This depends on your travel stay, experiences you book, transfer costs, and other daily expenses. The area is famous for adrenaline activities such as a canopy zip-line tour, ATV tour, or canyoning. The water is cold but super refreshing, and the entire area is gorgeous. Embark on a canoe ride through the jungle in Tortuguero and explore this fascinating nature reserve before it's time to head back to San Jose. Afterward, you can actually walk back up the dirt trail and road and walk down to the north end of North Espadilla Beach. Keep your eyes peeled for the parks most beguiling residents: endangered sea turtles, manatees, caiman, monkeys, sloths, and even jaguars. You can also spot a toucan or exotic orchids whilst taking this adrenaline-filled activity. Poas Volcano National Park is open every day from 8 am to 3:30 pm, and the ticket price is $15 USD. Arrive in San Joss Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Santamara (most arrivals are in the evening) and head straight to one of the small hotels north of the city in the Central Valley. Browse through some of these articles via the below links. But, it all depends on individual preference. Horseback riding See more6-day tours in Costa Rica. Related tailor-made travel itineraries for Costa Rica 12 days from 3324 USD. If you're interested in seeing Costa Rica's famous wildlife, a day trip to Manuel Antonio National Park is a must. Today, prepare to get up early (we recommend leaving before 7 am) and head to the stunning Rio Celeste which is a 1 hour and 45-minute drive from La Fortuna, or 104 km (65 miles). Baldi Hot Springs is one of the most popular hot springs in La Fortuna, but its also the most lively one! Re: 3 to 4 day Itinerary for Costa Rica (Last week of May) May is a shoulder season, June is rain season. In case you want a little bit more about the country, why not check out our guide on10 days or 14 days in Costa Rica? The menu represents bold indigenous flavors, herbs, local products, and peppers reminiscent of the different global cuisines.The interior dcor has stunning murals that uplift this roadside restaurant to a charming dining experience. The obvious destination based on your criteria is Arenal volcano which is a 3-hour drive from SJO. It is truly a spectacular place to hang out for couples as well as families. This easy-going Costa Rica tour is great for travelers who want to experience the best of Costa Ricas pristine coasts and rainforests. So, if youre looking for a more intimate and genuine hot springs experience, then I think youll fall in love with Titok Hot Springs, which are located in Arenal, a 15-minute drive from La Fortuna. Entrance tickets to the park, which cost $18.08 USD for adults and $5.65 for children, NEED to be purchased online in advance. If you dont have a rental car the next easiest way to reach Manuel Antonio is by booking a direct shuttle, like this one which costs $48 USD and will take 5.5 hours. The adventure ends on the pristine Pacific coast beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park with time for some well-earned sun, sea, and sand. This capital city is diverse & much more cultural in terms of the experiences it has to offer. The restaurant serves local cuisine inspired by fresh seafood. Great Costa Rica Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend? document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 7 Day Costa Rica Itinerary: How to Spend One Week in Costa Rica! (44 hours by paved road from La Fortuna). Planning a perfect Costa Rica tour can be daunting, however, this guide is all about taking you on a journey through a 7-day itinerary. La Fortuna Waterfall, Costa Rica: Everything you need to know. Manuel Antonio and its neighboring town, Quepos, have the best selection of restaurants of any beach community in the country. Costa Rica to introduce COVID-19 vaccine mandate: here's where to show proof. Then these mid-range hotels are a nice option. Costa Rica Eco Adventure 7 days from 1704 USD. 15 Things to KNOW Before Visiting Tortuga Island, Costa Rica, 10 Tips to KNOW Before Visiting the Costa Rica Crocodile Bridge. If you speak Spanish, then surely you can bargain for items before purchase. This specific spot is really close. In fact, this is a great, relaxing thing to do during your 7 days in Costa Rica! What to do in San Jose. You can also extend this itinerary to venture into other Costa Rican destinations. I can unsubscribe any time using the unsubscribe link at the end of all emails. Surprisingly, San Gerardo de Dota isnt yet a flourishing tourist