costa rica 2 week tour

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2 Week Costa Rica Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 2 week Costa Rica tour with TourRadar. Choose from 48 trips with 228 customer reviews, that range from 11 up to 14 days.

48 Costa Rica 14 Days tour packages with 228 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Basic Costa Rica: Coastlines & Cloud Forests

Great group of people on the tour. Josie was the best CEO!! Thank you!

• Jungle Trekking

Family Costa Rica Rainforest and Wildlife Adventure

It is a wonderful trip but I would suggest spend a bit less time doing the city trips and a bit more time at the wildlife areas as they were the star and the city trips were much less interesting.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Costa Rica Wildlife Exploration

Guides were professional, drivers on-time, hotels were nice, and locations were beautiful. Saw lots of animals. We had a great 2 weeks!

Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride

Full Costa Rica Explorer 14D/13N

We had an amazing time in Costa Rica! So glad we booked this tour with Bamba Experience through Tour Radar, from the very beginning, before we even booked the trip I had excellent correspondence with Jacquie, from the Bamba team who answered the many many questions I had. She made sure to answer my questions as thoroughly as she could, meaning I was prepared for anything! When we went on the tour, I had email correspondence from a few members of the Bamba Team, who provided a detailed itinerary of the whole trip, with all the numbers of the accommodations we were staying in as well as all the numbers of the transport services we used. I felt everything was attended to well and because of this, any stress was taken away and so we had an excellent time! thanks so much!

Supersaver | Discovering Costa Rica, 14 days

• Volunteering

Volunteer in Costa Rica

Costa Rica Active Adventure

overall the tour was amazing and i had a great time

Full Costa Rica Adventure 14D/13N

Cycle Costa Rica

• Hiking & Trekking

Primate Costa Rica

• Coach / Bus

Essential Costa Rica with extension to Guanacaste, Tamarindo Beach & San José City

From start to finish our trip was fantastic!! Everywhere we stayed was wonderful and transportation was always on time. The included activities (rainforest hikes, canal tour, etc. were great. The guides were so knowledgeable and had a great eye for spotting wildlife hiding in the forests. Overall, we had an incredible vacation.

Best Spots of Costa Rica 13 days

I will be sending a detailed assessment to Destiny Travel in the near future. Overall excellent, with superior interaction with Destiny's staff during the course of our trip. All stays were interesting, we are considering a future variation on this tour, but well worth taking and enjoying this package.

The Best of Costa Rica (From Caribbean Coast to Pacific Side)

Loved everything about our trip - it was all organised really well and we felt like we were able to experience many different sides to Costa Rica during our time there

• Wildlife & Nature Photography

Touring Costa Rica "Fly & Drive"

What people love about 2 week costa rica tours.

All good, everyone had a great time and the whole package was great. One minor comment, and perhaps this is actually about CR itself, but none of the places we ate at seemed to do much in the way of kids portions. So, we seemed to waste a lot of food!

Great communication, professional high quality on-time transfers, good selection of activities and locations to visit, all accommodations were quality except for one (Rancho Corcovado Hotel was terrible). All guided activities were excellent except for one (Night Walk - Monteverde Cloud Forest).The company that provided the service was not professional. Overall I would highly recommend Green World Adventures to manage my wildlife adventure holiday - specify all rooms must have AC and plan on arranging some of your own local activities. Accommodations, guided activities and transportation were clean, safe, professional and enjoyable. The people of Costa Rica are friendly and welcoming and their country is beautiful - go have your own adventure!

Regions in Costa Rica

• Tortuguero National Park (7)
• Monteverde (6)

Other Regions in Costa Rica

• Monteverde 10 day Tours (33)
• Northern Lowlands Costa Rica 10 day Tours (19)
• Northern Lowlands Costa Rica 7 day Tours (12)
• Monteverde 7 day Tours (10)
• Tortuguero National Park 2 week Tours (8)
• Manuel Antonio National Park 3 week Tours (8)
• Monteverde 2 week Tours (7)
• Monteverde 3 week Tours (7)
• Tortuguero National Park 10 day Tours (6)
• Tortuguero National Park 3 week Tours (6)
• Manuel Antonio National Park 10 day Tours (5)
• Costa Rica Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Costa Rica Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide

Welcome to Costa Rica, where “Pura Vida” is a way of life, sloths swing among the rainforest treetops, coconuts rattle in the wind, and baby turtles make their way to the sea for the first time. Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to enjoy Costa Rica, home to epic national parks, great surfing, beautiful beaches, and exotic wildlife found around every corner. Life is vibrant in this wonderful country – ready to be enjoyed in this Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary!

Ultimate Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary

Costa Rica has really got it right when it comes to protecting nature and wildlife . The government is doing its absolute best to ensure that animals are protected and species preserved, making it one of the best countries to visit for animal lovers! There’s nowhere quite like it, somewhere you’ll hear toucans in the early morning and monkeys howling at night on your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary.

Looking for a different itinerary? Read our 7-day Costa Rica itinerary or 3-week Costa Rica itinerary .

Two weeks is the ideal amount of time to visit all the top spots, whether it’s waterfalls and hot springs and volcanos in La Fortuna or the cloud forests of Monteverde . Enjoy this ultimate Costa Rica travel guide.

Did you know? Costa Rica generates more than 99% of its electricity using renewable energy!

Day 1: San Jose (arrival)

On day 1, you’ll likely fly into San Jose , Costa Rica’s capital city and one of two major airports in the country. Because of all the fantastic nature spots, you need to see on your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary, we recommend only staying in San Jose for a day. This amount of time gives you a chance to see a few city sights and recuperate from your journey.

Read: Things to do in San Jose, Costa Rica .

San Jose is not a pretty city but it is home to some nice gardens, museums, and a food market. Other than that we don’t recommend spending much time in this city. Join a food tour to learn a little bit about the city and Costa Rican food.

Where to stay in San Jose

The neighborhood of Amón in San Jose has some nice buildings to see and restaurants to visit; like Cafe Rojo and De Acá.

Hotels in San Jose 😴

Day 2: San Jose to Puerto Viejo

Wake up and enjoy a typical Costa Rican breakfast (Gallo Pinto!) before embarking on your journey to Puerto Viejo. If you’re renting a car in San Jose, your journey will take around 4 hours. Alternatively, book a shuttle or a tour, or take the local bus directly to Puerto Viejo. Once you arrive in Puerto Viejo, book your tours or activities for the next day. For example, rent a bike, surfboard, kayak, or go on a chocolate tour.

If transport might be an issue you can also visit Santa Teresa instead.

How to get from San Jose to Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is about 4 hours drive from San Jose on good roads. Because of this, you don’t necessarily need a car with higher clearance from the ground (or a 4×4), although you might consider renting one for other destinations in Costa Rica. 

We recommend to rent a car in Costa Rica through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

By bus or shuttle:

The public buses (MEPE) leave from San Jose to Puerto Viejo about 5 times a day and take roughly 4.5 hours. It’s the cheapest way to travel with tickets starting from around 10 USD. If you want to be picked up from your hotel, and have a slightly more comfortable journey, opt for a shared shuttle with other travelers. This price starts from around 50 USD and takes approximately 5 hours (it’s a bit longer because of hotel pickups).

Book a bus or shuttle to Puerto Viejo

Where to stay in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo has an entertaining atmosphere throughout the day and night. If you don’t mind a little bit of noise and music, stay in the center of town, so you’re close to all the amenities. If you want more of a tranquil experience, choose accommodation along the coast between Playa Cocles or Manzanillo.

Hotels in Puerto Viejo 😴

Day 3 – 4: Puerto Viejo

Enjoy your days in beautiful Puerto Viejo! This laidback little beach town is home to vibrant Caribbean vibes, friendly locals, and beautiful palm-tree-lined beaches. There is not a huge amount to do in Puerto Viejo ; it’s more about absorbing the atmosphere, relaxing on the beach, and enjoying cute cafes. There are also some great outdoor activities, from cycling to surfing and kayaking. 

Make sure also to visit the Jaguar Rescue Center, a home for injured and orphaned animals. You can join an educational tour and learn all about these beautiful animals, whether it’s Sloths or Margay Cats!

Read: 10 best things to do in Puerto Viejo

Day 5: Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna

Head north to La Fortuna, a tropical town famous for its hot springs and volcanic activity. The journey from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna is relatively long if you travel by public transport. If you’re driving, leave in the morning and aim to reach La Fortuna for lunch. This gives you some time to refresh and cool down in the spray of the La Fortuna waterfall or the pools under the El Salto rope swing.

More time available? Visit the waterfalls of Bajos del Toro on your way to La Fortuna!

How to get from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna

The journey from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna should take around 4.5 hours on well-paved roads. However, to avoid pothole damage, we recommend hiring a car with a bit more clearance from the ground. 

The journey from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna is fairly long and not super accessible by public transport. You’ll need to transfer buses in San Jose, which means the journey can take around 8-9 hours.

If you don’t have a car, the best option is to take a shared shuttle bus that leaves in the morning and takes around 6 hours. The cost of this is about 60 USD, but it’s far less hassle than the public bus.

Book a bus or shuttle to La Fortuna

Where to Stay in La Fortuna

La Fortuna has excellent accommodation for all types of budget. However, you’ll find the best accommodations and campsites just outside La Fortuna if you have your transport. If hot springs play a big part in your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary, consider staying in a hotel with hot springs that are also included in the nightly price. ( Here are all your hotel options ) 

Hotels in La Fortuna 😴

Day 6 of 2 weeks in Costa Rica: La Fortuna

Spend one of the most magical days in La Fortuna, enjoying nature’s very own playground! Wake up early and head for Arenal Volcano National Park, home to the country’s most active volcano! Don’t worry, though, rangers make sure to monitor the activity and close trails accordingly so you’re always safe.

Explore La Fortuna’s waterfalls, hot springs, and vulcanic landscapes on this day tour

Choose from one of the many trails and hike to some incredible volcano viewpoints. When you’re done, head back down into La Fortuna to take advantage of the geothermal activity in the area – yes, there are plenty of hot springs to enjoy! 

Read: Best Things To Do in La Fortuna

Day 7: La Fortuna to Monteverde

Today is the day on your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary to head to the luscious green landscapes of Monteverde! Monteverde is stunning, but the journey to get there is also exceptional, as you drive around the peaceful Lake Arenal that sits in the shadow of the volcano.

On your way, stop at Mistico Hanging Bridges, which are about a 30-minutes drive from La Fortuna. This fantastic jungle trail is about 3 km long and includes six adrenaline-pumping hanging bridges. From a height of 45 meters, you’ll have the opportunity to walk across bridges suspended between the treetops, gaining the unique chance to see an abundance of wildlife. Don’t forget to look out for the elusive red-eyed tree frog, an icon of Costa Rica!

How to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde

Although La Fortuna and Monteverde look close on the map, the mammoth Lake Arenal separates the two villages. This means you need to drive around its parameter, which takes around 3 hours. However, luckily, it’s a stunning drive, perhaps one of the nicest on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary! 

The roads around the lake to Santa Elena (Monteverde town) are all well-paved. Still, we recommend having a slightly more powerful car for the steep hills. (no 4×4 needed to visit Monteverde).

Buses leave from La Fortuna to Monteverde, but they take around 7-8 hours. Additionally, you won’t be able to visit the Mistico Hanging Bridges when traveling by bus. Alternatively, get a shared shuttle van for around 50-60 USD.

Book a bus or shuttle to Monteverde

Small ferries cross Lake Arenal, but they don’t take transport. If you are traveling without transportation, this can be an excellent option to get to Monteverde. The journey takes around 2 – 2.5 hours, and you’ll get to enjoy a trip across the lake with beautiful views of the volcano; it’s a unique way to travel! Prices start from 25 USD.

Where to Stay in Monteverde

Monteverde offers numerous accommodation options, from cabins in the forest to hotels in Santa Elena. ( See all your hotels options here )

Hotels in Monteverde 😴

Day 8: Monteverde

Welcome to Monteverde (Green Mountain), home to unique and rare cloud forests. In fact, cloud forests only make up 1% of all forests worldwide! These beautiful areas are given their name because of their high altitude, which causes mist and low-lying clouds to appear through the trees.

Explore the Monteverde or Santa Elena cloud forest trails, looking out for frogs, butterflies, insects, and monkeys (you can even see beautiful hummingbirds at a nearby cafe!). Take part in the exhilarating night walk experience at night, led by a knowledgeable local guide.

Once you’re done exploring the cloud forests, enjoy more adventures among the beautiful Monteverde nature, from ziplining and canyoning to coffee tasting .

Read: Top things to do in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Day 9: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

Spend your morning enjoying the colorful butterfly garden at Monteverde before starting your trip south to Manuel Antonio. Manuel Antonio is a lovely coastal town surrounded by pristine, white-sand beaches, beautiful blue ocean, and lush jungle. Most importantly, it’s home to Manuel Antonio National Park, known as one of the most beautiful in the world! Spot monkeys, sloths, and toucans in the wild by joining a tour of the National Park.

How to get from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

It is an easy 4-hour drive from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio. However, all the roads are good, and you will not need a 4×4 car. About halfway, make a quick stop at the famous Crocodile Bridge , where you have a good chance of spotting crocodiles. Please do not buy any meat from the sellers because this interferes with the crocodile’s natural feeding habits. Plus, according to Costa Rican Law, you are prohibited from feeding wildlife.

Read:   Things to know about wildlife tourism

By bus or shuttle :

Unfortunately, there’s no direct bus from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio. Instead, take the Santa Elena ( Manuel Antonio ) to Puntarenas bus and change bus to Quepos. Once in Quepos, change buses to Manuel Antonio. The total journey will take about 6-8 hours and cost about 10 USD. 

Alternatively, book a direct shuttle between both destinations. ( See the shuttle options here )

Where to Stay in Manuel Antonio

The closer your accommodation is to Manuel Antonio National Park, the more expensive it gets. Therefore, we recommend staying between Quepos and the national park if you have your own transport. ( See all your hotel options here )

Hotels in Manuel Antonio 😴

Day 10: Manuel Antonio

Spend your day in Manuel Antonio National Park , one of the most beautiful natural areas in the world! Although it’s home to hundreds of different species, it’s also one of the smallest national parks, making it easy to explore on a day trip. Buy a ticket to enter the park and hike one of the many trails, looking for exciting animals like macaws, iguanas, sloths, and squirrel monkeys. We recommend taking a guided tour so you can get to learn heaps more about the diversity of the wildlife, flora, and fauna in this area.

Once you walk through the jungle trails, you’ll arrive at the paradise Manuel Antonio Beach (many people buy a ticket to enter the park just to spend the day here). Because these beaches are protected, they’re absolutely pristine, with the whitest sand and bluest water. Relax on the beach, listening to the sound of coconuts in the breeze while you spot iguanas roaming freely across the sand.

More about   Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica

Day 11: Manuel Antonio to Uvita

On day 11 of your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary, head to the beautiful town of Uvita, famous for whale watching and its backpacker atmosphere. 

Leave Manuel Antonio and stop at the Nauyaca Waterfalls on your way to Uvita. The entire journey takes about 1 hour but you should add 30 minutes to go off the beaten track to the waterfalls. Here, you’ll find two powerful falls with many gorgeous natural pools. Stop here for a swim and enjoy the power of nature! 

Read more about the Nauyaca Waterfalls

Once you arrive in Uvita, watch the sunset from Uvita Beach or Gusto Italian, which looks down onto Playa Hermosa. Alternatively, book a horseriding experience on the beach, galloping in the breeze as you watch the sun go down.

How to get from Manuel Antonio to Uvita

The journey from Manuel Antonio to Uvita is very straightforward, directly on the highway and taking only 1-1.5 hours. However, if you want to visit Nauyaca Waterfalls , add an extra half an hour.

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If you’re traveling by public transport, you will not be able to make a stop at Nauyaca Waterfalls . However, they are just a short journey from Uvita and can be visited on a day trip while you stay there. Buses leave from Quepos (near Uvita ) around 4 times a day and take approximately 2 hours, costing around 5 USD. You can take regular public buses to Quesos (from Manuel Antonio), which take about 30 minutes.

The shuttle bus is a more comfortable option that allows you to be collected directly from your hotel in Manuel Antonio, saving you the trip to Quepos. It’s a bit faster, taking 1.5 hours and costing around 40 USD per person.

Where to Stay in Uvita

Uvita town is split into two parts: the main town near the beach and the upper town across the highway towards Uvita Waterfall. When staying in the main town , hotels are more expensive, but you’re always walking distance from the beach and mostly surrounded by lush green. Alternatively, camp at one of the nearby sites or go glamping!

Hotels in Uvita 😴

Day 12 – 13: Uvita

Visiting Uvita between January – March or July – October? This is the best time to see the majestic humpback whale ( join a whale watching tour here )! As a happy coincidence, there is also a beautiful part of the beach called Marino Ballena (whale tail). At low tide, this sand passage is created in the shape of a whale’s tail, which is a beautiful thing to see on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary. 

Read about the best beaches in Costa Rica .

There are many other things to do in Uvita , whether it’s surf lessons, visiting Uvita Waterfall, or a mangrove tour. The mangrove tour is exceptional, providing the opportunity to see tropical birds, crocodiles, and turtles in the protected wetlands. Mangroves are also vital for the environment; they protect the shoreline, prevent erosion, and act as a habitat for many animals.

Read: Best Things to do in Uvita, Costa Rica

Day 14: Drive back to San Jose (Departure)

After an amazing 2 weeks in Costa Rica, it’s time to say goodbye to this beautiful country, taking with you all the fantastic memories of your adventure. On the last day of your Costa Rica itinerary, make your way back to SJO airport (a 3.5-hour drive from Uvita). Alternatively, if you have a flight late in the day, you could visit one more waterfall (like La Paz, which is an hour north of the city).

If you need a hotel close to the airport , stay at Alajuela instead of San Jose.

How to Visit Costa Rica in 2 Weeks

Costa Rica has unlimited treasures that could take months to explore. However, 2 weeks in Costa Rica is a good amount of time to see some of the greatest highlights. This Costa Rica travel guide provides various activities, destinations, and transportation options.

Getting to Costa Rica

There are two international airports in Costa Rica: San Jose International Airport and Roberts International Airport in Liberia. Most international flights arrive in San Jose, where your Costa Rica itinerary starts. Keep in mind that it is common that immigration that extremely long.

If you do fly to Liberia instead of San Jose, you can still do this Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary. However, the drive from Liberia to your first stop (Puerto Viejo) is around 8 hours, quite long. Instead, consider stopping at San Jose on the way to break up the journey, as there are lots of incredible natural sights to see just outside the city. 

Find the best flights to Costa Rica here

Getting Around on Your Costa Rica 2-Week Itinerary

The easiest way, by far, to get around Costa Rica is with a rental car . You’ll get the freedom to stop anywhere you like, at your own pace, which gives you the flexibility to complete your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary. It’s also far more comfortable than traveling by public bus (especially as on some routes you’ll have to change). 

Be aware that car rental prices can double in the high season and that it can be useful to book in advance.

Driving in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a reputation for having some pretty treacherous roads. However, these days, that’s not the case at all! Now you’ll find well-paved roads that are in good condition for all types of vehicles. The only unpaved road you might encounter on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary is if you take the wrong road from La Fortuna to Monteverde . Because of this, always use the Waze app in Costa Rica to find the right roads.

Tip: Some locals work as parking attendants and may walk up to you and ask for a very small payment to watch your car. This is a good service in general – just make sure they’re not overcharging you. Best is to ask your accommodation for the average rate in the area.

Do I need a 4×4 in Costa Rica?

You might have needed a 4×4 to drive in Costa Rica in the past. However, if you follow the main roads, you no longer need a 4×4. But to avoid any pothole damage, we recommend renting a car with some clearance from the ground. 

Renting a 4×4 can also be helpful in the rainy season when unpaved roads can get very muddy, especially if you’re planning on traveling to more remote areas too.

By Jeep with Tent or Campervan

For an unforgettable adventure, rent a 4×4 jeep in Costa Rica ! This is the most incredible experience, as you sleep under the stars, moving from place to place, and finding some gorgeous hidden spots. 

Best of all, renting a 4×4 jeep gives you the option to drive through national parks and cross rivers in Corcovado and Guanacaste areas. Although the rental price might seem expensive, it’s worth remembering that this is your accommodation, transport, and kitchen all in one. Because of this, your trip might actually end up cheaper! 

Read: Camping in Costa Rica – Everything you need to know

Traveling by local buses in Costa Rica is the cheapest way to get around, and many services are traveling to major destinations all over the country. However, it will take quite a bit longer. This is because the bus routes avoid highways and make stops instead of traveling direct. Plus, some routes will require changes, for example, the route from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna.

Tip: bus timetables often change, so check times in advance.

Shuttles (12-seaters vans) are convenient to travel door to door in Costa Rica. Interbus is the largest shuttle operator and drives between all major destinations, offering you a more comfortable way to travel on your Costa Rica itinerary.  

These shuttles can be booked in advance, and it is recommended to do so, especially during the high season. We didn’t book in advance, which left us with no other option than to take an expensive taxi ride (oops!).

Find shuttles to all destinations in Costa Rica

Our Favorite Accommodations

There are many fantastic options when it comes to accommodation in Costa Rica. It might be camping on the edges of the rainforest, a beach bungalow, an artsy boutique hotel, or a backpackers hostel. Whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Costa Rica. Below are our favorites for each destination on this Costa Rica 2-week itinerary.

• San Jose: Casa 69 , Grano de Oro Hotel , and Escalante Hostel
• Puerto Viejo: Le Cameleon , Shawandha Lodge , and Pagalu Hostel
• La Fortuna: Casa Luna , Sangregado Lodge , and Poshpacker Hostel
• Monteverde: Los Pinos Lodge , Chira Glamping , and Outbox Hostel
• Manuel Antonio: The Falls Hotel and Teva Hostel
• Uvita: Seren Glamping , Karandi Hostel , and Uvita Paradise

How much do 2 weeks in Costa Rica Cost?

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world! It contains 5% of the world’s biodiversity, something that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is also known as the ‘Switzerland of Central America’ because of the high prices that come with the country’s beauty. 

Costs of Traveling in Costa Rica

Travel on a budget in Costa Rica, from $340 − $940 USD weekly per person, mid-range $950 − $1950 USD, and high-end from $1960 − $2650 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $50 − $150 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $80 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $60 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $80 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $30 USD
• Activities: $15 − $40 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit: Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary

The best time to travel to Costa Rica is from mid-December to April. This is the time with the most sunshine (between 15-30 degrees) and dry days (although you might experience a small rain shower in the afternoon). Because of the weather, this is the most popular season to visit Costa Rica, making it busy and expensive. 

The end of April to the end of November is the rainy season, with the most rain in October. However, don’t let this affect your choice as it never rains for long, only a few short rain showers each day. The rain also makes nature incredibly luscious! In addition, this period is much cheaper; you could even save a third of your total budget by traveling during this time.

Tip: Puerto Viejo is on the Caribbean coast and has slightly different seasons. August to October are generally dry, unlike other parts of Costa Rica.

Do I Need a Visa for 2 Weeks in Costa Rica?

Most passport holders do not require a visa to enter Costa Rica. However, you will need a valid passport and an onward plane ticket to prove that you will exit Costa Rica within 90 days.

Check here if you need a visa to enter

Is Costa Rica Safe?

Costa Rica is very safe for tourists, with some of the friendliest locals globally. It also has the lowest rate of violent crimes in all of Central America. However, like most countries in Latin America, it does have a few problems with drug trafficking, poverty, and pickpockets. Always keep your belongings within eyesight and exercise caution. This way, you’re unlikely to experience any issues.

Read: Tips on how to travel Travel Safe

Travel Insurance Costa Rica

Even if you’re only traveling in Costa Rica for 2 weeks, we recommend purchasing single-trip travel insurance. Although the country itself is safe, there is potential for accidents – for example, an injury after surfing, a canceled flight, or lost baggage.

Costa Rica Entry Requirements: Covid-19

At the moment, you need to complete this health form within 72 hours before you enter Costa Rica. However, you do not need to be vaccinated and do not require a negative PCR test. Despite this regulation, if you are not vaccinated, you will need to purchase a travel policy for your 2 weeks in Costa Rica. Be aware that the policy should cover up to 50,000 USD of medical expenses and 2,000 USD of accommodation expenses. ( Read the specifics here )

What to Pack for a Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary

Costa Rica is an incredibly diverse country with differing scenery, wildlife, and micro-climates. Because of this, the weather can change from a sunny 30 degrees to 18 degrees and rainy within a few hours. As such, we recommend taking layers and clothing that is quick-dry. 

Costa Rica Packing List

• Take layers – Layers of clothing are essential to add or remove items when the temperature changes.
• Quick-dry clothing – You can be almost certain to have a little bit of rain during your trip to Costa Rica. Take clothing made of fabrics that dry quickly because items take very long to dry due to the humidity.
• Microfiber towel – Like quick-dry clothing, it’s beneficial to take microfiber towels as they dry much faster and are incredibly lightweight.
• Waterproof backpack – Keep your valuables dry in a waterproof backpack or a rain cover that comes with your bag. 
• Raincoat – The final item for rain is a waterproof jacket/raincoat. Some can also be easily folded into a package that you can take anywhere.
• Hat – Luckily, there are also a lot of sunny moments. For that, take a hat/cap to protect against the sun for the hikes you will be doing. 
• Long socks & trousers – For some hikes, night walks, or evenings outside, you might also want to take long socks and trousers to cover your legs and prevent being bitten by mosquitos.
• Good footwear – Good walking shoes/sneakers/sandals is an absolute must. Hikes can be somewhat challenging with muddy or rocky paths. It’s not wise to wear flip-flops here. 
• Earplugs – Your nights can be disturbed by animal sounds, music, or when camping in Costa Rica , the sound of the waves. Earplugs save your night’s rest. 
• Camera – Capture memories of your 2 weeks in Costa Rica with a waterproof camera like a GoPro, or get good protection gear for your camera so you won’t have problems during an unexpected shower. 
• Power bank – For the long hikes, power outages, or moments in the jungle, it’s helpful to have a power bank to recharge your phone. ( Get one here )

Packing Sustainable Items

• Insect repellent – Bring an insect repellent but get a non-toxic product to prevent harming nature or animals.
• Sunscreen – An obvious addition to that is also sunscreen. We recommend a product without toxic ingredients, so it doesn’t harm the environment. ( Read about non-toxic sunscreens here )
• Refillable water bottle – Water is drinkable from the tap in almost all of Costa Rica except secluded locations like Tortuguero. No need to buy plastic bottles; refill instead!
• Stainless steel straw – Coconuts are available everywhere in Costa Rica. Carry a stainless steel straw with you and avoid plastic or single-use straws. Pro-tip: With stainless steel, you can scrape out the delicious inside of the coconut too.
• Reusable bag – Don’t take plastic bags when purchasing fruits or other items. Instead, carry your own!

