2 week travel itinerary for Costa Rica

Day 1: Arrive in San José

When you land at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), the gateway to Costa Rica, you'll be greeted with the vibrant and lively energy of this beautiful country.

Transportation from the Airport

• Uber (£10–15): The easiest and most direct way to get to downtown San José. The ride takes around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

• Local Bus (£1–2): If you're looking to save a bit, take the local bus from the airport. It's cheaper but takes a little longer (around 30-45 minutes), depending on traffic.

Where to Stay in San José

Costa Rica Backpackers (~£12/night)

• Location: Located in downtown San José, this is a social, budget-friendly spot that attracts backpackers and solo travellers.

• Amenities: Offers a pool, communal kitchen, and a laid-back vibe. There’s also a bar to meet other travellers.

• Ideal for: Those looking to meet fellow travellers and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere.

Selina San José (~£18/night)

• Location: Centrally located, just a short walk from the cultural highlights of the city.

• Amenities: A trendy spot with a modern co-working space, café, bar, and even yoga classes. It’s perfect for digital nomads and those looking to get some work done in between their travels.

• Ideal for: People looking for a more stylish, flexible space with a mix of social and work areas.

Explore the City of San José

Mercado Central

• What to Try: The iconic casado (£5), a traditional Costa Rican dish consisting of rice, beans, plantains, and meat (usually beef, pork, or chicken). You’ll find this dish at nearly every food stand in the market.

• Why Visit: The Mercado Central is a bustling, colourful market where you can get a taste of local life. It’s full of small food stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and local products.

Teatro Nacional (National Theatre)

• Cost: ~£12 for a tour of the theatre.

• Why Visit: This is one of the most stunning pieces of architecture in the country, built in 1897. The guided tour takes you through its opulent halls, rich history, and cultural significance. If you’re into history or architecture, this is a must-visit spot.

Barrio Escalante

• Vibe: A hip and trendy district of San José, known for its craft beer scene, modern cafes, and art galleries.

• What to Try: Apotecario, a local craft beer bar that has an impressive selection of Costa Rican brews. It’s a great place to relax after a day of exploring and to meet locals and travellers alike.

Prepare for Your Next Steps

• It's a good idea to buy your bus tickets in advance at one of the bus terminals or through online services.

  • Popular destinations like La Fortuna or Monteverde can be easily reached by bus from San José.

  • Early Travel: Plan your next travel day accordingly, especially if you have a long journey ahead. You can grab snacks and drinks at Mercado Central or the many small shops around the bus terminals.

Day 2-4: Puerto Viejo (Caribbean Vibes & Beaches)

Day 2: Travel to Puerto Viejo (~4.5 hrs, £12)

• Departure: You’ll catch the 6 AM bus from Terminal Atlántico Norte in San José. The journey to Puerto Viejo is approximately 4.5 hours and offers some beautiful views of Costa Rica’s lush countryside, dense jungles, and coastal areas as you make your way eastward to the Caribbean coast.

• Cost: Around £12 for the bus ticket (Costa Rican buses are often an affordable and comfortable way to travel long distances).

Where to Stay in Puerto Viejo

Rocking J’s (~£10/night)

• Vibe: Rocking J’s is a lively, social, and budget-friendly hostel right on the beach.

  Known for its iconic hammock stays and laid-back vibes, it’s perfect for travelers

  looking to meet people and enjoy the vibrant beach lifestyle.

• Amenities: The hostel features a beachside location, a communal kitchen,

  hammocks for sleeping, dormitory beds, and a chill atmosphere. The bar offers

  cheap drinks, and it’s a great spot to relax and socialise.

• Ideal for: Party-loving travellers, backpackers, and anyone looking to be right

  by the beach while enjoying a lively environment.

Selina Puerto Viejo (~£18/night)

• Vibe: For a more modern and comfortable experience, Selina Puerto Viejo offers a blend of trendy, clean rooms and a co-working space. It’s a great place for digital nomads or travellers looking for a quieter but still social environment.

• Amenities: A pool, café, co-working spaces, and regular social events. It’s well-equipped with Wi-Fi, making it great for both work and play. It’s also centrally located, so you can easily walk to the beach, local shops, and restaurants.

• Ideal for: Travellers who want a blend of work and play, or those who prefer a quieter, more comfortable environment.

Afternoon Activities in Puerto Viejo

Bike Rental (~£6/day)

• Playa Negra: Rent a bike for around £6 a day and explore Playa Negra, a beautiful black sand beach about 20 minutes away from town. The area is much quieter than the popular beaches, providing a peaceful setting for a relaxing ride along the shore.

