Ultimate 10-Day Costa Rica Itinerary for 2025

Ten days in Costa Rica is just enough to feel its wild side and chill by the beach. With our 10-day Costa Rica itinerary, you’ll zip through jungles, soak in steamy hot springs, zipline through cloud forests, and still have time to kick back with a cold drink during sunset.

This plan balances adventure, nature, and lazy afternoons so you don’t burn out. Ready for pura vida? Let’s get right in.

10-Day Costa Rica Itinerary

Here’s your day-by-day breakdown for 10 action-packed days. You’ll start in San José, head to La Fortuna’s volcano views, duck into Monteverde’s mists, hit the coast in Manuel Antonio, and circle back to beautiful hidden spots near the capital.

Apart from that, do make sure to read this guide until the end as we go through some more details about Costa Rica you should know after the itinerary.

Day 1 – Arrive in San José & Explore the City

Your first day lands you in the capital. You’ll swap airport lines for street tacos at the market, admire grand architecture, and stroll trendy neighborhoods.

It’s a soft landing where you get a feel for local life. Pack light, keep your eyes open, and sip your first Costa Rican coffee.

Land at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)

Touching down at SJO feels like the real start. You clear customs and grab your bags—watch out for long lines if you arrive around 3 PM.

A prepaid shuttle or Uber will whisk you into town in about 20 minutes, though traffic after breakfast can slow you down. Locals swear by Costa Rican coffee right at the airport café to kick off your day.

Wondering if you should buy a local SIM here? If you need data immediately, grab one before you leave arrivals; otherwise, you can wait until downtown. Tip: pack a snack, airport food is pricey and bland. Not really worth it.

Have a Meal at Mercado Central

Mercado Central is chaos in the best possible way. You’ll weave through stalls stacked with fresh fruits, meats, and sizzling sodas serving casados. Try the gallo pinto for breakfast, no better hangover cure.

If you’re feeling brave, sample fried cheese empanadas. While some stalls look dusty, the flavors are legit. Budget tip: Lunch combos often include juice and coffee for under $5.

Block 3, stall 15 is famous for its tamales. Just don’t forget to haggle politely; you’ll walk away stuffed and smiling. Oh, and keep your wallet zipped. Safety first. Enjoy.

Visit the National Theater or Gold Museum

The Teatro Nacional looks straight out of a history book. You can take a guided tour to ogle marble floors and gilt ceilings, feels fancy, right?

If you’re pressed for time, a quick selfie with the iconic statues outside works too. The nearby Jade and Gold Museums pack thousands of pre-Columbian treasures into modern glass cases. While the gold sparkles, the real story is in the old artifacts, they’re very interesting.

Opinion: The gold museum gets overcrowded, so visit the Jade Museum first, then sneak into the café upstairs. Have a coffee break while soaking in culture.

Walk through Barrio Escalante for Dinner

Barrio Escalante is where you taste Costa Rica’s modern side. Tiny eateries line the streets, each one promises something unique. You could try wood-fired pizza or authentic dishes at El Maizal.

Hit up Perro Negro for craft cocktails and local vibes. Or go casual with tacos at Il Padrino. Budget heads will love snack stalls along Calle 24. Either way, you’ll leave full and ready for the second day.

Day 2-4: Head to La Fortuna & Arenal

You’re off early to La Fortuna, home of the Arenal Volcano. Expect lush jungle views, bubbling lava fields, and waterfalls around every bend.

This leg leans hard into adventure with hikes, zip lines, and sizzling hot springs. Pack sunscreen and a rain jacket, because the weather here loves to switch up on you.

Travel from San José to La Fortuna

Leaving San José early gives you extra daylight. The drive by shuttle or rental car takes about three hours, depending on traffic and pit stops.

You’ll roll past coffee plantations, mountain villages, and roadside fruit stands. Note that you might need a 4×4 incase you visit during the rainy season. Private shuttle is pricier but drops you at your hotel, which is more convenient.

On the other hand, shared shuttles cut costs but might run late. We recommend packing motion-sickness meds if you tend to get queasy on winding roads. Keep water handy too.

Take in the Views of Arenal Volcano

Nothing beats that first glimpse of Arenal’s perfect cone tower against the sky. You can drive up to the base or hike the old lava trails for a closer look. The view from the Volcano View Lodge is unbeatable and under-the-radar.

Bring binoculars if you want to spot toucans or monkeys in the trees. If it’s cloudy, don’t sweat it – a quick rain shower usually clears the air.

Sunset lighting makes for amazing photos, so time it right. Pro tip: pack a lightweight sweater, evenings by the volcano get surprisingly cool. Also, ask your lodge for telescope nights. Seriously.