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• Find Hotels via Booking.com
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• Find Flights to Costa Rica via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

Costa Rica Itinerary: Ultimate 7-day Travel Guide

Nauyaca waterfalls: most beautiful waterfall in costa rica, 8 best things to do in la fortuna, costa rica.

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Hey lovely. Aw hope you both had the most incredible time! :-) Your trip sounds thrilling! So excited to plan for this one.

Thank you for your advice hun. I was actually really keen on the campervan idea, having the option to be able to sleep in the wild etc. Will bring the cost right down, by not staying in hotels too :-)

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• Travel Planning Guide

The Best 2-Week (14-Day) Tours in Costa Rica

Looking for the perfect 14-day getaway to Costa Rica with a fantastic guided tour? We've carefully analyzed all of the possible two-week tour options to Costa Rica based on price, comfort, service, guest ratings, cuisine, and activities in order to find the absolute best multi-day organized tour options available. Whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway or an action-packed expedition, these guided tours offer the perfect length to indulge in the best of both worlds. From captivating excursions to tantalizing cuisine, get ready to experience the ultimate 2-week escape to Costa Rica that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a renewed sense of wanderlust. So, check out our curated list of tours below to get started!

• Essential Costa Rica with extension to Guanacaste, Tamarindo Beach & San José City 13 Days, $1819.21
• Basic Costa Rica: Coastlines & Cloud Forests 14 Days, $1299.00
• Jordan and Egypt 14 days 14 Days, $3200.00

Which 14-day tour options are available in Costa Rica?

Here are the important factors:

• 14 trip options analyzed
• $204 average price per day (USD)
• 13 to 14 days in length
• 4.57 of 5 average rating
• 20 people or less on average

You'll be surprised at the array of tours lasting 2 weeks in Costa Rica, as there is something for everyone. It's no wonder that visitors can't get enough of these tours, boasting an impressive average guest rating of 4.57 out of 5 stars. Picture yourself joining a group of like-minded adventurers, with an average maximum size of 20 people, ensuring a fantastic blend of social and personalized experiences. The average tour length spans 14 days, with tours ranging from 13 to 14 days long. Regarding physical activity options, you'll find tours marked as easy, moderate, and serious, with the most being easy. With our thorough analysis of 14 tours lasting 2 weeks, we've found the best. So rest assured that Costa Rica has something to captivate every kind of traveler.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best 2-Week Tours in Costa Rica

Essential costa rica with extension to guanacaste, tamarindo beach & san josé city.

• On Sale: 15% Off See Prices
• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for tours lasting 2 weeks.
• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

This fantastic journey has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Discover a journey that spans 5 destinations, with notable stops in Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, and Monteverde. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of San Jose. This terrific trip also highights wildlife, beaches, and family-friendly activities. Lasting 13 days, the maximum group size is 30 people, and it's good for guests from 10 and up. Organized by Destination Services Costa Rica , this is a great deal because it's only $119 per day. Don't miss out on this limited-time sale.

• Coach / Bus

Basic Costa Rica: Coastlines & Cloud Forests

• On Sale: 25% Off See Prices

With a stellar 4.6 out of 5 rating, this extraordinary journey is the perfect choice. This trip takes you on an adventure to 5 destinations, including Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, La Fortuna, and Monteverde. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful San Jose. Spanning across 14 days, the journey accommodates 18 individuals, and is suitable for guests from 18 to 39 years old. Offered by G Adventures , this remarkable journey is priced at just $70 per day. It's also on sale right now! Don't miss out on this incredible experience.

• In-depth Cultural

Jordan and Egypt 14 days

This exceptional trip offering by Booking Tours has received a 4.7 out of 5 rating. On this 14-day trip, visiting Costa Rica, Egypt, and Jordan, you can unwind while also making new memories. With 11 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Philae, Edfu, Luxor, and Cairo, and more. Your journey starts off in Cairo and finishes in Amman. With a group size of 8 people, it's suitable for travelers of all ages. You'll love the emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, too. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $229 per day.

• River Cruise

Essential Costa Rica with extension to Manuel Antonio National Park, Manuel Antonio Beach & San Jose City

Check out this voyage that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4 out of 5 rating. Along the way, this journey encompasses 5 destinations, including Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, and Monteverde. You'll start and end this amazing trip in San Jose. With an emphasis on wildlife, beaches, and family-friendly activities, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. Spanning across 13 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 30 participants, and it's great for guests from 10 and up. Brought to you by the renowned Destination Services Costa Rica , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $141 per day - an unbeatable value. Act fast to take advantage of the current sale.

The Best of Costa Rica (From Caribbean Coast to Pacific Side)

• On Sale: 40% Off See Prices

This 13-day trip is ideal for guests from 2 to 75 years old. And priced at only $152 per day, it's a great value, too. And since the priority is on local culture and family-friendly activities, this tour is a great choice. This itinerary covers 6 captivating destinations, with stops in Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde, Tortuguero National Park, and Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, among others. San Jose will be both the start and end of your journey. It's offered by Green World Adventures , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides. Don't miss out on this limited-time sale.

Explore Costa Rica National Geographic Journeys

Priced at just $166 per day, this terrific 14-day trip is ideal for guests from 12 and up. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 8 destinations, featuring Santa Elena, Tortuguero National Park, Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, and La Fortuna. Your adventure starts and ends in San Jose. Organized by the reputable National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures , this is one of the best tours on this list. It's also on sale right now!

Family Costa Rica Rainforest and Wildlife Adventure

Check out this incredible trip that has received a 4.7 out of 5 rating from previous guests. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around wildlife, local culture, and family-friendly activities. With a duration of 14 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 16 people, and is good for guests from 7 to 85 years old. Uncover the beauty of 11 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, Arenal Volcano National Park, Santa Elena, and Sarchi. San Jose will be the beginning and end of your trip. This fantastic option, organized by Explore! , presents an unbeatable value at just $267 per day.

• Jungle Trekking

Costa Rica Wildlife Exploration

Spanning over 14 days, this journey has a maximum size of 16 individuals. Welcoming guests from 2 to 75 years old, it is organized by Green World Adventures , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. Traverse through 5 enchanting destinations, with Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio National Park among the must-see stops along the route. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of San Jose. This terrific trip also highights wildlife and family-friendly activities. Available at an unbeatable price of only $184 per day, this option also has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars from previous guests. Act fast to take advantage of the current sale.

Cycle Costa Rica

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional journey that has garnered a 4.9 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 14 days, this jouney will have 16 participants, and it warmly welcomes guests from 16 to 85 years old. Expertly organized by Explore! , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $269 per day.

Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride

This memorable journey is offered by Exodus Travels which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $418 per day. Experience a trip that takes you to 10 remarkable destinations, including Puerto Jimenez, Corcovado National Park, Golfito, and Siquirres. San Jose kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. The maximum group size is 16 people, welcoming guests from 16 and up.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Costa Rica , The Best Wildlife Tours to Costa Rica , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Costa Rica , The Best 10-Day Tours in Costa Rica , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Costa Rica , The Best 3-Day Tours in Costa Rica , The Best Bicycle Tours in Costa Rica , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Costa Rica , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Costa Rica , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Costa Rica , The Best Adventure Tours to Costa Rica , The Best Eco Tours in Costa Rica , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Costa Rica , The Best Cultural Tours in Costa Rica , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Costa Rica , The Best Self Drive Tours in Costa Rica , The Best Safaris in Costa Rica , The Best Jungle Trekking Tours in Costa Rica , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Costa Rica , The Best Luxury Tours to Costa Rica , The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica , The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Costa Rica for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from San Jose , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from San Jose , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Liberia , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from San José , The Best 10-Day Tours from San Jose , The Best 2-Week Tours from San Jose , The Best 2-Week Tours from San José , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Liberia for more package tour options.

How much do 14-day tours to Costa Rica cost?

Visitors will find a large range of terrific options for tours lasting 2 weeks when planning a visit to Costa Rica. The price of these specific trips can vary according to length, destinations, and travel style. The average price of tours lasting 2 weeks in Costa Rica based on data from 14 options is an affordable $204 per day. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Costa Rica .

And for more information on Costa Rica, see Costa Rica Travel Costs and Costa Rica Hotel Costs .

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Costa Rica Travel Information

2 Week Costa Rica Itinerary: Volcano, Rain Forest, Cloud Forest and Beach

November 10, 2023 By Sammi 55 Comments

Need tips for planning your 2 week Costa Rica trip? We can help! We put together this exact 2 week Costa Rica itinerary for my family and friends. They absolutely loved it as it had the perfect mix of adventure, beaches, relaxation and rain forest.

Furthermore, in this sample itinerary, you will find our personal recommendations for hotels, tours, restaurants and travel tips. You can also click this link 2 week Costa Rica itinerary to see our interactive map of this itinerary.

This two weeks in Costa Rica itinerary goes to La Fortuna, Monteverde, Santa Teresa and Playas del Coco and flies in and out of Guanacaste Airport. This post has affiliate links

A Few Things to Know About This 2 Week Costa Rica Itinerary First

• Our group of 6 with carry on only rented a 7 passenger SUV to have the most flexibility, comfort and convenience for our adventurous group. (We do not recommend doing this if your group has lots of luggage or are tall/large in size.) However, you can do this itinerary via shared shuttles, private shuttles or bus. Thinking about renting a car? Get our Costa Rica car rental discount and extra freebies. Want to book private shuttles? Contact us to get a quote!
• Second, this itinerary flies into and departs from Guanacaste Airport in Guanacaste . You could do it from San Jose but you will need to sacrifice one day to travel back to SJO Airport from Playas del Coco.
• Third, the best time for this itinerary is dry season which is December, January February , March and April for the best weather. However, it is doable any time of the year. If you visit during the rainy season, you need to make sure you are staying on the main paved roads and that you rent a 4wd or high clearance car. We personally did this itinerary in August and got quite a bit of rain in La Fortuna and Monteverde, but thankfully we packed properly for rainy season. As our group are all from Washington state, rain did not bother us at all!

Day 1: Land in Liberia Airport , Drive to La Fortuna (~3 hours)

Collect your rental car and head to La Fortuna right away. This is about a 3 hour drive. If you’re arriving in the late afternoon or evening, we don’t recommend driving all the way. In that case, you can stay a night in Liberia first. Here are our suggestions for hotels near Liberia airport. You can also stop halfway in Nuevo Arenal by Lake Arenal .

*It gets dark by 6 PM everyday in Costa Rica and we don’t recommend driving long distances at night.**

If you’re landing at the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO Airport code) for some reason, it is also about a 3 hour drive. Same advice as Liberia, we don’t recommend driving if you’re arriving in the late afternoon or evening. It’s best to stay by the airport and then leave the next day to drive in the daylight. You can check our post for hotels near San Jose Airport for hotel recommendations.

Travel planning tip: Stop by Llanos de Cortes waterfall on the way from Liberia – La Fortuna to see a beautiful waterfall in the dry tropical forest. It’s a 5 minute walk to the waterfall from the parking lot.

Days 2-4: Arenal and La Fortuna

La Fortuna is an area in the northern lowlands famous for the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal surrounded by lush rain forests. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica, La Fortuna is the best place for your first introduction to the country.

It offers many adventure activities as well as wildlife watching opportunities. Spend the next couple days adventuring through the rainforest and volcano!

Where to Stay in La Fortuna

There are a ton of hotel options in La Fortuna and Arenal. We stayed at Arenal Observatory Lodge , an incredible lodge close to Arenal Volcano. However, if you want to splurge on for hotels on your trip, this is the best place to do so in this itinerary as this area has a ton of luxury hotels.

If you want to stay in town and are on a budget, we recommend Hotel Las Colinas or Hotel El Secreto La Fortuna . If you’re coming with a family or big group, check out this Airbnb in Arenal that fits up to 12 people.

You can check our list of hotels in La Fortuna for more tips.

What to Do in La Fortuna

• Arenal Volcano Hike : Walk the trails of the national park to see the impact of the 1968 eruption. Visitors can go for a leisurely hike through the park to get beautiful views of the volcano and the lake. Another excellent volcano hike is the Arenal 1968 private reserve. Arenal Observatory Lodge also has their own hiking trails.
• Canyoning: Rappel down cliffs and waterfalls 200 feet tall in the middle of the rain forest. Feel the adrenaline flow through your fingertips as you grip tightly onto the rope and hop down deep into the jungle. Read more about canyoning in La Fortuna.
• Rio Frio Nature Safari: Float down the Rio Frio river while your guide points out wildlife such as caimans, toucans, sloths, otters, birds and more. Read more about this La Fortuna river safari float. You can also visit the Rio Frio river in Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge by river boat if sitting on a raft is not possible (not for babies/infants or seniors).
• Hot springs: No visit to Arenal is complete without a trip to the hot springs. Soak in pools of varying temperatures surrounded by the lush rain forest. Some of them even have views of the volcano! Best time to go is at night.
• Farm to table cooking class: Super fun and educational. A must for anyone who likes food and cooking. La Fortuna was originally a farming town so you can learn a lot about farming and gardening in Costa Rica and Costa Rican food .

What Our Adventurous Group of Young Adults (mid to late 20’s) Did

Day 2: 4 in 1 combination tour with hot springs to see the highlights of the area (hanging bridges, La Fortuna waterfall, volcano hike and hot springs with dinner included). As we had a car, we visited these places ourselves but we highly recommend you to book a tour that includes a guide, so you can learn more about the area and have someone take you around. We went to Baldi hot springs, which is fun for friend groups with caves, swim up bars and music.

Day 3: Relaxed, went to the pool, walked around the Arenal Observatory Lodge trails, visited Fortuna town to shop and eat. We also visited the hot springs again – unfortunately no hot springs offer multi day passes, only 1 day passes so we had to purchase another pass.

Day 4: Canyoning in the morning, rest, nap, lunch in town and then an easy 1 kilometer trail Sloth Walk in the afternoon to see wildlife.

There are plenty more activities to enjoy in Arenal and La Fortuna. For more ideas, check out our post of top things to do in La Fortuna and save some money with our La Fortuna tours discount! If you’re looking for a beautiful, luxurious hot springs resort, check out The Springs! We offer a $5 USD discount for the Springs Resort 2 day hot springs pass .

Recommended Restaurants

La Fortuna Pub, Organico, Soda Garra Pata, Piuru Peruvian, Rainforest Cafe, Soda Nene, Restaurante Fortueño, Don Rufino, Chocolate Fusion and Soda La Hormiga.

For local food, Soda Garra Pata and Soda La Hormiga are great options. For a nice dinner out, Don Rufino is a favorite. La Fortuna Pub has lots of craft beer and games for a fun night out.

Days 5-7: Monteverde (Drive around 3 hours)

Leave mid morning to your second destination, Monteverde . If you don’t have a car, you can take the water taxi across Lake Arenal which costs around $45 USD per person and takes around 3 hours. They have a taxi boat in the morning and afternoon (~8 AM and 2 PM). Contact us to book this taxi-boat-taxi!

Travel day tip: To make the most of our day, we stopped by Rio Celeste on the way from La Fortuna to Monteverde to see the sky blue river. We left La Fortuna at 6 AM to get to the Tenorio National Park at 8 AM, hiked the park for 3 hours, had lunch in Bijagua and then drove 2.5 hours to Monteverde, arriving around 5 PM before dark.

Monteverde is home to an incredible tropical cloud forest, has excellent hiking, ziplining and birdwatching and is also the site of the first zipline in Costa Rica.

Read our Monteverde travel tips guide for more information.

Where to stay in Monteverde

We love the El Establo Hotel, Hotel Belmar, Hotel Poco a Poco , Senda Monteverde and the Monteverde Country Lodge which is the one where we stayed. El Establo is a bit more expensive and has bigger rooms with two floors with beautiful views of the cloud forest.

Airbnb is also an excellent option in Monteverde. We stayed at this Airbnb in Monteverde , perfect for couples or groups of 4.

What to Do in Monteverde

• Ziplining: Monteverde is famous for their cloud forest canopy tours, with some of the longest and highest in the country. The most popular canopy tours are SkyTrek , Selvatura Park and 100% Aventura.
• Hanging bridges: Discover the wonders of the cloud forest by walking on hanging bridges high up in the tree top canopy.
• Bird watching:  Monteverde is one of the few places in Costa Rica where you can see the elusive Resplendant Quetzal among many other beautiful birds. A great place for birdwatching in Monteverde is the Curi Cancha Reserve.
• Hike the cloud forests: This is an absolute must do. The 3 reserves, Monteverde, Santa Elena and Children’s Eternal Rain Forest all have beautiful viewpoints, well maintained hiking trails and ample wildlife opportunities. Read this guide to decide which Monteverde cloud forest reserve should visit.

What We Did

Day 5 : We relaxed at our hotel and checked out the town the day we arrived. After dinner at Sabor Tico, we did a bit of souvenir shopping in town.

Day 6 : One day adventure at Selvatura Park including ziplining, hanging bridges, butterfly garden, sloth center, insect exhibit and herpetarium. This is a full day activity. After we finished the park, we went to our hotel to freshen up and then had dinner at the Tree House Restaurant in downtown. We did more souvenir shopping downtown.

Day 7 : A walk in Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve in the morning. Alternative option: birdwatching at Curi Cancha Reserve or coffee & chocolate tour . If you love hiking, check out the El Tigre Waterfalls hike. Then Cerro Pinocho for sunset.

Tree House, Tramonti, Monteverde Brewing Company, Panaderia Jimenez, Orchid Coffee, Choco Cafe, Taco Taco and Restuarante Sabor Tico.

Tramonti has amazing pizza and Sabor Tico is the best for local food. Orchid is great for breakfast and lunch. Panaderia Jimenez is a local bakery with great Costa Rican breakfasts.

Day 8: Travel to Santa Teresa (~5 hours)

Today is a travel day to a popular beach and surf town in the Nicoya Peninsula , Santa Teresa . We first went to Puntarenas to catch the ferry and then drove to Santa Teresa. Read our tips to taking the Puntarenas ferry.

If you’re not driving, the best option is to take a shuttle. Shared shuttles are around $65 USD per person, private is around $285 USD. You can also take the public bus.

For the bus, take a bus to Puntarenas (4:30 AM, 6 AM and 15:00) and grab a taxi to the ferry dock. Once you arrive at Paquera dock, take the public bus to Cobano (6:15, 8:15, 10:15, 12:15, 15:15, 16:30, 18:15). If you arrive in time, you can get a bus from Cobano to Santa Teresa, or take a taxi. Last bus from Cobano to Santa Teresa is 14:30.

The ferry is very nice with beautiful views of the Gulf of Nicoya nd you can see what Puntarenas , an important fishing town in Costa Rica is like.

Days 9-10: Santa Teresa, Mal Pais, Playa Carmen

The next couple days are yours to enjoy at the beautiful, lesser visited beaches of Santa Teresa , Mal Pais , Playa Hermosa and Playa Carmen. Santa Teresa attracts surfers, yogis and those looking to escape the busy crowds of touristic areas.

What to do in Santa Teresa

Here you can try surfing, watch the beautiful sunsets on the beach, go horseback riding or take a yoga class. All we did was check out different beaches, watch the sunset, lay by the pool, shop, eat and relax. No excursions in Santa Teresa this time, just beach time.

Our first week in Costa Rica was full of excitement and adventure, so we took these beach days to relax.

Where to Stay in Santa Teresa

We stayed at Hotel Santa Teresa which was really nice. It’s about a 1 minute walk to the beach and you’re close to small supermarkets and restaurants. Casa Chameleon Mal Pais is an incredibly nice hotel for couples and honeymooners. Selina Santa Teresa (North and South) is a great one in town.

If you prefer to be in a quieter part of this area, we highly recommend Lua Villas in Playa Hermosa . We stayed here before for a surf trip and it was a fantastic place for our group of 5. It’s about a 15 minute drive to Santa Teresa downtown however, so you need a car.

Drift Bar, Banana Beach, The Bakery, Eat Street, Burger Rancho, Zula restaurante, Somos Cafe, Soda Pura Vida and Habaneros. If you’re vegan/vegetarian, Drift Bar is a fantastic option.

The Bakery is a local favorite for pastries and coffee.

Day 11: Drive to Playas del Coco ~4 hours

Today is a travel day and the fourth destination in this 2 week Costa Rica itinerary is Playas del Coco . This town is a small fishing village in the North Pacific. For the easiest driving route, you should take the Route 21 past Paquera, Nicoya and then Route 151.

Take your time on this drive and make sure to leave in the morning/mid-morning so you drive during daylight. Also do NOT stray off the main road, there are many rural roads on this route, do not take them. Stay on the main road!

Days 12-13: Playas del Coco

For our last few days in Costa Rica, we relaxed and enjoyed a lot of downtime by the pool and the beach. We only did one excursion, a private boating tour around the Gulf of Papagayo to snorkel.

Our Recommendations

Private beach hopping, snorkeling and fishing tour: Visit beautiful hidden beaches and go snorkeling. Fish, watch the sunset, snorkel, have the best beach experience on this private beach hopping and boating tour in Playas del Coco. *Dedicate one full day to do a full day beach hopping and snorkeling tour which is what we did*

Shop, relax, eat, watch the sunset, swim at the pool, walk on the beach, just enjoy!

Where to stay

My brother and friends rented a house on Airbnb in the Las Palmas neighborhood. There are many rentals on Airbnb where you can get a fully furnished condo with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a pool. Breeze Residencies and Pacifico are two other popular condo complexes in Playas del Coco. There are also bigger houses for rent up in the hills.

For groups and families, we recommend these condo rentals instead of hotels. There aren’t a ton of hotels in Playas del Coco anyways, there are more vacation rental options. The rentals are more comfortable for larger groups and families who want the amenities of home.

Java Coffee, Coconutz, Johann Bistro, Soda Teresita, Le Coq, Cafe Corazon, Restaurante Claudio y Gloria, Chorotacos, Zi Lounge, Coconutz, and Villa Italia.

Day 14: Fly out of Guancaste Airport(~30 minute drive)

And the two week Costa Rica trip has come to an end. Fly out of Guanacaste Airport and make sure to arrive at least 2-3 hours before your flight.

Tips for this Two Week Costa Rica Itinerary

• Monteverde is considerably cooler than the rest of the destinations, so make sure to bring a jacket and long pants when visiting the cloud forest.
• Make sure to bring the appropriate clothing and gear for the activities such as hiking sandals, beach gear, hiking, etc. You can check our packing list for Costa Rica for more tips.
• Have a few more days? Consider adding more beach time in Santa Teresa and/or Playas del Coco.
• Want to add another destination? Head to Samara or Nosara for more beach or you can check out the Curubande area for tropical dry forest.
• If you’re looking for more of a party vibe, stay in Tamarindo instead of Playas del Coco.

2 Weeks in Costa Rica Budget

If you’re staying in hotels that are about $100 USD a night, spending about $60 USD a day on food and doing a few tours, your estimated cost for this sample 14 day Costa Rica itinerary will be around $1800-2000 USD per person not including the car rental or flights.

Your budget really depends on where you stay, where you eat and what you do (excursions/tours). You can do it luxury and expensive, mid range or cheap ish.You can lower your costs by staying in budget hotels, doing few or no excursions and eating at cheap places only.

Want more itinerary ideas? Check out this 1 week Costa Rica itinerary, this 5 day Guanacaste itinerary , another 14 day itinerary or this 10 day Costa Rica itinerary.

Costa Rica Vacation Checklist

• First time to Costa Rica? Read our First Time in Costa Rica guide.
• Not sure how to move around Costa Rica? Read our How to Get Around Costa Rica guide to find the best transportation method for you.
• Click the link to get our detailed Costa Rica Packing List so you know what essential items to bring.
• Do not forget to purchase Travel Insurance for your trip to Costa Rica.
• Stay connected by purchasing a prepaid SIM Card in Costa Rica.
• Save money with Mytanfeet Deals for tours and hotels. Save more money with our Costa Rica Car Rental Discount.

Join our mailing list and get our free Costa Rica eBook!  

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Costa Rica Itinerary: See the Best Places in 2 Weeks (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 30, 2024

Thinking of a two-week trip to Costa Rica and wondering what to see and do and how to best plan your trip? In this guide, we share a very complete 2 weeks Costa Rica itinerary that covers most of the best places in the country. Take a look!

Costa Rica is a big and diverse country, with rainforests, beaches, volcanos, and a big variety of wildlife. In addition, there are so many fun outdoor activities to experience, no matter where or when you visit.

So of course, two weeks is not enough time to see ‘everything’ that Costa Rica has to offer. But 2 weeks is a good amount of time to see some of the most beautiful National Parks, cloud forests, and rainforests, and experience some of the best activities that Costa Rica is famous for.

In this article, we share a self-drive Costa Rica itinerary for 2 weeks . We created this itinerary for our family trip, so it’s very varied and offers something for all ages. To make the most of your time without getting exhausted, we recommend visiting one or two places at the end of the trip with a day tour from San José – you’ll see our suggestions for this below. Or – if you rather take it easy and have a more relaxing holiday – you could also just spend the second week on the beach.

To help you get a better idea of where everything is, we also created a map indicating all the best places that you could cover with 2 weeks in Costa Rica. You can see it at the bottom of this article.

Take a look at how you could plan your trip to Costa Rica!

READ ALSO: Best Places & Top Experiences Not To Miss in Costa Rica

Here’s our suggested 2-week Costa Rica itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in San José

Upon arrival at San José airport, pick up your rental car and head to a hotel nearby.