• Playa Cocles: Another must-see spot just a short bike ride from Puerto Viejo. Playa Cocles is known for its perfect surf conditions, and it's a fantastic spot to catch the sunset. The beach is framed by tall palms and lush jungle, making for a stunning view as the sun sets.

Surf at Playa Cocles

• Playa Cocles is a top spot for surfers, whether you’re a beginner or experienced. Surfboard rentals are available for around £10 per day. If you're new to surfing, there are surf schools in the area that offer lessons.

Dinner Options:

• De Gustibus: For a more authentic and local experience, head to De Gustibus for some of the best pizza in town. It's a cozy spot with a variety of fresh ingredients, perfect for a relaxed dinner.

• Lazlo’s Catch: For fresh seafood, check out Lazlo’s Catch, a beachfront restaurant that specializes in local fish and seafood. Dine on the terrace while enjoying the sound of the waves.

Day 3: Cahuita National Park & Punta Uva

Morning: Cahuita National Park

• Cahuita National Park is a protected area just 20 minutes away by bus from Puerto Viejo. Entry to the park is donation-based, so you can contribute as much as you like. The park features a beautiful coastal trail that’s easy to walk and showcases stunning biodiversity.

• Wildlife: You’ll be able to spot wildlife like monkeys, sloths, coatis, iguanas, and toucan species. The trail takes you through lush rainforest that opens up to pristine beaches.

Snorkeling Option:

• If the weather conditions are right, you can also go snorkelling in the park’s coral reefs.

  The cost is around £35 for a guided snorkelling tour. The water is clear and home to a

  variety of tropical fish and coral formations.

Afternoon: Punta Uva

• Punta Uva is often considered one of the best beaches in the area, with calm turquoise

  waters and golden sand, ideal for swimming and lounging. It’s less crowded compared

  to the more popular beaches.

• You can rent a beach chair, enjoy the shade of palm trees, or just relax by the water

  and enjoy the beauty of the Caribbean coast.

Evening: Lazy Mon

• Lazy Mon is a beachfront bar and restaurant where you can unwind after a full day of adventure. Known for its live reggae music, it’s the perfect place to sip on a cheap drink while listening to local bands. It’s a favourite spot for both locals and travellers, offering a true Caribbean vibe.

Day 4: Wildlife & Relaxation

Morning: Jaguar Rescue Center

• The Jaguar Rescue Center offers a guided tour for around £24. This wildlife sanctuary helps rehabilitate injured animals, and the tour provides an opportunity to learn about the region’s wildlife conservation efforts. You’ll see sloths, howler monkeys, toucans, and even jaguars that have been rescued from the wild.

• The center is dedicated to preserving local species and educating visitors on Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity.

Afternoon: Manzanillo Beach

• After the wildlife tour, head to Manzanillo Beach for a more peaceful afternoon. This quieter beach is located in Manzanillo-Gandoca National Wildlife Refuge, and it’s perfect for swimming, relaxing, or just enjoying the natural surroundings. The beach is surrounded by lush jungle and is less touristy than other spots, offering a more serene experience.

Evening: Caribbean Dinner

• For dinner, you can try the traditional Caribbean rice and beans served with coconut milk. This dish is a staple of the Afro-Caribbean cuisine found in the region, often served with fresh fish or chicken.

• You can find this dish at local sodas (small restaurants), or if you’re in the mood for a sit-down dinner, many beachside eateries will serve up this flavourful and filling meal.

Day 5-6: Tortuguero (Rainforest & Wildlife)

Day 5: Travel to Tortuguero (~6 hrs, £12-15)

• Morning: Travel to Tortuguero
  Begin your journey early in the morning with a bus ride to Limón. From there, transfer to Guápiles and then take another bus to La Pavona, which is the port town where you’ll board a boat to Tortuguero.

  • Cost: About £12-15 for the full trip.

  • Duration: The entire journey takes around 6 hours, but the boat ride to Tortuguero is the highlight!

• Boat Ride Through Tortuguero River
  After you reach La Pavona, you'll board a small boat for a scenic boat ride along the Tortuguero River. As you cruise through the lush rainforest, keep an eye out for wildlife such as crocodiles, monkeys, and various bird species that call this region home.

• Arrival in Tortuguero
  Upon arrival in Tortuguero, check into one of these options

Where to Stay in Tortuguero

• Casa Marbella

  • Vibe: A budget-friendly option with river views and a tranquil atmosphere.

    The small, cozy rooms overlook the Tortuguero River, making it a peaceful

    place to relax after your journey.

  • Price: Around £20-30 per night.

  • Ideal for: Travellers looking for a quiet and affordable stay in the heart of

    Tortuguero.

