7 Days Costa Rica Itinerary
This 7-day adventure in Costa Rica takes you from the bustling capital of San Jose to the volcanic landscapes of Arenal, the cloud forests of Monteverde, and the pristine beaches of Manuel Antonio. Get ready for hiking, ziplining, wildlife spotting, and relaxation in this incredible country.
Duration
7 days
Budget
$700-1400
Best Time
The dry season, from December to April, offers sunny days, less humidity, and is ideal for beach activities and exploring
Activities
28
Daily Avg
$150/day
Cities
San Jose (1d), Arenal (2d), Monteverde (2d), Manuel Antonio (2d)
Pace
Moderate
Costa Rica is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. With its lush rainforests, active volcanoes, stunning beaches, and diverse wildlife, it offers a unique blend of thrilling experiences and breathtaking landscapes, all within a relatively small and accessible country.
Your itinerary covers 2 of 9 must-have experiences
Volcanic Wonders & Thermal Retreats
e.g., Arenal Volcano National Park (hiking trails), Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa (hot springs)
Immersive Rainforest Wildlife Encounters
Day 7: Manuel Antonio National Park Hike
Adrenaline-Pumping Outdoor Adventures
e.g., Zip-lining in Monteverde (e.g., Sky Adventures Park), White Water Rafting on Pacuare River
Authentic 'Pura Vida' Culinary Journey
e.g., Soda La Parada (Alajuela for traditional Casado), San José Central Market (Mercado Central)
Coffee & Chocolate Plantation Tours
e.g., Doka Estate Coffee Tour (Poás), Britt Coffee Tour (Barva de Heredia)
Caribbean Rhythms & Laid-back Coastal Life
e.g., Puerto Viejo de Talamanca (exploration & culture), Cahuita National Park (snorkeling & beach)
San José's Historic Heart & Urban Art
e.g., National Theatre of Costa Rica, Gold Museum (Museo del Oro Precolombino)
Pacific Coast Beach Hopping & Sunsets
Day 6: Beach Relaxation at Playa Espadilla
Indigenous Culture & Community Visits
e.g., BriBri Indigenous Reserve (near Puerto Viejo), Maleku Indigenous Reserve (near La Fortuna)
Costa Rican cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, reliance on rice and beans, and mild flavors. It's a cuisine that emphasizes simplicity and the quality of local produce, offering a satisfying and approachable culinary experience. Expect a variety of 'casados' (set meals) and refreshing tropical fruits.
Must-Try Dishes
The quintessential Costa Rican breakfast, Gallo Pinto is a flavorful mix of rice and beans, often seasoned with Lizano sauce, onions, peppers, and cilantro. It's a hearty and delicious way to start the day.
📍 Any local 'soda' (small, family-run restaurant)
The 'married' dish, Casado, is a set meal offering a taste of everything: rice, beans, plantains, salad, and a choice of meat (chicken, beef, pork, or fish). It's a complete and affordable meal.
📍 Sodas, local restaurants, and markets
Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, cilantro, onions, and peppers. Costa Rican ceviche is incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day. Common fish include sea bass or corvina.
📍 Coastal restaurants, seafood shacks, and some sodas
A hearty beef stew with root vegetables like potatoes, yuca, taro, and plantains. Perfect for a cooler evening, it's a comforting and flavorful dish.
📍 Traditional restaurants and some sodas, especially on weekends
Food Neighborhoods
Variety of sodas, restaurants, and markets offering traditional Costa Rican fare.
Caters to tourists with a mix of local and international cuisine, many with volcano views.
Known for Caribbean-influenced cuisine, including rice and beans cooked in coconut milk, jerk chicken, and fresh seafood.
Wide array of dining options from casual beachside eateries to upscale restaurants with ocean views.
Vegetarians can easily find options like casado sin carne (casado without meat), rice and beans, and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Vegan options are becoming more available, especially in tourist areas, but it's helpful to learn some basic Spanish phrases to inquire about ingredients. Gluten-free options are less common, so it's best to ask specifically about ingredients. Many restaurants are accommodating to dietary requests.