attraction, so you can expect fewer crowds. Travel Scams, Safety Advice & More, 10 BEST Breweries in Costa Rica that youll love, Posted on Last updated: February 22, 2023, Categories Things to do, Travel Inspiration. Beyond the hotels prime location, what makes Millenium an awesome find is its on-site amenities and services including an outdoor pool, sun loungers, and car rental. Also, be sure to check out more of our in-depth guides including: Is Costa Rica Safe? The bridge is built over the Tarcoles River, which you will come across 3 hours into the drive (or 123 km from La Fortuna). The Tabacon Hot Springs is located within the Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa, one of the most luxurious non-all-inclusive resorts in the Arenal area. Teideros is 3 kilometers from the entrance. Best time to visit Costa Rica: If youre wondering when is the best time to spend 7 days in Costa Rica, then its the holiday season (December). Head out for an ATV tour or go for tours in the national park to see bats and frogs. Look out for hand-crafted materials, browse colorful vibrant markets, and shop for artifacts or Costa Ricas specialties. Prices here range from around $5 USD for breakfast, around $15 for a main at dinner. Monteverde Horseback Riding I would urge you to try horseback riding if you havent done this before. Experience a canopy tour If you havent tried a canopy tour in San Jose, then you shouldnt miss out on experiencing this thrilling activity at Monteverde. Fortunately, you will find plenty of hot spring options outside downtown La Fortuna. ), 11 BEST Beachfront Resorts in Costa Rica (for all budgets!). The cost might eventually go up or down, based on the Costa Rica trips you take. Located in the Central Americas region, Costa Rica is a top-rated tourist destination amongst travelers. It all comes down to individual preference & travel style. This easy-going Costa Rica tour is great for travelers who want to experience the best of Costa Ricas pristine coasts and rainforests. This is definitely one of the best hotels in Manuel Antonio town. El Point is one of my personal favorites and it has a beachfront location. Grab the adrenaline rush with both hands as you shoot through the jungle on one of the countrys best zip lines. The French chef Francis, whos the owner, beautifully blends European dishes with his native specialties and Latin flavors, creating tasty dishes so hard to describe youve got to visit Grano to experience it. This 7 day Costa Rica itinerary for families has maps and photos to help you plan and is perfect to fit into a 1 week spring break. Besides the volcano this area also has hot springs, hanging bridges, a waterfall & a nearby wildlife sanctuary. As you rappel down the waters, be excited to witness exotic birds and wildlife. You will also see jungle cats, sloths, monkeys, snakes, frogs, and Costa Rican birds throughout the gardens! This is especially true in Costa Rica because things are not very cheap here. Its a great introduction to San Jose and also allows you to explore busy markets and plazas with a knowledgeable guide. It was established in 2000 and converted into two-level bars and a restaurant built in, around, and above the airplane with stunning views of the Manuel Antonio coastline below! Standing on the towns highest point, Hotel La Mariposa treats guests to a majestic 180-degree view of the Pacific Ocean, the National Park, and even the neighboring town of Quepos. Its a lovely way to start your morning and the final day of your 7-day Costa Rica itinerary. This Costa Rican adventure tour offers an unmatched way to discover the countrys sublime rainforests, with an unforgettable whitewater rafting experience extending 3 days along the Pacuare River. It only takes 15 minutes to get down but a little longer on the way up its 500 steps! Learned so much. No other activity is planned for today, so its completely up to you to spend your final few hours in San Jose. To add some thrill to your Costa Rica journey, opt for a 44 jeep or a campervan. Travel Realms is a blog featuring niche experiences, exclusive itineraries & famous travel guides. This travel guide outlines the best way to spend one week in Costa Rica. In case you want a little bit more about the country, why not check out our guide on, Published by Sofie, updated on October 12, 2022. However, important COVID-19 guidelines & government protocols need to be followed. There are also shops and restaurants on one side of the bridge get a fruit smoothie, they are delicious. Hanging bridges tour Seeing this massive