• Aracari Garden Hostel

  • Vibe: A hostel with a jungle vibe, nestled amid lush greenery. This is a social

    and relaxed space that is perfect for meeting fellow travellers while being

    surrounded by the natural beauty of the rainforest.

  • Price: Around £20-40 per night.

  • Ideal for: Backpackers and those looking for a more vibrant, nature-immersed experience.

Explore Tortuguero Village & Beach

• Tortuguero Village: After checking in, take a walk through the village, which is a small and charming place that offers a glimpse of local life. You'll find colourful houses, small shops, and friendly locals. It’s a great place to wander and take in the slow-paced, peaceful atmosphere.

• Black Sand Beach: After your village walk, head to Tortuguero’s black sand beach, located just outside the village. The beach is often empty, making it perfect for a relaxing stroll or a quiet spot to unwind. Note that the waves can be strong, so swimming is not recommended here. However, it’s a peaceful place to watch the sunset or just take in the surrounding beauty.

Day 6: Wildlife Adventures

5:30 AM Canoe Tour (£25)

• Start your day early with a canoe tour through the Tortuguero waterways. At around 5:30 AM, you’ll head out with a guide, exploring the canals and rivers that wind through the Tortuguero National Park.

• During this early morning tour, the wildlife is active, so keep an eye out for howler monkeys, sloths, caimans, and a variety of colourful toucans and other birds.

• Cost: Around £25 for the guided canoe tour.

• Tip: Wear mosquito repellent and bring a waterproof camera to capture the magical moments in this rainforest paradise!

Midday: Hike Cerro Tortuguero

• After your canoe adventure, take a midday hike to Cerro Tortuguero, the highest point in the area. The views from the top are stunning, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding rainforest and the Tortuguero River. It's a relatively easy hike, and the view from the top is definitely worth it!

• The hike is self-guided, but you can arrange for a local guide if you prefer.

July-October: Turtle Nesting Tour (£35, must book with a guide)

• If you're visiting between July and October, don't miss the chance to witness the turtle nesting experience! During these months, green sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs on the beach.

• This nighttime tour allows you to see the turtles up close in their natural habitat. It’s a magical experience to watch the turtles as they dig their nests and lay eggs under the moonlight.

• Cost: Around £35 for the guided tour, and it's highly recommended to book the tour in advance as it's a popular activity in Tortuguero.

If you have time, consider adding a visit to the Tortuguero National Park Visitor’s Center where you can learn more about the area’s ecosystems, flora, and fauna.

Day 7-9: La Fortuna (Volcano & Adventure)

Day 7: Travel to La Fortuna (~7 hrs, £20-25)

• Morning Travel:
  Catch a morning boat from Tortuguero to Guápiles, followed by a bus to La Fortuna. The journey takes about 7 hours and offers stunning views as you travel through Costa Rica's lush countryside and small towns.

  • Cost: Around £20-25 for the bus and boat combination.

  • Duration: Approximately 7 hours of travel time, including a brief stopover at Guápiles for a bus transfer.

Where to Stay in La Fortuna

• Arenal Backpackers Resort

  • Vibe: A social hostel with a relaxed atmosphere and great amenities. Enjoy a large swimming pool and comfortable dorm rooms. It’s perfect for meeting fellow travellers and sharing adventure stories.

  • Price: Around £18 per night for a dorm bed.

  • Ideal for: Backpackers and social travelers looking for a budget-friendly place with good facilities.

• Selina La Fortuna

  • Vibe: A trendy and vibrant atmosphere with a co-working space, good Wi-Fi, and a variety of accommodations. Great for digital nomads or those looking to relax and socialise in a comfortable setting.

  • Price: Around £40-60 for a private room, £20-25 for a dorm.

  • Ideal for: Those who want a combination of work, leisure, and adventure in a great location.

Day 8: Volcano & Waterfall

Morning: Hike Arenal Volcano National Park (£15 entrance)

• Arenal Volcano National Park offers some of the most spectacular views of the Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic landmarks.

• Trail Options: Choose from several hiking trails that take you through lava fields, dense forest, and viewpoints overlooking the volcano and Lake Arenal. The trails vary in difficulty, but the lava flow trail is highly recommended for amazing views of the volcano's activity.

• Cost: Around £15 for park entrance.

Afternoon: Swim at La Fortuna Waterfall (£18, 500 steps down)

• After the hike, head to La Fortuna Waterfall, one of the most famous waterfalls in Costa Rica. The waterfall is a stunning 70-meter drop, surrounded by lush tropical greenery.

• The hike down to the base is a bit challenging with 500 steps, but the refreshing swim in the cool water makes it all worth it.