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service (10% is standard). It's polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat. Using utensils is common, even for dishes that might be eaten with hands elsewhere.
Envision Festival
Transformational festival combining music, yoga, and permaculture in the jungle.
Note: Book 2-3 months ahead
🛣️Interesting Detours & Side Trips
- 🚶Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) and take a pre-booked airport shuttle or taxi to your hotel in San Jose (approx. 30 mins).$20 (shuttle)
2:00 PM - Arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) & Transfer to Hotel
Arrive at SJO airport. Take a pre-booked airport shuttle or taxi to your hotel in San Jose. Check in and leave your luggage.
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- 🚶Walk or take a short taxi ride from your hotel in Barrio Amón to the National Museum of Costa Rica (approx. 5-10 mins).$11
4:00 PM - National Museum of Costa Rica
Explore the history and culture of Costa Rica. Allow at least 2 hours to see the exhibits. Located in the Bellavista Fortress, it offers insights into the country's past.
Book on Klook - 🚶Take a taxi or walk from the National Museum to La Esquina de Buenos Aires (approx. 10-15 mins).$20
6:30 PM - Dinner at La Esquina de Buenos Aires
Enjoy a delicious Argentinian meal. Try their famous empanadas and grilled meats. A popular spot with locals and tourists alike.
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- 🚶Walk from La Esquina de Buenos Aires to Plaza de la Cultura (approx. 5 mins).FREE
8:00 PM - Stroll through Plaza de la Cultura
Walk through the central plaza and enjoy the atmosphere. Often there are street performers and vendors. A great place to people-watch.
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Barrio Amón
Historic neighborhood with charming architecture, cafes, and art galleries, close to museums and cultural attractions.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The dry season, from December to April, offers sunny days, less humidity, and is ideal for beach activities and exploring. However, it's also peak tourist season with higher prices and larger crowds. The green (wet) season, from May to November, brings afternoon rains but also lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and better deals; mornings are often clear. The Atlantic coast experiences its drier period from August to October. Consider shoulder months like May or November for a balance of weather and crowd levels, avoiding major holidays like Semana Santa (Easter Holy Week) when local travel peaks.
During the dry season, Costa Rica experiences warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. Days are typically sunny and clear, making it perfect for exploring beaches and rainforests. Humidity is lower compared to the wet season.
The dry season (December to April) is the most popular time to visit Costa Rica, offering sunny weather and ideal conditions for outdoor activities.
Semana Santa (Easter Holy Week) is a major holiday in Costa Rica, with increased travel and higher prices.
Getting Around
Buses are the main public transport; 4WD recommended for rural areas
Rent a 4WD for exploring national parks. Shared shuttles connect popular tourist towns.
Travel
$150-300 (flights and intercity transport)Accommodation
$250-500Food
$150-300Activities
$150-300Eat at 'sodas' (small, family-run restaurants) for authentic and inexpensive Costa Rican meals. Look for 'casados' (a typical plate with rice, beans, salad, plantains, and choice of meat).
Utilize public buses ('Ticos') for inter-city travel; they are significantly cheaper than private shuttles or taxis, though they take longer.
Invest in a guided tour, especially in national parks or cloud forests. A knowledgeable local guide can spot wildlife and explain flora/fauna you'd otherwise miss, significantly enhancing your experience.
Treat yourself to an eco-lodge stay in a remote area; many offer unique immersive experiences with nature, sustainable practices, and often stunning views.
Learn basic Spanish phrases; showing effort can lead to friendlier interactions and sometimes even better prices in local markets or smaller shops.
Haggle respectfully in local markets, especially for souvenirs, but be aware that prices are often fixed in established stores and for tours.
- Embrace 'Pura Vida': This national motto means 'pure life' and reflects a relaxed, friendly, and appreciative outlook. Expect a slower pace of life.