crater with your own eyes is mesmerizing, and understandably, its one of the most popular day trips from San Jose. Explore the heavenly freshwater creeks and lagoons on atour of Tortuguero National Parkon Costa Ricas Caribbean coast on foot and by boat. Take a treetop canopy tour or walkthrough series of suspension bridges around the forest, and witness the abundant natural world up close. You can also opt for additional activities & even extend your stay to explore other tourist places. In the end, head to the Coffee Lab to taste some of the finest samples of coffee. Bear in mind that portions of the route twist and turn and fog over by noon. How much does it cost: If youre specifically traveling to Costa Rica during the holiday season, then prices may almost be twice as indicated. (1020 minutes from most area lodgings). The kids will love being surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungles of Arenal Volcano National Park. Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Many tourists chose to skip San Jose altogether and head straight for La Fortuna, which is a shame as there are a lot of cool things to do in the city. Conveniently located in the city center and just a 5-minute walk from the Costa Rica National Theatre and San Jos Cathedral. Note: You can book the same tour through G Adventures from their official website. If traveling heavily on a certain budget, expect to spend $30 $45 per day. Gran Hotel Costa Rica has, in fact, been designated as a historical and architectural landmark by the government, the only hotel in San Jos to receive such a title. There are also endless amounts of things to do in Costa Rica, and in 7 days you just cant see and do it all. Hey guys! Budgeted stays If youre looking to cut down expenses for your trip, these budgeted stays in Costa Rica will help. Learn how the locals prepare coffee beans, how the seed germination is done, and witness their preparation up close by helping them. It costs $67 USD per person. Start with a trip to Arenal Volcano National Park and explore the jungle on foot, with the option to crash through the regions white water on a rafting trip or repel down mighty waterfalls. Right in the heart of San Jose sits Caf Rojo, a trendy coffee shop, restaurant, and cultural space. Otherwise, get going to the Arenal area right away. They are the easiest option if you need a quick place to sleep! Just park your car at one of the ends of the bridge and walk over to see the crocs in the wild. Set amongst the rolling hills of Cordillera de Talamanca in the background theres nothing like witnessing wild bird species in a calm environment. Visa & Documentation: Visa requirements will differ from country to country. A full-service bar is also on hand, so you can enjoy a glass of champagne while relaxing in the pools. As the sunsets tuck into a delicious dinner. Youll then explore the unique cloud forest habitats of Monteverde where you can select optional activities. This 8-day Costa Rica trip takes you right into the heart of Costa Ricas most popular national parks such as Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, and Manuel Antonio National Park. Night safari Today, you will explore La Fortuna to its core. Zoom through the treetops on a tandem zipline over 4,300 feet long! Youre lucky enough to be here with friends and family. Rincn de la Vieja National Park, Costa Rica: An Overview, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: Explore the Rainforest, Costa Rica in February: Unforgettable Adventures, Amazing Weather, Costa Rica in November: Weather & Travel Tips, Costa Rica in July: Weather, Tips & Marine Life, Costa Rica in January: Weather, Tips & More, Costa Rica in March: Weather, Tips & Wildlife, Costa Rica in April: Weather and Wildlife Ventures, Costa Rica in May: Rainy Weather and Lush Greenery, Costa Rica in June: Weather, Tips & Water Adventures, Costa Rica in August: Explore Top Attractions During Low Season, Costa Rica in September: Weather, Tips & Better Rates, Costa Rica in October: Weather and Travel Tips, Costa Rica in December: National Parks at Their Best, Explore the hanging bridges in Arenal Volcano National Park, Drive past farmlands and forests as you head towards the Nicoya Peninsula, Sail to Tortuga Island and enjoy water sports, Bid farewell to the Nicoya Peninsula and make your way toward San Jose, Depart from San Jose towards your next destination, Start off the adventure at Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Explore Tamarindo beach and take a dip into its warm waters, Start the journey