• Cost: Around £18 for entrance.

Evening: Night Tour (£30)

• For a unique experience, consider booking a night tour through the surrounding forest.

  These tours are designed to spot nighttime wildlife such as snakes, frogs, armadillos,

  and other nocturnal creatures.

• The night tour is a great way to see the jungle from a different perspective, and you’ll

  have a knowledgeable guide to point out the wildlife that you might miss during the day.

• Cost: Around £30 for a guided tour.

Day 9: Adventure Sports

Whitewater Rafting (£65, Balsa River, Class II-III)

• La Fortuna is a top destination for adventure sports, and whitewater rafting on the Balsa River is a must-do!

• The river offers Class II-III rapids, which are perfect for both beginners and intermediate rafters. The rafting companies provide all the gear and a guide to make sure you have an exciting (and safe) experience.

• Cost: Around £65 for a half-day tour.

Canyoning & Waterfall Rappelling (£85)

• Another adrenaline-pumping activity is canyoning, where you’ll rappel down waterfalls and navigate through the jungle. This activity lets you get up close and personal with the forest’s natural beauty as you rappel down wet cliffs and waterfalls.

• The tour typically includes several rappels, ranging in height, giving you a real sense of adventure.

• Cost: Around £85 for the full tour.

Zip-lining (£55 at Sky Adventures)

• Zip-lining is another popular activity in La Fortuna. Sky Adventures offers one of the most exciting zip-lining tours, where you can fly through the rainforest canopy and get amazing views of the Arenal Volcano and surrounding landscape.

• It’s a great option if you’re looking for an exhilarating way to experience the Costa Rican jungle from above.

• Cost: Around £55 for the zip-lining experience.

Day 10-11: Monteverde (Cloud Forest & Extreme Sports)

Day 10: Travel to Monteverde (~3.5 hrs, £25 Jeep-Boat-Jeep)

• Morning Travel:
  Travel from La Fortuna to Monteverde using the famous Jeep-Boat-Jeep transport. This unique and scenic route takes around 3.5 hours and involves:

  • Jeep ride to Lake Arenal.

  • A boat ride across Lake Arenal (approx. 30-40 minutes), offering breathtaking views of the lake and the Arenal Volcano.

  • A final Jeep ride from the lake to Monteverde.

• Cost: Around £25 for the combined Jeep-Boat-Jeep transport.

Where to Stay in Monteverde

• Camino Verde Hostel

  • Vibe: Scenic, tranquil, and perfect for nature lovers. Located on a hill with amazing views of the surrounding cloud forest, this hostel offers a peaceful environment, a cozy atmosphere, and a delicious free breakfast.

  • Price: Around £20-25 for a dorm bed, £40-50 for a private room.

  • Ideal for: Budget travellers seeking a relaxing place to unwind after a day of adventure.

• Selina Monteverde

  • Vibe: A social and trendy spot with a great coworking space, a café, and comfortable facilities. The perfect place for digital nomads, social travelers, and those looking for a lively atmosphere.

  • Price: Around £20-30 for a dorm bed, £60-80 for a private room.

  • Ideal for: Travellers who want a modern vibe and a great place to meet others while enjoying the beautiful views of Monteverde’s cloud forest.

Sunset at El Mirador Viewpoint

• After checking into your accommodation, head to El Mirador, a scenic viewpoint that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding cloud forest, Lake Arenal, and the Nicoya Peninsula on clear days.

• It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a peaceful sunset after your travels. Bring your camera for incredible shots of the landscape and watch as the sun sets behind the mountains.

• Cost: Free.

Day 11: Cloud Forest & Adventure

Morning: Hike Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve (£25)

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is one of the most famous

  protected areas in Costa Rica, known for its biodiversity and

  unique cloud forest ecosystem.

• You’ll get to hike through a mix of moss-covered trees, lush vegetation,

  and a wide variety of wildlife. You might spot monkeys, toucans, and

  a variety of bird species, including the quetzal if you're lucky.

• There are various well-marked trails that lead you through the forest,

  with the most popular being the Sendero Bosque Nuboso trail.

• Cost: Around £25 for entry.

Afternoon: Hanging Bridges at Selvatura Park (£35)

• Selvatura Park offers one of the best ways to see the cloud forest canopy from above. You can walk along suspension bridges that give you incredible views of the forest.

• The hanging bridges trail lets you walk above the treetops, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to observe wildlife from a unique perspective.

• The park also has a butterfly garden, insect exhibits, and a reptile house, making it a great place to spend a few hours immersed in nature.

• Cost: Around £35 for the hanging bridges tour.