It’s best to rent a 4×4 vehicle for a self-drive trip in Costa Rica. There are many local websites and blogs advertising all kinds of local car hire companies (they often even offer you a discount). But when doing the research for our trip, we found that they were all significantly more expensive than the deals we found on RentalCars.com .

This is the website where we book all our cars when we travel anywhere in the world, and also for Costa Rica, we found the best price/ quality car via them. They also offer full insurance that we always take – it’s much cheaper than the prices you get directly from the car rental companies, and one time we needed to make a claim, they handled it on the same day and the money was on our account two days later.

WHERE TO STAY: Depending on what time your flight arrives, you may want to stay very close to the airport or somewhat more in the direction of where your trip continues the next day. We opted for Villa San Ignacio , about 15 minutes drive from the airport.

Good to know: You can also do a very similar trip without renting a car as well. There are many tours that can bring you to all the places mentioned in our Costa Rica itinerary, and you can also book transfers between all the bigger towns/ tourist sites. So if you don’t want to rent a car, it’s definitely possible to see just as much without having to drive.

Day 2: Poas Volcano, La Paz Waterfall Gardens & drive to La Fortuna

While you could just drive from San José straight to La Fortuna, we recommend taking a small detour and visiting some nice places along the way.

First, stop at Poas Volcano National Park . This is the site of an active volcano (the most recent eruption dates from 2017), and one of the most popular excursions from San Jose. The crater of the volcano is more than a mile across and 1,050 ft deep, and the views are breathtaking.

It’s just a short visit – you walk to the crater, hope that it’s not too cloudy and you can actually see it, and walk back to the car. Because of the clouds, it’s advisable to visit the volcano early in the morning – it’s more likely that the view will be unobstructed. But it remains a gamble, and even more so nowadays because your timed ticket only allows you a short time at the volcano.

At the moment, you have to make a reservation for a specific time slot if you want to visit the volcano on your own ( guided tours take care of the reservations for you). Reservations can be made online via the official website of the national parks service, and cannot be modified or canceled. You’ll first have to create an account, and then you can see availability and book your visit for any of the National Parks you’re planning to visit during this trip.

After visiting Poas Volcano, drive to the nearby La Paz Waterfall Gardens . Here you can explore a tropical rainforest with river streams, five different waterfalls, flowers, see lots of birds and other wildlife. They also have several restaurants where you can have lunch.

Good to know: The tickets are quite expensive so if you plan on stopping here, foresee at least a couple of hours (ideally at least 2 hours, but better 3). This place is quite touristy and many day tours to the area come here after visiting the volcano, but don’t let this put you off. This park is one of the absolute best places you will see in Costa Rica and it’s well worth the time and the money.

If you are really short on time and decide to skip the gardens, you can also just see La Paz Waterfall from the road – simply drive further toward La Fortuna and you’ll find a parking area. Continuing further north on the same road, you’ll quickly reach Mirador de Cinchona , one of the best viewpoints in the area. Well worth a quick stop.

From here, it’s about 1.5-2 hours drive to La Fortuna. Along the way, you can stop at Mariposario Alas del Destino Butterfly Garden , or head straight to your hotel and plunge in a pool. La Fortuna is famous for its geothermal waters and many hotels have spas and amazing pools.

WHERE TO STAY: Stay in La Fortuna for 3 nights. This is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica and there are many great accommodation options , for all budgets.

One of the nicest mid-range hotels location-wise (surrounded by nature) is Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa . However, it’s a very popular choice and the place is usually booked many months in advance (especially in high season). It wasn’t available for our travel dates, so we opted for Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort – a great place to stay with kids.

TIP: One of the best luxury hotels and thermal resorts in La Fortuna is Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa . You can also just visit their pools with a day pass , even if you are not a guest at the hotel.

Days 3-4: La Fortuna – Arenal

La Fortuna, the area around Arenal Volcano, is known as one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations for all kinds of outdoor activities. There is so much to see and do here that you’ll have a hard time choosing. Whether you are planning a Costa Rica family itinerary or are looking for a more adventurous trip, La Fortuna is not to be missed!

I recommend doing one day tour or picking two or three places/ activities a day and also leaving some free time for a pool (either at your hotel or at one of the many hotels that allow day visitors). It’s vacation, after all.

Good to know: Whatever you do at La Fortuna, expect to pay for it. Even things that are free in many other countries around the world – such as visiting a waterfall or going for a walk at the base of a volcano – require an entrance fee here.

Here are some of the most popular places to see and things to do in La Fortuna:

• La Fortuna Waterfall (Catarata Río Fortuna). Considered as one of the musts in the area. You can see the waterfall from the top, but the best view requires a steep walk down. You can also swim at the waterfall, but it can get very busy here. There’s a fee to visit and you have to reserve in advance , or you can come here with one of the many tours. This popular day tour includes a visit here and many other amazing places in the area as well as hot springs, and they offer a pick-up from your hotel in La Fortuna. Great value.
• Arenal Volcano . There are many ways to explore the area around the volcano. You can just drive to the National Park, and do some hiking there (not the most impressive views, though). Or you can opt for horse-riding tours or hiking tours that take you closer to the volcano. If you like to hike, Arenal 1968 Volcano View and Lava Trails, is one of the most scenic places (fees apply). If you are looking for a nice easy hiking tour , this is a great option and includes a soak in the natural hot springs. ATV tours at the foot of the volcano are also available.
• Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges . This is another popular place to visit in Arenal. You get to experience the jungle, walk over some hanging bridges, and maybe also see some wildlife. The biggest chance to see wildlife is by booking a guided tour and not just an entrance ticket (and this counts for all rainforest tours in Costa Rica). Experienced guides will help you spot the animals you’d never see on your own. There are also organized tours that visit here, include a pick-up from your hotel, and sometimes also a few other sights. You can see all the ticket and tour options here .

• Coffee and chocolate tours. La Fortuna is one of the best places in this Costa Rica itinerary where you can take a chocolate- and coffee tour . These tours usually only take 1.5-2 hours and are really worth your time.
• Sloth watching . Seeing sloths is one of the bucket-list experiences in Costa Rica. And La Fortuna area is one of the best places to do that. This is one of the best sloth tours that doesn’t require much hiking and is suitable for the whole family (includes a transfer from your hotel). And this is the best budget-friendly sloth tour that we chose (you’ll have to drive there yourself, but if you have a car, it’s not a big deal).
• Adventure tours: rafting, ziplining, canyoneering, horse riding, etc. There are lots of fun tours in La Fortuna and the area. But with just two days here, you’ll have to be selective. Since you can do ziplining in Monteverde (the next destination in this itinerary – and the environment for ziplining is more impressive there), I’d go for the other options at La Fortuna instead. Whitewater rafting is very popular and there are various options, from family-friendly to more adventurous. Alternatively, opt for a tour that includes several places/ activities in one – so that you can get the most of your time here.
• Rio Celeste. This beautiful waterfall is a popular place to visit in Tenorio National Park. It’s about 1.5hrs drive from La Fortuna, and so if you decide to go here, plan an entire day for it. There are also day tours that can bring you to Rio Celeste from La Fortuna area.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in La Fortuna

As you can see, there is so much to see and do in La Fortuna that with just two days in this area, the choice can get overwhelming. On the other hand, you really don’t have to do all of it. Just see which places/activities interest you the most and don’t stress about ‘seeing it all.

And if you find that you absolutely need more time, this is a good place to add a few nights to your itinerary if you can. Some people even skip Monteverde altogether and simply stay in La Fortuna longer.

Here are some suggestions how to spend two days in La Fortuna – Arenal area:

• Day 1 (option I): 8 AM sloth tour ; 10 AM coffee & chocolate tour ; afternoon – hike in Arenal 1968 area, plus thermal hot springs, e.g. Baldi .
• Day 1 (option II): A very highly-rated full-day tour that includes La Fortuna Waterfall, various viewpoints, hiking, Maluku Indian village, lunch, thermal hot springs, and more.
• Day 2: Morning rafting tour . Late afternoon walk at Mistico Hanging Bridges (it’s much quieter than in the mornings) and/or time at the hotel pool. Evening – frog watching or thermal pools.

Days 5-6: Monteverde

Next on our Costa Rica itinerary is the Cloud Forest of Monteverde . This area isn’t far from La Fortuna, but because the roads aren’t great, you’ll need 3-4 hours to get there. On the way, you could stop at Viento Fresco Waterfall. On the other hand, there are more worthy experiences awaiting in Monteverde, so it’s probably best to head straight there.

If you are not renting a car, you can book this transfer to bring you from La Fortuna to Monteverde.

WHERE TO STAY: Stay in Monteverde for 2 nights. Monteverde has a big range of nice hotels, B&Bs, and private accommodations .

If you have a car, it doesn’t matter that much where exactly you stay. And otherwise, stay closer to the town center. We booked Koora Hotel and also considered Camino Verde B&B and El Sol Monteverde .

One of the best things to do in Monteverde is to experience the cloud forest, and there are so many different ways to do that. One of the most popular places to see here is Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve , where you can go hiking and see wildlife. However, this park only has one hanging bridge and a visit here is really more meant to look for animals (best with a guided tour , or you won’t see much).

After some research, we realized that there are other places, which offer very similar scenery and offer even more, including ziplining (canopy tours). If you are up for an adventure, canopy tours is one of the best things to do in Monteverde! In fact, ziplining was chosen by everyone in our family as #1 of all the things we did in Costa Rica.

There are two best places for an all-in ziplining + treetop walk experience in Monteverde: Treetopia (perviously Sky Adventures) and Selvatura Adventure Park . They are both quite similar in terms of what you can experience, so there’s really no need to do both, unless you can’t get enough of the cloud forest views and adrenaline, of course.

• At Selvatura , you can opt to just visit the park and walk over hanging bridges , book the canopy tour (zipline experience), or you can do both by booking this combo-tour . There are many departure times during the day, so it’s quite easy to add this to your itinerary. If you are looking for hanging bridges or zip lining with the best scenery, this is the place to be.
• At Treetopia , you can choose between this tour that includes a ride on their Sky Tram + a walk over the hanging bridges, or this tour that includes all of the above, plus zip lining. This park is the only one that has a gondola (Sky Tram). Also, their zip line braking system is automatic. It’s also the more expensive of the two.

TIP: If you are only interested in ziplining , then you can also consider other tours that are more budget-friendly. Jungle zip line at 100%Aventura offers the best price/quality zip line, including a Superman ride, and Tarzan swing. Monteverde Extremo Park has 16 ziplines, including a Tarzan swing, and two Superman rides, and is a great option for the biggest thrill seekers.

We personally opted for this ziplining tour as well as a treetop walk at Selvatura .

Another must-do in Monteverde is booking a guided night tour to spot nocturnal animals in the jungle. There are many nocturnal tours and they are worth it. If you want to do a night tour during your Costa Rica trip, Monteverde is a great place for that. We chose this night tour .

There’s one more place that I want to mention for those looking for nice things to do in Monteverde – El Tigre Waterfalls . It’s not nearly as touristy as the places mentioned above, but is a very nice place to spend a few hours. We LOVED it here!

You can walk through the jungle and over the hanging bridges, see many beautiful waterfalls and even swim in them, and then take a horse ride to where you started, where traditional Costa Rican lunch awaits. If you don’t have a car, you can get there with this tour that also includes transfers.

This will keep you busy for a day or two in Monteverde. But, just as in La Fortuna, there are so many other tours and activities here that you could easily spend a few days in the area. But if you want to see the best of what Monteverde has to offer, just concentrate on the options listed above.

TIP : For nice aerial views, check out the Cerro Pinocho viewpoint , a short ride from town.

LEARN MORE: Top Places & Activities in Monteverde

Day 7: Drive to Manuel Antonio

Next on this Costa Rica itinerary is one of the most popular National Parks in the country, Manuel Antonio National Park . It’s extremely popular and very touristy, but – as it often goes with popular places – they are popular for a reason. And so if this is your first time in Costa Rica, you’ll probably want to check it out as well.

Quepos, the main town near Manuel Antonio, is located about 4 hours drive from Monteverde, so a big part of your first day will be spent driving. On the way, you could stop at Crocodile Bridge and also Mirador De Jaco for a quick break. Jaco is also a good place for lunch.

If you leave Monteverde early, you could also stop at Carara National Park along the way, just a short drive past Crocodile Bridge. It’s a good place to see birds, and you can hire a guide at the entrance.

Or drive straight to Manuel Antonio where you could head to a beach or go swimming at a pool and just relax after a very long drive. In addition, you can also opt for a late afternoon/ evening tour in Manuel Antonio. Check out either this sunset sailing tour or this night jungle tour .

WHERE TO STAY: Stay in Quepos/Manuel Antonio for 2 nights. Also here, you could opt to stay longer and just take tours/ day trips to the other areas mentioned in the next days of this itinerary, so it’s really up to you and how much driving/ changing of hotels you want to do, and what exactly you want to see.

Also here, there are many hotels and accommodations for all budgets , although really nice accommodations tend to be on the more expensive side. We first booked a stay at this highly-rated resort , but afterwards decided to just stay in Uvita and visit Manuel Antonio as a day trip from there. The distances aren’t huge and it saves you some packing and hassle.

If you want to stay right at the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park, check out Hotel San Bada Resort & Spa .

On another trip, we stayed at this beautiful ‘Jungle Glory’ house that borders the national park. It became our favorite accommodation in Costa Rica!

Day 8: Manuel Antonio National Park

Then, on the next day in this area, visit Manuel Antonio National Park . This is one of the most touristy and most popular nature reserves in Costa Rica. The scenery is amazing and you can also see a big variety of wildlife.

Also here, you have to reserve your entry in advance – either via the official website (you’ll need to create an account) or by booking a guided tour (keep in mind that many guided tours will still ask you to resere the park entry separately, some might do it for you). Either way, going with a guide will make it easier to spot wildlife. We booked this private tour and it was a great decision – we would have missed most animals on our own!

Keep in mind that Manuel Antonio National Park is closed on Tuesdays ! So you may have to adjust your itinerary a bit if needed. TIP – the best way to know which days it’s closed is to check when the guided tours are running – local guides always know best!

You only need about 2-3 hours for a visit to Manuel Antonio National Park. So if you go early in the morning – not only you will still have a free afternoon left, but it’s also incomparably quieter inside the park!

There are many other activities in the Quepos area ( chocolate tours are good if you haven’t done one yet), or you can also just opt for a quiet relaxing afternoon at one of the beaches. If you want to make the most out of your day, consider an a tour to Rainmaker Park (there are tours in the morning, afternoon, and at night).

LEARN MORE: Info & Tips for Visiting Manuel Antonio National Park

Days 9-10: Uvita & Corcovado National Park Day Trip

Uvita is another nice place to include in your Costa Rica itinerary. It’s much quieter than the area around Manuel Antonio National Park, and so can be a good alternative for those looking for a more local feel.

It’s also a great place to spend more time in if you are visiting Costa Rica with a family and want a more relaxing vacation, in addition to all the action and sightseeing.

There’s a lot to see and do in the region around Uvita as well. But – just like everywhere – if you only have a few days in the area, you’ll have to make a choice. We recommend visiting Nauyaca Waterfalls on the day when you drive to Uvita and check out the beaches in Uvita itself.

The coastline of Uvita is part of Marino Ballena National Park , with stunning scenery and a big variety of marine wildlife.

Uvita is known as one of the best places to see humpback whales in Costa Rica, and the best season is approximately from late December to late March and mid-July to mid-November. Check out the whale watching tours that run from Uvita , and also this catamaran tour from Manuel Antonio .

TIP: One of the best full-day tours from Uvita is snorkeling at Cano Island .

Then, on the next day, book a day tour to Corcovado National Park . It’s another destination where you could easily spend at least several days , but day trips are also possible. Even if you just visit for a day, it’s worth it. Corcovado is one of the most beautiful and untouched rainforests in Costa Rica.

There are lots of local companies that run tours from Uvita or Sierpe to Corcovado, mainly to San Pedrillo station of the park. The most popular option is a boat trip from Uvita straight to Corcovado National Park. If you are traveling in the whale season, you may also get lucky and see whales along the way.

Another option is to first drive to Sierpe, from where you travel to the national park by boat via the mangroves (see this tour ). This is a good tour for those who have a car and don’t mind driving to Sierpe on their own. You also spend less time on the ocean, so if you are prone to seasickness, this is also a better option. This was the tour we chose.

Be sure to do your research and book a Corcovado day tour in advance ! The number of visitors allowed to visit the park is limited each day and you can only visit with a guide. So it can be difficult to get a tour last minute, especially if you are traveling in the high season.

WHERE TO STAY: Stay in Uvita for at least 2 nights. Uvita has many low-key accommodations, several nice hotels, and also lots of amazing private villas . For amazing views, good prices, and excellent service, check out Villas Alturas , about halfway between Dominical and Uvita. In Uvita itself, check out Cristal Ballena Boutique Hotel & Spa.

On a recent trip, we stayed at Bungallows Balena , just a short walk from the main beach. Pura Vida!

Good to know: If you don’t care about visiting Tortuguero National Park or Irazu Volcano (next on this itinerary), you could easily just stay in Uvita for the rest of your vacation and drive back straight to San Jose Airport from here at the end of your trip (or the day before, depending on your flight times).

Day 11: Drive to San José & City Tour

As already mentioned, you could just spend the rest of your vacation in the Manuel Antonio or Uvita area and skip our suggestions below. It will surely be a more relaxed vacation.

However, if you want to make the most of your two weeks in Costa Rica and see as much as possible , you can head back to the San José area and do some day trips from there.

In that case, we recommend that you drive back to the city and return your car already. You can then book day tours to some of the most popular places that are usually included in most Costa Rica sightseeing itineraries (see below).

It’s a long drive from Uvita to San Jose – about 4-5 hours. If you leave early, you could spend the afternoon/evening in the city. If you want to get acquainted with the city in a few hours, you can also opt for a private tour with a local . The advantage of such a tour is that it’s flexible time-wise, the guide picks you up from your accommodation, and shows you the best places in the time that you have. Another nice option is this food & culture night tour of the city .

WHERE TO STAY: Stay in San Jose for the last 3 nights (once again, only do this if the day trips below interest you – otherwise, you can stay in Uvita/ Manuel Antonio longer and have a more relaxing trip).

There are lots of hotels scattered all over San Jose , but for tours and exploring the city itself, it’s probably best to stay in the city center close to shops, restaurants, museums, etc. Take a look at Hotel Presidenté and others in that area.

Day 12: Tortuguero National Park Day Trip

Tortuguero National Park is another popular place to visit in Costa Rica, and it deserves more than a day. But with just two weeks in Costa Rica, you’ll have to be selective and since a one-day tour from San Jose is possible as well, it’s well worth considering.

If you are traveling to Costa Rica between July and October , then a visit here is a must! Tortuguero National Park is famous as a place where green sea turtles nest , and this is their prime nesting season when you can expect to see lots of turtles on the beach here. July and August are the absolute best months for a visit to Tortuguero.

But also outside this season, this rainforest is well worth a visit. You’ll explore the jungle from the boat, get to see lots of wildlife, and also meet local people at Tortuguero Village and learn about their history and culture.

TIP: This is the best-rated day tour to Tortuguero NP from San Jose. You can see all tour options on GetYourGuide or on Viator .

Day 13: Irazú Volcano & Cartago Day Trip

Irazu Volcano is another extremely popular day trip from San Jose. Because it’s located much closer to the city and doesn’t require as much driving as Tortuguero National Park, this is a more relaxing tour that we recommend for the very last day of your trip.

Irazu is the highest active volcano in Costa Rica, at an elevation of 11,260 ft (3,432 meters). So be sure to pack some warm clothes for a visit here. It’s a very special place and often, you’ll find yourself above the clouds here!

Most tours to Irazu Volcano also include a visit to the city of Cartago and/or the Orosi Valley . Some tours also visit Lankester Botanical Garden .

You could also visit here by car (in that case, keep your rental car just a bit longer). If visiting without a tour, you will need to reserve timed-entry tickets for the volcano site via the official website .

Day 14: City Tour & Departure

What you can see and do on the last day of your 2-week trip in Costa Rica will, of course, depend on your flight schedule.

If your flight departs in the evening, you could explore the city of San Jose a bit more ( with a tour or on your own).

Afterwards, take a taxi or a transfer to the airport .

READ ALSO: Costa Rica Packing List (Essentials + What Not To Pack)

2-weeks Costa Rica road trip itinerary on the map

To give you a better idea of where everything is located, we created this map indicating the main places mentioned in our itinerary.

Places indicated with a purple star are the ones that are worth seeing the most. Whereas the ones indicated in blue are nice to see if you have more time.

Take a look at the map and the driving distances. Then, based on the time you have, your interests, and the places that appeal to you the most, you’ll be able to adjust this itinerary and plan your own perfect Costa Rica road trip!

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is our activity-packed and family-friendly Costa Rica itinerary that allows you to make the utmost of the 2 weeks in Costa Rica. We included as many top places as possible to see in just 14 days, while at the same time keeping your trip somewhat relaxed and enjoyable.

A lot depends on your preferences, of course. If you are ok with seeing just one volcano instead of two, or visiting just one or two rainforests instead of all the best ones, etc., then you can also make this a more relaxing trip. In that case, we recommend spending more time in the Uvita area, which has a more laid-back vibe and local atmosphere, and skipping a few other destinations/ day trips that don’t interest you that much.

There is no one perfect way to plan your Costa Rica trip itinerary, and this is just one of the possibilities. But if you are visiting Costa Rica for the first time and are mainly interested in sightseeing, this itinerary allows you to make the absolute most of 2 weeks in Costa Rica.

Enjoy your trip!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Best Destinations for Family Travel

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Sunday 26th of February 2023

Hi Jurga, I am a single mom of 2 little kids ( 6 & 9 ). We want to go to Costa Rica but I also only can go during school holidays. What time of the year you traveled to Costa Rica ? I can only go for 2 weeks during Summer Break which is their rainy season. Were you there during European Summer or Winter ? If you went in rainy season, did it rain a lot ?? P.S I love your blog ! I traveled around the world solo before I became a mom and I want my kids to experience the world too but their dad make it really difficult for me so our time to travel is very limited😔

Hi Lucy, we also considered Costa Rica in the summer months but decided against it for that same reason. Locals told us that it can be very nice and not too wet, but if you get unlucky, it can apparently rain for a few weeks in a row, and that can certainly ruin your vacation. So yes, traveling with kids during school holidays is always somewhat of a challenge. On the other hand, a big part of CR is a rainforest so you can always expect some rain, no matter the season. That aside, summer is apparently a great time to see turtles and it is drier on the Caribbean side, so you may want to look into that part of the country if planning a summer visit. I also heard that Guanacaste Province in the northwest is one of the driest regions in the country. Locals also say that there's always dry somewhere in Costa Rica and June-July-August can be very nice months to travel as well, so it just requires a bit more planning (and willingness to adjust the plans if the weather doesn't cooperate).

Jeanine DiAngelo

Friday 24th of February 2023

Hi there! Thank you for this beautiful blog. My self and my 2 children (17 and 19) are going to Costa Rica at the end of July. We are doing La Fortuna for 3 nights and then want to go to the coast to surf. We will be there for 10 days and are flying in and out of Liberia. I am looking for the best place to go for surf (intermediate surfers) and would love your feedback. Thank you so much. I also just joined your FB group

Hi Jeanine, you could go to Tamarindo. It's one of the best beach destinations in Costa Rica, you can go surfing there, and it's very close to Liberia Airport. Good luck and have a great trip!

Sandhya Sridhar

Monday 13th of February 2023

Hi Jurga, Another great blog. I have come relay on your blogs as I plan our family vacations( you helped me plan best Yellowstone/ grand Teton trip last year). Planning a trip to Costa Rica. Want to spend 3-4 days in La Fortuna. Trying to decide where to go for next 3-4 days. We will rent a 4x4. Is it possible to drive from La fortuna to Punta Arenas in 3-4 hours? Once we are there, what are some of the things we can do for next 3-4 days other than relaxing on the beach? Can you suggest any place we can drive from La fortuna and stay for 3-4 days before flying back from San Jose? Want to cover as much as possible but but confused with the potential places and driving

Wednesday 15th of February 2023

Hi Sandhya, it’s all about your interests I suppose. If you want to see a beautiful cloud forest, hike to waterfalls, and do ziplining, definitely consider Monteverde. If you want to spend some time at the beach, you could go to Tamarindo. But Manuel Antonio NP area is better, I think, since you have a combination of amazing places to see and things to do as well as some beautiful beaches. Hope this helps. Good luck with your research and have a great trip!

Saturday 14th of January 2023

I am planning a road trip through Costa Rica and I have to say, this entire piece you've shared has really inspired and assisted my route!

You've provided hotel options, the best places to do/ experience certain activities and a footprint of how long the drives in between take...as well as some great places to stop to on route!

I really enjoyed reading your itinerary! Sounds like you and your family had a wonderful experience!

Did you book your hotels prior to arriving to arriving in Costa Rica or did you go to hotels and book when you were there throughout your road trip?

Thanks for sharing!

Much appreciated!

Sunday 15th of January 2023

Hi Tas, since we travel with 5 of us in the peak season (school holidays), we always book as much as possible in advance. It's not just more affordable, but also saves you lots of stress and time when on holiday.

Wednesday 21st of December 2022

Thank you for sharing your 2 week itinerary. We are in the midst of planning an upcoming trip and your site is very helpful. Could you give an approximate cost of your trip for your family without airfare? ¡Gracias!

Hi Pauline, it's always practically impossible to give a price estimate for any trip because it depends on so many factors. First, the season when you travel. Second, how long in advance you book everything. And third, all the choices you make: which car you rent, which accommodations (also how many people sharing the room), which tours you book, where you decide to eat, etc. etc. etc. You can make this trip for $10,000 for a family of 4-5 people or you can just as well do it for $5,000 or $25,000. Ultimately, it all depends on the choices that you make. Good luck with the planning!

Two Weeks In Costa Rica: The Ultimate Costa Rica Itinerary

From the epic volcanoes at Arenal and zip lining in Monteverde, to the wildlife on the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, it’s time for the ultimate two weeks in Costa Rica.