Relax in Hot Springs (Tabacón, Baldi, or El Chollín)

Tabacón is stunning with its pools and waterfalls, but you might prefer El Chollín if you travel on a budget, even if it’s a bit rough around the edges.

Baldi sits in the middle, great slides and decent pricing. You’ll slip into mineral-rich water that soothes every muscle after a day of trekking. Pack flip-flops and a towel, since many spots charge for rentals.

On weekends, you do need a reservation, so please call them up beforehand. For a more local vibe, hit up free hot springs near the river, just follow the locals downstream and you’ll get there.

Either way, you’ll float away feeling brand-new.

Walk Around Lake Arenal for Sunset

A circular drive around Lake Arenal rewards you with epic mountain and water views. You can pull over at roadside lookouts for panoramic shots.

Local legend says the lake glows golden just before sunset – science or myth? You’ll find small cafés offering fresh tilapia dinners with rice and beans.

You can rent a kayak, paddle along the shore, and watch the sky change colors. Reminder: roads here can be gravelly; drive slow. Lastly, pack insect repellent; mosquitoes love golden hour. Don’t rush this moment. It’s magic.

Hike the Arenal 1968 Volcano Trail

Once the lava flow cooled in 1968, a trail formed that you can now explore – Hence the trail’s name. It’s a moderate hike, and you can expect uneven ground and loose rocks. Bring sturdy shoes and lots of water.

The trail snakes through blackened lava fields and ends at lookout points where you can spot steam vents. Guide signs help you keep on track, though some stretches feel like a maze. Personally, I loved the contrast between new growth and scorched earth.

Kids can handle it, especially teens should be fine; little ones might get tired fast. Plan for two hours round-trip. Bring snacks for energy boosts.

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

Another activity in La Fortuna is the main waterfall.

La Fortuna Waterfall tumbles 70 meters into an emerald pool that’s begging you for a dip. You’ll climb roughly 500 steps down. And yes, the way up gets your heart racing, but the experience is 100% worth it.

Bring water shoes for slippery rocks. Lifeguards on duty notice crowds, so try to arrive early for a semi-private swim.

Insider tip: The best photo spot hides around the far right corner. Look for a tiny cave entrance and you’ll have the perfect Instagram photo. We do warn, however, against jumping from the cliffs, so stick to dipping your toes.

After that, fuel up at a roadside stand for fresh coconut juice. Again, don’t forget your towel and waterproof phone case.

Explore the Mistico Hanging Bridges

Mistico is less touristy than other canopy tours. You’ll walk a series of suspension bridges high above the jungle floor, massive views without the adrenaline rush.

Please note that this is a must-do in La Fortuna, and you simply can’t skip it when coming.

We recommend going with a guide as they will point out sloths, toucans, and venomous frogs hiding in the leaves. Feeling brave? Some platforms have transparent sections that force a quick heartbeat.

Bring binoculars and wear sturdy shoes. If you take the 10 AM tour, you’ll dodge mid-day crowds. Note that the hummingbird garden near the entrance is a hidden highlight. Pack snacks or buy fresh fruit at the gift shop, we have delicious fruits in Costa Rica!

Take a Chocolate & Coffee Tour

Another tour you can’t skip is the combo tour, simply because in Costa Rica, we take both seriously. At local farms, you’ll grind cocoa by hand, sample straight-from-the-tree coffee, and learn how sweetness meets that morning buzz.

Don Juan Coffee Farm has unbelievable views and even better beans. Budget option: join a community-run tour for deeper cultural insight.

Wondering if you’ll get jittery? They give you a small cup so you’re safe. Oh, and snap photos of banana plantations, we feel that they’re postcard-perfect.

At the end of the day, you leave wired, caffeinated, and with a box of chocolate samples to snack on.

Day 5-6 – Cloud Forest Experiences in Monteverde

Next on this 10-day itinerary for Costa Rica? Monteverde.

Monteverde’s cloud forest feels like stepping into a misty dream. You’ll hike mossy pathways, spot quetzals darting between trees, and catch a fog-shrouded sunrise.

This magical eco-paradise packs treetop adventures and coffee culture into two days. Bring layers, things change fast here, high in the clouds.

Travel from La Fortuna to Monteverde

Leaving La Fortuna, you’ll go through winding mountain roads en route to Monteverde. The drive takes about three to four hours, depending on the weather and the vehicle.

Again, you might need a 4×4, as there are gravel sections, and it’ll help especially in the rain. Shared jeeps (known as “jeep-boat-jeep”) cross the lake, it’s fun but a bit bumpy.

