10 Day Costa Rica Itinerary: Experience the Land of Pura Vida 🌿
Costa Rica is often called the “land of the Pura Vida,” which means “pure life” in Spanish. This phrase represents the country’s laid-back and relaxed way of life, as well as its commitment to sustainable living, environmental conservation, and enjoying life to the fullest. In Costa Rica, Pura Vida is not just a saying, but a way of life!
After exploring this gorgeous slice of Central America for myself, I can assure you that travelling here will exceed your expectations. However, with so much natural beauty, it can be hard to narrow down the best places to go in Costa Rica.
So, to help you decide, I present my Costa Rica travel itinerary for 10 days! This includes all of the best places to visit in Costa Rica, as well as all my insider travel tips.
Please note: This Costa Rica travel itinerary for 10 days is fast paced. If time is on your side, I highly recommend adding at least an extra day or two in each place!
Costa Rica Travel Itinerary 10 Days 🇨🇷
Days 1-2: San Jose 🏙️
The best place to start your Costa Rica travel itinerary for 10 days is the capital city, San Jose. This is a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination that offers a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities.
As the cultural capital of Costa Rica, the city has so many museums, galleries, theatres, and other awesome attractions just waiting to be explored!
Best activities in San Jose:
Discover Amazing Artwork
Immersed in the rich cultural tapestry of Costa Rica since 1978, the The Museo De Arte Costarricense serves as a vibrant tribute to the nation’s artistic heritage, spanning from the 19th century to contemporary times.
You’ll find an eclectic mix of art forms here, from the masterpieces of renowned Costa Rican artists to the promising work of emerging talents. Notably, the museum also appreciates global influences, hosting works by international artists who have left a significant imprint on the country’s art landscape.
Overall, this is the perfect place to lose yourself in the cultural exploration of Costa Rica!
Explore the Toucan Rescue Ranch (Most Wholesome thing to do in San Jose)
The Toucan Rescue Ranch is close to downtown San Jose (about a 20 minute drive) and is easily one of the top things to do in Costa Rica. What I love about the ranch is that it does amazing work for the conservation and rehabilitation of wildlife, providing a safe haven for gorgeous birds, like toucans, owls, and macaws 🦜
This is undoubtedly one of the most wholesome places to visit on your Costa Rica travel itinerary for 10 days and one of the best things to do when you’re in San Jose.
In terms of where to see sloths in Costa Rica, you’re guaranteed to see them here! You’ll get an up close glimpse and learn all about their stories, as well as the conservation efforts being undertaken to protect them.
Overall, the ranch is a wonderful place to visit if you’re interested in wildlife conservation and the natural beauty of Costa Rica 🦥
Mercado Central (Classic thing to do in San Jose)
Another amazing thing to do on your 10 day Costa Rica itinerary is spending a few hours at Mercado Central, San Jose. This has been a Costa Rica landmark for over 100 years and is even listed as a national monument.
You can sample authentic and seriously tasty food here, like Gallo Pinto, Casado, Empanadas, and Tamales. This is also one of the best places in Costa Rica to do some souvenir shopping and an essential stop on your itinerary.
Try the Local Cuisine: Where to Eat in San Jose
I thought I’d add some of the top places to eat in San Jose, since the city is practically bursting with flavour. This is one of the best places in Costa Rica to experience an awesome diversity in terms of cuisines, both authentic and international!🍴
Restaurant Silvestre: After lots of recommendations for this place, we simply had to check it out for ourselves. From the moment you step into the restaurant you’ll fall in love, as it occupies a beautiful period house in Amó. I recommend trying their renowned ‘Costa Rican Round Trip Tasting menu.’ Employing a Farm-to-Table concept, this incredible menu features a range of dishes that showcase local Costa Rican ingredients and flavours. Each course is practically a work of art and it truly felt like a Michelin star experience! This has GOT to be the best restaurant in San Jose (I would even argue in all of Costa Rica, it’s that good!).
Other amazing restaurants in San Jose include:
- Restaurante Grano de Oro: Located in a converted Victorian mansion, this restaurant offers a blend of Costa Rican and European cuisines. With a cozy atmosphere and exceptional service, they serve dishes made with fresh local ingredients.
- Soda Tapia: A popular local eatery, Soda Tapia serves traditional Costa Rican cuisine at affordable prices. Try their Gallo Pinto (rice and beans) or Casado (typical Costa Rican meal with rice, beans, meat, and plantains) for an authentic meal.
- Alma de Amón: Located in the trendy Amón neighborhood, Alma de Amón offers a unique dining experience with a rotating seasonal menu. Their dishes showcase a blend of international flavours, and the restaurant’s modern design adds to the overall amazing ambiance.
