

Jennifer DiRossi says

September 2, 2023

Hello, wow I love this blog! So much info! We will be staying in an Airbnb in Hacienda Pinilla for 8 nights. We are a large group with many different age groups so felt it best suits us to have one home base and travel for our adventures. Is it crazy to think that we can do a full day tour to Arenal/La Fortuna driving from there? Thank you for any info! We also need to see sloths . Jen

September 3, 2023

Hello Jennifer, sure we have sent you an email with more information.

January 6, 2020

Hi Caylin, you can check our post for Things to do in Jaco and day tours. For white sand beaches, definitely do the Tortuga Island day cruise, the island is gorgeous.

Also if you want to do any of the day tours, we have discounts for them as well as the Tortuga Island. Feel free to email us at services @ mytanfeet . com

Caylin says

January 5, 2020

We are staying in Jaco but willing to travel for excursions. We are staying 1 week and would like to do as much as possible. I was wondering if you have any suggestions on rainforest experiences (zipping, etc) and if there are any blue water/white sand beaches within 4 hours from Jaco.

I have really enjoyed reading your blog and preparing for our trip in about a month.

June 18, 2019

In the La Fortuna Area I like hotel/restaurant Los Heroes. It has a million dollar view of Lake Arenal and the Volcano. It has spacious apartments for groups/families or rooms for smaller parties and a great restaurant. It also has possibly the only revolving restaurant in Latin America complete with views of the lake, mountains and jungle. You take a small train up to the revolving restaurant. Kids loved it. It has a nice pool too. The staff was excellent too. Not too hard on the pocket book either. There is also a dock right across from the hotel that you could probably use for fishing or if you like swimming in the cold lake.

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Costa Rica Itinerary: 8 Days In Costa Rica; Sample Itineraries, How Many Places To Visit, How Many Activities To Do, And More!

Home » Costa Rica Itinerary Planning » Costa Rica Itinerary: 8 Days In Costa Rica; Sample Itineraries, How Many Places To Visit, How Many Activities To Do, And More!

Last updated on September 11th, 2023 at 10:24 am GMT-6 (Costa Rica time)

Written by Nikki Solano

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The article below is the second part of a five-part series about Costa Rica itineraries. Information is divided across five pages: Costa Rica Itinerary: 5 days in Costa Rica (4 nights) Costa Rica Itinerary: 8 days in Costa Rica (7 nights) Costa Rica Itinerary: 10 days in Costa Rica (9 nights) Costa Rica Itinerary: 12 days in Costa Rica (11 nights) Costa Rica Itinerary: 15 days in Costa Rica (14 nights)

Get the Costa Rica info you need by browsing our article's TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Costa Rica vacation planning

Do you have 8 days in costa rica or are you considering an 8-day trip to costa rica here’s who we think you are., with 8 days in costa rica, here’s how many places you should visit, 8-day itinerary #1: if you want to spend the first night near the airport, 8-day itinerary #2: if you want to spend the last night near the airport, 8-day itinerary #3: if you want to spend both the first night and the last night near the airport, 8-day itinerary #4: if you want to spend neither the first night nor the last night near the airport, why spending 8 days in costa rica might be the best option for you.

Vacations in Costa Rica are as unique as the travelers who take them. Money, interest, previous travel experience, ability, endurance, and patience are a few of the factors that help shape a trip itinerary but time is the most telling. How you should plan and execute your  Costa Rica experience is a question best answered by the number of days and nights you wish to spend in the country.

The good news is, despite popular belief, you don’t need anyone to plan your Costa Rica trip for you . If you know the number of days and nights you’re able to travel to Costa Rica for, you can quickly and easily create your own Costa Rica itinerary. Of course, as always, we’re here to help guide you through this process. In particular, the article below will teach you how to plan a trip/itinerary for 8 days in Costa Rica.

At the risk of making general assumptions about Costa Rica travelers, our years of working for Costa Rica’s tourism industry have shown us patterns in Costa Rica itinerary planning; specifically, patterns across the types of travelers who vacation in Costa Rica, and patterns in the number of days they visit. If you identify with a type of traveler listed below or with any of the wants/desires listed below, an 8-day vacation to Costa Rica may be right for you.

People who choose to vacation in Costa Rica for 8 days tend to be the following:

• Couples vacationing in Costa Rica for their honeymoon or for a romantic trip
• Individuals or friend groups looking to get away from home for a short while
• Parents (or a parent) traveling with young children, preteens, teenagers, or adult children
• Travelers who have work and/or study commitments and approximately one week off from work and/or school
• School, church, and/or other organizations that coordinate group travel

People who choose to vacation in Costa Rica for 8 days tend to want the following:

Either/or…

• A mix of Costa Rican destinations, typically adventure destinations and beach destinations.
• An all-inclusive vacation, whereby the entirety of the trip is spent at an all-inclusive resort with the exception of day tours taken to/from the resort and other areas of the country.

Travelers who vacation in Costa Rica for 8 days also typically want…

• A nice balance of travel time between destinations and time spent at each destination
• A variety of experiences, including things to do in Costa Rica, things to see in Costa Rica, and things to learn in Costa Rica
• To travel to Costa Rica’s most raved about destinations, sites, and attractions (skipping the country’s most remote locations)
• To participate in Costa Rica’s most popular tours and activities

If you wish to spend your entire Costa Rica trip at an all-inclusive resort (i.e., if you identify with traveler type #2 listed above), then you have already decided how many places to visit during your trip: one. You may also want to read our related blog posts Why Costa Rica Is Not An All-Inclusive Resort Destination and How To Have An All-Inclusive Vacation Without The All-Inclusive Resort prior to committing to your all-inclusive stay. Alternatively, if you wish to spread your 8 days in Costa Rica across multiple destinations (i.e., if you better relate to traveler type #1 listed above), choose two Costa Rica destinations to visit during your trip in addition to the region that contains the airport you plan to fly into and out of.

Why choosing two destinations is best

Unless you plan to fly to Costa Rica incredibly early in the morning and depart from Costa Rica incredibly late in the evening, international travel will likely eat up most of the first and last days of your vacation. Though there may be time to fit in an activity on these days, the information provided below errs on the side of caution and assumes that Day #1 and Day #8 are lost itinerary days.

Let’s assume that an 8-day trip to Costa Rica provides 6 full days to explore the country (i.e., Day #2, Day #3, Day #4, Day #5, Day #6, and Day #7). While you could spend all 6 days in one place, such as an all-inclusive resort or a health retreat, visiting two destinations is more rewarding. Doing so will provide you with an opportunity to combine time spent relaxing with time spent being active—the best of both worlds.

To confirm, 8 days in Costa Rica is enough time for you to a) travel between the airport and Destination #1, b) travel between Destination #1 and Destination #2, and c) travel between Destination #2 and the airport. With this itinerary plan, you’ll also have enough time to make stops along the way during cross-destination travel (if desired), to check-in/check-out at multiple hotels, and to participate in tours and activities of interest.

Can/should I add in a third destination?

It’s possible to visit three destinations with 8 days to spend in Costa Rica but we don’t recommend doing so. If you’d like to experience more than two areas of Costa Rica, it would be best to extend your vacation by a few days, if at all possible . (Our   Costa Rica Itinerary: 10 Days In Costa Rica  blog post can help you coordinate a longer stay.) Otherwise, you may find that squeezing in visits to three destinations over the 6 full days you’ll have in the country creates a rushed travel experience, increases stress, and decreases opportunities for exploration and rest.

Suggested itinerary / itineraries for an 8-day trip to Costa Rica

If you’re in the process of planning an 8-day vacation to Costa Rica, aim to build an itinerary that mirrors one of the itineraries below.

Note: The itineraries below can be adjusted to fit your preferred travel arrangements (i.e., rental car delivery/pick-up time, domestic flight departure time, private transfer service pick-up time, or shuttle service departure time).

Note: If your tour/activity interests require you to spend more or less time at Destination #1 or Destination #2, the number of days/nights spent at each can be adjusted.