I’ve just returned from my SECOND trip to Costa Rica. While I saw a lot on my first visit in 2014, it definitely left me wanting more! A few weeks ago I received my Costa Rica itinerary and wow did it look AMAZING.

The big attraction? The fact it would take me to places I’d never been before, including Corcovado National Park – one of the world’s top destinations for spotting wildlife.

I know a lot of you choose to spend two weeks in Costa Rica, which I would say is the perfect amount of time to get a feel for the country. So I figured the most useful post I could write was a big fat Costa Rica itinerary – combining the best of the best from my two trips.

From the incredible volcanoes close to La Fortuna and the wildlife of Puerto Viejo and Corcovado, to the beaches of the Pacific and Caribbean , beautiful views in Orosi and Naranjo and adventures including zip lining and white water rafting, this really is the best way to spend two weeks in Costa Rica!  

Planning your trip to Costa Rica? Here are a few quick highlights:

Two Weeks In Costa Rica: The Best Costa Rica Itinerary

To design this Costa Rica itinerary, I’ve selected my top seven places from both of my trips and suggested how many days to spend in each. Obviously, with travel time, you might need a few extra days if you want to see ALL of them, but it’s a good starting point if you’re planning to spend two weeks in Costa Rica.

Costa Rica is ALL about nature. While some areas are becoming a little overrun with tourists during high season, there are still plenty of great places that still feel ‘secret’.

I’ve included a nice mix in this Costa Rica itinerary. I think you’d regret it if you don’t visit a few parts that feel truly off the beaten track.  

READ MORE: Wondering what to pack for your trip? Find out in my handy Costa Rica packing guide  or learn more about the country before you get there with 34 fascinating facts about Costa Rica .

Map: two weeks in costa rica.

I’ve marked all the key spots from my Costa Rica itinerary on this handy map…

La Fortuna: 2 Days  

One of my favourite spots on my Costa Rica itinerary! For me, this area really is the best of the best in Costa Rica. The looming 1,670m peak of Arenal Volcano is easily one of the most impressive sights you’ll see in the whole country.

I’d recommend basing yourself in the town of La Fortuna, which has the volcano as its backdrop. There’s a mix of accommodation in the area, from luxurious hotels with private pools, to hostels perfect for backpackers and solo travellers.

Along with adventures around the volcano (including some lovely hot springs close by) don’t miss a trip to La Fortuna waterfall. It’s in a beautiful location in the middle of the jungle, but from the second you start the descent, you’ll hear the sounds of the plummeting weight of water. The waterfall is 65m high, and while the water is cool, you can take a dip if you’re feeling brave!

Monteverde: 2 Days

You’ll have heard about Costa Rica’s ‘cloud forests’ and Monteverde is THE place to see some of the country’s most unique scenery. Walk the Sky Walk (six hanging suspension bridges) and you’ll feel first hand what it’s like to be submerged in the low hanging mist and clouds within the lush forest. There’s also the sky tram – gondolas that glide right through the epic scenery.

If you like adrenaline, spend a day at 100% Aventura Extreme taking on the longest zip lines in Central America, finishing with the Mega Tarzan Swing. The swing is one of the scariest things I’ve done to date as it involves a free fall of 35m, before you swing over 30m from side to side!

The zip lines are a lot of fun, and make a change from the hiking and exploring that you’ll no doubt be including in your Costa Rica two week itinerary 

Naranjo / Zarcero: 1 Day  

After some of the more extreme activities, I’d recommend a night at Chayote Lodge up in the hills above San Jose. It’s probably not an area that features on many Costa Rica itineraries, but this is one of those special ‘secret’ spots away from the tourists.

For me, San Jose isn’t an amazing city, but you’re likely to visit it as part of your trip, whether that’s to fly in and out of the airport, or to pass through as you venture from one part of the country to another.

The accommodation at Chayote Lodge is stunning, designed around the old coffee receiving stations. The coffee theme continues through the interiors where you’ll find old coffee sacks for wall hangings, a giant coffee bean table and of course, delicious fresh coffee for breakfast!

Yet, however much I love coffee, it’s the views from Chayote Lodge that make me recommend it. Three volcanoes, layers and layers of stunning morning mist and epic sunsets, along with lush gardens filled with more hydrangeas than I’ve ever seen in my life – it’s just gorgeous.

Check availability and latest prices at Chayote Lodge

No doubt you’ll be visiting a few waterfalls during your two weeks in Costa Rica, and at 90m Catarata Del Toro is one of Costa Rica’s most impressive. While you can see it from just beyond the visitor centre, I’d recommend the trek to the base of it. It’s tiring but worth it, especially once you feel the spray and the force of the water.

Also, as the region has coffee at its heart, I’d recommend booking onto an Espiritu Santo Coffee Tour  where you can learn how coffee plants are transformed into the morning cuppa you’re used to. It’s fascinating to see the plants and processes up close. You’ll never look at a cappuccino in the same way again!  

READ MORE: Top Things To Do In Costa Rica 

Corcovado national park: 3 days.

Corcovado National Park in Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula has been on my bucket list for a while! In terms of wildlife, it’s one of Costa Rica’s top spots, and let’s face it, Costa Rica is one the best country’s in the world for seeing wild animals in their natural habitats.

From whales and turtles, to monkeys, snakes and frogs, there’s SO much to see here, plus it’s also paradise for bird lovers.

It’s not the kind of park to explore alone, so book onto a tour (hotels will be able to recommend local wildlife guides), set your alarm for 4am, and head out early for an experience you’ll never forget.

Across the day we spotted all four of Costa Rica’s varieties of monkey (squirrel, spider, howler and white-faced capuchin), coatis, agoutis, macaws, Halloween crabs, and learnt all about the park’s impressive trees, sea turtles and more. I loved it! We didn’t see any sloths sadly, but they’re often chilling out in the trees here.

Set in the rainforest, Lapa Rios has 17 wooden bungalows, each with terraces overlooking the ocean. There are no glass windows, only nets, so you’ll fall asleep listening to the howls of the howler monkeys, croaks of frogs and more.

It’s somewhere you’ll feel truly immersed in Costa Rica’s incredible nature, especially when you spot macaws from the breakfast table, monkeys on your terrace, or find a frog on your door (true story!!)

Check availability and latest prices at Lapa Rios

If you’re spending two weeks in Costa Rica, I’d recommend around three days in the Corcovado region. As it’s such a remote area to get to, check out the flights that run from San Jose to Puerto Jimenez. Not only will it save you time, but you’ll also be treated to stunning views like these…

Orosi: 2 Days

South of San Jose, Orosi is home to rainforests, volcanoes and rivers. It’s also one of Costa Rica’s most historic regions, where you’ll find the oldest Catholic Church still in use in the country.

This is another spot I would say is a little on the secret side. It’s not experiencing the mass tourism of Arenal and Monteverde, and is a great place to escape the crowds if you’re trying to experience the best of Costa Rica in two weeks.

While nearby Tapanti National Park (aka the wettest spot in the country, with rain approx. 360 days a year!) is a beautiful place to go hiking and exploring, I’d recommend taking things up a few notches with an adrenaline-fuelled white water rafting trip down the river.

It was my first time rafting, and I was really nervous as I waited by the edge of the river listening to the safety briefing. The guides were enthusiastic and fun, and I started to feel at ease… until I hopped on the raft and we set off!! The water was flowing so fast, and almost immediately we reached one of the trickiest spots on the entire course.

After a thorough soaking, I relaxed into the experience, whooping and screaming as I paddled. I loved it and would say it’s one of my favourite experiences from the trip!

Orosi is also a wonderful region for relaxation, with my favourite spot being Hacienda Orosi – a thermal mineral spa with absolutely spectacular views. Up in the hills, with low hanging clouds and several thermal pools, it’s a great place to unwind after lots of outdoor adventures.

If you’re looking for somewhere truly unique to stay, I’d recommend Queveri . This eco lodge is located in the mountains overlooking Orosi and has impressive views of Irazu volcano, waterfalls and more. There are plenty of hiking routes nearby, plus wildlife right on the doorstep including pumas, mountain lions, monkeys and coatis!

The owner will treat you like you’re part of the family too. It’s a lovely experience, although I’ll warn you now, it’s a steep and bumpy drive to get there!

Check availability and latest prices at Queveri

Puerto Viejo De Talamanca: 3 Days

Then it’s time to head to the Caribbean coast to experience a totally different side to the country. To be honest, rastas and reggae wasn’t something I naturally associated with Costa Rica, but when you’re in Puerto Viejo you’ll feel like you’ve landed on a Caribbean island. 

Expect chilled daytimes and a bit of a party after dark. It’s an area popular with backpackers too, so a great place to base yourself if you’re travelling solo. In fact, this is a must-visit if you’re putting together a Costa Rica backpacking itinerary, as it’s one of the best beach towns in Costa Rica .

I think it’s a great area to round off your two weeks in Costa Rica, as it’s another fab region to spot wildlife. Similar to Corcovado, Cahuita National Park’s rainforest sits right on the beach close to Puerto Viejo.

There you can spot all the animals you’d dream of seeing in Costa Rica including toucans, sloths, monkeys, lizards, iguanas, snakes, giant crickets, leaf cutter ants and more.

Another amazing place for wildlife is the  Jaguar Rescue Centre . Nope, it’s not a home for jaguars, but a refuge for sick, unwanted or underdeveloped wild animals.

I love the backstory of this place. It was set up by a couple of biomedical scientists from Europe who moved to Costa Rica for a change of pace. Little did they know, as soon as they moved to the area, locals heard they could help animals and turned up on the doorstep with sick monkeys, owls with broken wings, and blind crocodiles! They decided to set up the rescue centre and it’s been expanding ever since.

When I visited a few years ago I was invited to sit inside one of the monkey enclosures while spider and squirrel monkeys played around. It was also amazing to see sloths up close!

I hope these suggestions help with planning your two weeks in Costa Rica. If you’re visiting for longer, I’d recommend adding in places such as Manuel Antonio National Park, Tortuguero, and some of the country’s beautiful beaches to your Costa Rica itinerary. 

Useful Info For Planning A Trip To Costa Rica

Currency: While colones are the local currency in Costa Rica, lots of places will accept US dollars too. If you pay in dollars, you’re likely to receive colones as change. On my recent trip I noticed a lot more places accepted credit cards and contactless payments.

Packing advice: With so many climates and landscapes, you’ll want to plan your packing carefully. I’d recommend reading my Costa Rica packing guide before you go. Lots of extras you might not have thought about.

‘Pura Vida’ is a way of life in Costa Rica! I heard it used as hello / goodbye / thank you. Translating literally as the pure life, but the meaning is more about a good life, a relaxed life and a happy/content life. Slip it into conversation and you’ll certainly impress the locals!

Do you need to speak Spanish to travel around Costa Rica? No, but it will certainly help in more remote areas. As tourism is a huge part of Costa Rica’s economy, lots of guides, drivers and shopkeepers speak English. I’m sure after two weeks in Costa Rica you’ll have a few key Spanish phrases at your fingertips too.

Is Costa Rica safe? I think it’s very safe. Compared to its neighbours, Costa Rica is an extremely peaceful country. It doesn’t even have an army! People are warm, friendly and helpful, plus there’s a huge passion for the country’s nature and landscapes – the Costa Ricans really want to preserve their country, as they know more than anyone else, that it’s a very special place.

Travel: While Costa Rica isn’t a big country to drive around, some of the roads are windy, rugged and bumpy, so what looks like a 2-hour drive, could end up taking 4. If you’re short on time, take a look at internal flights to speed journeys up.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my Costa Rica itinerary and it helps you plan your holiday! Whether you’re spending two weeks in Costa Rica, or several months exploring at a slower pace, have an amazing time, and feel free to comment below if you have any questions!

Big thanks to Visit Costa Rica for inviting me back. You’ll find plenty more info to help you plan your travels on the Visit Costa Rica website. 

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

14 thoughts on “Two Weeks In Costa Rica: The Ultimate Costa Rica Itinerary”

That toucan is so beautiful! I love all the colors they have on their beaks.

I know Megan – so amazing to see them up close! I loved all the wildlife I saw on this trip!

Costa Rica is one of my bucket list destinations!

These photos are stunning and it looks like you had the best time.

Thanks Jess – I really hope you make it there soon! I loved it!

Hi Chloe! I’m from Costa Rica, actually from Naranjo. I have a friend that is coming over so I was looking for the best places to take him, this helped me a lot. Thank you so much for that amazing content and all the love you are giving to my country. I wish you keep doing what you love, best of wishes. Pura vida ?❤

Thank you for reading Kris! So happy you enjoyed the post. Naranjo was gorgeous – happy memories of being there 🙂

Amazing stuff Chloe, this has helped a bunched! Just out of interest, what time of year did you travel there? I’ve found some pretty cheap flights for the end of June and am aware that it’s the rainy season, but I’ve heard there’s a ‘veranillo’ around then so I might be lucky with the weather. It’s either that or postpone until next year which I don’t want to do 🙁 Thoughts?

Hey Sonny – thank you! I’ve been in November and October before and while on both trips there was some rain, it wasn’t crazy or anything! To be honest with somewhere like CR, the rain is part of what makes the flora and fauna so amazing! I’ve not been at other times of year though, so can’t vouch for those… Have a great trip!

How did you get around the island? Did you rent a car, driver or fly?

Hi Donna – we caught buses and planes across Costa Rica. It’s not an island though!

Amazing itinerary hoping to visit next year and hopefully cross over to panama too! I cannot wait ? xx

Have an amazing time Bethan. It’s such a special place!

Amazing blog! Quick question: Why wasn’t Tamarindo included in this itinerary? Thanks!

Because there are just SO many places, I couldn’t include them all. That’s another great option though if it fits with your route.

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2 Weeks in Costa Rica: 2 Itineraries

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

Costa Rica is home to some of the most beautiful rainforests, beaches, and mountains . Their food is also too good to pass up, and their Pura Vida lifestyle is quite intriguing.

For those who aren’t familiar with the term, pura vida means pure life , being grateful for everything that you have, even the simplest things.

Costa Rica is a country located in the Central American region of North America. It is bordered by the Caribbean Sea in the Northeast, Panama in the Southeast, Nicaragua to the North, and the Pacific Ocean to the Southwest.

It is known for its coffee, rich biodiversity, and incredible natural wonders . In this article, you will find numerous itinerary options for spending 2 weeks in Costa Rica. Hopefully, this will help you explore this beautiful country and experience Pura Vida along the way.

ALSO READ: 2 weeks in South America itineraries or 2 weeks in Mexico itineraries

BASIC TRAVEL INFORMATION FOR COSTA RICA

Unsure when to go, the cost, or transportation? You’ll find all those information below:

When is the best time to travel to Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a tropical gem with varied microclimates. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from mid-December to April , when sunshine prevails. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds.

The rainy season , or “green season,” spans May to November, with heavier showers typically in September and October.

Shoulder seasons , just before and after the peak, offer a balance of fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Regardless of when you choose to visit, Costa Rica’s natural beauty shines through.

Are 2 weeks enough for Costa Rica

How to get around.

There are various ways to get around Costa Rica. The fastest and most convenient option is domestic flights and private transfers . The most affordable are public buses and shared shuttles , suitable for backpackers.

When it comes to inter-city, there are ride-hailing apps and taxis; you can use Uber. Renting a car is actually highly recommended , which gives you flexibility to move around much faster, but make sure to consider 4×4, especially if you’re going off the main roads.

Language and currency

Costa Rica’s official language is Spanish . However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas , making it relatively easy for English-speaking visitors to get around. Nevertheless, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance interactions with locals and deepen the travel experience.

The official currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC) . While US dollars are often accepted in tourist areas, it’s advisable to use colones for local transactions to get the best rates.

In Costa Rica, while credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, cash is preferred, especially in smaller towns and local businesses.

Carrying a mix of colones and a small amount of US dollars is recommended . It’s always a good idea to check the exchange rate and carry local currency, especially when venturing outside main tourist zones.

Many foreign visitors can enter and travel around Costa Rica without a visa. If your passport is issued by countries from most places in the Americas, Europe, Australia, Japan, New Zeland, South AFrica, South Korea, the Philippines, Singapore, some Gulf Countries, and Malaysia, you are eligible to stay in Cost Rica between 30 days up to 180 days .

Also, if you have a valid visa or residence permit from the EU, US, UK, Canada, Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland, you can use it as a substitute visa for Costa Rica, allowing you to stay for 90 days.

Cost of 2 weeks in Costa Rica

• Affordable: Expect to spend $700-$1,000 , staying in hostels, eating at sodas (local eateries), and using public transport. That’s about $50 to $75 a day which is suitable for those on a budget.
• Mid-range: A mid-range budget of $1,500-$3,000 offers comfortable hotels, dining options, and some guided activities. That’s $110 to $210 per day, suitable for those looking for comfortable trip, but also not too luxurious.
• Luxury: For a lavish experience, anticipate $4,000-$8,000 or more, indulging in top-tier accommodations, gourmet meals, private tours, and personalized services. So, around $290 and up for a hassle-free and high-end 2 weeks in Costa Rica.

Travel arrangement tips

Map of top sites and activities in costa rica.

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN COSTA RICA ITINERARY

Costa Rica is not only a haven for its stunning beaches and fantastic surfing and kite surfing spots, it’s also the place to go to see exotic animals in the wild. This includes resplendent quetzal, sloth, jaguar, keel-billed toucan, and scarlet macaws. If you love to see wild animals, visit the Amazon during a 2-week Brazil trip .

There are two travel itineraries below. You don’t have to follow it religiously. Perhaps you can draw some inspiration and tips from the following travel plans.

Itinerary #1: First-timer (San Jose, Uvita, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, La Fortuna, Tortuguero)

The first itinerary for those who are planning to stay for 14 days in Costa Rica is perfect for first-timers . You’ll start with San Jose , a major transportation hub with historical sites and natural landscapes, such as waterfalls and animal sanctuaries.

Then, you’ll head over to Uvita , which is famous for its beaches, where you can watch the sunset or do horseback riding. Speaking of beaches, Manuel Antonio is also famous for these, so you can have picnics by the beach, listen to the calm waves, feel the fine sand beneath your feet and continue soaking up under the sun here.

The next stop is Monteverde, an elevated town positioned directly under a dense cloud forest. It is home to some of the longest-hanging bridges and ziplines in the country.

La Fortuna , on the other hand, is a laidback place famous for its natural resources, such as a volcano, hot springs, and waterfalls. Last but definitely not the least is Tortuguero , a national park filled with black sea turtles, wildlife-rich canals, and lagoons.

San Jose for 3 days

San Jose is a major transportation hub. That’s why it is the perfect place to start your trip . It is Costa Rica’s capital and largest city and is known for historic buildings, museums, hotels, theme parks, and the like. Basically, it is an urban plain surrounded by lush hills and majestic volcanoes.

Some of the things to do here include guided tours, watching a musical play at the National Theater of Costa Rica, visiting the National Museum, Pre Columbian Gold Museum, Central Market, and California Blvd or Calle 17, which mimics the streets of LA, hence, the name.

Uvita and Manuel Antonio for 4 days

The next stop during your 2 weeks in Costa Rica is spending 4 days at Uvita and Manuel Antonio. Uvita is a town in the South Pacific of Costa Rica that is a backpacker’s haven as it has fewer crowds and scenic landscapes. There are tons of quaint cafes, eye-catching restaurants, wildlife, and of course, sea, sun, and sand.

A couple of must-visit locations here are Marino Ballena National Park, El Pavon Waterfall, Sierpe Mangrove Tour, a day trip to Dominical, or the Nauyaca Waterfall .

Manuel Antonio, on the other hand, is a National Park famous for the scenery and the wide variety of activities that you can do here, such as hiking, swimming, sportfishing, surf lessons, and food tours.

The distance between San Jose and Uvita is 223 km. You can take the bus to get from San Jose to Uvita. The travel time is 5 hours. If you’re renting a car, driving is faster, which is around 4 hours, but is a little bit more expensive.

Monteverde and La Fortuna for 4 days

Monteverde is the twelfth canton of Costa Rica’s Puntarenas province. It is famous for its miles upon miles of forest trails and exotic plants, as well as its cloud forests .

A couple of activities to do here are ziplining, canyoning, coffee tasting, and more. La Fortuna, on the other hand, is Costa Rica’s most popular tourist destination, and one of the reasons is The Arenal Volcano, which has amazing hiking trails.

Other famous tourist spots here include the hot springs, La Fortuna Waterfall, and restaurants that serve various cuisines.

If you’re coming from Uvita to Monteverde, the fastest option would be to ride the bus, with a travel time of more than 4 hr and 30 minutes. Other options include driving, which is around 4 hours.

Tortuguero for 3 days

Tortuguero is a National Park located in the Limon Province of Costa Rica . The locals named it long ago as the place where turtles go. It is immensely abundant with wildlife, such as lizards, birds, caiman, monkeys, and more, lingering in the thick rainforests or mangroves.

If you’re coming from Monteverde, the best way to reach Tortuguero if you’re on a budget is by bus. However, it has a long travel time, reaching almost 7 to 8 hours.

However, you can also travel back to San Jose to catch a flight home from here. As the distance is only 96 km, you have a couple of travel options, such as by bus, by van, or by flying.

Itinerary #2: The Jungles and Oceans (San Jose, Rio Pacuare, Corcovado, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde/La Fortuna)

In this itinerary, you’ll surely experience an adventure like no other. This is perfect for adrenaline junkies and people who love outdoor activities .

Of course, we’ll start off slow with San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica. There are a couple of historic establishments, and you can also purchase all of your essentials here.

Next is Rio Pacuare, where the adventure begins . This river is considered by many as one of the best bodies of water in the whole world to river raft.

You can then proceed to Corcovado , where you can hike, go on a beach, or witness as many wildlife species as you like. Since Manuel Antonio has multiple beaches, some of the most famous activities they offer here are boat rides and snorkelling.

If you thought that I’ve already managed to disclose everything Monteverde has to offer, we’re barely scratching the surface as aside from zip lines; they also have attractions called Sky Walk and Sky Tram.

They offer coffee tours as well, while in La Fortuna, you can check out the rainforest at night, visit chocolate farms, and have a taste of the cocoa fruit straight from harvesting.

San Jose is often overlooked as a stopover for other tourist spots, but this capital city also has a lot to offer, specifically historical sites and museums. Some of the must-visit locations here include the Jade Museum, Metallic Building, Chocolate Factory, and Chinatown. They also have a Children’s Museum for travelling families.

This is the perfect starting point for the trip as it has one of the two international airports in Costa Rica. Aside from that, since it is an urbanized city, you can get all of the things that you will need here, such as money changing, a sim card, food stock, or renting a car.

Rio Pacuare for 2 days

During your two weeks in Costa Rica, I advise that you spend 2 days in Rio Pacuare to experience everything it has to offer. Rio Pacuare or Pacuare River is popular for the activities that you could do there, such as white river rafting, riverboarding, and whitewater kayaking .

It is divided into three sections and is also known for its rich flora and fauna. Some of the species that you could encounter there are raccoons, anteaters, iguanas, sloths, and Capuchin monkeys.

The distance between San Jose and Rio Pacuare is 135 km, and the best way to reach your destination is via bus, which has a travel time of more or less 3 hours.

Corcovado for 3 days

Corcovado is the largest lowland rainforest on the Pacific coast . It oozes with biological richness and is bordered by crystalline waters of the ocean, filled with coral reefs and marine life.

You’ll also find the town of Agujitas, as well as a couple of eco-lodges and resorts here. Here are a couple of activities to do: horse riding, snorkelling, trekking, and more.

The distance between Pacuare River and Corcovado is 413.4 km, and the available transportation option is by driving. Travel time lasts for more than 8 hours. You can also travel back to San Jose to catch a flight to Drake Bay, which is 41 km (1 hr and 30 mins drive) from Corcovado.

Manuel Antonio National Park for 3 days

Did you know that Monteverde is a Spanish term for green mountain? This is very fitting for this place as it is home to a cloud located on mountains .

A couple of things to do here include hiking and bird watching. Aside from trying out their coffee, you can also try Costa Rican chocolate and sugarcane. You can even visit Santa Elena, another neighbouring cloud forest.

La Fortuna, on the other hand, is Costa Rica’s adventure capital. A couple of places to visit here include Catarata del Toro, Rio Celeste Waterfall, El Salto Rope Swing, Arenal Volcano, and more. Other things to do here are chocolate tours, rafting, ziplining, hanging bridge crossing, and more.

For those who are coming from Monteverde, the mode of transportation is by bus, taxi, or van, the cheapest being by bus and the fastest being by taxi, with a travel time of 4 hours and 30 minutes.

It is the perfect place to end your trip as it is near to both the international airports . It is 2.5 hours away from San Jose International Airport and Liberia’s International Airport.

WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN COSTA RICA (per city)

Knowing where to go and how many days to spend in each place is not enough. You should also have some ideas on things to do there. This will give you even more ideas if the locations you are considering for your itinerary planning are suitable for you.