Also, it’s worth noting that if you’re looking for the best nightlife in Costa Rica, San Jose is the place to be! For bars, clubs, and live music venues, check out lively areas like El Pueblo, Escalante, and La California 🎉
Where to Stay in San Jose
We stayed at the Radisson, which is one of the best luxury hotels in San Jose, offering the perfect combo of comfort, convenience and fantastic amenities (including a gym, swimming pool, spa, and multiple dining options). It’s right in the heart of the city, making it the perfect base to explore all San Jose has to offer.
However, if this hotel doesn’t quite appeal, you can always use Hotellook to find and compare prices on hotels in San Jose!
Days 3-4: Tortuguero National Park 🐊
For the next part of your Costa Rica 10 Day Travel Itinerary, head to Tortuguero National Park, which is one of the world’s most important nesting sites for the endangered green sea turtle.
How to get to Tortuguero National Park: Due to its remoteness, getting here is an adventure in itself! Firstly, you’ll need to travel to either La Pavona or Cariari, which is a 2 to 3-hour drive from San José. From there, take a scenic 1 hour boat ride along the river to Tortuguero National Park. Alternatively, for a quicker (but more expensive option) there are small domestic flights available from San José to Tortuguero.
Best Activities in Tortuguero:
Explore Black Sand Beaches
If you’re looking for black sand beaches in Costa Rica, Tortuguero is one of the best places to see it. An endless expanse of ebony-hued sand unfolds here, stretching all the way to Nicaragua. This place is totally unique and extremely Instagram worthy!
Free from the trappings of touristy crowds, these beaches invite you to experience tranquility in its purest form! There’s nothing better than sitting in a hammock with your fave book, taking in the pure serenity of this awesome part of Costa Rica.
Amazing Boat Trips: Top thing to do in Tortuguero
I also highly recommend booking a guided boat trip along Tortuguero’s tropical canals in search of wildlife. On our tour, we spotted caimans, monkeys, sloths, and an amazing variety of birds!
Visit Tortuguero Village
Take a guided tour of Tortuguero Village to learn about the local culture, history, and way of life. Explore the village’s colourful streets, visit the local school and church, and interact with residents to gain insight into the community’s traditions and customs.
Do a Fishing Tour
Go fishing in the rivers, canals, and coastal waters of Tortuguero. Join a guided fishing tour to catch freshwater and saltwater fish species such as tarpon, snook, rainbow bass, and machaca while enjoying the scenic beauty of the region.
Go on a Turtle Nesting Tours (Best Thing to do in Tortuguero)
Experience the awe-inspiring sight of sea turtles nesting on the beaches of Tortuguero.
Join a guided night tour during nesting season (July to October) to witness green sea turtles, leatherback turtles, and hawksbill turtles laying their eggs in the sand.
Afterward, you may have the opportunity to see baby turtles hatch and make their way to the sea. This is easily one of the best things to do on your Costa Rica 10 Day Travel Itinerary!
Where to Stay in Tortuguero
If you’re a nature lover, spending a couple days in the park is ideal, as it’s one of the most biodiverse areas in the world.
With some advance planning, I booked the popular Mawamba Lodge. This is a top place to stay in Tortuguero National Park as it’s literally right in the heart of it in the most peaceful and beautiful setting!
However, if this place isn’t your cup of tea, you can always use Hotellook to find and compare prices for other hotels.
Days 5-6: Head to La Fortuna 🌋
After a couple of days in Tortuguero National Park, head to La Fortuna for the next part of your Costa Rica travel itinerary 10 days. This is a charming town in northern Costa Rica, surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including the Arenal Volcano, lush rainforest, and cascading waterfalls.
What makes La Fortuna so special? The streets here are lined with colourful buildings, quaint little shops, and restaurants serving delicious local cuisine. I seriously loved the laid-back atmosphere of the town, which makes it super easy to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
How to get to La Fortuna: Get a boat from the National Park to La Pavona, taking around an hour. From La Pavona, drive or get a shuttle to La Fortuna, which takes about 3 hours. It’s well worth the adventure getting to La Fortuna I promise!
Best Activities in La Fortuna
Outdoor Adventures
For adventure seekers, there’s a range of thrilling outdoor activities to do in La Fortuna, such as hiking, horseback riding, zip-lining, and white water rafting. There’s genuinely something for everyone here.
Visit Arenal Volcano National Park
Explore the iconic Arenal Volcano National Park, home to the majestic Arenal Volcano. Hike along scenic trails that wind through primary and secondary rainforests, offering stunning views of the volcano, lava fields, and Lake Arenal. This is easily one of the top things to do on your 10 day Costa Rica itinerary.