• 8-day itinerary #1 summary: 1 night in the airport region, 3 nights at Destination #1, and 3 nights at Destination #2
• The below itinerary recommendation assumes that your flight from home to Costa Rica arrives into the airport region late in the day on Day #1 (our recommendation also assumes that you would prefer to schedule an overnight stay in the airport region for your first night in the country)
• The below itinerary recommendation assumes that your flight back home from Costa Rica departs late in the day on Day #8 (our recommendation also assumes that your flight departs late enough in the day to travel between Destination #2 and the airport on your last day in the country)

7-Night / 8-Day Costa Rica Itinerary #1: Day #1: Arrival into Costa Rica, overnight in the airport region Day #2: Morning travel to Destination #1, afternoon exploration of Destination #1, overnight at Destination #1 Day #3: Full-day exploration of Destination #1, overnight at Destination #1 Day #4: Full-day exploration of Destination #1, overnight at Destination #1 Day #5: Morning travel to Destination #2, afternoon exploration of Destination #2, overnight at Destination #2 Day #6: Full-day exploration of Destination #2, overnight at Destination #2 Day #7: Full-day exploration of Destination #2, overnight at Destination #2 Day #8: Morning travel to the airport region, departure from Costa Rica

• 8-day itinerary #2 summary: 3 nights at Destination #1, 3 nights at Destination #2, and 1 night in the airport region
• The below itinerary recommendation assumes that your flight from home to Costa Rica arrives into the airport region early in the day on Day #1 (our recommendation also assumes that you would prefer to travel between the airport region and Destination #1 for your first night in the country)
• The below itinerary recommendation assumes that your flight back home from Costa Rica departs early in the day on Day #8 (our recommendation also assumes that you would prefer to schedule an overnight stay in the airport region for your last night in the country)

7-Night / 8-Day Costa Rica Itinerary #2: Day #1: Arrival into Costa Rica, afternoon travel to Destination #1, overnight at Destination #1 Day #2: Full-day exploration of Destination #1, overnight at Destination #1 Day #3: Full-day exploration of Destination #1, overnight at Destination #1 Day #4: Morning exploration of Destination #1, afternoon travel to Destination #2, overnight at Destination #2 Day #5: Full-day exploration of Destination #2, overnight at Destination #2 Day #6: Full-day exploration of Destination #2, overnight at Destination #2 Day #7: Morning exploration of Destination #2, afternoon travel to the airport region, overnight in the airport region Day #8: Departure from Costa Rica

• 8-day itinerary #3 summary: 1 night in the airport region, 3 nights at Destination #1, 2 nights at Destination #2, and 1 night in the airport region

7-Night / 8-Day Costa Rica Itinerary #3: Day #1: Arrival into Costa Rica, overnight in the airport region Day #2: Morning travel to Destination #1, afternoon exploration of Destination #1, overnight at Destination #1 Day #3: Full-day exploration of Destination #1, overnight at Destination #1 Day #4: Full-day exploration of Destination #1, overnight at Destination #1 Day #5: Morning travel to Destination #2, afternoon exploration of Destination #2, overnight at Destination #2 Day #6: Full-day exploration of Destination #2, overnight at Destination #2 Day #7: Morning exploration of Destination #2, afternoon travel to the airport region, overnight in the airport region Day #8: Departure from Costa Rica

• 8-day itinerary #4 summary: 3 nights at Destination #1 and 4 nights at Destination #2

7-Night / 8-Day Costa Rica Itinerary #4: Day #1: Arrival into Costa Rica, afternoon travel to Destination #1, overnight at Destination #1 Day #2: Full-day exploration of Destination #1, overnight at Destination #1 Day #3: Full-day exploration of Destination #1, overnight at Destination #1 Day #4: Morning exploration of Destination #1, afternoon travel to Destination #2, overnight at Destination #2 Day #5: Full-day exploration of Destination #2, overnight at Destination #2 Day #6: Full-day exploration of Destination #2, overnight at Destination #2 Day #7: Full-day exploration of Destination #2, overnight at Destination #2 Day #8: Morning travel to the airport region, departure from Costa Rica

As a side note, if you’re wondering which specific destinations in Costa Rica you should choose (i.e., which areas should be Destination #1 and Destination #2)…

Don’t miss our related blog post: Where To Go In Costa Rica: Determining The Best Places To Visit During Your Trip

An 8-day vacation in Costa Rica is the most popular choice

Hands down, the most popular Costa Rica itinerary we see travelers build is an 8-day itinerary (in some cases, a modified 7-day itinerary), likely because many travelers can only miss work for one week or two weekends and one workweek . If this is true for you, too, then traveling for 8 days is the right choice because it’s your only choice.

An 8-day vacation in Costa Rica offers a nice balance between adventure/exploration and beach/relaxation

By visiting two destinations in Costa Rica over 8 days, you won’t just get to see two places that differ geographically but also two areas of the country that differ across demographics, ecosystems, foods, attractions, and other experiences. Want to hike in the rainforest and relax on the beach? Zipline through the cloud forest and float through canals or mangroves? Relax in volcanic hot springs and take a sunset cruise along the coast? Costa Rica provides all of these experiences (and more), and an 8-day itinerary that includes visits to two unique destinations will help you cross a few off your bucket list.

An 8-day vacation in Costa Rica allows enough time to take in many of Costa Rica’s highlights

Are you asking yourself, “ I s 8 days in Costa Rica enough time? ”  If so, you’ve joined the club; this is one of the most popular questions we receive from travelers. To it we could respond, “ Is 8 days in Costa Rica enough time… for what ?” Is 8 days enough time to get away from home, have some fun, and get a taste of what Costa Rica is all about? Of course! Is 8 days enough time to experience what other travelers do when they visit for 10 days, 12 days, 15 days, or longer? Sadly (and obviously), no.

With 8 days to spend in Costa Rica, we recommend participating in no less than 4 tours/activities and no more than 12-14 tours/activities. The chart below provides a breakdown of this range according to the itineraries already discussed above.

An 8-day vacation in Costa Rica warrants either a personal car rental or reliance on other modes of transportation; the decision is yours!

Some travelers ask us whether they should rent a car for an 8-day trip to Costa Rica or whether they can get by without one. The short answer to both inquires is “Yes” but to elaborate, renting a car has its advantages, mainly complete flexibility with respect to routes taken, departure times, and stops made along the way. Also, it’s worth noting that some car rental agencies (including the company we discuss in our related blog post This Is The Costa Rica Car Rental Agency We Rent Cars Through ) offer the 7th or 8th rental day for free, so having a car for a week (or longer) can provide some monetary savings. If you don’t want to rent a car for your trip, fortunately, 8-day vacations do provide enough time to comfortably move between two destinations while using other modes of transportation. This means that you can rely on services like shared shuttles, city-to-city transportation-inclusive tours, domestic flights, and public transportation to get around, assuming you don’t mind adhering to preset departure times.

Don’t miss our related blog posts: Costa Rica Tour Transportation: How To Use Tours To Travel Between Destinations Costa Rica Transportation: 12 Ways To Get Around Costa Rica Renting A Car In Costa Rica: Should You Do It?

An 8-day vacation in Costa Rica provides opportunities to reschedule missed activities due to unforeseen circumstances

Two things you can’t account for when forming a trip itinerary are surprises and spontaneity. What if a member of your travel group gets sick? What if severe rain or wind causes tour delays or cancellations? What if a national holiday, street protest, vehicle malfunction, construction project, or natural disaster rewrites your travel plans? Though you can’t plan for unforeseen occurrences, you can recognize one truth: the more time you have to spend in the country, the more likely it is that you’ll be able to adjust your travel plans when problems arise, allowing you to not miss out on key experiences. In other words, the greater number of days you plan to explore Costa Rica, the better your chances of squeezing sweet lemonade out of sour lemons you encounter along the journey. 🙂

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How to Spend 8 Days in Costa Rica

If you’ve been following along on my blog, I went to Costa Rica back in February. It was my first international trip in 2 years and it felt so amazing to be back to my normal self, traveling! I’ve been sharing some itineraries and guides about my 8-day trip there, but planning a full 8-day itinerary can be a little overwhelming.

There is so much to do and see in Costa Rica, and 8 days just simply isn’t enough time to see everything. However, don’t let that stop you from planning a trip if you are limited on vacation days. There’s still a lot you can get into 8 days in this country, and hey, you’ll just have an excuse to come back and see more of it!

Here is my breakdown of how I spent 8 days in Costa Rica…

Day One: Travel Day to San Jose then La Fortuna

We arrived at Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose, Costa Rica in the early afternoon and had a private shuttle booked to take us to our next destination, which was La Fortuna. This was about a 3-hour drive. Many people choose to rent a car at the airport and drive themselves, but since I hardly drive at home, I wasn’t comfortable driving in another country. So we booked shuttles along the way to each of our new destinations. Public buses and transportation are also available for those being more budget-conscious.

Where we stayed in La Fortuna: La Princesa De La Luna

On the first day since it was a long travel day, we really just went into town for dinner and that was about it. Here are some recommended restaurants to choose from:

• Soda La Hormiga
• Red Frog  (I didn’t make it here but my tour guide highly recommended it)
• Nene’s El Rio
• Don Rufino  (I ate here one evening and it was REALLY good. Definitely more elevated and on the higher price scale but worth it. Make a reservation online during high season as it gets busy)
• Rainforest Cafe
• Tierra Mia  (Recommended by my hotel, we had a great, inexpensive meal here)

Day Two & Three: La Fortuna

The next two days, we spent exploring La Fortuna. There are a ton of activities in this area for literally anyone, of any ability, and any age. Here is what we chose to do:

Hot Springs

The hot springs are a must-do while visiting La Fortuna and there are SO many options and ways you can do them. You can opt for the more bougie hot springs in the area like Tabacon or The Springs. Despite these also being hotels, you can buy just a day pass to visit their hot springs. You’ll get a more elevated experience in places like these. I went to Tabacon because we want to go to the best of the best, however, it was expensive and not conducive to everyone’s budgets, so you can opt for one based on how much you want to pay. Generally here is what’s recommended:

Luxury:   Tabacon  ($75-$110 USD) or  The Springs  ($79 USD)

Mid-Range:   Baldi  ($22-$62 USD) or  EcoTermales  ($44-$72 USD)

Budget:  There are free hot springs in La Fortuna too! Just up from the popular Tabacon Resort, you’ll usually see a bunch of cars/people on the side of the road. There’s a short path on the north side of the road that leads to the river.