with sightseeing around San Jose, Pass throughBraulio Carrillo National Park to reach Tortuguero National Park, Visit the town of Guapiles for a local lunch on the way to La Fortuna, Spend the day exploring Arenal Volcano National Park, Optional adventure activity in La Fortuna before heading for San Jose, Enjoy a zip-lining canopy adventure in Monteverde, Take a boat from Monteverde to La Fortuna (Arenal), Spend the day exploring and hiking in Arenal, Explore San Jose and the Liberia area independently, Drive through the countryside to Arenal Volcano National Park, Hike the rainforest surrounding Arenal Volcano, Arenal discovery drive or boat ride, head to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, Explore Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve with optional activities, and head to Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific Coast, Enjoy a leisurely day at the park with activities of your choice, Choose from a series of activities in Manuel Antonio National Park before heading off to Alajuela, Bid goodbye to Alajuela and prepare for your next adventure, Explore the streets and historic buildings of San Jose, Start the day with a scenic drive to La Cruz and paddle through the first section of Pacuare River, Spend another day rafting in Pacuare River and transfer to La Fortuna in the evening, Prepare for an adventurous day in Arenal Volcano National Park, Road trip to Manuel Antonio National Park and enjoy a day at the beach, Explore Manuel Antonio National Park and surroundings independently, Make time for some other activities in the national park before you head to San Jose. You canand shouldspend an entire day exploring the park, home to capuchin monkeys, sloths, agoutis, and 200 species of birds. Beginning on January 8, Costa Rica will require proof of vaccination for access to hotels, resorts, bars, museums and restaurants. IF a burger isnt what youre after, there are lots of other amazing restaurants in Jaco. You can book a Standard Double Room here for as low as US$48 per night with discounts available during the low season. South of Atenas, hook up with the Pacific Highwayfollow the signs directing you to Caldera. Along with that, discover other places like Lake Arenal and Cerro Chato (extinct volcano).Price $59 approx. Related tailor-made travel itineraries for Costa Rica 12 days from 3324 USD. Feel free to dip in the outdoor pool or enjoy the refreshing scenery on the terrace and garden. Allow up to 5 hours for this experience, which we think is a must for first-timers to the city. There are also a couple of beaches within the park to enjoy. Its one of the best restaurants in La Fortuna. For that luxury touch, the main area of the hot springs comes complete with a swim-up bar and a waterslide. Unfortunately, you cant buy your bus ticket online, and instead, you need to go to the bus terminal to purchase them they operate on a first-come-first-served basis, so aim to get to the terminal as early as possible! Find destinations that inspire you, parenting.com. Save up to 50% on tours and trips. The second bus is San Ramon to Puntarenas which is 1.5 hours and will cost you $3 USD. Once reaching Arenal Volcano National Park, youll encounter life up in the canopy and delve even deeper into jungle habitats en route to the always breathtaking La Fortuna waterfall. Upon your arrival, you have free time to relax and explore the surroundings. We recommend spending at least 3 hours here! Since its the Christmas season and New Year will just be around the corner, tourists plan their travel well in advance to avoid any hassles. The owner, a trained chef in Mexico, spares no ingredients so you can taste the authenticity in the soft savory tacos and the mezcal in margaritas. and is characterized by its acid blue lake crater, which is one of the worlds biggest craters. It is well-known for its natural hot springs and pools that wind through a luscious garden, giving guests the sense of being in the heart of a jungle. The type of stay you book can lower your total cost or dramatically increase it. One of the best things we did while staying in San Jose was this walking and bus combo tour, which includes a visit to the iconic National Theater and Art Museum. To introduce COVID-19 vaccine mandate: here 's where to show proof open every day from 8 to. Tortuga Island, Costa Rica itineraries: how Many days to spend $ 30 $ 45 day. Rica Safe have the best costa rica itinerary 7 days to start your morning and the ticket price is $ 15.. 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