Explore Arenal Hanging Bridges
Wander through a network of suspended bridges and walking trails that offer panoramic views of the Arenal Volcano and surrounding rainforest. Spot wildlife such as monkeys, toucans, and sloths as you explore the canopy.
Take a Waterfall Hike
Hike to the base of the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, one of the most famous waterfalls in Costa Rica. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool waters beneath the waterfall and soak in the natural beauty of the surrounding rainforest.
Do a Wildlife Safari
Join a guided wildlife safari tour in the nearby Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. Explore the diverse ecosystems of wetlands, rivers, and forests while spotting wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, caimans, and exotic birds.
Relax in Natural Hot Springs
In terms of things to do in La Fortuna, one of the most amazing activities is visiting Ecotermales Fortuna (pictured below), which is a hot spring offering a truly serene experience. This spring has several natural pools surrounded by the rainforest, which creates a heavenly atmosphere. It also serves delicious tropical cocktails! For me, this was one of the best things to do on this Costa Rica 10 Day Travel Itinerary!
These are just a few of the best activities to enjoy in La Fortuna. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, relaxation, or wildlife encounters, La Fortuna offers something for everyone to enjoy amidst its stunning natural landscapes.
Where to Stay in La Fortuna
We stayed at Arenal Manoa Resort & Hot Springs, which is a luxurious resort set amidst tropical gardens and overlooking the Arenal Volcano. If you don’t have time to visit Ecotermales Fortuna, this resort is ideal, as it even has its own thermal springs that are naturally heated by the Volcano. This is undeniably the best place to stay in La Fortuna and well worth splurging on!
However, if this place doesn’t appeal, as always, use Hotellook to find and compare prices for other hotels.
Days 7-8: Discover Monteverde and the Cloud Forest ☁️
Next up on the 10 Day Costa Rica travel itinerary is Monteverde Cloud Forest, which is a natural wonder located in the northern part of the country. It’s a unique destination in Costa Rica that offers a glimpse into the cloud forest ecosystem, which is only found in certain parts of the world.
It’s estimated that there’s over 2,500 plant species, 400 bird species, and 100 mammal species living within the forest. Some of the more iconic species include the resplendent quetzal, the three-wattled bellbird, and the jaguar.
How to get to Monteverde Cloud Forest: Traveling from La Fortuna to the Monteverde Cloud Forest involves a scenic journey across Lake Arenal and then overland through beautiful countryside. First, take a 30-minute taxi or shuttle to Lake Arenal, followed by a 45-minute boat ride across the lake. Once you disembark, a 1.5-hour drive will take you the rest of the way to Monteverde.
Best Things to do in Monteverde
Explore the Cloud Forest Reserves
Monteverde is home to several cloud forest reserves, including the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve. Explore the well-maintained trails to discover a diverse array of plant and animal species.
Canopy Tours
One of the top things to do in Monteverde is a Canopy tour, consisting of zip-lining through the forest from one platform to another, suspended high above the ground and experiencing the forest from a bird’s-eye view.
The exhilaration of being suspended in the air and gliding through the canopy is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s sure to get your heart racing!
Selvatura Hummingbird Garden
Check out the incredible diversity of hummingbirds at the Hummingbird Gallery. When you get here, watch these tiny, iridescent birds feed from nectar feeders and capture stunning photos of them in flight!
Learn About Coffee Production
Take a guided tour of a local coffee plantation to learn about the process of coffee production from bean to cup. Discover the importance of sustainable farming practices and sample freshly roasted coffee beans. If you’re a coffee addict like me, this is is easily one of the top things to do in Costa Rica as the coffee here is prized for its rich flavour, mild acidity, and clean finish.
Monteverde travel tip: In January this mountainous town was surprisingly cold, but luckily I’d come from baltic England and had a warm coat in my luggage! So, if you plan on visiting Monteverde, be sure to add warm clothing to your Costa Rica packing list!
Where to Stay in Monteverde
We stayed at arguably the best hotel in Monteverde – El Establo Mountain Hotel. This incredible hotel is nestled in the midst of a vibrant forest, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Every morning an adorable and friendly white-nosed coati (pictured below) was waiting for us outside our room!
If you do decide to stay here, I highly recommend a visit to the on-site Green Leaf Spa for an incredible massage in the mountains.
Or, you can always use Hotellook to find and compare prices for other hotels.
Days 9 – 10: Experience Manuel Antonio National Park 🦋
The last stop on the Costa Rica travel itinerary for 10 days is Manuel Antonio National Park, which is a tropical paradise located on the central Pacific coast. This beautiful park is home to lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and an incredible array of wildlife, making it truly one of the most picturesque destinations in the world.