You can spend a full day at the hot springs or you can just add these in at the end of a long day doing other activities. It really depends on how much time you want there.

Arenal National Park

Hike in this National Park to see the volcanic rock, some great views, and old lava trails. You can drive yourself to the park and do a trail or hike on your own, or you can do a guided tour. The entrance fee is $15 USD and it’s open daily from 8am-4pm. All the trails are pretty short, so this really can be a family-friendly activity as well. We did the  Arenal 1968 Volcano Trail.  If you do decide you want a guide, your best option is to hire one beforehand or book a tour. There are no guides you can hire right at the park itself. We did our hike as part of  a tour  that included the hanging bridges, La Fortuna waterfall, and the national park.

La Fortuna Waterfall

I LOVED this waterfall. It was so refreshing and fun. You can easily drive yourself here and just pay the $18 USD entrance fee to visit the waterfall. You can also buy tickets in advance  here . There is no need for a guide here. You basically walk through the entrance and you will walk down 500 stairs to get to the bottom of the waterfall. If you aren’t cut out for the steps, there is also a platform to view the waterfall from the top. Bring your bathing suit and go for a swim! Since I didn’t have a car, I did this as part of the tour I mentioned above and there are several different tour companies you can find through your hotel or the city centre of La Fortuna that can help get you to the waterfall.

Mistico Hanging Bridges

I went to the Mistico Hanging Bridges while in the area and it was a great experience. The views from the bridges are beautiful but what was even better was our guide that pointed up a lot of nature and wildlife along the way. You can definitely do a walk through the hanging bridges alone. However, it’s very unlikely that you will spot ANY wildlife. It’s incredibly hard to spot a lot of the animals hidden in the forest without a guide so I would recommend hiring a guide. You can do this  directly with Mistico  or book a tour with a tour company in town.

Other Popular Activities:

• White Water Rafting
• Rio Celeste Waterfall
• Safari Floats
• Horseback Riding
• Cooking Class
• Chocolate Tour
• Coffee Tour
• Ziplining (ton of parks and options to choose from)

Read my full guide to La Fortuna here

Day Four: Travel to Monteverde

Our next stop on the trip was Monteverde. We took a jeep-boat-jeep which is the most popular way to go if you don’t have your own car. We left at about 8 am and arrived at around noon. The drive was scenic (but bumpy) and was super easy.

Where we stayed in Monteverde: Camino Verde B&B

When we arrived in Monteverde, we spent some time walking around the little town, and having lunch. Here are some options if you’re looking for food:

• Tree House Restaurant
• Tico Y Rico
• Morpho’s  (a little bit more of a walk but worth it for the views)
• The Open Kitchen
• Monteverde Brewing Company

In the evening, we did a rainforest night walk which is a popular activity in the area to see wildlife that only comes to life at night. You can book a tour here but they basically run every night as it’s a popular activity.

Day Five: Monteverde

We only had one full day in Monteverde in this itinerary, but if you have time, you could do two for sure as there is a lot to offer in this area. We got up and had breakfast at our hotel, but some other breakfast options in the area are:

• Orchid Coffee
• Soda La Salvadita

After breakfast, head to the Cloud Forest bright and early. Of course, like any nature hike in Costa Rica, you can go to the park yourself, buy a ticket, and walk yourself around the forest too. You don’t  need  a guide, but if you want to spot wildlife and learn more about what you’re actually seeing, then a guide is always the way and highly recommended. You can book tickets and/or tours here . Make sure to stop at the Hummingbird Cafe on your way out of the park to enjoy a coffee with the hummingbirds before you leave.

When you’re back in town, opt for lunch at one of the suggested restaurants above. Then choose your own adventure for the afternoon. Everyone’s preferences are so different, and you’ll want to use your limited time wisely. So I’d suggest that you pick and choose out of the below activities how you’d like to spend your afternoon. Anything nature-related is usually better to do in the morning, so if you’re booking organized tours, you won’t be able to find many (or any) that depart later in the afternoon. However, you can still go explore  Curi Cancha Reserve ,  Hummingbird Garden , or  Monteverde Butterfly Garden  yourself and hire a guide there directly.

Some more recommended things to do in the afternoon are:

• Selvatura Treetop Walkways  (note: if you did the hanging bridges in La Fortuna already, these are similar so I wouldn’t recommend doing them in both places)
• Sunset Horseback Riding  (I did this and it was absolutely beautiful)

To end a hectic day, I recommend that you book a gourmet dining experience that you will not forget!  San Lucas Treetop Dining Experience  is next level. I booked it just wanting to splurge on a fancy dinner on vacation but was not expecting it to be as amazing as it was. You pay for a prix fixe menu and you dine in a private glass treehouse that you can enjoy the views in. Book far in advance as they only have 8 tables!

Read my full guide on Monteverde here

Day Six: Travel day to Manuel Antonio

Wake up and head to the beach! We’re heading to Manuel Antonio this day. When visiting Costa Rica, you can make an entire trip just on or near the beach. There is the Pacific Coast, and the Caribbean Coast. For the sake of time, we went to the Pacific Coast and chose Manuel Antonio as it seemed to offer a good mix of activities, and relaxation. To get there, we hired a shared shuttle. It was a long drive but it was efficient and we got there in about 3.5-4 hours. We booked this right through our hotel and arrived around 1 pm.

Where we stayed in Manuel Antonio: Jungle Beach Hotel

Since this was a long travel morning, we opted for a beach afternoon. Upon arrival we headed out for some food first, here are some recommended restaurants:

• Marlin Restaurant  (one of the few on the beach)
• Ronny’s Place  (a bit remote but worth it for the sunset views – make a reso in advance if you can for the best tables)
• Cafe Aqua Azul  (in Hotel Los Altos)
• Emilio’s Cafe  (great seafood and brunch)
• El Avion Bar & Restaurant  (a bit of a tourist trap but located in/around an old plane which makes it really cool. I’d opt to just go for a drink or two in the bar located in the plane instead of eating here)
• Falafel Bar
• Baldi’s Fresh Restaurant  (beach views)
• Food Truck “En Todos”  (a fun restaurant/food truck out of an old school bus)

Then we set up shop on Playa Espadilla . There’s also Playa Biesanz, and Playa La Macha nearby. Most of the beaches have lounge chairs and umbrellas you can rent for a fee for the day.

For dinner, head to one of the above. We chose El Avion.

Day Seven & Eight: Manuel Antonio

For your final 2 days, you should definitely fit in a day for Manuel Antonio National Park . This is the gem of this area. It’s beautiful! Arrange a guide or tour to take you first thing in the morning, then opt to stay the rest of the day at their beautiful, spotless beaches. Our guide was booked through our hotel but you can book him directly here.

The beaches in this park are the most beautiful in the area, but you cannot bring your own outside food, and lounge chairs, etc. are prohibited, so make sure you bring a towel to lounge on.

Some other activities you can opt to do with an afternoon in the area are:

• Kayaking in the Mangroves
• Parasailing from the beach (there are a million people on the beach promoting this, just go up and ask one of them for details)
• Catamaran cruises

You can also choose to do an easy day trip from the area such as:

• Nauyaca Waterfalls : I really wanted to do a day trip here, but unfortunately, our hotel needed two people to run the tour so I wasn’t able to go. Nauyaca Waterfalls is a beautiful set of waterfalls that you can hike into, horseback into, or take a 4×4. It’s located about an hour out of Manuel Antonio.
• Jaco : This is often a stop on your way to Manuel Antonio but you can also visit this little town for the day or enjoy its beaches.
• Tortuga Island : Tortuga Island boasts a beautiful white sand beach. You can snorkel, rent a jet ski, hike, or just lounge in the sun. Most companies will require a minimum of 4 people to run this tour but enjoying the cruise through the Gulf of Nicoya looks stunning.
• Cano Island Snorkeling : Known for some of Costa Rica’s best snorkeling and diving, Cano Island is a biological reserve and will definitely beat any snorkeling you’ll find in Manuel Antonio by a long shot.

Day Nine: Fly home

Okay, I know I said this trip was for eight days, but really it’s nine. You can, however, cut off a day in Manuel Antonio to get back home a day earlier and squeeze this into 8 days.

What would you suggest for 8 days in Costa Rica? Share below in the comments!

Other Costa Rica reading:

• Guide to Manuel Antonio
• My First International Trip in 2 Years
• How to Spend 2 Days in Monteverde
• Guide to La Fortuna

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13 comments.

This is the most amazing and thorough itinerary I’ve discovered! It’s exactly the type of trip I was searching for. Minus the flight’s expense, would you mind me asking how much you paid in total (shuttles, food, hotels, excursions…)? My husband and I were hoping to keep our entire trip, flights included, under $4000.

