If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, you’ll want to make the most of your time. Whether you have 5, 6, or 7 days to spare, here are three itinerary options for each length. Choose the one that matches your travel style!

5-Day Costa Rica Itinerary Options

Option 1: Volcano & Hot Springs

Day 1: Arrive in San José, drive to La Fortuna

Day 2: Arenal Volcano, hot springs

Day 3: Day trip to Rio Celeste

Day 4: La Fortuna Waterfall, explore town

Day 5: Return to San José

Option 2: Beach Getaway

Day 1: Arrive, head to Santa Teresa

Day 2: Surf lessons, beach time

Day 3: Explore Cabo Blanco Reserve

Day 4: ATV tour, beach relaxation

Day 5: Return to San José

Option 3: Cloud Forest & Culture

Day 1: Arrive, drive to Monteverde

Day 2: Cloud Forest Reserve

Day 3: Hanging bridges, butterfly gardens

Day 4: Visit Sarchí en route to San José

Day 5: Coffee plantation tour

6-Day Costa Rica Itinerary Options

Option 1: Nature & Wildlife

Day 1: Arrive, travel to Tortuguero

Day 2: Canal tour, turtle nesting (in season)

Day 3: Travel to La Fortuna

Day 4: Arenal Volcano, hot springs

Day 5: Visit Rio Celeste

Day 6: Return to San José

Option 2: Adventure & Adrenaline

Day 1: Arrive in La Fortuna

Day 2: Canyoning, hot springs

Day 3: Rafting or ziplining

Day 4: Travel to Monteverde

Day 5: Cloud Forest, suspension bridges

Day 6: Return to San José

Option 3: Pacific Coast Highlights

Day 1: Arrive, head to Manuel Antonio

Day 2: National Park exploration

Day 3: Beach day, snorkeling

Day 4: Drive to Uvita, whale watching

Day 5: Marino Ballena National Park

Day 6: Return to San José

7-Day Costa Rica Itinerary Options

Option 1: Grand Loop

Day 1: Arrive, drive to La Fortuna

Day 2: Arenal Volcano, hot springs

Day 3: Visit Rio Celeste

Day 4: Drive to Monteverde

Day 5: Cloud Forest, ziplining

Day 6: Travel to Manuel Antonio

Day 7: Beach time, return to San José

Option 2: Caribbean Adventure

Day 1: Arrive, travel to Tortuguero

Day 2: Canal safari, village tour

Day 3: Transfer to Puerto Viejo

Day 4: Cahuita National Park

Day 5: Jaguar Rescue Center

Day 6: Chocolate tour, beach day

Day 7: Return to San José

Option 3: Off the Beaten Path

Day 1: Arrive, head to Bajos del Toro

Day 2: Waterfall hikes

Day 3: Travel to San Gerardo de Dota

Day 4: Birdwatching, hiking

Day 5: Sarchí, drive to Playa Samara

Day 6: Beach day

Day 7: Return to San José

Tips for Your Trip:

Rent a 4×4 for more remote destinations Book accommodations in advance, especially in high season Double-check ferry schedules if traveling to the Nicoya Peninsula

Ready to plan your trip? Let me know if you need help with packing lists or travel tips!