Private shuttles run more smoothly and we recommend them, but they cost more. Bring snacks and motion-sickness meds, the route (and the lake crossing) can be choppy.

You’ll arrive just in time to catch sunset lighting hitting the Monteverde canopy in gold and red.

Visit Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

This reserve is the cloud forest. You’ll follow well-marked trails under towering trees dripping with moss. Birdwatchers will geek out spotting quetzals and toucans if you’re lucky.

You can go with a guide, and he’ll share secrets about medicinal plants and nocturnal critters you’d never find on your own.

Hiking here is great too, but be prepared for mist – rain gear is non-negotiable. If you want yet another magical moment, consider a sunset hour, which includes a night walk in the forest, and you’re surely in for a treat.

Unique tip: Peek into the small frog pond past the orchid garden; helicopter tree frogs hide there. Last but not least, keep noise down, silence rules this place, and you’ll immediately notice it.

Walk the Hanging Bridges at Selvatura Park

Selvatura Park is a little similar to the cloud forest reserve, with suspension bridges, but we highly recommend you see both.

Selvatura’s hanging bridges are a thrill without the zip line price tag. You’ll traverse eight bridges swinging above deep valleys, giving you a jungle-eye view.

You’ll get to see sloths snoozing overhead, toucans perched on vines. Bridge 6 is the longest and most photogenic.

If you can, go early morning to dodge crowds and clouds. After your bridge fix, hit the butterfly garden next door. Remember your rain cover as it pours up here!

Visit the Monteverde Butterfly Garden

You might think butterfly gardens are traps, but this one isn’t. You’ll get in glassed-in tunnels filled with fluttering beauties in every color.

Your guide explains life cycles and plant relationships, oddly fascinating. If you can, bring a camera with a macro lens for those wing details.

There are tours from 9.00 AM to 3.30 PM, and it costs $20 per person and $12 for kids and teens from 7 to 18 years old.

Warning: some butterflies can land on you; don’t panic. Stay still and they’ll flutter off. After your stroll, grab a cold drink at the café overlooking the frog pond.

Try Ziplining & Tarzan Swings at Extremo Park

Extremo Park ramps up the adrenaline compared to the butterfly garden and Selvatura Park. You’ll shoot across 15 cables, some stretching over a kilometer long. Heart pounds guaranteed.

The Tarzan swing tosses you off a platform into the jungle void, yes, you swing by your ankles. The combo Zipline and Jungle Night Walk package is the best deal. Bring gloves to protect your hands on the cables.

Wondering if it’s safe? Guides double-check every harness. And if you’re feeling brave, try the Superman zip for a face-down flight. Also, check out the nocturnal zip tour for a spooky twist.

Take a Coffee Tour at Don Juan Coffee Farm

Don Juan Coffee Farm serves up more than caffeine. You’ll tour lush fields, see beans ripening on the branch, and learn roasting secrets in an old-school roaster.

Small-group tours let you ask questions and sample multiple brews. We personally recommend the 4-in-1 tour, which includes coffee, chocolate, and sugar cane tour as well as the night walking tour at 6 PM.

Bring a reusable bag; farm-made coffee beans make excellent souvenirs. Wondering if it’s kid-friendly? Kids love watching roasters, just warn them about the hot steam. That being said, book ahead during harvest season!

Day 7-8: Beaches & Wildlife in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio blends white-sand beaches with sloth-filled jungles. You’ll hop between palm-fringed coves, hike easy trails for up-close critter sightings, and dive into Pacific waves.

Two days here feel like a tropical rollercoaster, sun, surf, and wildlife packed into one sweet spot. Remember sunscreen and reef-safe sunscreen for the ocean. Here’s the itinerary for Manuel Antonio.

Travel from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

Depart Monteverde early and you’ll make it to the coast by afternoon. The drive by shuttle or rental car takes about four hours, with a coffee stop in Puntarenas if you’re feeling peckish.

Roads dip from foggy mountains to sun-baked coast, so don’t forget your sunglasses. Buses run too, but shuttles are smoother.

Opinion: private van is worth the extra cash if you hate cramped seats.

Walk Around Quepos Town & Marina Pez Vela

Quepos town feels laid-back compared to the national park buzz. You’ll stroll colorful streets lined with shops selling handmade jewelry and local art.

Hit Marina Pez Vela for a waterfront walk, you’ll see yachts bob in the harbor and seafood shacks to lure you in.

If you feel thirsty, grab a cold Imperial beer at the outdoor bar. Budget tip: street stalls near the mercado sell fresh fruit cups for less than $2, so enjoy that!