Hey Amanda, Glad you found this helpful. I would say it cost under $4K. You can make it as expensive or as inexpensive as you want depending on how you get from place-to-place (shared shuttles will be the cheapest next to a bus), and the type of accommodations you choose (for example, if you are in an Airbnb, you can also go to the local markets and cook in your Airbnb for some meals vs. eating out 3x meals a day). Some excursions, if you have a car, you can drive yourself and just pay for entry to them which could also be a cheaper way of doing it than going with an arranged tour like I did.

Jennifer Ostrom

Hi Lauren! Exactly what I was looking for! I’ve done Manuel Antonio before and LOVED it. Now wanting to take my kids and see more of the country and share MA with them as well. Anything about your itinerary you would leave out next time? Just thinking this much hotel hopping in 9 days might get “irritating” to teenagers. 🤣

Hi Jennifer! Thanks for reading. Costa Rica is such a good destination for the whole family. If you had to eliminate anywhere in order to have less hopping around, I would say that La Fortuna and Monte Verde had very similar offerings in terms of activities. You could zip line in both places, you could do nature hikes/walks in both places, night safari’s, etc. So choosing one of those then heading to MA to have some beach time would be a good mix.

Did you fly in and out of the same airport?

Hi Dustin! Yes I did.

Hi Lauren, This is a wonderful itinerary. We are planning a trip to CR in March and I’m having a hard time deciding between Monte Verde and La Fortuna before we head to the beach. If you had to pick one of these two places which one would you choose? Kindly, Beth

Hi Elizabeth! Honestly, they both offer very similar activities and you won’t be disappointed in either option you choose. If I had to choose one I’d c choose La Fortuna, but I couldn’t tell you why, it’s just what my gut is telling me 😉

Thanks for this great blog post. We are thinking of doing 9 days, depending on how you count travel days. But we are thinking of flying into Liberia, so that we can end with one of the Marriott beach resorts on the west, like either Conchal or Playa Panama. The other two stops could be both La Fortuna and Monteverde. We could probably fit two nights in one and three nights in the other. Bringing two middle school kids. What do you think?

I’ve never visited Conchal or Playa Panama so I can’t really comment on either but both sound and look beautiful. I’m sure you can’t go wrong with either. For La Fortuna, and Monteverde. Both offer very similar activities like zip lining, night safaris, wildlife excursions, etc. and ton of family-friendly activities. You won’t be disappointed with either or if you are only choosing one, or you can totally do both like you said, 2 nights in one, 3 nights in the other. La Fortuna seemed to have more to do, but it’s entirely up to your interests.

Nikki Rouiller

Hi – What shuttle service(s) did you use? Thank you!

They were all different. Most I booked through my hotels.

Thanks Lauren for outlining your trip. I am taking my two teenagers on basically the same trip minus one location. We are getting picked up by a shuttle at the San Jose airport and heading to La Princesa De La Luna (hotel shuttle). Staying 3 nights (they hare happy to arrange any activities) then getting picked up by a Jungle Beach Hotel shuttle and staying 3 nights at Jungle Beach. I did a lot of research on the hotels and read many reviews and both seem like great options for a reasonable price. Plus my teenagers want to be more immersed and not at a hotel with an American vibe. Thanks for all the wonderful recommendations!

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Costa Rica & Manuel Antonio 8 Day Tour from USD $1095 #1 In Value

Dear Traveler, Welcome to a great vacation at an affordable price. Your Costa Rica tour is fully guided and includes most meals, all hotels, and all activities. Happy Travels! Caravan

2024 Daily Tour Itinerary

Day 1 • san josé, costa rica, day 2 • rainforest aerial tram, day 3 • wildlife rescue center, fortuna, day 4 • arenal volcano, hot springs, day 5 • cloud forest, manuel antonio, day 6 • sierpe river, stone spheres, day 7 • manuel antonio, day 8 • san josé, 2024 hotels, days 1, 2 • san josé, holiday inn san jose la sabana, days 3, 4 • fortuna, magic mountain, days 5, 6 • manuel antonio national park, san bada hotel, day 7 • san josé, quality hotel real san jose, airport transfers, arrival transfers, departure transfers, passports & visas, weather & clothing, temperature °f (high/low) rainfall (inches), clothing tips, travel tips & faqs, language spoken in costa rica, costa rica immigration, san jose, costa rica baggage claim, airport porter tips, caravan does not arrange airline transportation, costa rica customs, customs duties for items purchased in costa rica, customs duties for personal items in costa rica, drivers license, fishing in costa rica, activities in costa rica if arriving a day early or staying a day longer, my tour price includes, preparing for the tropics, are meals included, children on tour, family trips, my tour price does not include, age of travelers on a caravan tour, forms of payment, many tours sell out each year, fully guided tours since 1952, size of tour group, a well-paced itinerary, caravan’s $129 travel protection, customer reviews.

"I took the tour to see the nature and beauty of Costa Rica. It was beyond my expectations. Several friends had recommended this Caravan tour to me and now I am ready to recommend your company to others." Mrs. D.T., Story, Wyoming

"This was the best vacation I've had. It is the only way to see Costa Rica." Ms. P.H., Plano, Texas

"The sights were absolutely fabulous! We visited all the places we were interested in seeing. This was an exceptional tour at an exceptional price. The guides were very eco-minded. We received a good education from them and their passion for preserving their environment was contagious. We totally get it. Your Costa Rican tour was awesome." Mr. & Mrs. B.H., Burton, Michigan

"I was in awe. I was in Costa Rica on vacation. Couldn’t have asked for a better ride from our driver. A first class guy. My first Caravan trip and I would recommend you guys to anyone." Mr. H.T., Waterloo, Illinois

"It is almost impossible to visit a country in one week, but Caravan is doing a wonderful job in Costa Rica. Food was incredible, very fresh, great variety and plentiful. Love all activities. Got to see all birds and animals including the elusive sloth. We had a smooth ride, everything was just wonderful." Ms. V.N., Terrytown, Louisiana

"I definitely want you to know our feeling about this tour considering it is one of if not the best tours we have ever taken. Every hotel was very good with outstanding locations. The efficiency that Caravan developed in hotel check-in was easy and fast. The sightseeing was outstanding for sure. We had been to Costa Rica previously and this was by far superior by the extensive destinations geographically seeing most of the country that tourists would be interested in. This coupled with the extremely skilled guide made it superior to what we had seen before. He was so very knowledgeable concerning every possible thing we were witnessing and much more. In addition, he has an extremely entertaining wit. We both had a wonderful time and were amazed at all we got for the $’s." Mr. & Mrs. J.M., Marysville, Washington.

"Simply the best driving skill that I have ever seen from someone driving a vehicle as large as our coach. Just an all-around excellent driver and he deserves the highest praise...the hotels were clean and pleasant, a couple quite beautiful. Overall as a group they deserve an ‘A’ rating. Sightseeing was pleasingly fresh for me. This was something different which is what I was looking for from this trip. It was a learning experience as well as entertaining." Mr. L.S., Adrian, Michigan

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"From beaches to jungles to volcanoes, and all the weird and wonderful wildlife in between, I could never choose just one favourite place in Costa Rica. Relax and enjoy the pura vida, mae!"

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Visit Tortuguero National Park

A spectacular wilderness of rainforest, beaches and lagoons, Tortuguero National Park is filled with incredible wildlife. We’ll take you through the canals on a river boat to spot caimans, howler monkeys, sloths, iguanas, toucans, crocodiles and scores of bird species, plus endangered ocelots, river otters, manatees and six species of sea turtles.

View Arenal Volcano

One of the most active volcanoes in the world, rising to 1,670 metres over the lush rainforest, Arenal Volcano is a magnificent sight. Our Costa Rica vacations will take you up close to the volcano, from guided treks through old lava rocks, to ziplining on the slopes of the volcano.

Indulge in gourmet chocolate from the best cacao beans

Dive into Culture with Trafalgar, as we journey to San Isidro de Heredia, where you’ll meet master chocolatiers, Julio Fernandez and George Soriana. You’ll learn about the history and production of chocolate in their workshop, and sample some of the sweet delicacies made from the world’s best cacao beans.

Have Costa Rican lunch at a traditional working ranch

When you visit Costa Rica with Trafalgar, we’ll meet the people behind the country. Join Don Alberto and Doña Ana Quintana for a traditional Costa Rican lunch at their eco-friendly Hacienda Pozo Azul, a 2000-acre working ranch. You’ll learn about classic Costa Rican cuisine and life on a working farm.

Spot wildlife at Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Take to the sky in Monteverde Cloud Forest, where you’ll join your Local Specialist for a walk through the rainforest along the treetop Sky Walk bridges. The forest is home to a staggering abundance of wildlife, with around 2.5 percent of the world’s species, including jaguar, puma, tapri, coatis, toucans and hummingbirds.

Our top 5 things to do in Costa Rica

From hiking up volcanoes to walking through treetops, our Costa Rica guided holidays take you to the heart of the country in ways you could never imagine.

Museo de Jade

Founded in 1977 by Fidel Castro, the Museo del Jade is an archaeological museum with a massive collection of pre-Columbian items. Located in San José, you can discover the world’s largest collection of American jade, along with ceramics, stone tables and ceremonial heads.