Here’s a quick list of various activities in Costa Rica:

• National Museum of Costa Rica
• Mercado Central
• La Sabana Metropolitan Park
• San José Cathedral
• Museum of Contemporary Art and Design
• Costa Rican Center of Science and Culture
• Spirogyra Butterfly Garden
• Museum of Costa Rican Art
• Jade Museum
• Simón Bolívar Zoo and Botanical Garden
• Plaza de la Cultura
• Children’s Museum
• Day trip to Bajos del Toro/Tesoro Escondido Waterfall
• Day trip to Poas and Irazu Volcanoes
• La Paz Waterfall – combo tour for Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall or just the waterfall and wildlife refugee
• Parque Diversiones
• Go whitewater rafting at Pacuare River – see the tour price
• Day trip to La Paz Waterfall Gardens
• Book a walking food tour – check the reviews
• The National Theater
• Excursion at Tortuga Island – join a boat tour
• Pre-Colombian Gold Museum
• Hike the Arenal Volcano – book one with lunch and dinner
• Hacienda y Beneficio La Chimba Coffee Farm
• Sign up for a day filled with thrilling activities – read the itinerary
• Toucan and Sloth Rescue Ranch
• Go on a night tour – dinner and cocktail class or an evening bus tour with dinner

Manuel Antonio National Park

• Hiking the Cathedral Point Trail
• Snorkeling at Manuel Antonio Beach
• Kayaking through mangroves
• Birdwatching
• Playa Espadilla
• Whale watching at Marino Ballena National Park
• Snorkelling at Whale Tail Beach
• Uvita Waterfall
• Horseback riding
• Stand-up paddleboarding
• Yoga retreats
• Scuba diving
• Night wildlife tour
• Bat Jungle exhibit
• Cheese Factory tour
• Coffee plantation visit
• Monteverde Cloud Forest – go on a hiking tour or a zipline tour or a night walking tour
• Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve
• Lake Arsenal – go kayaking or paddleboarding
• Monteverde Butterfly Gardens
• Learn how to make traditional Costa Rican bread – through this bread-making class
• La Reserva Bosque Nubosa
• Book a coffee, chocolate, and sugar cane tour – look at the reviews or farm & cheese tour
• Thrill at Sky Adventures Monteverde Park
• Bird watching at Curi-Cancha Reserve – there’s a watching tour you can sign up for or combo Curi-Cancha and Cloud Forest
• Frog Pond Ranario
• The Original Canopy  – book a tour
• Hanging Bridge at Selvatura Adventure Park – get an all-pass for all activities or just do the suspension bridge
• Arenal Volcano hike
• Hot springs visit
• La Fortuna Waterfall swim
• White-water rafting
• Cave spelunking at Venado Caves
• Lake Arenal kayaking
• Turtle nesting tours
• Canoeing through canals
• Wildlife spotting
• Jungle hiking
• Fishing expeditions
• Village tour

Rio Pacuare

• Jungle zip-lining
• River tubing
• Riverside camping

Corcovado National Park

• Guided jungle hikes
• Snorkeling at Caño Island
• Beachcombing at Corcovado Beach
• Photography tours
• Camping in designated areas

LOCAL COSTA RICAN DISHES AND DRINKS TO TRY

When travelling around, make sure to try a few dishes from this list to see which one you like the best. A lot of them are quite similar to the rest of Latin America, but there’s always an ingredient that makes it unique and a must-try:

• Gallo Pinto: A traditional breakfast dish made of rice and beans, usually served with eggs, sour cream, and tortillas.
• Casado: A hearty lunch plate with rice, beans, salad, fried plantains, and a choice of meat or fish.
• Olla de Carne: A hearty beef stew with potatoes, yucca, plantains, and corn.
• Tamales: Corn dough stuffed with meats, rice, and veggies, wrapped in banana leaves.
• Chifrijo: A bowl with layers of rice, beans, pork, and pico de gallo, typically served with tortilla chips.
• Sopa Negra: Black bean soup is typically served with a hard-boiled egg.
• Arroz con Pollo: Rice with chicken, mixed with vegetables and seasoned with spices.
• Patacones: Fried green plantains, often served with a dipping sauce.
• Tres Leches: A sponge cake soaked in three types of milk, topped with whipped cream.
• Flan: A creamy caramel custard dessert.
• Churros: Fried dough pastries, often filled with sweet fillings and sprinkled with sugar.
• Agua de Sapo: A refreshing drink made from ginger, lemon, and sugarcane juice.
• Horchata: A creamy rice and cinnamon drink.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN COSTA RICA

Now that you know where to go, what to do, and even what to eat, for final tips, here’s a list of highly-rated accommodations in Costa Rica:

• Affordable: Eco Stay Hostel or Nativus Art Hostel or Chillout Hostel
• Mid-range: Casa Mayela Guest House or Hotel Aranjuez or Hotel Casa 69
• Luxury: Bee Suites or Labana Hotel Suites Apartments or Park Inn by Radisson

Manuel Antonio National Park and Uvita

• Affordable:

Monteverde and La Fortuna

• Affordable: Cabinas Vista Al Golfo or Freddy’s Place B&B
• Mid-range: The Green Tree Lodge or Tityra Lodge or Hotel Santa Fe B&B
• Luxury: Burbi Lake Lodge or Calathea Lodge or Camino Verde B&B

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN COSTA RICA

Costa Rica is definitely a haven for nature lovers and thrill seekers as it is filled with national parks and adrenaline-fueled activities. Aside from that, it is known as the hummingbird capital of the world, is an unsung culinary destination, and is filled with world-class resorts.

With all that being said, I honestly don’t think 2 weeks in Costa Rica, but it’s a good start. Hopefully, you’ll like it, and you’ll come back again in the future.

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Two Week Costa Rica Itineraries & Vacation Packages

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Two-week Costa Rica itineraries allow you to celebrate the remarkable diversity of the landscape, ecosystems, and culture. The extraordinary biodiversity is yours to enjoy as you savor the wonders of thermal baths and the cool ambiance of a cloud forest, the treasured white sands of the Pacific coastline, and the exotic calls of the morning rainforest. Our sample itineraries can show you remarkable opportunities before you speak with a travel specialist to create a custom trip based on your personal preferences, goals, and interests.

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15  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $13,645

Costa Rica is famous for sweeping rainforest landscapes and pristine beaches. The tropical breeze sweeps through the trees and the delicate calls of the wildlife echo against a mountainous backdrop. Discover romantic bliss on this custom tailored tour that shows you the wild luxuries of the jungle and Costa Rica’s tranquil beachside opulence. Indulge in a couple’s massage and explore secluded trails on horseback. Experience the passion of the countryside with your loved one and create unforgettable memories of a Costa Rican romance.

14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,271

Handcrafted to include the country’s most iconic destinations, this luxurious two-week private tour will reveal a little of everything that makes Costa Rica so unique. Costa Rica is a magical nation of golden beaches, mystical cloud forest, wildlife wonders, and soaring volcanos. From outdoor adventures and wilderness hikes to quiet beach hours, these two weeks celebrate the Costa Rican essence of Pura Vida.

From beautiful beaches to wondrous cloud forests, Costa Rica provides the perfect spaces to relax and play. Monkeys howl, volcanos impress, and you can lead your family on an adventure through the trees. By balancing laid-back relaxation with thrilling activities, this adventurous two-week Costa Rica tour is expertly handcrafted for families with children of all ages. This is a safe and serene place to travel together, and you will discover the best of it, including Arenal, Monteverde, Tamarindo, and Manuel Antonio National Park.

This luxurious 2-week Costa Rica tour dazzles from every angle. Iconic volcanos stand guard over cloud forests and ancient wildlife trails, Caribbean beaches provide nesting sites for different sea turtle species, and unique birds fly around as monkeys howl from the trees. Handcrafted to create intimacy with Costa Rica’s nature, this two-week tour will lead you from turquoise waters to mystical forests with adventures that include hiking, biking, wildlife river cruises, and bathing in natural hot springs.

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $10,915

Your 12-day Costa Rica vacation highlights the desirable glow of the coral reefs and amorous foliage spreading along the slopes of active volcanoes. Romance casts a wide and comfortable shade over the mountainous landscape, from white beaches along the Caribbean Sea to dry forests near the Pacific, and the cloud forests in between. Sit in private pools overlooking the rainforest and listen to the vibrant calls of wildlife. Whether reveling in the romance of your honeymoon or wanting to relive the passion of previous vacations, you will find ardor in the adventure and sensuality in Costa Rica’s divine luxuries.

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2 Week Costa Rica Itinerary – Your Guide For 2024

Are you planning a 2 week Costa Rica itinerary? This is the only guide you’ll need!

Home to stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes, I guarantee you will have the time of your life during your two weeks in Costa Rica.

There’s more to this beautiful country than meets the eye, and with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin.

That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary with all the highlights so you can make the most of your time during your visit.

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW – 2 WEEK COSTA RICA ITINERARY

This 14-day Costa Rica itinerary starts and ends in San José, the capital city of Costa Rica, and where the main international airport is located.

Here is an overview of the perfect 2 Week Costa Rica Itinerary with my recommendations of places to visit in this order;

• Day 1 – San José (Arrival)
• Day 2, 3, & 4 – La Fortuna
• Day 5 & 6 – Monteverde
• Day 7, 8, & 9 – Santa Teresa
• Day 10 & 11 – Manuel Antonio
• Day 12 & 13 – Uvita
• Day 14 – San José (Departure)

QUICK ANSWERS: TWO WEEKS IN COSTA RICA

Before I jump into all of the best places to visit on this Costa Rica two-week itinerary, it’s important to get organized before your trip.

Here are some general travel tips you need to know before you go so that you can have a stress-free experience throughout this incredible country in Central America when you arrive.

HOW TO GET TO COSTA RICA?

The easiest and most convenient way to reach Costa Rica is to arrive by plane at San José International Airport SJO (Juan Santamaría International Airport).

For those who are already traveling in Central America, you’ll find many bus routes connecting Costa Rica with the neighboring countries of Nicaragua and Panama.

BEST TIME TO VISIT COSTA RICA?

Costa Rica is a country that can be enjoyed year-round, however, the best time to visit Costa Rica is from December to April, during the dry season.

If you want to avoid crowds during your 2 week Costa Rica itinerary and spend less on accommodation, traveling in July and August is also a good idea, although you may experience some rainy days.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN 2 WEEKS IN COSTA RICA?

When planning your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary, you’ll want to know the best modes of transportation to get around the country.

Thankfully, traveling Costa Rica isn’t difficult, and there are many different options available such as by bus, rental car, minivan, private transfers, and ferries, to name a few.

BUS & SHUTTLE BUS

Buses and shuttle buses are the most common way to get around Costa Rica, and they’re very reliable making them a great option for backpackers and the average traveler.

Bus fares vary and will cost you anything between USD $5 and USD $60, depending on the distance.

When traveling from one location to another, you can easily book shared shuttle buses with other travelers.

I recommend using the platform Bookaway to search and book all shuttle buses during your 2 week Costa Rica itinerary.

How to get from A to B, stress-free!

Compare and easily book buses, ferries, trains, or private transfers around the world on Bookaway!

With discounted ticket prices and a free app, Bookaway is a one-stop shop for all your ground transportation needs!

Renting a car in Costa Rica is one of the best ways to travel around the country at your own pace. The roads are safe to drive on with the majority of them being tar-sealed.

I recommend renting a vehicle with a larger engine that has more grunt to make it up steep, winding hills that you will come across.

Or go one better and hire a 4×4 vehicle for your 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary.

Although a four-wheel-drive vehicle is not necessary to travel around Costa Rica, it will allow you to reach some areas off the beaten track that a standard car would not be able to.

It’s easiest to pick up and drop off a rental car at San José Airport when you arrive and depart.

Please note : It’s best to book online well in advance, especially during high season, because rental cars tend to sell out very fast.

Car Rental – Search, Compare & Save!

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OTHER MODES OF TRANSPORT

Apart from the above, you will find a variety of other transportation options available for your Costa Rica 2 week itinerary, from minivans and private transfers to taxis and Uber.

In addition, some ferries connect the various peninsulas and islands off the coast.

IS COSTA RICA EXPENSIVE?

Traveling for two weeks in Costa Rica on a mid-range budget will cost you around $2,000 – $4,000, including accommodation, meals, day trips, and car rental.

In general, a hotel will cost you anywhere between $50 and $150 (hostels cost as low as $10 a night), a meal costs between $15 and $30 per person, and transportation can be pretty expensive so you’ll want to budget around $200 per person per week.

Lastly, you should plan between $100 and $200 per person per week for entrance fees and day tours.

Of course, the more people in your group, the cheaper it’ll get, so that’s another factor to consider.

IS COSTA RICA SAFE?

All in all, yes, Costa Rica is a very safe place, however, you should always use common sense and be mindful of your surroundings.

For instance, avoid leaving your belongings and valuables unattended, don’t go to the beach alone at night, and stay away from buying illegal drugs.

DO I NEED A VISA FOR 2 WEEKS IN COSTA RICA?

A 90-day tourist visa is available for free upon arrival in Costa Rica for citizens of all countries. Click here for more information on entry requirements.

If you’re willing to stay longer in the country, you will need to leave Costa Rica and re-enter to get a new 3-month stamp.

That being said, 2 weeks in Costa Rica is a good amount of time, unless you really fall in love with the country (which I guarantee you will) and want to extend beyond 90 days.

2 WEEKS IN COSTA RICA ITINERARY

Now that we’ve covered all the general travel tips and logistics for planning your two weeks in Costa Rica, let’s get to the fun stuff!

So without further ado, here is the ultimate Costa Rica 2-week itinerary to help you plan your trip.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL TO SAN JOSÉ

Start your 2 week Costa Rica itinerary in San Jose, the country’s capital city.

After passing immigration, it’s time to get transportation to your hotel. You can simply grab a taxi out the front, order an Uber, or pre-book a private shuttle to your hotel .

I recommend booking a hotel in Alajuela, a small city located very near SJO airport. You can explore some of the local areas or just chill after a long journey of travel to get here.

Also, I suggest purchasing a sim card when you arrive at San José Airport, or from a local phone shop in town, so you can get online to use Google maps and other handy apps for your 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary.

If you arrive early enough and want to skip San José altogether, (don’t worry, you’re not missing out on much in this city) then I recommend making your way straight to La Fortuna.

I have gone into more detail below about how to get from San José to La Fortuna.

And, if you plan to stay for a week or more in San Jose, why not stop and learn some Spanish ? It will definitely help on your Costa Rica trip!

WHERE TO STAY IN ALAJUELA, SAN JOSÉ

Luxury: hotel martino.

MID RANGE: TERIDA AIPORT B&B

BUDGET: TOUCAN HOSTEL

DAY 2, 3, & 4: LA FORTUNA

La Fortuna is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and the first stop on this Costa Rica 2 week itinerary.

The small town is located at the base of the Arenal Volcano and its nearby hot springs and waterfalls make it a great place for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.

La Fortuna is also home to some of Costa Rica’s best hiking and birdwatching opportunities.

You can hike around the volcano for stunning views, or explore the rainforests in search of rare and exotic birds.

HOW TO GET FROM SAN JOSÉ TO LA FORTUNA

Getting from San José to La Fortuna is very easy as the roads are all tar-sealed and the route is clear with a distance of 115 km and a journey time of around 2.5 – 3 hours.

The earlier you leave San José the better as you’ll avoid the peak-hour city traffic, putting you in La Fortuna around lunchtime which leaves you half a day to explore.

When traveling by rental car to La Fortuna from San José, simply follow the route on Google maps which leads you northwest of the city, and as mentioned above, the journey time is around 2.5 – 3 hours.

BY SHUTTLE BUS

Shuttle bus transportation from San José to La Fortuna is the best and cheapest option for travelers not renting a car.

It’s best to book online in advance to guarantee a seat on the bus and the trip includes a hotel pick-up from San José City and also from Alajuela and a drop-off to your hotel in La Fortuna.

This journey takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes with two daily departures at 7 am and 2 pm.

BOOK NOW: SHUTTLE BUS FROM SAN JOSÉ TO LA FORTUNA

THINGS TO DO IN LA FORTUNA

La Fortuna is a mecca for adventure with many fun-fuelled activities and experiences to be had.

From walking among the treetops on hanging bridges to getting soaked beneath the falls at La Fortuna Waterfall – there is something here for everyone to enjoy.

Three days in La Fortuna is the perfect amount of time to tick off a few bucket-list adventures during your visit.

The best way to get around in La Fortuna (if you don’t have a rental car) is to rent a scooter or motorbike, hail a taxi, or order an Uber which is the cheapest mode of transportation.

HIGHLIGHTS IN LA FORTUNA

• La Fortuna Waterfall
• El Salto Rope Swing
• Mistico Hanging Bridges
• Arenal Volcano National Park
• La Fortuna Hot Springs

These are just a few of the must-see attractions to check out during your visit.

I have also put together a full blog post of 15 Awesome Things To Do In La Fortuna that you should definitely read.

MUST READ: 15 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN LA FORTUNA

WHERE TO STAY IN LA FORTUNA

Luxury: tabacon thermal resort & spa.

MID RANGE: CASA LUNA HOTEL & SPA

BUDGET: SELINA

DAY 5 & 6: MONTEVERDE

Situated in the Tilarán Mountains, Monteverde is a small Costa Rican town well-known for its lush, green scenery and abundance of wildlife.

You can explore the town’s many hiking trails, go birdwatching in the nearby forest reserve, or zip-line through the canopy of the cloud forest.

Also, Monteverde is home to several small family-run farms which produce cheese, honey, and other local specialties.

Monteverde is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature with its verdant landscapes and friendly atmosphere.

HOW TO GET FROM LA FORTUNA TO MONTEVERDE

There are a few transportation options available to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde including by car, minivan, or boat + shuttle bus.

If you’re renting a car , you’ll be able to reach Monteverde from La Fortuna quite easily as all the roads leading to the town are tar-sealed.

The route on Google maps will take you around the edge of Lake Arenal and then up the mountain range to reach Monteverde. The journey time is approximately 3 hours.

Traveling in a shared minivan is another option which includes a hotel pick-up with an experienced driver, and a drop-off at your hotel in Monteverde.

Departure times from La Fortuna are 8 am and 2 pm with a total journey time of approximately 3.5 hours.

BOOK NOW: MINIVAN FROM LA FORTUNA TO MONTEVERDE

By boat & shuttle bus.

I personally traveled by boat and shuttle bus to Monteverde which is the most convenient if you don’t have a rental car, and it’s a shorter journey than taking the minivan option around the entire lake.

When booking this option, it includes a hotel pick-up in La Fortuna, you’ll then be transported to the edge of Arenal Lake, and from here you’ll jump on a shared boat that will take you across the lake, and waiting on the other side is another shuttle bus that will transport you the rest of the way to your hotel in Monteverde.

Departure times from La Fortuna are 8 am and 2 pm with a total journey time of approximately 3 hours.

BOOK NOW: BOAT & SHUTTLE BUS TO MONTEVERDE

THINGS TO DO IN MONTEVERDE

Monteverde is a nature lover’s paradise, from coffee plantations to nature walks to welcoming locals, it’s an unmissable destination on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary.

There are a number of exciting things to do in Monteverde and in just two days you’ll be able to experience the best of the best that this mountainous region has to offer!

As most of the attractions in Monteverde are located outside of Santa Elena (the main town), the best way to get around is by rental car, taxi, Uber, or guided tours that include hotel pick-ups and drop-offs.

Santa Elena, however, can be easily explored on foot as it’s a very small town and all the shops and cafes are located a stone’s throw from one another.

You may also want to check out some of these Costa Rica tours that include Monteverde on the itinerary.

HIGHLIGHTS IN MONTEVERDE

• Monteverde Cloud Forest
• Bird Watching Adventure
• Zip Lining in Monteverde
• Horseback Riding
• Coffee and Chocolate Tour

These are just a few of the fun-fuelled adventures to be had during your visit, however, be sure to check out my complete guide to 10 Awesome Things To Do In Monteverde for more!

MUST READ: 10 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN MONTEVERDE

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTEVERDE

Luxury: senda monteverde hotel.

MID RANGE: CHIRA GLAMPING

BUDGET: CASA TRANQUILO HOSTEL

DAY 7, 8, & 9: SANTA TERESA

Costa Rica is home to many beautiful places, and one of the most special is Santa Teresa, a slice of paradise that’s not to be missed on your Costa Rica 2 week itinerary.

This small town is located on the Nicoya Peninsula and is widely known for its stunning beaches and lush jungle landscape.

Among all the activities in Santa Teresa, you can go surfing, hiking, zip-lining, and even take an ATV tour!

HOW TO GET FROM MONTEVERDE TO SANTA TERESA

After enjoying a couple of days in Monteverde, this 2 week Costa Rica itinerary continues to Santa Teresa. There are several ways of getting here including by car, minivan, shuttle + ferry, and local bus.

For the sake of time and convenience, I highly recommend the minivan option for those who aren’t traveling in a rental car.

It’s not as cheap as the shuttle and ferry option or traveling by local bus, but it’s the most direct.

For this reason, I have only provided the car and minivan transportation options below, though if you want to see more budget alternatives, see this helpful guide .

From Monteverde to Santa Teresa by car, the distance is 215 km and the journey takes around 4 hours and 15 mins.

The road is tar-sealed and when you follow Route 21 on Google maps , you won’t get lost.

As mentioned above, traveling by minivan to Santa Teresa is the most convenient and direct. It includes a hotel pick-up in Monteverde and drop-off at your hotel in Santa Teresa.

There is only one daily departure from Monteverde at 9 am and the journey time to Santa Teresa is approximately 4 hours and 15 mins.

As there is only one departure per day, I recommend booking online well in advance to secure your seat.

BOOK NOW: MINIVAN FROM MONTEVERDE TO SANTA TERESA

THINGS TO DO IN SANTA TERESA

Santa Teresa is known for its bohemian vibe and beautiful beaches, and whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the area’s many activities, Santa Teresa has something for everyone.

The best way to get around in Santa Teresa (if you don’t have a rental car) is by renting a scooter or ATV, hailing a taxi, jumping on the local buses, or exploring the area on foot.

HIGHLIGHTS IN SANTA TERESA

• Day Trip to Isla Tortuga
• Visit Montezuma
• Rent an ATV

RELATED ARTICLE: LAPOINT SURF CAMP IN SANTA TERESA

WHERE TO STAY IN SANTA TERESA

Luxury: hotel nantipa.

MID RANGE: CASA CECILIA BEACHFRONT

DAY 10 & 11: MANUEL ANTONIO

The end of this 14-day Costa Rica itinerary is approaching, and before leaving the country, you definitely can’t skip Manuel Antonio, a small coastal town popular for its incredible Costa Rica beaches , diverse wildlife, and hiking trails.

While in Manuel Antonio, you can enjoy plenty of activities such as exploring the stunning national park, soaking up some sun on the beaches, zip-lining through the treetops, and even taking a waterfall tour.

Of course, you’ll find several restaurants and bars, as well as stunning hotels, so you’ll have lots of choices on where to stay in Manuel Antonio.

HOW TO GET FROM SANTA TERESA TO MANUEL ANTONIO

The route from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio is a little longer than the previous locations above with a journey time of approximately 5.5 hours.

There are a few transportation options available to get from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio including by car + ferry, private transfer, or taxi boat + shuttle bus.

When traveling by car from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio, the fastest way is to take the vehicle ferry from Paquera ferry landing to Puntarenas ferry terminal, and from here drive down the coast to reach Manuel Antonio.

Click here to see the complete route on Google maps.

The cost of the ferry is $25 USD per vehicle and $2 USD per person, and the ferry takes 1.5 hours.

The ferry departure times from Paquera to Puntarenas are 5:30 am, 9 am, 12 pm, 3 pm, 6 pm, and 8:30 pm.

Once you’re in town, you can just book a tour in Manuel Antonio , which is a great way of visiting the area.

PRIVATE TRANSFER

Another great option, if you’re traveling in a group of up to four people, is to take a private transfer in a minivan for around $400.

It takes around 5 hours from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio and you can split the cost between you.

There are daily departures from Santa Teresa and you can choose a pick-up time that best suits you.

It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s the most direct and definitely worth spending a bit extra for a hassle-free transfer.

BY TAXI BOAT & SHUTTLE BUS

Taxi boat and shuttle bus transportation from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio is the fastest and slightly cheaper option for travelers not renting a car and not traveling in a group.

This option includes a hotel pick-up in Santa Teresa and a shuttle bus transfer to Montezuma Beach where you’ll jump onboard a taxi boat, the boat will take you across the Gulf of Nicoya to Playa Herradura, and from here another bus will be waiting to transport you the rest of the way to your hotel in Manuel Antonio.

This journey takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes with only one daily departure from Santa Teresa at 7 am.

It’s best to book online in advance to guarantee a seat on the taxi boat and bus.

BOOK NOW: TAXI BOAT & BUS TO MANUEL ANTONIO

THINGS TO DO IN MANUEL ANTONIO

Manuel Antonio is one of the most popular destinations on a 2 weeks Costa Rica itinerary and for a good reason.

With its national park, zip line opportunities, and incredible waterfalls, it’s no wonder that Manuel Antonio is one of the most beloved destinations in the country.

Depending on where you are staying in Manuel Antonio, getting around on foot is pretty easy. Alternatively, you can rent a car, order an Uber, hail a taxi, or jump on the local bus.

HIGHLIGHTS IN MANUEL ANTONIO

• Manuel Antonio National Park
• Nauyaca Waterfalls Tour
• Day trip to Santa Juana Mountain Village

WHERE TO STAY IN MANUEL ANTONIO

Luxury: los altos resort.

MID RANGE: HOTEL MANUEL ANTONIO

DAY 12 & 13: UVITA

The last stop on this 2 weeks Costa Rica itinerary is Uvita, a coastal town that is growing in popularity with tourists.

Uvita is situated on the edge of the rainforest and its main attractions are Uvita Beach and the Whale Tail in Marino Ballena National Park.

Both are known for their unique landscapes and azul waters which make it the perfect place to go swimming or surfing.

While you’re here, you may want to consider a day trip to Corcovado National Park or a half-day trip to Nauyaca Waterfall.

HOW TO GET FROM MANUEL ANTONIO TO UVITA

Getting from Manuel Antonio to Uvita is very easy as the roads are all tar-sealed along the coastal route with a distance of 65 km and a journey time of around 1 hour.

If you have a rental car, one stop along the way that I highly recommend is Nauyaca Waterfalls, Costa Rica’s most famous waterfall!

It’s a 1 hour and 30 minutes drive from Manuel Antonio and after your visit, it’s a further 1 hour drive to reach Uvita.

Alternatively, for those that don’t have their own transport, you can book a tour to visit Nauyaca Waterfalls but please note this tour can only be booked while you’re in Manuel Antonio as this is where the pick-up and drop-off point is.

When traveling by car to Uvita from Manuel Antonio, simply follow the route on Google maps which leads you along the coastline on Route 34 Costanera Sur and the journey time is around 1 hour.

Minivan transportation from Manuel Antonio to Uvita is the best and one of the cheapest options for travelers not renting a car.

It’s best to book online in advance to guarantee a seat on the bus and the trip includes a hotel pick-up from Manuel Antonio and a drop-off to your hotel in Uvita.

This journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes with three daily departures at 7 am, 1:30 pm, and 6:30 pm.

