Costa Rica Travel Itinerary 10 Days
When I first started planning my 10-day trip to Costa Rica, I wanted to make sure I could fit in all the beauty and adventure the country has to offer.
From beaches to rainforests, Costa Rica has something for everyone, and 10 days felt like the perfect amount of time to experience the highlights.
So, if you’re wondering if 10 days in Costa Rica is enough, I’d say absolutely.
Let’s dive into Costa Rica Travel Itinerary 10 Days that covers everything from lush jungles to stunning coastlines.
Costa Rica Travel Itinerary 10 Days
Day 1: Arrive in San José, Costa Rica
- Morning: Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José. After clearing customs, take a taxi to your hotel (average cost: $20). I recommend staying at Hotel Grano de Oro or Park Inn by Radisson for a comfortable stay.
- Afternoon: Explore the vibrant city of San José. Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica to learn about the country’s history and culture (entry fee: $10). Spend about 2 hours here.
- Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at Restaurante Silvestre, known for its innovative Costa Rican cuisine (dinner cost: $25). Don’t miss their signature dish, the Pork Belly!
| Day 1 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | San José, Costa Rica |
| Accommodation | Hotel Grano de Oro / Park Inn by Radisson (Cost: $80-$150) |
| Activities | National Museum of Costa Rica (Entry: $10), Dinner at Restaurante Silvestre (Cost: $25) |
| Transport | Taxi from airport |
| Notes | Try the Pork Belly |
Day 2: Arenal Volcano National Park
- Morning: Set off early for Arenal Volcano National Park (3-hour drive from San José). Enjoy the scenic views along the way. Pack some snacks and drinks for the trip!
- Afternoon: Arrive at Arenal and take a guided hike through the park (entrance fee: $15). Explore the trails with stunning views of the volcano and diverse wildlife.
- Evening: Relax in the natural hot springs at Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa (entrance fee: $65). It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of adventure.
| Day 2 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Arenal Volcano National Park |
| Accommodation | Hotel Los Lagos or similar (Cost: $100-$200) |
| Activities | National Park Entrance (Entry: $15), Tabacón Thermal Springs (Cost: $65) |
| Transport | Drive from San José |
| Notes | Bring swimwear for the hot springs |
Day 3: La Fortuna Waterfall and Hanging Bridges
- Morning: Visit La Fortuna Waterfall (entrance fee: $18). Take a short hike down to the waterfall and enjoy a refreshing swim in the natural pool.
- Afternoon: Head to the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park (entrance fee: $26). Walk through the lush rainforest and spot wildlife while crossing the hanging bridges.
- Evening: Dinner at Don Rufino, a popular spot in La Fortuna (dinner cost: $30). Try their grilled fish—it’s a local favorite!
| Day 3 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | La Fortuna |
| Accommodation | Arenal Observatory Lodge (Cost: $120-$250) |
| Activities | La Fortuna Waterfall (Entry: $18), Mistico Hanging Bridges (Entry: $26), Dinner at Don Rufino (Cost: $30) |
| Transport | Local transportation |
| Notes | Wear comfortable shoes for hiking |
Day 4: Monteverde Cloud Forest
- Morning: Depart for Monteverde (3-hour drive). Enjoy the stunning views of the cloud forest as you approach.
- Afternoon: Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve (entrance fee: $25). Walk the trails and keep an eye out for the famous resplendent quetzal!
- Evening: Dinner at The Tree House Restaurant, known for its unique setting (dinner cost: $20). Enjoy the local cuisine in a beautiful atmosphere.
| Day 4 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Monteverde |
| Accommodation | Monteverde Lodge & Gardens (Cost: $150-$300) |
| Activities | Cloud Forest Reserve (Entry: $25), Dinner at The Tree House (Cost: $20) |
| Transport | Drive from La Fortuna |
| Notes | Bring binoculars for bird watching |
Day 5: Adventure in Monteverde
- Morning: Go ziplining at Sky Adventures Park (cost: $60). It’s a thrilling way to see the forest from above!
- Afternoon: Visit the Butterfly Garden (entrance fee: $15) to learn about the diverse butterfly species in Costa Rica.
- Evening: Dinner at Soda Tapia, where you can enjoy traditional Costa Rican dishes (dinner cost: $15). Try the casado, a local staple!
| Day 5 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Monteverde |
| Accommodation | Monteverde Lodge & Gardens (Cost: $150-$300) |
| Activities | Ziplining at Sky Adventures (Cost: $60), Butterfly Garden (Entry: $15), Dinner at Soda Tapia (Cost: $15) |
| Transport | Local transportation |
| Notes | Bring a light jacket for cooler mountain temperatures |
Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park
- Morning: Depart for Manuel Antonio National Park (3-hour drive). Arrive in time to explore the beautiful beaches and lush rainforest.