Museum of Costa Rican Art

With more than six thousand pieces of art, the Museum of Costa Rican Art holds one of the world’s largest collections of Latin American art. You’ll find pieces from artists like José Sancho and Max Jiménez, with paintings, sculptures and pieces dating back to the early 19th century.

Museo Nacional de Costa Rica

The National Museum of Costa Rica is set in the Bellavista Fortress, built in 1917 with bullets still lodged in the exterior walls from the country’s civil war. The building became a museum in 1950, and today has an excellent collection of colonial furniture and pre-Columbian artefacts like ceramics and stone tables.

Best museums in Costa Rica

Our Costa Rica tour packages delve deeper into the history and culture of Costa Rica through their wonderful museums.

The tamale is a quintessential Costa Rican dish, made from dough filled with a mix of meat (like chicken or beef), corn flour and broth. The tamales are then wrapped in banana or plantain leaves, and although they are traditionally enjoyed at Christmas, our Local Specialists will show you where to taste tamales all year round.

Gallo Pinto

A beloved dish of rice and beans, Gallo Pinto is the pride of Costa Rica. The name translates as ‘spotted rooster’ and the local saying ‘mas tico que el gallo pinto’ means ‘more Costa Rican than spotted rooster’. It’s usually eaten at breakfast, but can be enjoyed throughout the day.

A classic staple of Costa Rican cuisine, casado is a dish of rice, black beans, salad, plantains and a tortilla, with an optional serving of meat like beef, pork, chicken or fish. The dish comes in many variations with added flavors like corn, eggs and avocado, and you can mix and match as you please.

Best food in Costa Rica

Full of fruits, vegetables, rice and beans, Costa Rican food is fresh and filling, and we’ll show you all the best places to taste the country’s most-loved dishes.

What to pack for Costa Rica

Spanish phrasebook

Learning a few Spanish phrases is highly appreciated and will make it easier to connect with the locals. The first Costa Rican saying to learn is ‘pura vida, mae!’

Waterproof coat

No matter where you go, it can rain at any time in Costa Rica. Pack a waterproof jacket and keep it in your day bag on your daily adventures.

Mosquito repellent

Costa Rica has plenty of mosquitoes, so to avoid any nasty bites from mosquitoes or other insects, bring a strong repellent with DEET (diethyltoluamide) and apply it regularly.

Adaptor plug

In Costa Rica, the standard voltage is 120 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type A and B. The standard frequency is 60 Hz.

Reef-safe sunscreen

Protect yourself from the harsh sun with SPF 30 or higher and protect the environment with reef-safe sunscreen. It’s recommended to bring your own, as sunscreen is expensive in Costa Rica.

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Wonderful Costa Rica 8 Day Wildlife & Nature Tour With Family

Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  5  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1541  reviews on Trustpilot

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• Trip Overview

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Places visited, suggested duration.

Immerse your family in the natural wonders of natural Costa Rica on a 8-night vacation to five incredible national parks. Handcrafted to cultivate diverse wildlife experiences, this itinerary includes sea turtles, monkeys, volcanos, quetzals, untouched jungle, and pristine beaches. It will be an escape into the sounds and sights of a surreal world and a family break that will lead you far from your everyday schedule. Enjoy comfort and luxury in Costa Rica’s incredible natural settings.

Customizable Itinerary

Heredia – searching for quetzals on an incredible active volcano.

After flying to Costa Rica’s largest international airport, you will be transferred to Heredia, which is a charming town nestled beneath volcanic brilliance. After a minute to settle in, your guide will lead you to Poas Volcano National Park. A steep road zigzags up this active volcano, so your family does not need to partake in an exhausting uphill walk. Instead, you can access a rainforest trailhead and follow a short track in search of quetzals. Walking around the crater rim will be an educational experience, and it is accessible to all ages.

What's Included:

Corcovado National Park – Immersed in Central America’s Largest Virgin Rainforest

When you fly south, the landscape begins to change: a mountainous interior will be replaced by a rolling rainforest and views of the Pacific. Corcovado National Park is home to the largest native rainforest in all of Central America. It is another excellent bird watching location, and you can even encounter jaguars, but the primary highlight will be your mixture of family adventure and downtime. This afternoon, you will have a couple of options for wildlife walks. Your guide will explain the options in more depth and can customize a route to suit your interests, such as any particular animal you would like to see.

Corcovado National Park – Family Wildlife Tours in a Stunning National Park

By getting an early start, you can experience Corcovado at its best before returning to the lodge for some lazy hours. Specialist family guides work at the lodge, and they can keep your children occupied during the middle of the day with activities related to wilderness survival and animal identification. Then, by mid-afternoon, you can be back exploring the trails and in search of anteaters and tapirs. Today, you will also have a wide choice of hikes that can focus on educational exploration. Everyone in your family can learn about different animals and how to identify them.

Manuel Antonio National Park – Snorkeling with Sea Turtles and Dolphins

Today, ocean vistas will dominate as you travel above the crashing waves and indigenous forest. Marino Ballena National Park is a convenient stop for a small boat tour on the Pacific. Dolphins may move like ballet dancers in the water with their fins displaying their artistic nature. They often come directly next to the boat, showing off their dorsal fins before diving back to the depths. After a short jaunt, your open ocean guide will lead you to calmer waters for some safe snorkeling. Here, you can swim with sea turtles if you are lucky. Even without turtles, there is a magnificent marine realm to uncover. After your marine excursion, you will continue to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you will spend two nights at a small lodge on the beachfront.

Manuel Antonio National Park – Intimate Experiences with Four Different Monkey Species

By staying in Manuel Antonio National Park, you will have the advantage of an early start, meaning that you will miss most of the crowds and be able to soak up all the natural splendor. A couple of clear trails cross the park, and they are great for children. In the park, you can encounter a large variety of wildlife in just one or two hours. The slower you walk, the more you are likely to find. By mid-morning, you will be back at the lodge with the rest of today at your leisure. With so many sublime beaches and bays, this is a great park that allows you to create your own afternoon adventure.

Tortuguero National Park – Breathtaking Wildlife Canoe Cruise

Tortuguero is a lush, green realm of wetlands, lagoons, jungle rivers, and Caribbean beaches. Thanks to new flight connections, you can connect Manuel Antonio with Tortuguero in just under three hours. This afternoon in Tortuguero, you will explore by water. By moving silently, you can move exceptionally close to the animals around the riverbanks. The best part is that you do not need to paddle constantly. Your guides will also lead, so your children paddle before setting their eyes to the trees in search of monkeys. Tortuguero’s animal population is similar to Manuel Antonio, with monkeys and sloths being the prime attractions.

Tortuguero National Park – Beaches with Sea Turtle Encounters

Green sea turtles arrive in Tortuguero, usually around May. Loggerheads and leatherbacks typically come later in the year, including 1.5-ton giants that are among the largest sea turtles on the planet. They all come to nest on Tortuguero’s quiet beaches, and the sand is protected by a small team of conservationists. Today’s boat tour will be flexible, and your guide can plan a trip based on local sightings to show you large turtles, nests, and hatchlings. Different beaches become nesting sites throughout the year, and just to see the eggs will prove impressive. Hatching only happens after dark, so you will return to the lodge in the afternoon before setting back out on a nighttime tour, using a flashlight to illuminate young sea turtles and their manic dash for freedom.

San Jose – Departure

After a short transfer by river, you will have a flight to San Jose this morning. This will be a convenient journey that saves on a long overland transfer across the country. After your arrival in San Jose, you will transfer to your outbound flight after a week of incredible wildlife encounters with your family in Costa Rica.

Trip Highlights

• Search for four different monkey species in Manuel Antonio National Park and enjoy remarkable intimacy with the wild primates
• Explore Central America’s largest virgin rainforest on tailored hikes that allow you to encounter a superb variety of birds
• Cruise along the narrow river channels of Tortuguero National Park for a sublime wildlife experience
• Experience the wonder of an active volcano, from fumaroles and mud pools to a forest inhabited by quetzal
• Snorkel beautiful Pacific waters, where the tropical fish are accompanied by turtles and dolphins
• Customize wildlife hikes in Corcovado National Park with local rangers that can help you seek out tapir, harpy eagles, anteaters, and more
• Immerse yourself in Costa Rican nature with handpicked family lodges that are enveloped by exotic sounds and smells

Detailed Description

Costa Rica is dominated by raw nature. National parks cover more than a quarter of the country, and the natural diversity is breathtaking, from sea turtles that hatch on Caribbean beaches to monkeys that swing through the virgin jungle. Such remarkable nature will dominate this family escape, and during these adventurous seven days, you will be guided by exotic smells and sounds in addition to exploring the untrammeled charms of a world so different to home. This is a destination where you can completely escape to bask in nature and enjoy a very unique bonding experience.

This 7-day family tour is handcrafted for active families and visits five distinct national parks. Short flights connect most destinations, and the seven nights will lead you to four different overnight destinations. Activities can be customized to all ages, especially the wildlife hikes. Throughout your journey, you will be on the move, and from the Pacific to the Caribbean, you will experience both coastlines, the jungle, the rainforest, and a volcano.