- Cash and Currency: While USD is widely accepted in tourist areas, it's best to use Costa Rican Colones (CRC) for smaller purchases and outside tourist hubs. Carry small denominations for tips and local sodas (restaurants). Always check if service charge (10%) and tax (13%) are included in restaurant bills.
- Transportation: Road conditions vary greatly; a 4x4 vehicle is often recommended for exploring more remote areas. Private shuttle services are a popular and convenient option between major tourist destinations, while public buses (Ticos) are very affordable for longer distances.
- Learn Basic Spanish: While many in the tourism industry speak English, knowing a few Spanish phrases will greatly enhance your experience and interactions with locals.
- Environmental Awareness: Costa Rica is a leader in ecotourism. Be mindful of your environmental impact: conserve water and electricity, dispose of waste properly, and respect wildlife and natural habitats.
- Stay Hydrated and Protect Yourself: Drink plenty of water (tap water is generally safe to drink in most areas, but confirm locally). Apply high-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and use insect repellent, especially during dawn and dusk.
- 1Lightweight, quick-drying clothing (breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, or synthetics)
- 2Rain jacket or poncho (even during dry season, sudden showers can occur)
- 3Sturdy hiking shoes or waterproof sandals with good grip
- 4Swimsuit(s)
- 5Insect repellent (containing DEET or picaridin)
- 6High-SPF sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- 7Reusable water bottle (to reduce plastic waste)
- 8Small backpack or daypack for excursions
- 9Headlamp or small flashlight (for power outages or early morning/night activities)
- 10Portable power bank (for charging devices on the go)
International Flights
Book 3-6 months in advance for best prices, especially for peak season travel (December-April).
Accommodation (Hotels, Eco-Lodges)
Reserve 3-6 months ahead for popular areas (Manuel Antonio, La Fortuna, Monteverde) during peak season; 1-2 months for green season.
Rental Car / Inter-city Shuttles
If renting a car, book several months in advance for a 4x4, especially during dry season. Shuttles can be booked 1-2 weeks prior.
Popular National Park Entry Reservations
Some popular parks require online reservations in advance (1-2 weeks) to manage visitor numbers. Check specific park websites.
Adventure Tours (Ziplining, Rafting, Guided Hikes)
Book popular tours 1-2 months in advance, particularly for specific time slots or smaller group tours.
Travel Insurance
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance as soon as initial bookings are made to cover cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.
eSIM activation
Purchase and activate an eSIM online before departure for immediate internet access upon arrival, saving time at the airport.
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Airalo app or website
📍 Kolbi stores at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) or in major towns/cities
📍 Claro stores at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) or in major towns/cities
📍 Online pre-booking and delivery to your hotel or airport pickup
WiFi is widely available in hotels, hostels, cafes, and many restaurants, especially in tourist areas. Quality can vary, with some places offering fast and reliable connections while others may be slower. It's always a good idea to confirm WiFi availability before relying on it.
Useful Apps
Purchase a local SIM card or eSIM for reliable connectivity, especially if you plan to travel outside of major tourist areas. Download offline maps and translation packs before your trip. Consider a portable WiFi device if you need consistent high-speed internet access for multiple devices. Verify your phone is unlocked before purchasing a local SIM.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two flat parallel pins
Two flat parallel pins + round ground
120V
60Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10% usually included; add 5% for great service
Not expected; round up
$1–2 per bag
10% service charge is standard but extra is appreciated.
Safety & Travel Advisories
Costa Rica is generally a safe country for tourists. Exercise caution against petty theft, especially in tourist areas. Avoid leaving valuables unattended and be aware of your surroundings.
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
911
911
911
911 for all emergencies
Payments
Cash useful outside San José
Accepted at hotels and tourist businesses
Limited
USD widely accepted at tourist spots. Carry colones for local businesses.
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How was this itinerary?
The dry season (December to April) is ideal for sunny weather and outdoor activities, but it's also peak season with higher prices and more crowds. The green season (May to November) offers lush landscapes and better deals, but expect afternoon rains. Shoulder seasons like May and November provide a good balance.
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