BOOK NOW: MINIVAN FROM MANUEL ANTONIO TO UVITA

THINGS TO DO IN UVITA

There’s no better place than Uvita to experience all that Costa Rica has to offer, especially for the last days of your 2 weeks in Costa Rica.

From hiking through lush rainforests to relaxing on pristine beaches, there are plenty of things to do in Uvita.

Getting around Uvita on foot is possible, however, some of the attractions are located a little bit outside of the main town so it’s best to rent a car, hail a taxi, or book guided tours.

See below for the must-see highlights in Uvita.

HIGHLIGHTS IN UVITA

• Uvita Beach
• Whale Tail (Marino Ballena National Park)
• Uvita Waterfall (Catarata Uvita)
• Uvita Beer Garden
• Nauyaca Waterfall

WHERE TO STAY IN UVITA

Luxury: kura boutique hotel.

MID RANGE: TROPICAL BEACH

BUDGET: LUMINOSA UVITA HOSTEL

DAY 14: DEPARTURE FROM SAN JOSÉ

After an epic 2 weeks in Costa Rica, it’s time to head back to San José Airport (SJO) for departure.

It’s a straightforward journey taking just 3.5 hours by car, or 3 hours and 45 minutes by shared minivan.

BOOK NOW: SHARED MINIVAN FROM UVITA TO SAN JOSÉ

On the last day of your 2 week Costa Rica itinerary, depending on what time your departure flight is, I recommend visiting another beachside town on the way back such as Dominical, or Jaco, or perhaps spending a few hours exploring San José City.

If you need to book a place to stay near San José Airport, click here to search all accommodation options on Booking.com .

2 WEEK ITINERARY COSTA RICA MAP

Click here for an interactive map of this 2-week itinerary Costa Rica.

WHAT TO PACK FOR 2 WEEKS IN COSTA RICA

For your 2 weeks Costa Rica itinerary, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

More Costa Rica Travel Guides

Click the button below to view all articles related to Costa Rica!

FINAL THOUGHTS – 14 DAY COSTA RICA ITINERARY

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions about how to spend two weeks in Costa Rica, please leave a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

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The Perfect 2-Week Costa Rica Itinerary

Post summary: The perfect itinerary for 2 weeks in Costa Rica

This post contains affiliate links, which means that I will make a small commission of the purchase you make using my links – at absolutely no cost to you! 

Costa Rica may be a small country, but it has A LOT to offer. 

Something that sets Costa Rica apart from nearby Central American countries like Belize and Guatemala is it’s country-wide dedication to sustainability and conservation. This small Central American country is a nature lover’s paradise and the world’s poster child for eco-tourism. 

Costa Rica has an abundance of striking scenery, exotic wildlife, and a serious commitment to sustainability. Couple those with the laid-back pura vida lifestyle and it’s easy to see why it’s so easy to fall in love with this tropical paradise!

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation (or both!), Costa Rica is the perfect destination for your next two week trip. So let’s dive into the planning, logistics, and must-see stops to help you plan an epic two weeks in Costa Rica!

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Costa Rica’s diverse landscape includes rainforests, mountains, beaches, and volcanic crater lakes. It’s also home to an abundance of wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, toucans, and turtles. And the best part is that Costa Rica is relatively small, making it possible to see a whole lot in just two weeks!

With those things in mind, I crafted this itinerary based on our own Costa Rica road trip, the places we loved, and the things we wish we did a little bit differently. 

This is the best itinerary if you want to see a little bit of everything – and then some! It’s also jam packed to make sure you have the most epic adventure possible.

Keep reading for an overview and detailed day-by-day outline.

The 2-Week Route Overview

This 2 Week Costa Rica Itinerary starts and ends at San Jose International Airport in San Jose, Costa Rica . It heads north from San Jose to the town of La Fortuna, before heading to the mountains of Monteverde and then all the way down the Caribbean coast to Corcovado National Park on the southern tip of the Osa Peninsula.

You can also start this trip from Costa Rica’s second largest airport in Liberia. However, starting from Liberia will require some backtracking, and flights into San Jose are usually much cheaper. 

For getting around, this itinerary is best completed with a car. But it’s not an issue if you won’t have a car because Costa Rica has a wonderful bus system. Relying on public transport will just require more advanced planning overall and you will not be able to make all of the stops in between destinations.

Here’s a quick overview: Click here to view the map in Google Maps

Day 1: San Jose

Day 2-4:  San Jose to La Fortuna

Day 5: La Fortuna to Monteverde

Day 6: Monteverde

Day 7: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio 

Day 8: Manuel Antonio to Uvita 

Day 9 – 10: Uvita

Day 11 – 13: Drake Bay 

Day 14: San Jose 

Estimated total drive time: 15 hr 16 min

Estimated total miles for this route: 519 miles (835 km)

Short on time? Scroll down for this 10 day itinerary!

Have extra time? Scroll down for this extended 4 week itinerary!

  Read next: How to plan your road trip using Google Maps

Day 1: Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica

This 2-week Costa Rica road trip starts in San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica. 

On your first day, you will arrive in Costa Rica and get your bearings. How much time you will spend in San Jose depends on when you arrive, since some flights land very early in the day and others arrive late at night. 

If you arrive early in the morning, I recommend driving straight to La Fortuna if you have the energy. Overall, I don’t recommend wasting your time sightseeing in San Jose. It’s not a great city and there are a ton of incredible places waiting for you in La Fortuna! 

However, if you do decide to spend a day in San Jose, then check out the Central Market, the Municipal Craft Market, or learn about Costa Rica’s history at one of the museums. 

Where to stay in San Jose

The best areas to stay near San Jose are the Cariari Ciudad and San Antonio de Belén areas. These areas are located close to the airport, just outside of the city. 

View all stays in San Jose here .

Day 2: San Jose to La Fortuna

If you spent the night in San Jose, then today is the day to get an early start to the adventure capital of Costa Rica – La Fortuna! 

On the way to La Fortuna, stop at La Paz waterfall gardens, which are located in the cloud forest about 1 hour outside of San Jose.

La Paz is a privately-owned nature preserve that houses rescued wildlife and has some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country. The waterfall gardens are open year round, but visit their website for up to date entrance information before you go. However, you might want to skip La Paz if you are traveling on a tight budget. At roughly $50 per person, we found it to be pretty pricey. 

If you don’t mind driving out of the way, a better alternative is Catarata del Toro near the tiny town of Bajos del Toro. Catarata del Toro is the tallest waterfall in Costa Rica and definitely one of the most impressive. This stop adds an extra hour to your drive, which is inconvenient if you just got off a redeye flight. But honestly you won’t regret it.

 The entrance fee to Catarata del Toro is $12 per person and the hike is 1.3 miles round trip. The trail descends down a steep staircase that winds through the cloud forest and ends at the base of the waterfall. Allow yourself approximately 2 hours once you get there to get the full experience.

When you’re done, grab a local lunch at Soda Shaddai before continuing to La Fortuna.

Catarata del Toro, the tallest waterfall in Costa Rica

How to get from San Jose to La Fortuna

The driving distance from San Jose to La Fortuna is 131km (81 miles). You can travel this distance by car, bus, or van transfer. The journey will take about 3 to 4 hours, depending on how you get there.

Without stops, driving yourself takes approximately 3.5 hours. You won’t need a 4×4 in La Fortuna as most of the roads are in good shape. 

Bus or shuttle

If you don’t have a car, you can take a public bus or shuttle service from the SJO airport to La Fortuna. However, you won’t be able to stop at La Paz Waterfall Gardens or Bajos del Toro. 

There are several non-direct buses to choose from. But there is only one public bus that runs directly to La Fortuna from the San Jose. It departs at 8:40AM from Terminal 7-10 in San Jose City Center and costs about 3,000 CRC ($5).  

Private and shared shuttles are also available and come with the advantages of more comfort and door-to-door drop off. The price of a shuttle ranges from $54-$150 depending on the company and how many people are traveling with you. 

It’s easy to get around once you arrive in La Fortuna. You can use the red taxis, Uber, or arrange a tour that offers return transport from your lodge.

Where to stay in La Fortuna

There’s no shortage of hotels, VRBOs, AirBnbs, and eco-lodges in La Fortuna! And the best part is that many of them have a great view of Arenal Volcano.

View all stays in La Fortuna here.

Budget ($): Sloth Cabins (Cabañas Sueños del Arenal) and Hotel Bijagua

Moderate ($$): Hotel El Silencio del Campo  and Tifakara Boutique Hotel

Splurge ($$$): Nayara Gardens

TIP: Check in hours are usually around 2-3PM for most hotels and Airbnb’s in Costa Rica. If you happen to arrive in town well before check in, book a 1/2 day pass to one of the hot springs resorts. This is a super relaxing way to pass the time and also gives you a secure place to park your car with your luggage in it.

Popular resorts, such as Tabacon, usually recommend that you make reservations in advance. However, if your plans are up in the air, check out Hotel Los Lagos, which is first-come-first-served. Hotel Los Lagos is also a real hidden gem because they don’t advertise their day passes online, so it’s rarely crowded and basically never sells out.

For more information, check out my guide to Best Things to do in La Fortuna .

Day 3-4: La Fortuna

Welcome to La Fortuna!

Serving as the gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna is best known for its spectacular nature, ample opportunities for adventure, and it’s proximity to the famous Arenal Volcano. You’ll know you arrived because you have a clear view of the volcano from just about every angle! Seriously, you can’t miss it.

Get ready to spend the next several days relaxing in volcanically heated hot springs, walking above the jungle canopy, hiking through lava fields, and taking on whatever adventure calls your name. 

While you’re in La Fortuna, don’t miss out on hiking Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park . Getting there is an easy and scenic 1.5 hour drive from downtown La Fortuna. The most convenient way to get there is by car, but you can also book a day tour or shuttle to take you there. 

It’s day 5 of your two weeks in Costa Rica – and I hope you’re excited because today you go to Monteverde, a small adventure town located in the heart of the Cordillera de Tilaran Mountains.

If you are driving, then wake up for sunrise and check out Mistico Hanging Bridges on your way to Monteverde. The hike through Mistico Park is about 2 miles (3.2km) and crosses 16 hanging bridges. We arrived at the hanging bridges around 6:30AM  and had most of the park to ourselves, since tour buses don’t arrive until 9:00 AM. Early morning is also the best time to see wildlife, such as snakes, frogs, and howler monkeys! 

Once you arrive in Monteverde, grab some food at Stella’s, and watch the sunset from Cerro Plano Viewpoint/Mirador Valle Escondido Preserve ( here’s the exact location ). It was one of the most beautiful sunsets we saw in Costa Rica!

How to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde

The distance from La Fortuna to Monteverde is 66 miles (106 km). While the two towns look close to each other on the map, they are separated by Lake Arenal, which makes getting between them a lengthy journey. 

By car, your only option is to drive around Lake Arenal via Route 142, which takes about 3.5 hours. 

Coming from La Fortuna, the first half of the drive to Monteverde curves around Lake Arenal on a paved and well-maintained road. However, the last half of the drive is on rough, unpaved roads that climb in elevation through the mountainous Guanacaste region.

We found that high clearance was more important than having 4WD for this drive, but you would likely need a 4×4 in the rainy season.

Shuttle and boat

Without a car, the best way to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde is by taxi-boat-taxi.

You will take a shuttle from your lodge in La Fortuna to the dock at Lake Arenal. From there, it’s a scenic 1 hour boat ride across Lake Arenal, and then another shuttle ride to your lodge in Monteverde. It sounds complicated, but you can hire a tour to take care of all of the arrangements for you – so all you have to do is show up!

You can also book a shuttle from La Fortuna to Monteverde, which takes about 3-4 hours. 

For this trip, I would not recommend taking the public bus because the bus ride can take up to 8 hours.

Where to stay in Monteverde

Monteverde is a another big tourist part of Costa Rica, so there are a ton of places to stay. There’s a place for every budget and experience,  ranging from upscale glamping and unique farm stays, to modest hostels and luxury hotels overlooking the cloud forest.

View all stays in Monteverde here.

Budget ($):   Monteverde Rustic Lodge   and  Casa Rayo de Luna

Moderate ($$): Los Pinos Lodge and Garden

Splurge ($$$): Hidden Canopy Treehouses , Koora Hotel , Chira Glamping Monteverde

For a more remote and local experience, check out this rustic cabin located on an organic farm outside 20 minutes from downtown Monteverde. We stayed here for 2 nights and it was one of the highlights of our trip! However, I don’t recommend this cabin unless you rent a 4×4 because you basically have to go off-roading to get there.

Monteverde is famous for it’s rare cloud forests, which are some of the most unique and biodiverse ecosystems in the world. The cloud forests form at high altitudes and are shrouded in a constant layer of mist and low-hanging clouds. These rare forests make up less than 1% of all forests on Earth, yet they support 2.5% of the entire world’s biodiversity!

The best way to experience the cloud forest is by hiking in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve . Get there by 7AM to beat the crowds and hike the Sendero Camino (Road Trial), which leads to a hanging bridge suspended high above the canopy. From there, take the Sendero Wilford Guindon trail back down. Hiking this loop takes about 1.5 – 2 hours and allows you to see a whole lot in a short amount of time!

If you prefer something more adventurous, visit Monteverde’s hanging bridges parks and go ziplining.

After you explore the cloud forest, refuel at Cafe Colibri (aka the Hummingbird Cafe) to enjoy the astonishing show of hummingbirds. You can also take a local coffee tour or browse the shops in town.

One of my favorite things in Monteverde was how many local art galleries and craft shops there are! For great local handicrafts, check out  Monteverde Art House , which is a locally owned art center that sells original pieces from local artists. We picked up a beautiful handcrafted vase and some other local artwork.

Day 7 of 2 weeks in Costa Rica: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

Wake up and enjoy breakfast at Orchid Coffee before traveling down the Pacific Coast to the white beaches of Manuel Antonio. It takes about 3.5-4 hours to drive from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio, so plan to spend a good portion of your day in the car. 

On the way, stop and stretch your legs at the famous Crocodile Bridge . This bridge passes over the Tarcoles River on the Costanera Sur Highway (Route 34), about halfway between Monteverde and Manuel Antonio.

Park your car in front of the shops on either side and then walk out onto the bridge. Once you’re out there, look down to see an astounding number of enormous American crocodiles hanging out on the river bank. 

Note: Please practice responsible wildlife tourism and do not feed the crocodiles!

How to get from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

It takes about 3.5-4 hours to drive between Monteverde and Manuel Antonio. The drive is very easy and straightforward, as it mainly follows the highway straight down the Pacific Coast to Manuel Antonio.

There is no direct bus between Monteverde and Manuel Antonio, so you will have to take three separate buses. Take the first bus from Monteverde (Santa Elena) to Puntarenas and then take another one from Puntarenas to Quepos. Finally, take a third one from Quepos to Manuel Antonio. 

Alternatively, you can book a shuttle to Manuel Antonio through trusted companies like Interbus, Monteverde Shuttle Bus, or RideCR. While it’s pricier than the bus, the shuttle is a very convenient way to get directly from your hotel in Monteverde to your hotel in Manuel Antonio without having to worry about changing buses and finding your way around. 

However, if you rely on public transportation for this 2-week itinerary, then I suggest staying overnight in Uvita instead of  Manuel Antonio. The reason for this is because the town of Manuel Antonio is not that great and if you stay there for 1 night, then you will have to worry about finding a place to store your luggage the next day while you visit the national park. It’s honestly just not worth the hassle, so just go straight to Uvita and book a guided day trip from Uvita to Manuel Antonio National Park for the next day. 

Where to stay in Manuel Antonio

There’s no shortage of places to stay in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. Whether you’re looking for a luxury bungalow or a more budget-friendly option, you’ll be able to find it here.

The majority of lodgings are located along the main road between the town of Quepos and Manuel Antonio National Park, but there are also Airbnb’s, resorts, and more local stays along side roads and in the hills.

Prices for lodging tend to be toward the mid-to-high end as you get closer to the national park, but there are still some budget friendly options and hostels. The most affordable prices are closer to Quepos.

View all stays in Manuel Antonio here

Budget ($): Hostel Plinio and Peace of Paradise Hotel

Moderate ($$): Tranquilidad Resort and Hotel La Mariposa

Splurge ($$$): Tulemar Bungalows & Villas

Day 8: Manuel Antonio to Uvita

You will spend the first half of this day exploring the picture perfect beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park.

Tickets   to the national park can only be purchased online directly from the national park website or as part of a guided tour package. There are only 300 tickets per time slot, so book your ticket a few days ahead in order to get the earliest time available.

The park is open from 7AM – 4PM every day, except it is closed on Tuesday. To get there, put  this location into your GPS, which will take you to the correct entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park. 

While you can visit the park on your own, you will get the most out of your experience if you hire a licensed guide. A guide will help you spot hidden wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and iguanas and use a spotting scope so you can see them up close.

You can purchase an official guided tour  for about $60 per person, which includes your entrance fee. However, I recommend booking through Airbnb Experiences instead because group sizes are usually a lot smaller. You can book this quick  2 hour tour through Airbnb  (entrance ticket not included) or this more robust 3-hour experience that includes your ticket price. 

Note: If you follow this 2-week itinerary, you will check out of your accommodation before you visit the national park. If you have a car, DO NOT take your luggage with you and leave it in the car. Instead, arrange for your accommodation to store your luggage in a safe location during the day. And then go back and pick it up before you drive to Uvita.

How to get from Manuel Antonio to Uvita

Uvita is 44 miles (71 km) from Manuel Antonio. The drive only takes about 1 hour and follows the highway down the coast.

While a 4×4 isn’t required on the main roads in Uvita, you may need a 4×4 to reach the accommodations nestled up in the hills. Check with your hotel/host ahead of time. They will advise on what type of transportation you need to get there. 

Taking the public bus is the cheapest way to get from Manuel Antonio to Uvita Center. The bus costs between $3-8 and takes about 3 hours. Alternatively, you can book a shuttle or taxi. The easiest way to arrange a shuttle or taxi is to ask your lodge to recommend a driver. 

However, once you get to Uvita, everything is very spread out. So, either plan to do a ton of walking or call a cab to take you around. If you find a taxi driver you like, ask for their phone number so you can call them whenever you need a ride. 

Where to stay in Uvita

If you want to be close to the action, consider staying in the heart of town. Here, you will be in walking distance to Uvita Beach and Marino Ballena National Park. For a more relaxed and local atmosphere, choose a lodge at the north end of Uvita, in the lush hills above the town. You can also stay around the charming nearby town of Dominical.

View all stays in Uvita here

Budget ($): Casa Viva Barrel , Oasis Uvita , and  Ballena Paraiso

Moderate ($$): Oxygen Jungle Villas & Spa and ArtVillas Costa Rica

Splurge ($$$): Rancho Pacifico

Day 9: Uvita 

Uvita is famous for its pristine beaches, lush jungle, and stunning hillside boutique hotels. 

At first glance, Uvita isn’t very spectacular. The town itself is basically a collection of shops and strip malls lining the highway. But if you venture just slightly off beaten path, you’ll find that the real draw of Uvita is its natural beauty. 

Uvita is a popular spot for surfers, thanks to the year-round waves. It’s also home to some of Costa Rica’s most impressive beaches, waterfalls, and wildlife. 

Although it is becoming increasingly popular, Uvita is still relatively unknown to most tourists. For this reason, it’s a lot quieter than other parts of Costa Rica and maintains more of a local feel. So if you crave quieter, less crowded places, Uvita will feel like a breath of fresh air – especially after traveling to Manuel Antonio and all of the other tourist spots in the North Pacific regions!

How to spend 1 full day in Uvita: 

Morning: Book an early morning trip to visit the majestic Nauyaca Waterfalls , which tumble over a combined 200 feet (61 meters) into a large natural swimming pool. . Alternatively, book an early morning whale watching tour to see humpback whales. The best time to see whales in Costa Rica is January – February and July – September. 

Afternoon: Explore the small town of Uvita and nearby Dominical. I personally loved Dominical and highly recommend browsing the souvenir tables next to Playa Dominical!  For more adventure, check out the Uvita Waterfall (called “Catarata Uvita” on Google Maps) or Cascada El Pavon. Both waterfalls are easy to reach, so you could probably see both if you really wanted to. However, I recommend picking one and taking your time to relax and enjoy! 

Sunset: Don’t even think about missing a sunset on the Pacific Coast!

For the best sunset, visit Marino Ballena National Park, which is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including dolphins, humpback whales, and turtles. If you have a drone, send it up at low tide to see where the two beaches meet and create a formation known as the whale’s tail!

  Read next: How to Visit Nauyaca Waterfalls near Uvita

Day 10: Uvita to Drake Bay

This day of your 2 weeks in Costa Rica will be spent traveling to Drake Bay, located way down on the Osa Peninsula. But don’t worry, this full day of travel isn’t boring as it sounds. Since Drake Bay is super remote, getting there is an adventure in itself! 

While there are a few ways to get to Drake Bay, the  best (and most fun!) way to get there is via a 40 minute boat ride from Sierpe  (pronounced sea-air-pay ).

The boat ride from Sierpe to Drake Bay takes about an hour. It takes you down the Sierpe River and then out into the Pacific Ocean and along the rugged coast of the Osa Peninsula. It’s super fun!

Tip: Make sure you have enough cash to last you in Drake Bay. You will need cash for the majority of things in Drake Bay, including tours, food, and the boat ride to get there. There are no ATMs in Sierpe or Drake Bay, so don’t forget to stop at the ATM in Uvita before you leave!

How to get from Uvita to Drake Bay

From Uvita, you will first need to travel to Sierpe to catch the boat to Drake Bay.

There is a a bus that departs once a day from Uvita Station and goes directly to Sierpe Station. The ride takes about 1h 40m and costs between $3-5. 

By car, the drive from Uvita to Sierpe takes about 50 minutes. It is very important to know that you won’t take the car with you to Drake Bay. Instead, you will leave it in Sierpe until you get back.

To park your car, drive to La Perla del Sur Restaurant , which is right next to the Sierpe River Ferry. There will be people outside asking you where you’re going. Tell them you’re going to Drake Bay and that you need a parking pass. From there, they’ll direct you to the guy handing out parking passes and he’ll tell you where to park.

As of 2022, the price for parking is 3,000 colones ($4.36) per day. Don’t lose your parking pass! You will use it to pay for parking when you come back to pick up the car.

Taxi boat schedule from Sierpe to Drake Bay: 

The boat leaves from Sierpe to Drake Bay twice a day.

• 11:30 AM – $15 USD (9,000 colones) per person
• 3:30 PM – $20 USD. (13,000 colones) per person

The cost of the boat is for a one-way ticket, which you will pay in cash (either dollars or colones) before you get off the boat. The ride takes about 1 – 1.5 hours , depending on how many stops the boats take to drop people off at various lodges along the way.

Where to stay in Drake Bay

If there’s anywhere in Costa Rica to splurge on lodging, it’s in Drake Bay. Partly because Drake Bay is such a beautiful place, but also because most lodging in Drake Bay is more pricey than in other parts of Costa Rica. 

If you want a modest escape, choose a small hotel or rustic cabin close to town. These places are more bare bones and typically offer breakfast packages or a very modest meal service, but have the advantage of being closer to town so you can explore more easily.

For a more luxurious stay, there are top notch eco-lodges and boutique hotels further outside of town that offer all-inclusive packages. These lodges are nestled deep in the hills among secluded slices of jungle or along the coast along private beaches. 

Pretty much everywhere in Drake Bay offers the same tour packages, regardless of where you stay. And every lodge will help you book everything once you get there. However, if you’re a type A planner, then it might give you peace of mind to contact your accommodation ahead of time to let them know what tours you’re interested in.

View all stays in Drake Bay here

Budget ($): Sunset Lodge , Casa Pequeña , Life for Life Hostel (Sea Turtle Marine Conservation Project)

Moderate ($$): Las Cotingas , Las Caletas Lodge

Splurge ($$$): La Paloma Lodge and  Copa de Arbol Beach & Rainforest Resort

Day 11 – 12: Drake Bay

Welcome to Drake Bay! While it’s the last stop on your two week Costa Rica itinerary, it’s also the best of them all. 

As one of the least visited parts of Costa Rica, Drake Bay truly feels like you’ve stepped into a real life Jungle Book. Set in a thriving, biologically diverse lowland rainforest, Drake Bay offers a huge variety of pristine beaches, lush jungle, and exotic wildlife.

One of the things you MUST do in Drake Bay is visit Corcovado National Park. Drake Bay is the gateway to Corcovado National Park, which is one of the most intense and biologically diverse places on earth. It is entirely wild and unspoiled, filled with virgin beaches, thick jungle, and wildlife around every single corner. The park is heavily protected and you can only access it with a guide and a permit . 

Almost all of the lodges in Drake Bay can help you arrange a guided day trip or overnight tour to Corcovado.

A guided tour to Corcovado National Park

Other must-do things in Drake Bay are taking a night tour with Tracie the Bug Lady, relaxing on the secluded beaches along the Drake Bay Public Trail, and snorkeling with vibrant marine life at Caño Island. 

And at the end of an adventure filled day, head over to Kalaluna Bistro for a gourmet meal made from local ingredients. From your table, watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean. Don’t forget to look up to spot scarlet macaws flying overhead on their way back to their nest for the night. 

Read next: The Ultimate Guide to Drake Bay, Costa Rica

Day 13: Drake Bay to Uvita

On day 13 of your two weeks in Costa Rica, you will say goodbye to Drake Bay and head back to Uvita. To get back to Uvita, you will first take the boat from Drake Bay to Sierpe.

There are two public boats that leave Drake Bay to go back to Sierpe:

• 7:15 AM – $15 USD per person
• 2:30 PM – $20 USD per person

You will pay for the ride in cash before you get off the boat in Sierpe. 

If you have a car, pay for your parking with the ticket they gave you when you first arrived.

To take the bus, catch a taxi or shuttle to the station in Palmar Norte, about 20 minutes away. From there, a bus leaves every 4 hours to Uvita. However, if you have an early flight the next morning, then just take this bus straight back to San Jose. 

Day 14:  Uvita to San Jose 

Your adventurous 2-weeks in Costa Rica is coming to an end, as you pack up to catch your flight home.