Expert guides will lead the way throughout because they know where to turn and how to look for different animals. They will lead you closer to animals and make virgin landscapes comfortable, so you do not have to worry about getting lost in the middle of nowhere. Sublime family lodges will mean that you are completely surrounded by nature almost every moment of every day. When Costa Rica’s sounds and smells set the backdrop, your children will find a wonderfully novel playground.

After flying to San Jose, you will transfer to Heredia, which is an enchanting town beneath a volcano. The majority of your first day will be spent in Poas Volcano National Park, exploring its iconic summit and seeking out quetzals. From here, you will fly to Corcovado National Park, where you will have two days of intimate experiences in Central America’s largest virgin rainforest. From tapirs to anteaters and scarlet macaws, this is a destination that hosts surreal encounters and absolute seclusion. You will feel the break from your everyday and quickly appreciate the beauty of exploring nature.

On day four, you will travel by road with a snorkeling and sea life stop in Marino Ballena National Park en route to the monkeys and beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park. This delightful park is great for families because there is so much wildlife to experience in a relatively small area. Tortuguero Caribbean National Park, which mixes jungle experiences with sea turtles and beaches, will complete your vacation. Here, you can paddle together on a jungle cruise, spend a day supporting sea turtle conversation, and find hatchlings on the sand after dark. This itinerary features an active seven days, but when nature dominates, you will find a sense of tranquility to accompany your family adventure.

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$1,867  per person (excluding international flights)

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Costa Rica Tours & Vacations

Biodiverse, brilliantly colorful and naturally breathtaking, Costa Rica embraces a slower pace of life.

An adventure hotspot for some, a cultural haven for others and a tropical paradise for most, Costa Rica definitely lives up to its translation as the ‘rich coast.’ And as you journey under lush jungle canopies and through laidback surf towns, you’ll soon be rich with  memorable experiences.  Lean into the slower pace of life as you become a pro at spotting toucans in Monteverde’s  steamy cloud forests  or listening out for the distant whoop of white-faced capuchins in Manuel Antonio. The phrase ‘hustle and bustle’ isn’t in Costa Rica’s vocabulary, as you’d expect from a country whose unofficial motto is ‘ pura vida ’ – the pure life.

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Costa Rica at a glance

Capital city.

San Jose (population approximately 340,000)

Approximately 5.1 million

(GMT-06:00) Central America

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin) Type B (American 3-pin)

Learn more about Costa Rica

Culture and customs.

Costa Rican culture can be summed up in two words: 'pura vida', or the pure life. It's a greeting, farewell and a way to show appreciation. Like any good life motto, pura vida is better experienced than explained. It means being friendly and polite, taking it easy and being thankful for what you have. Costa Ricans' carefree way of life, coupled with living in one of Central America's most progressive and prosperous nations, makes the locals some of the happiest in the world.

You'll find that people in Costa Rica are generally in less of a hurry than most North Americans or Europeans. Following what is affectionately known as 'Tico time', people will often be fashionably late, except for things with schedules – Tico time does not apply at work, the movies or the train station.

Costa Ricans (or Ticos and Ticas) are known for their conflict-averse nature. Peace is so highly valued here that their army was abolished in 1949, with all funds reallocated to create an 'army' of teachers instead.

History and government

Ancient history.

Like most Central American countries, indigenous communities thrived for thousands of years as hunter-gatherers, and it's believed that humans have lived in Costa Rica's jungles and rainforests for as many as 10,000 years. However, with no urbanized civilization like the Aztecs or Mayas, and little to no cultural preservation during the time of Spanish colonization, not much is known about Costa Rica's true indigenous populations.

Colonization, independence, and trade

At the time of Spanish colonization, it was estimated that 400,000 people lived in what is now known as Costa Rica. Christopher Columbus arrived in the region in 1502 on his fourth voyage, leading to the settlement of the first Spanish colony in Costa Rica.

As settlements grew, indigenous populations dwindled due to disease and forced labor. After around a century, the population had fallen to 20,000, and a century later, down to 8000.

In 1821, the Americas broke free of Spanish control following the Mexican War of Independence. Costa Rica became part of the Federal Republic of Central America in 1823 before gaining complete independence in 1838

Costa Rica eventually found its feet in the global coffee trade, and by the end of the century, coffee crops accounted for nearly 90% of Costa Rica's exports and 80% of its foreign income. Not only was coffee production an indicator of wealth in Costa Rica, it was also a powerful political tool prompting the emergence of other industries, including the banana trade, which surpassed coffee exports in the early 20th century.

Costa Rica's economy relies on eco-tourism, and the country has championed the idea that the 'rich coast' refers not to resources dug from the ground but to the natural wonders above ground. The easygoing attitude of Ticos comes from a love of their country and pride that their democracy has endured in a conflict-ridden region.

Eating and drinking

Costa Rican cuisine is wholesome and fresh, with influence from  Spanish ,  South American , and  Caribbean  culinary traditions. On the Caribbean coast, you'll find dishes with Afro-Caribbean flair, usually featuring more meats, spices and coconut milk. 

Capital city, San Jose, not only has an up-and-coming food scene but has established itself as the craft beer hub of Costa Rica. Enjoy seasonal samplings on a San Jose Bites and Sites tour with Urban Adventures 

Look out for these favorite dishes and drinks across Costa Rica:

What to eat in Costa Rica

• Gallo pinto Gallo pinto, the most common side dish in Costa Rica and across the Americas is served alongside meals morning, noon and night. It’s made of rice, beans, onions, peppers and spices, and the name translates to ‘speckled rooster’ because of the pops of color in the rice.
• Casado If you eat at a ‘soda’ or a traditional Costa Rican restaurant, when traveling, chances are a casado will be on the menu. Although there are multiple variations of this tasting plate, you’ll likely get served up some gallo pinto, fried plantains and salad with either chicken, beef or fish, and freshly squeezed juice, covering all your food groups in one.
• Chifrijo Chifrijo is a common bar snack in Costa Rica. The word is a combination of its two main ingredients – chicharrones (fried pork rinds) and frijoles (beans). The chicharrones and beans are layered together and topped with guacamole and pico de gallo and served with fresh tortilla or plantain chips for dipping.
• Ceviche While ceviche is probably more often associated with Peru, the Tico version is a delicious variation. Made with raw fish cured in citrus juice, onions, coriander and peppers and served with tortilla chips or fried plantains, this dish is light, refreshing and a great start to a meal.
• Patacones Patacones are deep-fried green plantains that are ideal for a snack or as a dipping device for chifrijo, guacamole or pico de gallo.
• Sopa negra Sopa negra is a Costa Rican black bean soup, often flavoured with tomatoes and spices and served with egg and coriander.
• Rondon Rondon is a seafood chowder that comes from Jamaica. Other Caribbean countries who’ve adopted the recipe have put their own spin on it with their choice of seafood – fish, crab, small lobster – as well as the coconut milk broth and spices.
• Arroz con leche Sweet tooths can rejoice with this Central and South American dessert staple of arroz con leche – a spiced, sweet rice pudding made with cinnamon, cloves and raisins. Try it as a warming snack or a special dessert.
• Pejibayes This unusual fruit comes from a type of palm known as the peach palm – the same tree that heart of palm comes from. After boiling for a few hours and discarding the inner seed and outer skin, the fruit is finished with a squeeze of lime or a dollop of mayonnaise to eat the local way. The taste has been likened to a mix between a squash, potato and cashew.

What to drink in Costa Rica

• Coffee Costa Rica produces some of the best coffee in the world, so you’re set for your caffeine fix during your time in Costa Rica. It has both the ideal soil composition and the perfect elevation to grow the perfect coffee crop, so be sure to sample as many fresh local brews as you can.
• Alcohol If you’re looking for drinks of the alcoholic variety, try guaro – a liquor made from sugar cane, best enjoyed in a guaro sour (with lime, simple syrup and soda). The craft beer scene is growing quickly here as well, so look for microbrews from a multitude of small local breweries. And if you’re wondering how to say cheers, just say ‘pura vida’ again!
• Naturales Naturales – sometimes also called refrescos or batidos – are delicious fresh fruit juices blended with either milk or water. You can find them all over the country at small kiosks or booths in a variety of flavors like mango, pineapple and guanabana.

Geography and environment

Costa Rica is known for its incredible beaches and magical rainforests. But the backbone of this coastal nation is truly stunning mountain ranges, many of which contain both active and dormant volcanoes. You’ll also find heaps of waterfalls, lakes and rivers throughout the country. For this reason, adventure sports such as zip-lining, whitewater rafting and cycling are popular in inland destinations such as La Fortuna and Montverde, and adventure-packed activities are a popular way to experience the country.

Get active on an  8 day Costa Rica: Hike, Bike & Raft trip

Costa Rica’s diverse topography is home to many microclimates, and the temperature and weather can vary dramatically depending on elevation and how close you are to the coast. Rainforests, cloud forests, jungles and mountains exist side by side. The varied land and climate foster over 5% of the world’s total biodiversity.