You can also roam around after dark, but it’s better to stick to main roads and lit areas.

Have Dinner at El Avión

El Avión sits inside a restored Fairchild C-123 plane, and that makes it a very unique dinner to have. You’ll climb stairs into the fuselage for dinner with jungle views below.

The menu mixes Costa Rican staples with American bar food. Try the ceviche tostadas, the burger, and the red snapper; all are amazing.

Locals say the cocktails are overpriced, but the vibe is worth every colón. Oh, the sunset seat on the wing deck is unbeatable, but those tables always sell out so call them as soon as possible.

Evenings get cool up in the trees, so remember to take a jacket. If the plane option sells out, head next door to El Wagon for delicious pizzas.

Hike in Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park packs beaches and trails in one small area. You can buy your ticket online ahead of time, which costs $18 per person. A little steep but worth it overall, as there are beaches and different trails to enjoy.

Note that you have to pick your arrival time when booking your ticket, so we recommend planning your itinerary accordingly.

Trails range from easy boardwalks to steeper slopes leading to secret coves. The trek to Punta Catedral is worth the extra sweat for killer views.

Guides point out sloths hanging above and howler monkeys. Budget tip: Pack your own lunch because park snacks are quite expensive. Last but not least, certain beaches are open, but currents can be strong so check before going.

Swim at Playa Manuel Antonio

The beaches at Manuel Antonio National Park are amazing, especially Escondido Beach, but Playa Manuel Antonio is much bigger and there are more activities to enjoy.

Other than swimming, you can surf, parasail, rent a boat with a ring, and even go horse riding.

If you can, go in the early morning to swim and avoid the crowds. Bring snorkel gear to explore coral patches on the right side. Other than that, be careful of monkeys, especially if you have bananas or plastic bags as they’ll try to steal them from you.

After swimming, grab a coconut from a beach cart. You’ll feel like a local in no time in this part of Costa Rica.

Try Parasailing or Jet Skiing

If you’re looking for adventure in Playa Manuel Antonio, parasailing and jet skiing are two of the best options. Parasailing gives you a unique view of the coastline and national park, perfect for capturing impressive photos from above. But only if you take your GoPro!

For those who prefer speed, jet skiing lets you explore the bay and nearby spots from a unique angle.

You can rent a jet ski for $130 for one person or $160 if you’re a couple, and you’ll get to keep it for 1.5 hours, which is reasonable.

The parasailing experience, on the other hand, costs $105 per person.

Make sure to bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare, and don’t forget sunscreen. The sun is intense, even when you’re out on the water or in the air.

Of course, if you’re prone to seasickness, parasailing is a safer bet since you avoid dealing with waves altogether.

Take a Sunset Catamaran Tour with Snorkeling

A sunset catamaran tour from Quepos Marina is a great way to end the day in Manuel Antonio. You’ll sail across the bay with views of the coastline, often spotting dolphins along the way.

The tour includes a stop at a reef for snorkeling, giving you a chance to see tropical fish and marine life.

The tours offer an open bar and light snacks, and that makes it a relaxed experience as you watch the sunset over the Pacific. Smaller boats tend to offer a more comfortable atmosphere, so it’s a good idea to book in advance.

Remember to bring reef-safe sunscreen and a waterproof camera for the snorkeling part. The combination of sailing, snorkeling, and a sunset view makes this one of the most enjoyable activities in Manuel Antonio.

Day 9 and 10: Hidden Gems Near San José

Heading back toward San José, you’ll explore spots off the main road. Think artisanal towns, crater lakes, and secret viewpoints.

Rent a car or join a tour. It’s your chance to uncover unique local flavors far from the bustle.

Drive Back from Manuel Antonio to San José

After breakfast in Manuel Antonio, you’ll head out of the city toward the Central Valley. The drive takes about three hours, depending on traffic. Late afternoon gridlock around San José is real, so aim to get back by 4 PM.

Another option is to take an internal flight, which is a little pricier but more convenient.

Visit the Town of Sarchí for Handcrafted Souvenirs

If you’re after real souvenirs (not the typical airport stuff) Sarchí is the place to go. It’s known for its colorful ox carts, hand-painted furniture, and all kinds of wooden crafts.

You can stroll through workshops, watch artisans at work, and pick up something unique to take home. The main market can get a bit busy, but it’s still worth a visit.

If you prefer something quieter, swing by Taller Eloy Alfaro for a more personal feel. Bring cash, be ready to haggle a little, and please do yourself a favor – don’t leave without grabbing an empanada near the church.