Zip-lining at 100% Aventura (£50)

• For those seeking adventure, 100% Aventura offers some of the longest zip lines in Latin America, including the superman-style zip line where you’ll fly across the forest in a horizontal position.

• The zip-lining course is known for its thrills and amazing views of the cloud forest below. The longest zip line is over 1 kilometre in length!

• This is a must-do activity for adrenaline junkies, and it’s one of the best ways to experience Monteverde’s high-altitude rainforest.

• Cost: Around £50 for the zip-lining experience.

Evening: Coffee & Chocolate Tour (£35)

• To round off your day in Monteverde, consider taking a coffee and chocolate tour. This tour takes you through the process of making some of the best Costa Rican coffee and chocolate from bean to cup.

• You’ll get to taste the fresh coffee and chocolate, learn about the history of coffee in the region, and even try your hand at making chocolate from scratch!

• Cost: Around £35 for the full tour.

Day 12-14: Manuel Antonio (Beaches & Wildlife)

Day 12: Travel to Manuel Antonio (~5 hrs, $10-15)

• Morning Travel:
  Travel from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio by bus (approximately 5 hours, costing around £10-15). The route offers some scenic views of the Pacific coast, so make sure to enjoy the landscape along the way.

• Check into your accommodation:

  • Millenium Hostel:

    • Vibe: A budget-friendly hostel with a laid-back vibe, located near the entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park.

    • Cost: Around £15-20 for dorms.

    • Ideal for: Budget travelers who want easy access to the park and the beach.

  • Selina Manuel Antonio:

    • Vibe: A social and trendy spot with a pool and a great co-working space. Selina offers a fun atmosphere with modern amenities and easy access to the nearby beach.

    • Cost: Around £20-35 for a dorm, and £50-80 for a private room.

    • Ideal for: Digital nomads and travellers looking to meet others in a social setting.

Chill at Playa Espadilla & Sunset at El Avión

• Playa Espadilla:
  After checking in, head to Playa Espadilla, the beautiful beach that’s just a short walk from the entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park. This beach is perfect for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying the sun.

• El Avión Sunset:
  For a unique experience, head to El Avión, a restaurant built inside a C-123 cargo plane that once flew weapons to Nicaragua during the Contra War. The restaurant offers amazing views of the coast, making it a perfect spot for sunset drinks.

  • Cost: Expect to pay for drinks and food (~£10-20).

Day 13: Manuel Antonio National Park

• Morning:

  • Arrive early (by 7 AM) to get the most out of your day in Manuel Antonio National Park, a wildlife paradise. Entry to the park costs around £18.

  • Inside the park, you’ll have the opportunity to spot wildlife such as sloths, capuchin monkeys, iguanas, coatis, and a variety of tropical birds. The park is famous for its abundant wildlife and lush surroundings.

  • Be sure to bring binoculars and a camera to capture all the wildlife and natural beauty.

• Relax at Playa Manuel Antonio:
  After exploring the park, take some time to relax at Playa Manuel Antonio,

  a stunning white-sand beach nestled between lush jungle and crystal-clear

  waters. This beach is a perfect spot to rest after a hike and enjoy the beautiful

  setting.

• Optional: If you’re into hiking, there’s a lookout trail that offers fantastic

  panoramic views of the coast.

• Evening Drinks at Balu’s Beach Bar:
  After a day of hiking and wildlife spotting, head to Balu’s Beach Bar, a great

  spot for chilled drinks while watching the sunset. This beachside bar offers

  a relaxed vibe, good cocktails, and is perfect for unwinding after your adventures.

  • Cost: Expect to pay around £5-10 for a drink.

Day 14: Surf & Relax

• Morning:

  • If you’re up for some adventure, take a surf lesson at Playa Espadilla. Surfing is a fantastic activity here due to the consistent waves, and you can rent a board for around £10-20. Expect to pay £35-45 for a group surf lesson, which includes a board and instructor.

  • Alternatively, you can go for a catamaran tour which includes snorkeling and an open bar. This is a relaxing way to explore the coastline and observe marine life. The cost is around £75.

• Afternoon:
  After your morning activity, you can relax on the beach, take a swim, or explore the area further. Enjoy your last moments in Manuel Antonio before heading back to San José.

• Evening Travel:
  Take a bus back to San José (~3.5 hrs, £10-15) in the afternoon or evening. You’ll arrive in the city, ready for your next adventure or your flight home.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

✅ Book national park tickets online (Monteverde, Manuel Antonio).
✅ Use Ubers in San José (cheaper than taxis).
✅ Buses are cheap but shuttles are faster if you're short on time.
✅ Bring cash for remote areas (Tortuguero, Monteverde).
✅ Pack rain gear—weather changes fast!