Witness ecological diversity firsthand on a  10 day Best of Costa Rica trip   Costa Rica is home to over 500,000 species of plants and animals. Those seeking to  spot local wildlife  will be enthralled by Costa Rica’s unique flora and fauna. And the spectacular variety of wildlife isn’t limited to the land – scuba diving is another popular activity, with Costa Rica boasting some of the most beautiful bays, beaches and reefs in the world.

Four of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica

• Tortuguero National Park One of Costa Rica’s best-kept secrets, this national park is the unspoiled paradise you’ve been searching for. Take a dip in Tortuguero’s warm turquoise waters or just relax on the idyllic shores
• Manuel Antonio A true eco-playground, you can spend a day exploring misty rainforests and searching for sloths and monkeys before cooling off on one of the delightful beaches. Head into Quepos town for some good food and fiery nightlife after the sun sets.
• Jaco Once a sleepy beach town, Jaco’s proximity to San Jose has made it a one-stop shop for those seeking big waves and even bigger parties. The gateway to national parks and  active adventures , there’s no denying Jaco’s uber-cool surf-town vibe.
• Corcovado Well off the tourist trail, Corcovado isn’t your average beach experience. Boasting a diversity of colors, landscapes and wildlife, Corcovado is perfect for those seeking beaches with character and charm. Oh, and it’s got the largest primary forest in the American Pacific, if you needed another reason to visit. 

Whether you’re buying souvenirs or groceries, your best bet in Costa Rica is to shop at local markets. Head to the Mercado Calle Nacional de Artesania y Pintura (National Craft Market) in San Jose for the best selection of handmade goods and souvenirs. Here you can stroll through dozens of stalls selling handmade hammocks and painted oxcarts as well as t-shirts and shot glasses that say ‘pura vida’. San Jose's Mercado Central is also a great place to grocery shop and pick up souvenirs, and vendors offer everything from fresh produce to coffee to leather goods.

You’ll often see carved wooden masks for sale but, while all of them are beautiful, for a truly authentic mask, you should aim to buy directly from indigenous communities who make them.

As in any destination, check that any souvenirs made from natural materials have been ethically sourced. Avoid buying products made from rainforest woods that were not sustainably harvested,  sea turtle  shells and other animal products. Before heading home, check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country. Australia and New Zealand, for example, have strict quarantine laws regarding some materials, such as food and wooden objects.

Festivals and events

Costa Ricans definitely know how to throw a party, and place a lot of importance on food, family and community. Many Costa Rican festivals celebrate the country’s farming and ranch heritage, and a lot have a Catholic element. No matter which festival you’re celebrating, you’re pretty much guaranteed a deep dive into Tico culture. Here are a few of the biggest festivals in Costa Rica:

Las Fiestas de Zapote

This festival, celebrated from Christmas until New Year’s Eve every year in the town of Zapote, is a week-long fiesta. It’s home to the biggest rodeo in Costa Rica, many carnival games, as well as rides and food stalls.

Palmares Fiestas

After the festivities of Christmas, New Year’s and the Zapote festival have wound down, it’s time for the Palmares festival. In mid-January, more than one million Ticos and tourists head to the town of Palmares for one of the largest festivals in Costa Rica. Revelers drink beer, enjoy food, listen to international acts and watch traditional bullfighting and the ‘tope’ – a horse parade through the streets.

Fiesta de los Diablitos

The ‘Festival of the Little Devils’ is celebrated twice each year (in December and February) in the indigenous communities of Boruca and Rey Curre. The festival celebrates the triumph of the original inhabitants over the Spanish conquistadors, with dancing and performances featuring costumes and painted masks.

Limon Carnival

If you’re traveling to Costa Rica in October, you’ll probably find yourself in the festive spirit as you touch down, as this is the month of Carnival. Notably, it’s when the Caribbean town of Puerto Limon celebrates this annual festival, with elaborate costumes, floats, parades and food stalls aplenty, spread across two weekends.

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Costa Rica adventure, check out these books:

• Green Phoenix: Restoring the Tropical Forests of Guanacaste, Costa Rica – William Allen
• The Ticos: Culture and Social Change in Costa Rica – Mavis Hiltunen Biesanz
• Off the Map – Dorien Kelly
• The Costa Rica Reader: History, Culture, Politics  – Steven Palmer and Ivan Molina
• Mamita Yunai – Carlos Luis Fallas
• Unica Looking at the Sea – Fernando Contreras Castro
• Monkeys are made of Chocolate: Exotic and Unseen Costa Rica – Jack Ewing

Costa Rica travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?

Year-round tropical warmth means there really isn’t a bad time to visit Costa Rica. December to April are normally the driest months; however, Costa Rica’s diverse topography and blanket of rainforests suggest that you should be prepared for at least some rain any time of the year – a very small price to pay for such lush surroundings.

The good news is that even during the rainiest of seasons, the rainfall tends to be limited to a couple of hours a day – just enough time for you to enjoy a cup of Costa Rica's acclaimed coffee in one of its many cafes.

The most popular time to visit Costa Rica is between December and March – the driest and hottest months along the Pacific Coast. May to October brings the most rainfall across the country, but this is dependent on the region, as the wetter seasons are extended on the Osa Peninsula and northern sections of the Caribbean Coast.

Do you need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?

Generally, Costa Rica grants visas to most countries’ passport holders for a period of 90 days, providing travelers have a valid passport, a return or onward ticket and their trip is for leisure. Some countries’ citizens must apply for a visa before leaving their home country, but most do not.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of your tour itinerary for more information. This is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates. 

Last updated: 14/12/2023

Is tipping customary in Costa Rica?

While tipping isn't mandatory in Costa Rica, rounding up the bill and leaving spare change at restaurants and cafes is standard practice. Many restaurants do add a service charge to the final bill which is usually a 10% gratuity; however, 500 colones (or around USD 1) of local currency is an appropriate extra amount.

What is the internet access like in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica's cities and tourist centers have wi-fi and internet access available in hotel lobbies and internet cafes. Internet access is less available in rural and remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Costa Rica?

Cell phone coverage is generally good in Costa Rica's cities and metropolitan areas, although expect limited coverage in remote or mountainous areas. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your carrier if you wish to use your phone while in Costa Rica, but, be sure to check with your service provider first to find out about any fees you may incur, as sometimes this can be expensive.

Costa Rica has one state-owned phone provider – Kolbi – as well as a selection of private companies, should you wish to purchase a SIM while abroad. Depending on what connection and coverage you need during your stay in Costa Rica, a prepaid option with one of these providers may be the cheapest way to go.

What are the toilets like in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica's toilets are a mixture of flushable and squat toilets, so be prepared to encounter both. Carry your own supply of toilet paper and soap or hand sanitizer, as these aren't always provided.

What will it cost for a...?

Costa Rica's unit of currency is the colón (CRC). Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Cup of coffee = 500 CRC
• Naturales (fresh fruit drink) = 1600 CRC
• Bottle of beer = 1100 CRC
• Lunch at a soda (local restaurant) = 3200 CRC
• Dinner in a restaurant = 5000-9000 CRC

Can I drink the water in Costa Rica?

Although tap water is considered safe to drink in Costa Rica's cities, it's probably a good idea to avoid drinking tap water in Costa Rica. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying small bottles of water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found as some hotels provide this, so you’re able to use a reusable bottle. It's also advisable to avoid ice in drinks and to peel fruit and vegetables rather than eating washed or unwashed produce.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Costa Rica?

Major credit cards are accepted by most large shops, hotels, and restaurants, although smaller vendors and market stalls often only accept cash, so be sure to have a combination of both when traveling.

What is ATM access like in Costa Rica?

ATMs are easily found in large cities and airports, although are less common in rural and remote areas. When traveling out of the city, come prepared by having enough cash, as ATMs aren't always an option.

What public holidays are celebrated in Costa Rica ?

• 1 Jan: New Year’s Day
• 11 April: Juan Santamaria Day
• April: Maundy Thursday (the day before Good Friday)
• April: Good Friday (the Friday before Easter)
• April: Easter Sunday
• 1 May: Labor Day
• 25 July: Guanacaste Day
• 2 August: Our Lady of Los Angeles Feast Day
• 15 August: Mother’s Day
• 15 September: Independence Day
• 16 October: Natural Cultures Day
• 25 December: Christmas Day

Please note:  Costa Rica public holidays may vary.

Is Costa Rica safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Generally speaking, Costa Rica is a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers. Same-sex relationships are legal and, in 2015 Costa Rica became the first country in Central America to recognize gay relationships; however, recognition of same-sex marriage is currently pending government approval. In many places in Costa Rica, public displays of affection might attract unwanted attention, but there are a few places in Costa Rica with a thriving LBGTQI scene. Quepos has long been known as the LGBTQIA+ capital of Costa Rica, and the actual capital, San Jose, has a good number of gay bars and clubs.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting   Equaldex  or   ILGA   before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

What is the weather like in Costa Rica?