Explore Poás Volcano National Park (if time allows)

If you’ve got extra hours, Poás Volcano is a wild detour. You’ll drive about an hour northwest of San José to reach the volcanic crater.

The main lookout peers into a steaming, acid-blue lake, which is ridiculously beautiful.

Just check online before you go, since they sometimes close trails due to volcanic gases. Mornings are your best shot for clear views, so that could be an idea for the last day of your 10-day Costa Rica itinerary.

It gets chilly up there, so a light sweater won’t hurt. If you’ve got time after, wander through the gardens nearby. It’s a nice, calm way to end your adventure.

Enjoy a Farewell Dinner in San José

For your last night, treat yourself to a good meal in San José. Barrio Escalante is always a solid choice with its mix of restaurants and cool vibe.

If you’re up for something different, check out Costa Rica Beer Factory – great atmosphere, great food.

Prices are reasonable, and the atmosphere makes it feel special without being too fancy. Take your time, enjoy the food, and soak up your final moments in Costa Rica.

Shop for Souvenirs at Mercado de Artesanía

Before heading to the airport, stop by the Mercado de Artesanía in San José for some last-minute shopping. It’s an artisan market packed with handmade souvenirs like wood carvings, ceramics, jewelry, and colorful textiles.

It’s a great place to pick up affordable gifts and unique items that reflect Costa Rican culture. Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices, vendors expect it. If you’re tight on space, small items like coffee, keychains, or hand-painted magnets make perfect keepsakes!

FAQ About Costa Rica Travel

Do you have questions? We have answers. Below you’ll find quick tips on money, timing, and safety to keep you cruising smoothly.

Whether it’s choosing the right currency, deciding how many days to spend, or figuring out which SIM card works best, these FAQs cover the basics.

What Currency Is Accepted in Costa Rica?

Costa Rican colón is the official currency, but US dollars are accepted almost everywhere. You’ll see prices listed in both, especially in busy areas. There are ATMs in cities but they tend to be sparse in remote parts.

We recommend you withdraw from a Banco Nacional ATM in San José for better rates and lower fees. Small businesses may round prices if you pay with dollars.

Pro tip: Carry small bills, as larger notes can be hard to break. Also, avoid private exchange booths because they will charge a premium.

How Long Should You Spend in Costa Rica?

Honestly, spending 10 days in Costa Rica is enough to see the highlights, but more time never hurts. If you have two weeks, add Uvita and Santa Teresa to your itinerary, which are must-see.

Is Costa Rica Safe?

Costa Rica is pretty safe overall. You’ll see petty theft in bigger towns, so keep your pockets zipped and eyes on your bag. Just like everywhere in the world, avoid wandering alone after dark in dim streets.

Most highways are well‑maintained, but drive carefully, nighttime signage can be lacking. Stick to official taxis or ride‑hailing apps; random rides are a gamble you don’t want to take.

Is Costa Rica Expensive to Visit?

Costa Rica isn’t exactly pocket‑friendly, but you won’t break the bank either. You’ll pay more for lodging and tours than in neighboring countries.

Mid‑range hotels run about $80–$120 per night. Local meals at sodas (small restaurants) cost $5–$10, while popular spots charge double. Buses are cheap, while shuttles and internal flights cost more but they are more convenient of course.

National parks charge entrance fees, plan for $15–$25 per park, but do keep a part of your budget for activities, as they are amazing.

Do You Need a SIM Card in Costa Rica?

A local SIM card is useful for maps, translations, and staying connected. Kolbi has the best coverage, while Claro and Movistar may lose signal in remote areas. If your phone supports eSIMs, those are available too.

SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or in phone shops across the country. A 10-day data pack is usually enough for most trips, and prepaid Flex packs offer extra data at a lower cost.

You can easily top up credit through provider apps to make sure you stay connected when you need it.

What’s the Best Time to Visit Costa Rica?

The dry season is from mid-December to April, has sunny days with minimal rain, but it’s also the busiest and most expensive time. The green season, from May to November, brings regular rainfall, fewer tourists, and gorgeous landscapes.

Early May and late November often offer a balance of good weather and smaller crowds. Wildlife is more active during the wetter months.

Many hotels offer discounts during the low season, which is certainly an aspect to consider.

Conclusion

Here was everything you needed to know to spend 10 days in Costa Rica. You’ll hike, swim, and taste your way from the capital to cloud forests and sun-kissed shores.

Flex your plans if rain calls; this country rewards spontaneity. Embrace the pura vida mantra: slow down, smile at locals, and savor every bite. Remember, 10 days is just the start, and we’ll always be here whenever you ant to come back!