Imagine waking up to the sound of howler monkeys, sipping fresh coffee amidst misty mountains, and ending your day with a sunset over the Pacific Ocean. This is Costa Rica, where every moment is filled with natural beauty and adventure. If you’re wondering how to spend 10 days in Costa Rica, our itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your visit, balancing thrilling activities with serene escapes. From the urban charm of San José to the wild allure of Arenal and Monteverde, and the coastal paradise of Manuel Antonio, follow our guide to experience the very best that Costa Rica has to offer. Get ready for a week of unforgettable memories and breathtaking sights.
Day 1 – San Jose
Welcome to Costa Rica! After landing in San Jose, pick up your rental car and check into your accommodation. I’d recommend staying in San Jose for your first night. This way you are able to recover from your journey but also stroll through the urban city and explore some sights like the National Theater, the Gold Museum, and the Central Market.
Day 2 – San Jose to La Fortuna
On day 2 it’s time for your first road-trip which will take you north to La Fortuna, a small town famously known for Volcano Arenal. The journey takes you about 3 hours. If you don’t wanna drive by yourself you can also book shuttles all throughout Costa Rica. They’ll take you pretty much everywhere. After arriving in La Fortuna, settle in and relax a bit before heading to the La Fortuna Waterfall. Enjoy the view, take some pictures and cool off in Fortuna River. After grabbing dinner in a local soda in town, end the day perfectly by visiting some local hot springs.
Day 3 – La Fortuna
It’s time to visit Volcano Arenal. You can choose between a bunch of different tours, hiking, driving atvs or horseback riding to and around Volcano Arenal. Just pick one and let’s go experience the most popular sight in La Fortuna.
Grab a bite to eat once you’re back and take some time off before continuing your day with a trip to the Rainforest Chocolate tour. There you will learn all about growing cacao, making the perfect chocolate and of course try some yourself.
Day 4 – La Fortuna to Monteverde
Stop number two on our list is Monteverde located right inside of Costa Rica’s cloud forest. It’s a gem for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies. The journey from La Fortuna takes you around Lake Arenal with a beautiful view of the volcano. On your way stop at the Mistico Hanging bridges located around 30 minutes outside La Fortuna. Walk the 3 km long jungle trail over 6 different bridges and take in all the pristine nature and wildlife this place has to offer. After another 2,5 hours along route 142 you’ll arrive in Monteverde, a small town between the clouds. Check into your accommodation and relax a bit. After dinner, get ready for a walk through Monteverde’s cloud forest at night. Keep an eye out for sleepy toucans, sloths and a variety of birds and insects. But don’t worry your local guide will make sure you won’t miss anything.
Day 5 – Monteverde
What’s the most popular experience in Monteverde? Ziplining for sure! The best place to do it is at Extremo Park. They offer the longest Canopy in Costa Rica being 4 km long including 11 cables and 50m high Tarzan Swing. Once you booked the tour, transfer is included, which means they’ll pick you up in the morning and drop you back at your accommodation at lunch time. Take some time to relax before experiencing some true Costa rican coffee culture.
Day 6 – Monteverde to Manuel Antonio
From Monteverde make your way down to the coastal town of Manuel Antonio. Manuel Antonio is the perfect mix of lush green rainforest with incredible wildlife and pristine white sand beaches. After checking in, enjoy the rest of the day at Espadilla Beach and be sure to not miss the sunset.
Day 7 – Manuel Antonio
The number 1 activity to do in Manuel Antonio is visit Manuel Antonio national park. It is the smallest national park but earned its place as one of the best for a reason. Sloths and monkeys up on the trees and the best beach in Manuel Antonio make this place very special. Start with a guided tour to make sure you don’t miss any animals on your way. The tour takes around 1,5 to 2 hours and ends right at the beach where you can spend the rest of your day relaxing.
Day 8 – Manuel Antonio to Santa Teresa
Driving from Manuel Antonio to Santa Teresa is an adventurous journey through Costa Rica’s scenic landscapes, taking about 5 to 6 hours. Start along the coastal highway with stunning ocean views, pass through charming towns like Jaco and Puntarenas, and take the ferry from Puntarenas to Paquera. Continue on rural roads through the Nicoya Peninsula’s beautiful countryside, leading you to the laid-back surf town of Santa Teresa. This route combines coastal beauty and rural charm for an unforgettable road trip.
Day 9 – Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is a surfers paradise with pristine white sand beaches. Enjoy your last full day in Costa Rica at the beach, surf, tan, swim and of course grab a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants or cafes. Hint: you can find one of the best acai bowls at anis bowls and salads. You should definitely check that out.
Day 10 – Santa Teresa to San Jose
The day has come – it’s time to leave Costa Rica. The journey from Santa Teresa back to San José (SJO) is a picturesque and diverse trip, typically taking around 6 to 7 hours. Start with a drive through the scenic Nicoya Peninsula, passing through lush landscapes and small villages. Take the ferry from Paquera to Puntarenas, enjoying the beautiful views of the Gulf of Nicoya. Once in Puntarenas, continue along the coastal highway, eventually transitioning to the main road leading into the bustling capital. This route offers a blend of coastal beauty and urban landscapes, making for an enjoyable and memorable drive before returning home.