If you have time, wake up extra early and catch one last sunrise at Playa Uvita. Then, grab breakfast to go at Cafe Mono Congo in Dominical before you make the 3 hour drive back to San Jose.

Hopefully you’ll be ending your trip with plenty of amazing memories and epic photos to tide you over until your next visit to Central America! 

For your IG: 70+ Instagram Captions for Travellers

Costa Rica Entry Requirements for COVID-19

As of writing this (July 2022), Costa Rica is open to travelers from all countries. You do not need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test, proof of vaccination, or proof of insurance that covers COVID-19 related illness. There are no required health screening procedures required upon entry to Costa Rica.

It is no longer mandatory to wear a mask throughout the country, but hand-washing and temperature taking protocols are still in place in popular tourist areas.

This information is up-to-date as of July 2022. For more details and the most recent information, please review the information from the US Embassy website or the Costa Rica Tourism Board .

Getting to Costa Rica

There are two major airports in Costa Rica :

• Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose
• Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) in Liberia 

SJO is usually the best airport to fly into because it’s the often the cheapest and most convenient starting point for a country-wide road trip. It’s also the best airport if you prefer to fly direct because you can usually find a non-stop flight to SJO from major cities in the United Sates.

However, you might want to fly into Liberia if you find a really great flight deal or if your first/only travel destination is in the Guanacaste region, such as Monteverde, Tamarindo, or the Papagayo Peninsula. Flights into Liberia are usually more expensive than SJO, but it might be worth paying slightly more for a flight into Liberia if it means you’ll spend less time traveling once you arrive in Costa Rica. 

When it comes to finding the best flight deals, timing is everything. For the cheapest prices, aim to book your tickets at least three months in advance and avoid peak season and major holidays.  For the most part, flight prices are highest during the dry season, which runs from January – April. 

If your travel dates are flexible, you might be able to find cheaper flights during the “green season” from May-December. Within the the green season, the months of September and October tend to have some of the lowest airfare prices. However, the green season is the rainy season, so come prepared for tons of rain to accompany those low prices.

The best way to travel in Costa Rica: How to get around for a Costa Rica 2 Week Itinerary

Renting a car.

If you want to see a lot in a short amount of time, then the best way to travel in Costa Rica is by rental car. A rental car is also the best way to complete this specific 2 week Costa Rica itinerary. 

With a rental car, you can easily visit different regions, go at your own pace, and stop whenever something catches your interest.

While renting a car in Costa Rica can be pretty pricey, I truly think it’s worth splurging on if you can. Luckily, a lot of the roads in Costa Rica are in great shape, so you won’t need a 4×4 for the places on this 2 week itinerary unless you need one to reach your accommodation or if you’re traveling in the rainy season.

In general, renting a 4×2 with high clearance will be fine between December – April , and will save you a ton of money.

I highly recommend renting your car from Adobe Rent a Car to get the best prices without hidden fees. We used them for our own trip and the whole process was flawless.

Using public transportation

If you don’t want to rent a car, public buses, taxis, and shuttle services are very accessible in Costa Rica. While not nearly as convenient as a having your own car, using a combination of public transportation and private shuttles can get you almost anywhere you need to go. 

Though private transfer services appear expensive at first glance, they are often priced for the entire vehicle, not per person. So, depending on how many people you are traveling with, private shuttles might be the cheapest and most comfortable way to get around. 

When to visit

The weather is of the most important things to consider when planning a trip to Costa Rica.

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from mid-December to April. In the dry season, the weather is hot and humid with occasional rain showers. The downside is that it’s also the busiest time of year in Costa Rica, so expect higher prices and crowded beaches.

The cheapest and least crowded time to visit Costa Rica is the rainy season (May-November). Just be prepared for cooler temperatures and heavy rain. Although the wet weather can be a bit discouraging, the upside is that lodging and other activities are much cheaper during this time. 

The wettest months are September and October, so try to avoid those. For the best combination of weather and crowds, try visiting in May, June or November. 

How much does a two week trip to Costa Rica cost?

A two week trip to Costa Rica can be expensive, depending on your travel style and accommodation choices. The most expensive part of the trip is likely to be the car rental, because prices vary significantly depending on the type of vehicle you choose.

To complete this two week itinerary, having a rental with high clearance is more important than a having a 4×4. Not having a 4×4 will save you a lot of money, but even a 4×2 SUV can cost upwards of $100 per day. Alternatively, you can take public transportation, which is significantly cheaper but may not be as convenient.

Accommodation costs can also add up, especially if you stay in luxury hotels or resorts. However, there are many ways to save money on accommodation in Costa Rica! For example, you can rent a budget hotel or hostel, go glamping, or choose an off-the-beaten-path Airbnb. If you’re willing to rough it, you can even camp for free in some of Costa Rica’s national parks.

When it comes to food, Costa Rica is relatively expensive compared to other countries in Central America. A meal at an upscale or American-style restaurant costs about $20-30. But if you eat at the sodas (the small local restaurants), a typical meal is usually $5-8 for a full plate of food.

Keep in mind that prices can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the location. Overall, a two-week trip to Costa Rica can cost anywhere from $1500 to $3,000, not including your flight.

How much we spent in 2 weeks in Costa Rica

Here’s exactly how much we spent on a 2 week road trip through Costa Rica in January:

• Car rental: $1400
• Airbnbs: $1150
• Boats/Public transport: $70
• Entrance fees and parking: $280
• Tours: $270
• Local handicrafts/souvenirs: $150

GRAND TOTAL: $4040

These prices are for two people and we split everything in half, which came to $2020 per person for the whole trip, or $1010/person/week.

We did treat ourselves to some splurge stays and a few fancy meals, so we weren’t being as careful with our budget as we normally are.

But overall, Costa Rica is not an ultra budget friendly destination. We found that prices are extremely comparable to the United States. Especially the price of a rental car, accommodation, and some restaurant prices. There are also entrance fees to just about everything, which is great because the money goes toward conservation. But definitely something to factor into your budget before you go!

Is Costa Rica safe?

With its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and friendly people, Costa Rica is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Central America. But is Costa Rica safe? The short answer is yes, as long as you follow a few precautions.

Costa Rica has a relatively low crime rate, and visitors are rarely the victims of violence. However, there are some things to be aware of – as with anywhere you travel.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, is common in busy areas like airports, on buses, and around tourist hotspots. Always be aware of your surroundings, don’t flash expensive items, don’t walk around at night, and hold your backpack on your lap when you’re on the bus.

It’s also important to be cautious when driving. Some roads are in poor condition and there is a risk of carjackings in remote areas. And finally, never  assume parking is secure! Never leave valuables visible in your car and always roll up your windows and lock your doors.

Overall, Costa Rica is a safe place to visit, and with a little common sense, you’ll have a wonderful time. 

Download the 2-week itinerary to take it with you on the go!

The Best 10 Day Itinerary for Costa Rica  

Are you wondering what is the best 10 day itinerary for Costa Rica? Follow this 10 Day Costa Rica itinerary that hits all of the highlights…and then some! 

10-Day Route Overview

Follow this abridged route from the capital city of San Jose, up La Fortuna and then west to the cloud forests of Monteverde. After that, travel straight down the Pacific Coast to Uvita, which can serve as your home base for day trips to Manuel Antonio and Caño Island.

Access the 10 Day Itinerary on Google Maps

Day 7: Monteverde to Uvita

Day 8 – 9: Uvita (day trip options from Uvita: Manual Antonio, Caño Island, whale watching)

Day 10: Uvita to San Jose

Estimated total drive time: 13 hr 6 min

Estimated total miles for this route:  432 miles (695 km)

Extend Your Costa Rica Trip: A 4-Week Itinerary 

Have extra time to spare? See both the Pacific and the Caribbean Coast to make a giant and completely epic Costa Rica road trip!

4-Week Route Overview

Costa Rica is a pretty small country, so you can actually cover quite a bit in 4 weeks. Follow this 4 week road trip from San Jose to the Caribbean coastal towns of Puerto Viejo and Tortuguero.

From Tortuguero, travel northwest to La Fortuna and Monteverde, before visiting the volcanos and waterfalls in El Rincon de la Vieja National Park.

Next, hop between the quaint beach towns around the Nicoya Peninsula.

Finally, cross the Gulf of Nicoya and head all the way down the Pacific Coast to the dense jungles of Drake Bay and Corcovado National Park. 

Access the 4 Week Itinerary on Google Maps

Day 2-7:  Visit Puerto Viejo (3 days) and Tortuguero (3 days) on the Caribbean Coast

Day 8-10: La Fortuna

Day 11-12: Monteverde

Day 13: El Rincon de la Vieja National Park

Day 14-18:  Drive around the Nicoya Peninsula. Visit Tamarindo (1 day), Nosara (2 days), Santa Teresa (3 days). On Day 18, take the ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya to Manuel Antonio.

Day 19:  Manuel Antonio to Uvita 

Day 20-21: Uvita

Day 22: Uvita to Sierpe and then take the water taxi to Drake Bay

Day 23-26: Drake Bay 

Day 27:  Drake Bay to Uvita

Day 28:  Uvita to San Jose 

Estimated total drive time: 36 hr 56 min

Estimated total miles for this route:  1135 miles (1826 km)

Did you find this 2 Week Costa Rica Itinerary and Travel Guide helpful? Let me know in the comments!

More from central america.

The Ultimate Guide to Drake Bay, Costa Rica (Things to Do, How to Get There, and Where to Stay!)

11 Awesome Things to do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica: The Ultimate Travel Guide

The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Rio Celeste Costa Rica

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Ultimate Two Week Costa Rica Itinerary

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Two-Week Costa Rica Itinerary

This post is all about the best two-week Costa Rica itinerary.

Are you planning a trip to Costa Rica and wondering where to go? This is my idea of the perfect Costa Rica itinerary for travelers who have two weeks to spend there.

I spent a little over two weeks in Costa Rica with G Adventures.

This itinerary is a modified version of the itinerary we followed in their Costa Rican Adventure tour.

If you only have two weeks in Costa Rica, this itinerary will allow you to see all the highlights of the country and maximize your time exploring Costa Rica!

There’s a mix of beaches, jungles, and mountains in this itinerary so you can get an idea of all the biodiversity and variety of experiences that this country has to offer.

Day 1: San Jose

Start your trip in San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital city where most international flights arrive.

Many travelers skip the capital entirely, but it’s worth spending a day in this cool, urban city before you begin your journey around the natural wonders of Costa Rica.

After you get settled in, spend the afternoon and evening exploring the city.

Where to stay:  Gran Hotel Costa Rica

What to do in San Jose:

• Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica
• Tour the opulent, historic National Theater
• Admire the street art on Calle 17
• Have dinner at one of San Jose’s many trendy restaurants

Day 2-4: Puerto Viejo

Next stop is Puerto Viejo! This is one of Costa Rica’s coolest beach towns  located on the Caribbean coast. It’s about a 4.5 hour drive from San Jose. 

The Caribbean influence is evident in Puerto Viejo, with lots of reggae music and dishes with island flavor. This laidback beach town attracts lots of surfers due to its great waves.

Where to stay:  Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel

What to do:

• Rent bikes – it’s the best way to get around town!
• Take a surfing lesson with Surf Meds Caribe ($60)
• Hit the beach at Playa Cocles or Playa Chiquita
• Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center ($20)
• Kayak or paddleboard on the Punta Uva River

Day 4-6: Tortuguero

From Puerto Viejo, it’s a 4-hour drive up the Caribbean coast to arrive in Tortuguero. Most of this area is a national park and it’s one of the best places in the country to go to spot wildlife.

It’s also extremely rugged and remote, with the towns and lodges only accessible by boat!

This was where I saw some of the most wildlife in Costa Rica, including sloths, monkeys, caimans, and toucans. You’ll also want to wear TONS of mosquito repellent here!

Where to stay:  Aninga Lodge

• Take a guided boat tour through the canals
• Kayak or canoe in the canals if you’re feeling more adventurous!
• See the turtles nesting (March through October)
• Explore Tortuguero town
• Climb to the top of Cerro de Tortuguero for a great view

Day 6-9: La Fortuna

From Tortuguero, it’s time to head inland to La Fortuna. This drive takes about 3.5 hours. La Fortuna is a small town near the stunning Arenal volcano. 

It’s also known as the adventure activity capital of Costa Rica. So if you’re looking for exciting activities that will get your adrenaline pumping, this is the place!

Where to stay:  Hotel Arenal Kioro

• Hike the Arenal volcano
• Go waterfall rappelling with Desafio Adventure Company ($90)
• Relax at one of La Fortuna’s many hot springs
• Visit La Fortuna Waterfall ($18)
• Go whitewater rafting
• Take a day trip to the Rio Celeste waterfall

Day 9-11: Monteverde

Next stop: Monteverde! This mountainous town has a cool, windy climate all year round.

There’s no direct route from La Fortuna because Lake Arenal is in the way. You can either drive around the lake (taking about 3.5 hours) or take a van-boat-van route passing through the lake (this option takes about the same amount of time.)

Monteverde is another one of the best places to spot wildlife in Costa Rica, and it also has its share of adventure activities like ziplining through the trees.

Where to stay:  Koora Hotel

• Go ziplining through the jungle with Selvatura ($50)
• Take a nighttime nature walk
• Walk the hanging bridges in the cloud forest ($37)
• Learn about how coffee is made on a coffee tour

Day 11-13: Quepos

Your last stop on your two week Costa Rica adventure will be Quepos.

It’s about a 3.5 hour drive from Monteverde, and the cool mountain air will quickly melt away into a warm beachy climate as you get closer to your destination.

Located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Quepos is another beach town that is known for its beautiful beaches and proximity to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can see lots of wildlife.

Where to stay: Gaia Hotel

• Visit Manuel Antonio National Park ($18)
• Spend the day relaxing at the beach
• Take a sunset catamaran cruise with Ocean King ($80)

Day 14: San Jose

On your last day, you’ll head back to San Jose from Manuel Antonio, which takes about 3 hours. 

From here you’ll head home from your amazing Costa Rica vacation!

I hope you enjoyed this two week Costa Rica itinerary!

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About Denise Cruz

Denise is a marketing executive who escaped corporate to travel the world… twice. A Brazilian native living in the U.S., she’s lived in 4 countries and visited 35+ others. After side-hustling her way to financial independence, she curates solo destination guides, slow travel tips, and travel blogging advice on Wander Her Way. When she’s not on the road, you can find her in Miami with her dog Finnegan.

2 Weeks in Costa Rica Itinerary (from San Jose): The Best Highlights

You have seen all the images, of the white waterfalls tucked deep inside the lush rainforests, of the sloths snuggling the trees, of the waves crashing on to the shores lined by tropical jungle. Now, it is time for you to live those images in real life. You plan to spend two weeks in Costa Rica but pondering over the perfect itinerary? We have got you covered with this Costa Rica 2 week itinerary covering the country’s best highlights.

We curated this itinerary such that during your two weeks in Costa Rica, you get introduced to all the nature treasures of this magnificent country in Central America, but not without getting a little glimpse of the city life. Following this Costa Rica itinerary, over just two weeks, you will be exploring rainforests and cloud forests, mountains and beaches, volcanoes and waterfalls, and wild animals, birds and marine life, all of which may inspire you to keep returning to this little land of pura vida .

As Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for supporting Paradise Catchers.

Activities:  Create your Costa Rica travel plan based on our guide about the best activities in Costa Rica .

Hotels near San Jose (SJO) Airport : Looking for hotels near the San Jose Airport? Choose from our list of luxury or boutique hotels, budget, and chain hotel options in this SJO Hotels guide .

Watch our YouTube video below about the essence of Costa Rica and get inspired to book that ticket!

Table of Contents

Costa Rica 2-Week Itinerary

This 2-week Costa Rica itinerary considers arrival and departure via the San Jose airport.

In this itinerary, you will be exploring a bit of the city and surrounds , and then head to two of Costa Rica’s most popular tourist destinations, La Fortuna and Monteverde , and finally conclude the trip with a few days in the beautiful beach town of Uvita in the south Pacific region.

Costa Rica Itinerary from Liberia: Check this itinerary if you are flying in to/out of Liberia airport.

Day 1: Arrive at SJO – San Jose Parks and Museums

If you are flying in early, you can spend the day exploring San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica. This is the most population dense part of the country and other visitors may recommend you to leave from here as soon as you reach. But allow me to offer a different take here.

Costa Rica is not big on historical sites. In fact, apart from Guayabo National Monument and Finca 6 , there are no protected heritage sites open for tourists. The rest of the days on your Costa Rica itinerary, you will delving deeper into knowing nature and wildlife of Costa Rica. So, to get a sniff of the country’s history, on the first day, you can visit the different museums, all clustered around the same region in San Jose.

Some of the popular museums are National Museum of Costa Rica , Jade Museum , Pre-Columbian Gold Museum and Museum of Costa Rican Art . A good way to get introduced to this cultural aspect of the city is to take a walking tour. Later, in the afternoon, you can take a stroll in La Sabana Park , the largest urban park of Costa Rica.

Please note, San Jose airport is actually in Alajuela, not in the San Jose city. If you want to explore San Jose, you can stay in San Jose city, which will be about 30 minutes cab ride from the airport. Else, you can stay in Alajuela which is closer to the airport.

Day 2: La Paz Waterfalls + Poas Volcano + Coffee Tour

For the second day of your Costa Rica itinerary, book a combo tour that will offer you glimpses of some of the country’s highlights – volcano, waterfalls and coffee.

This is a popular day tour from San Jose spanning almost the entire day. The tour includes a Coffee Experience at Doka Coffee Estate , a visit to the Poas Volcano National Park and La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park .

At Doka Coffee Estate, you get to see and learn about the techniques used for producing and harvesting the delicious Costa Rican coffee.

Only 1.5 hours drive away, Poas Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes of Cental America. You can walk right up to the crater and see up close an emerald crater lake.

La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park is home to 5 beautiful waterfalls, a hummingbird garden, a trout lake, an old traditional Tico model house and a wildlife refuge that provides rehabilitation in a natural setting for rescued animals that are incapable of living in the wild anymore.

Check out these interesting tour options in San Jose.

Day 3: San Jose > La Fortuna – La Fortuna Waterfall + Hot Springs

On Day 3, you transfer from San Jose to a new destination, La Fortuna. It is located about 130 km (81 miles) away and the drive takes a little over 2.5 hours.

La Fortuna is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica. Located in the northern plains of Costa Rica, it is a small but prosperous town where you will find plenty of things to do.

Catarata La Fortuna

After you check-in to your La Fortuna hotel and settle in, head to La Fortuna waterfall . It is a lovely white waterfall that drops 70 meters (230 feet) into a sparkling green natural pool. You do need to put in a bit of work to reach this waterfall. The trail from entrance to the waterfall has 500 steps but are well-paved and are in excellent condition. However, despite the little hike, spending time at La Fortuna waterfall, surrounded by the lush rainforests, is deeply refreshing.

Watch our YouTube video below about La Fortuna waterfall .

La Fortuna Hot Springs

In the evening, wash away all your travel exhaustion by relaxing at what La Fortuna is best know for, the hot springs . The geothermal activities caused by the Arenal volcano feed the hot springs of La Fortuna.

If you are staying at a hot springs resort, you will have free access to all their thermal pools for the entire duration of your stay. Otherwise you can buy a day pass or a night pass for any of the hot springs of La Fortuna.

Some of the popular hot spring resorts are Tabacon , Baldi , Los Lagos , Paradise, Springs . Another option for some hot springs relaxation is Eco Termales , which is run independently and not as part of any resort.

Read about our experience at Eco Termales Hot Springs, a romantic setting in the rainforest.

Day 4: Rio Celeste Waterfall

On Day 4, take a day trip from La Fortuna to visit one of the most stunning waterfalls of Costa Rica , Rio Celeste .

The gushing white waterfall drops into a dreamy sky-blue colored natural pool. There is a spiraling staircase that leads you to the viewing platform near the waterfall. You cannot swim here, but the views are more than enough to keep you enticed. If you do not want to hike down all way via those hundreds of steps, you can still get beautiful views of the Rio Celeste waterfall surrounded by lush green tropical forest.

Rio Celeste waterfall is part of the Tenorio Volcano National Park . After completing the waterfall trail, you can explore the other trail that takes you through different secondary volcanic activities and at the end the confluence of two rivers, where Rio Celeste gets its bright blue color.

From La Fortuna, it takes about 1.5 hours to reach the park entrance, which is located 68 km (42 miles) away.

To know more about this waterfall, read our guide on Rio Celeste and Tenorio Volcano National Park .

This is a guided full-day tour option to Rio Celeste from La Fortuna.

Day 5: La Fortuna – Sloths, Birds and Volcano

Divide Day 5 of your Costa Rica itinerary into two parts, the first part focused on spotting birds and sloths, and the other part for getting close to the mighty Arenal volcano.

Bogarin Trail

Bogarin Trail is a glaring example of how nature rewards you if you take care it.

For years, the land was left open allowing the growth of forests to take its natural course. Along came new residents on the trees, several sloths that now inhabit the Bogarin Trail. Not just sloths, you can also spot a variety of birds while walking on these trails as well as at the natural feeder near the reception office.

Read this post for more detailed information about visiting Bogarin Trail in La Fortuna.

Arenal Volcano Lava Trails

For the second part of the day, go for a hike on the lava trails created from past eruptions of the Arenal volcano. There are two ways to experience this activity.

The first option is to hike on the trails of the Volcano Sector of Arenal Volcano National Park . Few kilometers away, the national park also has a Peninsula Sector that takes you closer to the Arenal Lake with views of the volcano as the backdrop. Check out our detailed guide for visiting both sectors of Arenal Volcano National Park.

The other option is to go on a hike on the trail of the privately owned Arenal 1968 .

While both the options are good for the hike and views of the volcano, we feel the Arenal 1968 trail has better views to accompany you and for longer. From almost all parts of the trail, you get to see the perfectly shaped Arenal Volcano surfacing from a vast expanse of green plains.

Day 6: La Fortuna > Monteverde

On Day 6, you transfer from La Fortuna to the other popular destination of Costa Rica, Monteverde . It takes more than 3 hours to cover this distance of 122 km (76 miles).

The drive will take you past the vast Arenal Lake and beautiful vistas of rolling green mountains. To add one more to the list of chasing waterfalls in Costa Rica, you can also make a stop at the Viento Fresco waterfalls en route.

The journey from La Fortuna to Monteverde is not very long but can be tiring as a fair bit is on the winding mountain roads. Although there are plenty of things to do in Monteverde, take it easy on the first day. Eat a good meal, explore the town center, sip on Monteverde coffee and end the day by watching a glorious sunset.

But, even after the journey between La Fortuna and Monteverde, if you are up for some night time adventure, go for a guided night walk in Monteverde . You will get the chance to spot those animals and birds, arthropods, amphibians and reptiles that only become active after the night falls.

Day 7: Monteverde – Zip-lining + Hanging Bridges / El Tigre Waterfalls

Conclude the first of your two weeks in Costa Rica with some adventure.

For Day 7 on your Costa Rica itinerary, try one of Costa Rica’s favorite adventure activities, zip-lining . This is commonly known as Canopy Tour as you would be zipping over the exuberant forest canopies of Costa Rica. Monteverde is a great place to try this activity because you can get a feeling of floating on the clouds when you slide over the cloud forests on a good weather day.

Another way of observing the cloud forest canopies from above is to walk on the hanging bridges . The trails run a few miles long with insertion of 5-8 hanging bridges, some of them reaching as high as 50 meters (164 feet). A self-guided walk on the hanging bridges takes about couple of hours to complete the trail.

There are multiple adventure tour companies in Monteverde that offer singular or combo tours of hanging bridges and zip-lining, with some of them even throwing in some extras like hummingbird garden or sloth sanctuary in the combo packages. You can also opt to include transportation from and to your hotel in Monteverde.

Check out guided organized tour options:

Day 7 Alternative: Monteverde – El Tigre Waterfalls Hike

If you have fear of heights and would like to skip zip-lining, but are still seeking some adventure, a great alternative can be El Tigre Waterfalls hike . It is a private property where you can go on hiking for 8 km (5 miles) through rugged jungle trails to visit 4 fabulous waterfalls. Along the way, you also get to cross a few rustic hanging bridges.

After visiting all the 4 waterfalls, the return path is steep uphill. You can eliminate this part of the hike by taking the full tour that includes a 4X4 or a horseback ride for the return to the reception office.

El Tigre Waterfalls hike is one of our favorite activities in Monteverde. If you want to do the zip-lining and hanging bridges tour and have an extra day to spare in Monteverde, go for this hike.

Read about our complete experience of hiking El Tigre Waterfalls trail in this post.

Day 8: Monteverde – Birdwatching and Cloud Forest Hike

The eighth day on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary is all about getting immersed in the gift of nature. The highlight for this day will be birds, wildlife and hiking in the cloud forest.

Birdwatching

Curi Cancha Reserve is a great place for birding. You can walk on the well marked trails where you are likely to find exotic looking birds or may even come across some land animals like agoutis or coatis. Keep an eye out for the elusive Resplendant Quetzal , but do not miss out on other birds like trogons, honeycreepers and hummingbirds among others.

The reserve opens at 7:00 am for self-guided hikes. Our tip is to start as early as you can so that you get to capture the busy morning activities of the birds. You can also buy spots for guided hikes that start earlier, at 6:30 am.

Cloud Forest Hike

After an early morning birding session at Curi Cancha, go for a day hike or an afternoon hike in the cloud forests . There are 3 different reserves in Monteverde that you can choose from for the hike.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is a large private reserve with different trails that introduce you to the characteristics of a typical cloud forest and lead you to different view points such as a hanging bridge, a waterfall deck and the Continental Divide.

Santa Elena Reserve is another great option for hiking in the cloud forest. There are different trails of varying lengths that will take you deep inside the moist forests. There is also an observation tower from where you can see as far as the Arenal volcano on a clear weather day.

Children’s Eternal Rainforest is the largest private reserve of Costa Rica. From Monteverde, you can access the Bajo del Tigre sector of the reserve. In this part, the forest transitions from rainforest to cloud forest. Look out for animals and birds while walking on the trails of Bajo del Tigre.

