Destinations:
San Jose, Costa Rica
,
Arenal, Costa Rica
,
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
,
San Jose, Costa Rica
Costa Rica Highlights – 2 Adults, 0 Children
Itinerary Overview
San José (Costa Rica) – Arrival
Nights: 1
Hotel: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica
Details: Ideal for your first night after landing, close to the airport with comfortable rooms and easy transfers.
La Fortuna (Costa Rica)
Nights: 2
Hotel: La Fortuna Lodge by Treebu Hotels
Details: Centrally located in La Fortuna, perfect base to explore Arenal Volcano, hot springs, and surrounding nature.
- Ticket: "La Fortuna Waterfall, Hanging Bridges, Arenal Volcano Combo Tour" – Arenal (Costa Rica)
- Experience the famous La Fortuna Waterfall, walk over hanging bridges in the rainforest canopy, and explore trails around Arenal Volcano in a complete day adventure.
- Ticket: "Caño Negro and Frío River - Boat Tour" – Arenal (Costa Rica)
- Guided boat tour through one of Costa Rica’s top wildlife refuges, ideal for spotting birds, monkeys, caimans, and other tropical species along the Frío River.
Quepos & Manuel Antonio (Costa Rica)
Nights: 3
Hotel: Tabulia Tree Hotel and Villas – Quepos (Costa Rica)
Details: Set among lush greenery near Manuel Antonio, combining easy access to the national park with a tranquil, tropical atmosphere.
- Ticket: "Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour" – Manuel Antonio (Costa Rica)
- Guided walk through the national park, with expert naturalist guides helping you spot sloths, monkeys, colorful birds, and enjoy some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
San José (Costa Rica) – Departure
Nights: 1
Hotel: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica
Details: Convenient final night close to the airport, giving you a relaxed end to your trip before your departure flight.
For this itinerary, I recommend preparing with a mix of practical guides and inspiring reading. For structured planning and detailed maps, consider "Lonely Planet Costa Rica" or "Fodor’s Essential Costa Rica"; both offer excellent coverage of San José, Arenal/La Fortuna, and Manuel Antonio, including restaurant suggestions, budget tips, and driving advice. If you want more nature-focused information, "The Wildlife of Costa Rica: A Field Guide" (Garrigues & Dean) is a superb companion for your Caño Negro and Manuel Antonio excursions, helping you identify birds, mammals, and reptiles you’ll see on your tours. For a deeper understanding of the country’s culture and environment, "Costa Rica: A Traveler’s Literary Companion" (edited by Barbara Ras) offers short stories by Costa Rican authors, while online resources like the official Visit Costa Rica website and recent travel blogs will keep you updated on park rules, required reservations for Manuel Antonio, and any seasonal changes affecting activities around Arenal and La Fortuna Waterfall.