- Afternoon: Spend the day in the park (entrance fee: $16). Look for monkeys, sloths, and a variety of birds while hiking the trails.
- Evening: Dinner at El Avion, a restaurant with a unique airplane setting (dinner cost: $25). Enjoy the views of the sunset over the ocean.
| Day 6 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Manuel Antonio |
| Accommodation | La Mariposa Hotel (Cost: $120-$250) |
| Activities | National Park (Entry: $16), Dinner at El Avion (Cost: $25) |
| Transport | Drive from Monteverde |
| Notes | Bring sunscreen and insect repellent |
Day 7: Relaxing Day at the Beach
- Morning: Spend a leisurely morning at Manuel Antonio Beach. Soak up the sun and enjoy swimming in the warm waters.
- Afternoon: Take a guided tour to see dolphins (cost: $60). It’s a fantastic experience for nature lovers!
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Cafe Agua Azul, known for its fresh seafood (dinner cost: $20).
| Day 7 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Manuel Antonio |
| Accommodation | La Mariposa Hotel (Cost: $120-$250) |
| Activities | Dolphin Tour (Cost: $60), Dinner at Cafe Agua Azul (Cost: $20) |
| Transport | Local transportation |
| Notes | Bring a camera for dolphin sightings |
Day 8: Corcovado National Park
- Morning: Depart for Corcovado National Park (5-hour drive, or take a domestic flight to Puerto Jiménez). Prepare for a day full of wildlife adventures!
- Afternoon: Join a guided tour in the park (cost: $90). Explore the diverse ecosystems and keep an eye out for tapirs and jaguars!
- Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant in Puerto Jiménez (cost: $20). Try the local catch of the day!
| Day 8 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Corcovado National Park |
| Accommodation | La Leona Eco Lodge (Cost: $150-$300) |
| Activities | Guided Tour in Corcovado (Cost: $90), Dinner at Local Restaurant (Cost: $20) |
| Transport | Drive or domestic flight |
| Notes | Wear comfortable clothes for hiking |
Day 9: Relax in Drake Bay
- Morning: Relax in Drake Bay and enjoy the pristine beaches. Take time to soak in the beautiful surroundings.
- Afternoon: Go snorkeling at Caño Island (cost: $70). The marine life here is simply stunning!
- Evening: Dinner at Gringo Curt’s Seafood & Pasta, a laid-back spot with delicious food (dinner cost: $25).
| Day 9 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | Drake Bay |
| Accommodation | Aguila de Osa Inn (Cost: $150-$300) |
| Activities | Snorkeling at Caño Island (Cost: $70), Dinner at Gringo Curt’s (Cost: $25) |
| Transport | Local transportation |
| Notes | Bring snorkeling gear if you have it |
Day 10: Return to San José
- Morning: Depart Drake Bay and travel back to San José (by domestic flight or long drive).
- Afternoon: Spend your last hours shopping for souvenirs at the Central Market in San José.
- Evening: Head to the airport for your flight home, filled with amazing memories of Costa Rica!
| Day 10 | Details |
|---|---|
| Destination | San José, Costa Rica |
| Accommodation | N/A |
| Activities | Shopping at Central |
Estimated Budget Overview
Here’s an estimated budget overview for your 10-day trip to Costa Rica, broken down by category:
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $1,200 – $2,500 |
| Food & Dining | $350 – $600 |
| Transportation | $300 – $500 |
| Activities & Tours | $400 – $800 |
| Entrance Fees | $100 – $200 |
| Miscellaneous | $100 – $200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $2,550 – $5,800 |
Is 10 days in Costa Rica enough?
Yes! 10 days in Costa Rica is a great amount of time to see a mix of the country’s best attractions.
You can cover both adventure activities and relaxation while not feeling too rushed.
How much is a 10-day trip to Costa Rica?
Costs can vary, but on average, a 10-day trip can range from $1,500 to $3,000 per person, including flights, accommodation, food, and activities.
You can adjust depending on your travel style and budget.
How many days are needed for a Costa Rica vacation?
A week in Costa Rica can give you a good feel for the country, but if you want to dive deeper, 10 days to 2 weeks would be ideal for exploring multiple regions without rushing.
Is 2 weeks too long in Costa Rica?
If you’re someone who enjoys taking your time, then 2 weeks isn’t too long at all!
You could slow down and spend more time in each area, explore more national parks, or even venture into the Osa Peninsula.
What months are best for Costa Rica?
The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, from December to April. The weather is more predictable, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach days.
However, the green season (May to November) can be a great time too, with fewer crowds and lush landscapes.
Conclusion
Costa Rica is an amazing destination, and a 10-day travel itinerary gives you the perfect balance of adventure, nature, and relaxation.
Whether you’re hiking volcanoes, lounging on beaches, or ziplining through the jungle, this beautiful country has something for every traveler.