Being in the deep center of Central America, Costa Rica gets hot and oh so humid. However, there’s a whole number of microclimates inside its borders – that’s a fancy way of saying that the terrain is pretty hilly – so depending where you are in the country, the temperature may fluctuate. Generally speaking, Costa Rica enjoys a tropical climate year-round with temperatures averaging at 64°F minimum and 81°F maximum.

Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast has tropical heat almost all year round. March is the driest and hottest month, and May to October brings the wet season to the region. The Western Central Valley, including cities like San Jose, indirectly follow the Pacific Coast’s weather trends.

The Caribbean Coast has pretty steady rainfall all year round with no distinct dry season. September to October and February to March are considered the best months to travel to this side of the country as they are drier than most, but still experience rainfall. The Eastern Central Valley usually follows a similar weather pattern.

Is Costa Rica accessible for travellers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Much of Costa Rica’s travel highlights are based around the coast and in nature, so depending on travelers’ level of mobility, this may present obstacles. Many national parks are difficult to visit for travelers using a wheelchair, as jungle paths are mostly remote and not stable. Manuel Antonio does have wider paths and more accessible routes to venture into the rainforest, and the wide boardwalks and beaches are wheelchair friendly. The capital, San Jose, is a bit tricky to get around, with rough sidewalks and a lack of ramps. There are, however, taxi companies in the capital that offer wheelchair-accessible vans.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to pack for a trip to Costa Rica

Packing for a trip to Costa Rica doesn't have to be difficult as long as you take into account the weather conditions you're likely to experience while you're over there. This means packing lightweight, comfortable clothing, walking shoes for exploring, appropriate sun protection items like sunscreen and hats, and a backpack so you can carry your camera and a reusable drink bottle. 

What language is spoken in Costa Rica?

Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica, however, there are five indigenous languages that are still spoken throughout the country, as well as a mixture of English, Portuguese, German, and French spoken by a percentage of the population. 

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Nature- 8 days

The following itineraries are examples of what you can do independently or through a Travel Agency.

A Day 1: Arrive at Juan Santamaría Airport and travel to the Irazú or Poás volcanoes

B day 2: explore the irazú and/or poás volcanoes.

Visit the highest volcano in Costa Rica and enjoy the incredible fresh air. It has an elevation of 3,432 meters above sea level, and is easily accessible at only 31 km from downtown Cartago. It has five craters, but the largest is the most sought-after because of the iridescent green lake within it. Be careful when you’re in the picnic area as raccoons and coatis may visit you and try to take your food. This is a place where you will be surrounded by low vegetation and a cool, humid climate. Although most mornings are foggy, you’re more likely to be able to look out over the landscape – and with some luck, see the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans – during this time of day. Hours: Every day from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. From the highest volcano in the country, continue onwards to the volcano with one of the largest craters in all of Central America, making it one of the hottest tourist destinations. It is located in Alajuela and also offers great tourist attractions around it, such as Fraijanes, Poasito, Vara Blanca and San Pedro de Poás. Don’t forget to buy strawberries and cheese, and stop for lunch at one of the roadside restaurants – you will not regret it. Tickets: You must make a reservation in advance at https://serviciosenlinea.sinac.go.cr/ in the "Buy and reserve online" section, where you will create an account, enter the names of the people who will be visiting, and pay for the tickets with a debit or credit card. Hours: Every day from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

C Days 3-4: Explore Savegre

Fill your day with nature, forest, quetzals, waterfalls and plenty of biodiversity. The Savegre River starts in the Cerro de la Muerte and runs through San Gerardo de Dota, Tarrazú, Pérez Zeledón (San José province), and Quepos (Puntarenas). The heights of San José province boast a variety of accommodation options, trout fishing, hiking, and suspension bridges. Los Quetzales National Park is a mandatory stop in this area. If you want to follow the river’s path to the river mouth, you should go to Quepos in Puntarenas and visit Manuel Antonio National Park.

D Days 5-6: Tortuguero (canal tours, turtle tours, hikes)

Tortuguero National Park is one of the most popular and iconic tourist destinations, known for its lush flora and fauna. Another main attraction is its extensive network of rivers and canals where small boats float through, as this is the only access to explore this impressive park. Among the most outstanding species found in the area are the green sea turtle (the original reason the park was created), the green macaw, and the black river turtle. Caimans, snakebirds, and jacanas (a very colorful bird species) are commonly seen, among others. Don’t forget to visit the colorful town and taste their Caribbean dishes. Hours: Every day from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

E Day 7: Sarapiquí (river tour, waterfalls, horseback riding, bird watching)

Sarapiquí is the largest district of Heredia, comprising more than 80% of the entire province. It is known for its wealth of biodiversity and as a destination for adventure sports such as ziplining, kayaking, rafting, rappelling, horseback riding, and hiking. It is also a hotbed for research and bird watching. It is an easily accessible location – you can make your visit by taking route 32, or you can reach it by highway 126, which connects Vara Blanca-Cinchona, or from San Carlos de Alajuela. It is the land of national parks, nature reserves, rivers, waterfalls, and humble people who will welcome you with open arms.

F Day 8: Departure from Juan Santamaría Airport

A Day 1: Arrive at Juan Santamaría airport and travel to Sarapiquí

B days 2-3: boat tour on sarapiquí river.

When visiting Sarapiquí, another option to consider is taking a boat tour through its waters. For 3 hours, you’ll travel along the river and see sloths, water birds, lizards, monkeys, and more. Visit one of the longest suspension bridges in the country in the Tirimbina Biological Reserve or learn about cocoa processing, and take a night walk and surprise yourself with the rich biodiversity. Enjoy its rivers and waterfalls.

C Days 4-5: Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge (River tour)

If you want more evidence of Costa Rica’s beauty, it’s time to visit the Caño Negro National Wildlife Refuge. Take a boat trip through this wetland and admire its biological richness. Declared a Ramsar Site in 1991, it has international recognition for the natural resources it protects. It is located in the northern part of the country near the Nicaraguan border, and spans 9,969 hectares. It is home to a large number of migratory birds and mammals, such as: jaguars, pumas, tapirs, and ocelots; white- and red-furred howler monkeys; tayras, two-toed sloths, otters, skunks, and deer. In addition, the wetland supports an abundance of fishes such as the tropical gar, the Atlantic tarpon, and the false yellowjacket cichlid.

D Days 6-7: Tenorio Volcano National Park and Celeste River

Another one of the most visited destinations in the country, it’s famous for the photographs of its trails, a waterfall, a sky-blue river, and abundant natural surroundings. This park belongs to both Alajuela and Guanacaste provinces - in fact, the Tenorio Volcano is on the dividing line between the two provinces. Take a tour to explore the tropical forest, take in the flora and fauna, admire the Celeste River waterfall, walk near the fumaroles (volcanic cracks where sulfurous gases escape), the “teñidero” (the point where the river takes on its light blue color), and its thermal springs. We recommend you wear comfortable clothes, shoes for mountain hiking and plenty of water for your travels through this wonderful park.

E Day 8: Departure from Juan Santamaría Airport

Planning your trip to costa rica.

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Caribbean Times Differently

• Wildlife Trekking
• Fully Guided

• Introduction
• Day 1 International Airport - San José City Hotel
• Day 2 San José - Tortuguero
• Day 3 Tortuguero National Park
• Day 4 Tortuguero - Selva Bananito
• Day 5 Selva Bananito Lodge
• Day 6 Selva Bananito Lodge - Cahuita National Park - Turrialb
• Day 7 Turrialba
• Day 8 Turrialba - Guayabo Monument - San José

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• Friday 10 May, 2024 Friday 17 May, 2024 German Multiple Room Types €2,600 Confirm Dates
• Friday 24 May, 2024 Friday 31 May, 2024 German Multiple Room Types €2,600 Confirm Dates
• Friday 7 Jun, 2024 Friday 14 Jun, 2024 German Multiple Room Types €2,600 Confirm Dates
• Friday 21 Jun, 2024 Friday 28 Jun, 2024 German Multiple Room Types €2,600 Confirm Dates
• Friday 5 Jul, 2024 Friday 12 Jul, 2024 German Multiple Room Types €2,600 Confirm Dates
• Friday 19 Jul, 2024 Friday 26 Jul, 2024 German Multiple Room Types €2,600 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Friday 2 Aug, 2024 Friday 9 Aug, 2024 German Multiple Room Types €2,600 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Friday 16 Aug, 2024 Friday 23 Aug, 2024 German Multiple Room Types €2,600 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Friday 30 Aug, 2024 Friday 6 Sep, 2024 German Multiple Room Types €2,600 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Friday 13 Sep, 2024 Friday 20 Sep, 2024 German Multiple Room Types €2,600 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

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Good to Know

• Currency ₡ Costa Rican Colon Costa Rica

As a traveller from England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types A, B.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Costa Rica. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Costa Rica. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Costa Rica. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Costa Rica. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 11th June 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 11th June 2024, a minimum payment of 20% is required to confirm your booking with Its Your Trip. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 40 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Its Your Trip will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Its Your Trip" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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13 replies to this topic

@10, Welcome to TA, Phillip J. Looking forward to your reviews, incl. of where you stayed during the extension.

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