Day 9: Monteverde > Uvita

On Day 9 of your Costa Rica 2 week itinerary, you bid bye to the cloud forest of Monteverde and head to your next and last destination, Uvita . We have saved the beach destination for the last! But Uvita is not your typical sun, sea and sand kind of place. Instead, packed between the rainforest covered mountains and the south Pacific coast, this town is a place of rugged beauty where you will find plenty of things to do.

Located 237 km (147 miles) away from Monteverde, it takes more than 4 hours to reach Uvita, without breaks and without traffic. However, we would recommend couple of cool places for pitstops on this route.

The first one is Tarcoles Bridge , popularly known as Crocodile Bridge. As the name suggests, this is a bridge from where you can spot a lot of crocodiles. You can park at one end of the bridge, and take a short walk on either walkway on the side of the bridge. Take in the views of the greenery around and the Tarcoles river down below. We always have fun counting the number of crocodiles we spot, on land and in the water. Yes, you can spot that many crocodiles!

The other one is Mirador de Jaco . Similar to Tarcoles Bridge, this one is also right on the highway and does not need any detour. It is an observation deck from where you get nice views of the Jaco beach and the Jaco town. If you have keen eyes for birding, look out for scarlet macaws in flight. This region is densely inhabited by these exotic birds.

Day 10: Uvita – Whale Watching & Waterfall

You can divide Day 10 of your Costa Rica itinerary into two parts, for different activities. In the morning, go for a whale watching tour in the ocean waters of Uvita. After lunch, visit the Uvita waterfall in town.

Whale Watching in Uvita

Humpback whales frequent the tropical waters of Marino Ballena National Park for most part of the year. That is why whale watching tours in Uvita make for a great chance to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat. Between the months of July and November, you may have higher chances of spotting mother and baby whale duos. The tour takes 3-4 hours. There are few companies in town, like Ballena Aventura and Bahia Aventuras who offer this tour.

Uvita Waterfall

After the whale watching tour, grab a delicious lunch and spend the afternoon at Uvita waterfall. Make it as relaxing or as adventurous as you please. Surrounded by lush jungle, Catarata Uvita is a small waterfall that plunges into a green pool. You can take a refreshing dip in this pool for relaxation or for a little adrenaline rush, you can walk up to the cliff and slide down the waterfall!

Check out our detailed guide to visiting Uvita waterfall .

Day 11: Uvita – Whale’s Tail & Beach Hopping

Your next day in Uvita can be all about beach hopping, or being stationary at any of the excellent beaches for some lazing under the sun.

But start your day with a unique beach experience – walk on the Whale’s Tail on Playa Uvita !

Uvita beach has a distinctive feature. During the low tides, a strip of sandy beach emerges as the ocean waters from both sides roll back. The end of this beach strip is lined by some rocks protruding from the ocean. From above, this part of the beach, known as Punta Uvita looks like a whale’s tail, and thus Playa Uvita gets its name of Whale’s Tail beach.

Check the tide timings and plan to walk on the Uvita Whale’s Tail before the high tide takes over it.

Watch our YouTube video below about the unique Whale’s Tail formation at Uvita beach.

After exploring the Whale’s Tail, you can either spend the rest of the day at Uvita beach or explore some of the other beaches in the area. Playa Hermosa is a beautiful long stretch of sandy beach, where despite the crowd, you can find a spot of your own. Further south, Playa Ventanas is a local’s favorite beach where you get to see caves forming ventanas (windows) of views.

Another beach, which is also part of the Marino Ballena National Park , is Playa Piñuelas . Not many people visit this beach and the entry is also a bit tricky. But we spent an afternoon here and watched one of our most stunning sunsets in Costa Rica.

Day 12: Uvita – Corcovado Day Trip

When you are in Uvita, grab the chance to take a day trip to Corcovado National Park . With its abundance of flora and fauna, this national park is one of the most biodiverse places on earth, holding 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity.

On a guided hike on the trails of Corcovado, you can expect to see animals like Baird’s tapir , peccary , anteater , 4 species of monkeys and thee-toed sloth among others. Also, keep an eye out in the water for sightings of crocodiles and up in the tree for sightings of birds like trogons , crested guans and toucans .

From Uvita, Corcovado day tour is a long trip, which includes ocean transfers by boat. But it is still a great opportunity for exploring one of Costa Rica’s best national parks.

Check out this article to know more about the incredible wildlife in Costa Rica .

Day 13: Uvita > Dominical > San Jose

The SJO airport is about 210 km (130 miles) from Uvita. So, for your homeward bound flight next day, it is best to reach San Jose or Alajuela the day before so that you can avoid any delays on road transfers. For the night, book a hotel closer to the airport, and check if they can arrange for a free airport shuttle (not required if you are renting a car).

On the trip from Uvita to San Jose/Alajuela, you can make some stops along the way to explore other beaches or beach towns. Dominical is a small beach town popular for surfing and laid back vibes. You can stop here for lunch and for some beach time. If you are looking for some quieter beach, go to Playa Dominicalito .

For ideas on where to eat, check out this restaurants guide for Dominical and Uvita .

If you want to sneak in one last Costa Rica hike before leaving for San Jose, visit the Nayuaca waterfalls , one of the most gorgeous waterfalls of Costa Rica. If you are not up for the long hike on a travel day, you have the options of taking a tour on 4X4 truck or on horseback.

Day 14: Fly out from San Jose

On the last day of your two weeks in Costa Rica, enjoy one last breakfast with the typical Gallo Pinto and Costa Rican coffee. Let the taste and the smell linger as you pack your backs and head to the San Jose airport for flying back home. As the flight takes off, look down to see how beautiful this country is and start planning your next Costa Rica itinerary!

Hotel Recommendations for 2 Weeks in Costa Rica

Costa Rica being a popular tourist destination, you will find plenty of accommodation options, ranging from hostels to hotels, boutique guesthouses to luxury resorts. Choose your pick based on your budget, but here are some of our recommendations for the destinations covered in this 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary.

• Barcelo San Jose: Located in a quieter area of San Jose, this mid range hotel has all the amenities from air-conditioned rooms to outdoor pool and tennis court. Click here to check prices.
• Hilton San Jose La Sabana: Part of the renowned Hilton group, this hotel is located within walking distance of La Sabana Park and National Stadium. Check the nightly prices and availability here.
• Hampton Inn & Suites San Jose Airport: This accommodation option is closer to the airport, has modern accommodation, features pool and gym, and offers free airport transportation. Check prices and availability here.
• Holiday Inn Express San Jose Airport: Part of the IHG group, this hotel offers 24 hour free airport shuttle along with their nicely appointed rooms, outdoor pool and gym. Click here to book your stay.
• Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa: A perfect accommodation option to celebrate a special occasion, this luxury resort also features one of the most romantic hot springs in La Fortuna. Check prices and availability here.
• The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort: A luxury stay option with volcano view rooms, this adults-only resort has onsite hot springs and an indulgent spa. Click here to check tariff and availability.
• Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa: Located in the Arenal Conservation Area, this lodge offers the closest views of the Arenal volcano from the room. The property has nice nature trails that provide great birding opportunities. Click here to book your stay.
• Hotel Lomas del Volcan: The hotel offers spacious wooden cabins with refrigerator, coffeemaker, flat-screen TV and in some cabins, private hot tubs. The nightly tariff includes a great breakfast. Check prices and availability here.

For more ideas on hotel options, check out our article on where to stay in La Fortuna .

• El Establo Mountain Hotel:  It is a high-end hotel with incredible views, two onsite restaurants, a spa and a swimming pool. Click here to book your stay here.
• Rainbow Valley Mountain Lodge:  It is a mid-range option located on the highway few miles ahead of Monteverde. Each accommodation is an independent unit with kitchenette.  Click here to book your stay.
• Cabañas Hoja Verde:  It is a private cabin in the woods, great for isolated stays. The cabin features a living room, bedroom, balcony, fully equipped kitchen and a secure parking.  Click here to to check prices and availability.
• Greemount Hotel:  It is a family-run budget hotel offering basic no frills accommodation with comfortable bed, hot water, homemade breakfast, parking, WiFi, a common area with reading nooks and games. Check prices and availability here.
• Oxygen Jungle Villas: This is a luxury boutique hotel consisting of private jungle view or ocean view villas, a spa, an infinity pool and an onsite waterfall trail. Check prices and availability here.
• La Cusinga Lodge: Featuring ocean view rooms with wooden decor, this lodge has an excellent onsite restaurant and a direct access to the secluded Arco beach. Click here to book your stay.
• Hotel Marino Ballena: A mid-range accommodation option in Uvita, this hotel features an outdoor pool and has rooms with balconies some of which offer mountain views. Check prices here.
• Laureles Collection Uvita: Located close to town center, this no frills hotel offers free WiFi, budget accommodation options in air-conditioned rooms and has an excellent onsite restaurant. Click here to book your stay.

For more ideas on hotel options, check out our article on where to stay in Uvita .

Read our review of Oxygen Jungle Villas.

What to Pack for 2 Weeks in Costa Rica?

Read our article on Costa Rica packing guide listing all the things that you need to pack for Costa Rica. We have also included a FREE checklist to help you at the time of packing.

How to Get Around in Costa Rica?

The best way to get around Costa Rica is to rent a car . It will allow you the flexibility of choosing your start and stop times and the independence of doing what you would like to do and when.

For this 2 weeks Costa Rica itinerary, you do not need a 4X4 vehicle. However, we would recommend renting a car with higher ground clearance as you may come across unpaved roads.

If you do not prefer driving in Costa Rica, you can take public transport between major destinations and coordinate with hotels or tour companies for pick and drop service on tour days. Or else you can rely on shared shuttles for all legs of your transfers. Work with the hotels to get all transfers pre-arranged.

Final Thoughts

Costa Rica may be small in size, but almost all its corners warrant a visit due to the country’s rich biodiversity. In this itinerary, you have covered some of Costa Rica’s most coveted destinations and some lesser known ones too. Yet there is so much more to explore.

At the end of your two weeks in Costa Rica, you will return home with memories to cherish for a lifetime and possibly a secret desire to come back to get to know more of this country. If the latter is applicable, check out our Costa Rica Itinerary Corner and start collecting ideas for your next trip to Costa Rica!

Travel Planning Logistics

• Accommodation: For several years now, Booking.com has been our platform of choice for booking accommodation while traveling. You can apply all the desired filters and shortlist the ones that meet your criteria. On continued use, you will keep unlocking their Genius benefits. For long term stays, we use Airbnb . Of late, we have also started browsing Hostelworld for finding hostels.
• Tours: When traveling to new destinations, you can plan ahead and book your activities. Check for highly rated tours on Viator and Get Your Guide .
• Packing: From swimwear to sunscreen, hiking pants to insect repellents, buy your vacation packing essentials on Amazon .
• Flights: We always start our flight searches with Skyscanner and Momondo . They are aggregators that display flight options, compiling information across airlines and combinations. What we like the best about these flight aggregators is that you can put “Anywhere” as your destination, so that you find the best flight deals from your city of departure.

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Paradise Catchers

We are Pubali and Indranil, an Indian couple living in Costa Rica and slow traveling Latin America and Caribbean.

Acatenango Volcano Hike: An Incredible Experience in Guatemala

21 beautiful waterfalls in costa rica, 2 thoughts on “2 weeks in costa rica itinerary (from san jose): the best highlights”.

Cuánto sale esta excursión?

Gracias por tu pregunta. Compartimos información y nuestras experiencias en el sitio web de Paradise Catchers para ayudar a otros a planificar sus propios viajes. No organizamos ni vendemos ningún tour en este momento. Pero pronto vamos a escribir sobre una guía de planificación de presupuesto para viajar en Costa Rica 🙂

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Costa rica in 2 weeks.

Costa Rica's Coastal Secrets

Flights & transport:, itinerary focus:.

• Spend three nights in Drake Bay, the remote gateway to some of the premier wildlife destinations in Costa Rica
• Explore Corcovado National Park, one of the biologically rich areas on the planet
• Discover the wildlife and waterways of Tortuguero, an important nesting site for green turtles
• Enjoy unrivalled wildlife viewing, including monkeys, sloths, dolphins and whales (in season)
• Visit both the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines

Discover Costa Rica

• Unrivalled wildlife viewing: howler monkeys, caiman and sloths
• Visit the beaches and waterways of Tortuguero, an important nesting site for green turtles
• Verdant rainforest, lush mangroves, lava fields and serene cloud forests
• Wonderful naturalist guides who will share their love of Costa Rica with you
• Relax on idyllic Pacific coast beaches
• Stay in comfortable ecofriendly lodges and hotels
• Citizen Science departures available on this trip

The Best of Costa Rica 2023

• Doka Coffee Tour
• Poas Volcano
• La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Tortuguero National Park

Arenal Volcano

• Manuel Antonio National Park

Corcovado National Park

• Cano Island Diving Tour

Explore Costa Rica

• Hear a lecture from a researcher at the monteverde institute
• Learn how to make tortillas during a visit to a local family home
• Spot wildlife while cruising the canals of tortuguero
• Enjoy spectacular volcano views while soaking in hot springs
• Learn all about sea turtles at the sea turtle conservancy

Premium Costa Rica in Depth

• Learn about the culture of Costa Rica with Premium exclusive experiences: spend time with a local family and learn how to create traditional dishes in their kitchen, and visit Matambu, the only indigenous territory of the Chorotegan people, to learn ancient pottery techniques passed down for generations.
• Experience the magnificent landscapes Costa Rica from all angles with a gentle hike in Arenal Volcano National Park, a cruise on the Tortuguero canals, and a treetop walkways experience in the Monteverde Cloud Forest.
• Enjoy two nights at your Feature Stay – a stunning and sustainable jungle hotel next to the electric-blue Rio Celeste River. Settle into your cosy casita (bungalow), an exclusive retreat just for you, and surround yourself with the sounds of nature.
• End your trip with a free day at the beach, capped off with a sunset sailing cruise and a farewell dinner – the perfect way to reflect on your journey across Costa Rica.
• Costa Rica is a nature lover’s dream. Keep your eyes out for green turtles, sloths, monkeys, coatis, anteaters, tropical birds, and more as you cross the width of Costa Rica, experiencing a variety of different habitats and environments.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.

Costa Rica in 14 days - Magical Night of the Sea Turtles - Charm

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Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride

• Cycle along the stunning coastal highway with incredible Pacific views and beaches
• Ride through ever-changing tropical scenery, alongside coffee farms, volcanoes, banana plantations and rainforest
• Walk in Manuel Antonio National Park
• Search for wildlife in the waterways of Tortuguero National Park

Extreme Costa Rica 2023

• Pacuare River

Costa Rica - Coast to Coast

• Discover Costa Rica's diverse nature and wildlife, plus stay in a series of premium hotels
• Explore the Monteverde cloudforest and the 'mini amazon' of Tortugero
• Spend time on the Pacific Coast and visit Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula

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Walks & Treks – Costa Rica Walking

• Enjoy walking through the lush rainforests at Monte de Barva
• Chance to take a dip and relax in the Arenal Volcano’s thermal waters at Ecotermales Hot Spring
• Hike past boiling mud springs in Rio Celeste National Park
• Enjoy a hike along the suspension bridges trail at the Heliconias Lodge

Family Costa Rica Rainforest and Wildlife Adventure

• Spot prolific wildlife including howler monkey, sloth and armadillos
• Witness active volcanoes smouldering above dense rainforest
• Go snorkelling in the Pacific Ocean and walk along the beaches of the Caribbean Sea

Costa Rica: A World of Nature featuring Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano & Manuel Ant ...

• Taste for yourself why cacao is called “the food of the gods” and observe the process of converting this seed from bean to bar.
• Learn how to cook using a coconut before making some delicious local candy.
• Learn about Costa Rica’s ecosystem and local culture.
• Visit the world’s first sea turtle research station in Tortuguero National Park.
• Explore Arenal during a captivating 3-night stay.
• Stay in Tortuguero National Park and find yourself surrounded by wildlife.
• Hop aboard a river boat for a jungle crocodile safari and bird watching excursion.

Exuberant Costa Rica Self Drive 15 Days Deluxe Class

Cycle Costa Rica

• Cycle through a volcanic landscape rich with nature and abundant wildlife
• Explore the waterways of Tortuguero National Park
• Discover the trails and tropical beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park

Costa Rica at it’s best- Nature, whales and dolphins

• In Costa Rica tour we will visit
• Central Mountain Range with an authentic Costa Rican coffee plantation
• La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Poas Volcano
• Turtle Museum of the C.C.C. (Caribbean Conservation Corporation)

Volcano Trail: Waves & Local Ways

• Connect with your hosts at community guesthouse stay in ometepe
• Relax seaside in el salvador
• Laugh with the locals during a chicken bus journey
• Visit five countries in 17 days

Costa Rica Adventure Family Holiday

• Discover abundant wildlife – monkeys, sloths, birds and frogs are easy to spot
• Visit the beach and waterways of Tortuguero, an important nesting site for green turtles
• Meet the residents of the Sloth Sanctuary
• Discover the beaches of both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts
• Enjoy comfortable accommodation throughout, most with swimming pools
• Take advantage of the flexible itinerary with plenty of optional activities: zip-lining, white-water rafting, a chocolate tour, and catamaran excursion
• Save up to 32% off trips to every continent on earth
• Redeem anytime before 2023. Last minute changes OK.
• Get a full refund.

Best of Costa Rica Family Holiday

• Spend time with the Terraba community – an Indigenous group who have survived off the land for more than 500 years – and enjoy a shared lunch of local eats. The kids will love the chocolate-making lesson here!
• Walk through the diverse forest and jungle and take an incredible canopy walk along suspended bridges in Cloud Forest – lookout for sloths and various birdlife as you go.
• Experience life as the locals do by spending time on a family farm and learning how to cook authentic local Costa Rican food. 
• Enjoy some family downtime in the seaside town of Dominical at your eco-hotel, surrounded by stunning beaches and a tropical jungle.
• Look out for wildlife in the evergreen rainforest of Sarapiqui – a town known for its rich biodiversity – and enjoy some free time to maybe learn about the nocturnal creatures that dwell here.

Real Guatemala to Costa Rica

• Take a cooking class in Los Ramos – an Indigenous community in the middle of Ometepe Island’s volcanos – and learn traditional techniques used to make Nicaraguan dishes like nacatamales.
• Enjoy a full day at leisure in one of El Salvador’s most beautiful national parks – Cerro Verde. Get up close and personal to a volcanic crater or take the plunge in a pristine lake. The choice is yours!
• Island life doesn’t get much better than Ometepe in Nicaragua – volcanoes, wildlife-rich rainforests, stunning beaches, ancient rock carvings and a massive lake are all at your disposal.
• Have breakfast at Cafe de las Sonrisas – a local café run entirely by deaf people. The café's owner is aiming to bridge the gap and inspire other business owners to employ local people living with disabilities.
• Get a taste of four different countries in Central America on an epic Latin adventure that takes in the sights and offers a whole heap of optional activities too! You’ll have loads of free time to choose your own hike, kayak, swimming or dancing adventure.

Costa Rica Wildlife Tour

• Discover incredible nature and wildlife on this two week adventure of Costa Rica
• Explore jungle waterways, active volcanoes and unspoilt tropical rainforest
• Spend time in the cloud forest and the 'mini amazon' of Tortuguero

Related Trips & Tours

Costa rica reviews & ratings, why travelstride, additional details, what you should know before going on a costa rica tour.

Tours to Costa Rica usually focus on a combination of eco travel, wildlife, and adventure. You will usually find a tour that weighs one or two of these themes above the other.

If it’s your first visit to Costa Rica, try to find a tour that hits upon what Costa Rica is most known for. These include Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud F orest . Both attractions are extremely popular and are normally included in Costa Rica tour itineraries.

Outdoors and Active Costa Rica Tours

Most Costa Rica tours don’t have a heavy emphasis on cultural or historical sight seeing. Simply because the wildlife and outdoor tour activities are enough to occupy the days!

Wildlife lovers will want for nothing in Costa Rica, and most itineraries do focus heavily on the diverse wildlife found in Costa Rica’s rainforests and cloud forests. Some may not include Tortuguero National Park - and if you don’t want to miss observing sea turtles nesting or hatching be sure to find a tour that includes this park!

Some of the most famous animals you can see relatively easily in Costa Rica include the red-eyed tree frog, crocodiles, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, tapirs, basilisk lizards, coatimundis (the Costa Rican version of a raccoon!), and two kinds of sloth. A night safari might allow you to see some of the rarer or more elusive animals in the country, such as jaguars, kinkajous, tarantulas, and ocelots. Don't forget to look up - night is the best time to see snakes as they stalk for sleeping birds in the trees above. 

If you decide to go snorkeling or scuba diving , you may run into bottlenose dolphins (or go see them on a dolphin swim !), green sea turtles and leatherbacks, sharks, and all kinds of tropical fish. Whale watching is  also a great way to see orcas and humpback, blue, beaked, and pilot whales. 

If you are interested in going on a birdwatching trip , there are also tons of beautiful and exotic birds. There are green and scarlet macaws,  toucans, dozens of species of hummingbirds, and all kinds of birds of paradise -- including the rare national bird of Costa Rica, the Resplendent Quetzal. 

Weather in Costa Rica

It gets quite wet and humid in Costa Rica, and the country is prone to hurricane conditions. Tour activities may change depending on the time of year, but generally you can expect to be walking through the rainforest in every sense of the word.

Most tours in Costa Rica will provide wet weather gear, though it is a good idea to pack light weight waterproof clothing for the majority of your tour. Long sleeves and pants can go a long way toward insect protection as well.

Eco Lodge Accommodation on Costa Rica Tours

Costa Rica has a long history as a leader in eco travel, and a majority of trips to Costa Rica have an eco, sustainable, and green travel theme . These will often feature a stay at an eco lodge, or even a treehouse! These can vary from luxury accommodations to comfortable-but-basic.

Don’t expect terribly reliable internet and electricity - particularly in keeping with the eco lodge approach! These establishments are designed to be as eco conscious as possible, and your tour will reveal new ways you can help contribute and be a responsible traveler.

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Additional resources, coronavirus update.

Travelers entering the country will be required to self quarantine for 14 days and anyone showing coronavirus symptoms will be tested.

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Hola! We’re Matt & Jenn, a couple who left Boston to pursue a dream of traveling, living, and starting a family in Costa Rica. It all started about 15 years ago with an amazing two-week vacation . . . Read More

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2 weeks in Costa Rica - thoughts? - Costa Rica Forum

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2 weeks in Costa Rica - thoughts?

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We would appreciate feedback on our draft itinerary - we know we're pushing it with the amount of places to visit, especially given distances between some locations and travel time, so we're willing to cut things out as advised!

Day 0: Arrive San Jose . Stay SJ

Day 1: San Jose - Explore. Stay SJ

Day 2: San Jose to Tortuguero NP (travel). Stay TNP

Day 3+4: Tortuguero NP - Tour and explore; jungle cruises , canals. Stay TNP

Day 5: TNP to La Fortuna & Arenal (travel). Stay LFA

Day 6: La Fortuna & Arenal - Tour and explore; hot springs, waterfalls, forest. Stay LFA

Day 7: La Fortuna to Monteverde (travel). Beach. Stay Monteverde / Santa Elena

Day 8: Monteverde. Tour and explore - National Park, Cloud Forest, wildlife. Stay Monteverde / SE

Day 9: Monteverde to Jaco (travel). Stay Jaco

Day 10: Jaco - Beach and watersports. Stay Jaco*

Day 11: Jaco to Manuel Antonio (travel). Stay MA

Day 12 + 13: Manuel Antonio - Beach, National Park, mangroves, watersports. Stay MA

Day 14: Return to San Jose for flight home

*Could reduce to 1 night in Jaco, given we have 3 nights in Manuel Antonio where there is more to do and see.

2 replies to this topic

Day 5: Smth to consider: Currently, Sansa Air has one daily non-stop afternoon flight between Tortuguero and Fortuna, 30 min long, US154 pp one way. I do not know when you are travelling. E.g., May 15 shows only 1 seat left for that flight . Terms and Conditions- https://www.flysansa.com/travelinfo/terms-conditions , Baggage - https://www.flysansa.com/travelinfo/baggage , TA reviews - https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Airline_Review-d10533104-Reviews-SANSA . Add at least 55 min for domestic flights check-in + land transportation in Arenal.

Are you sure you want to be staying right in La Fortuna when in Arenal?

Day 7: Beach? In Monteverde ?

Days 10-11: Not sure I would be staying in Jaco , for 2 or 1 nights. Are those going to be weekdays, wknds, peak/holiday times? In addition, Jaco is not far from MA. Your check out time in Jaco could be fairly early, 10-11 am, depending on the property, but your MA/ Quepos area check-in - not till 3 pm. You might be able to ask either of your hotels to store your bigger luggage, but you would have to be carrying your valuables with you until you can return to your next hotel to check in properly and use the safe. It is usually not recommended to leave anything unattended on beaches in CR.

Days 12-13: Which day of the wk are you planning to go to the park? It is closed on Tuesdays and gets busier on the wknds. This is one of the previous threads about buying online entrance tickets into this park, if you haven’t seen it yet - https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g291982-i813-k14441040-When_Manuel_Antonio_passes_are_sold_out-Costa_Rica.html .

When are you travelling? The month may determine which coast might have better weather, and if it will be a turtle nesting season in Tortuguero (in addition to the canal boat tours and hiking it offers).

SJO is located in Alajuela. On Day 14, are you transferring to SJO and flying out or spending the last night near SJO?

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• Tortuguero Turtle night tours
• What about medical attention while in Costa Rica?
• Smoking in Costa Rica. What are the laws?
• Can I and should I move to Costa Rica? A relocation reality check
• I hear Easter time - Holy Week is a busy time in Costa Rica. What should we expect?
• I want to bring home coffee. What should I buy? Where should I buy it?
• Dental Tourism - recommendations and advice
• How do I spend my time seeing what I want to to see instead of wasting it?
• Is there a Farmers Market near where I am staying?
• What are some memorable moments for travellers to Costa Rica?
• What 5 items are indispensable to you when traveling in Costa Rica?
• I have questions about staying at the Riu--is this the right place to ask them?