Traveling from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio National Park: This typically involves a 4 hour drive. Keep in mind that road conditions can vary and some sections can be quite rough.
What makes Manuel Antonio National Park so special is its unique blend of natural beauty and biodiversity, making it an essential stop on your Costa Rica travel itinerary for 10 days.
The park is home to over 100 species of mammals, including monkeys, sloths, and anteaters, as well as literally hundreds of species of birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
Best Things to do in Manuel Antonio
Explore the National Park
Discover the natural beauty of Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most popular national parks. Hike along scenic trails that wind through dense rainforest, leading to pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and colourful tropical birds. This place is seriously epic and an absolute must on any 10 day Costa Rica travel itinerary.
Hitting the Beach
If you’re looking for the best beaches in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio is also the place to be! It’s so easy to spend the afternoon relaxing and soaking up the scenery in this stunning part of the country. Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla are two of the most popular beaches in the area, known for their soft white sand and calm waters perfect for swimming.
Snorkelling
In the crystal-clear and warm waters surrounding the park, you can often spot a variety of marine life, like dolphins and whales, making it one of the best places to do snorkelling in Costa Rica. For me (as a water baby) this is one of the best things to do on this Costa Rica 10 Day Travel Itinerary.
Take a Mangrove Tour
Explore the mangrove forests of the Damas Island Estuary on a boat tour. Glide along winding waterways as you observe diverse wildlife such as monkeys, crocodiles, herons, and mangrove crabs in their natural habitat.
Where to Stay in Manuel Antonio National Park
We stayed at Hotel Playa Espadilla & Gardens, which is on of the best places to stay in Manuel Antonio. It’s just 200m from the National Park and features a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool that’s super Instagram worthy.
However, if none of my hotel recommendations appeal, you can easily find the best Costa Rica accommodation deals to suit your budget using Hotellook below:
FAQs about Costa Rica 🏖️
What’s the Official Language in Costa Rica? 🗣️
The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish. However, English is also widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas.
What’s the Official Currency in Costa Rica? 💱
The official currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), but U.S. dollars are also widely used.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, however it’s always a good idea to have some local currency on you.
ATMs are readily available in larger towns/ urban areas where you can withdraw colónes directly.
Best Time to Travel to Costa Rica? ⌛
The best time to visit Costa Rica depends on the activities you’ve planned and the regions you want to visit.
The country has a tropical climate with two main seasons: Dry Season (December to April) and Rainy Season (May to November).
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each season:
Costa Rica Dry season (December to April) 🌞
- Pros: Sunny weather with little to no rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, beach-going, and wildlife watching.
- Cons: Higher crowds and prices, celebrating Christmas in Costa Rica is particularly expensive, as are the Easter holidays.
Costa Rica Rainy season (May to November) 💦
- Pros: Lush green landscapes, excellent surf conditions, and lower crowds and prices (this is the cheapest time to fly to Costa Rica).
- Cons: Frequent rain showers, which can make some activities more challenging, such as hiking and wildlife watching.
Overall, the best time to visit Costa Rica is during the Dry Season, particularly if you’re planning on visiting the Pacific coast or doing outdoor activities. However, if you’re interested in seeing wildlife or visiting the Caribbean coast, the Rainy Season might be a better option.
How Much is a Trip to Costa Rica? 💰
Costa Rica is often considered one of the pricier countries in Central America, especially when compared to its neighbours like Nicaragua and Guatemala. That being said, it’s still significantly cheaper than many destinations in North America and Western Europe.
Costs can fluctuate depending on the region, the type of accommodation, and the activities chosen. For example, Manuel Antonio and Arenal can be more expensive, especially for accommodations and tours.
However, more off-the-beaten-path destinations and local eateries can provide more budget-friendly options. Public transportation is quite affordable and food costs can be kept down by eating at local ‘sodas’ (small restaurants).
Is Costa Rica Safe? ⚠️
As for safety, Costa Rica is generally regarded as one of the safest countries in Central America for tourists. The country has a stable democracy, a disarmed population, and a friendly local culture, making Costa Rica solo travel a great idea!
Petty theft, like pickpocketing or bag-snatching, can occur, especially in tourist-heavy areas, so it’s always wise to stay vigilant and take precautions. However, more serious crime is less common, especially against tourists. In general, most visitors to Costa Rica have a trouble-free stay and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals.
What are the Best Tours in Costa Rica? 🦥
TourRadar has some amazing Costa Rica tours – I’ve travelled all over the world using their platform and always had a fantastic time!
These are some of the best Costa Rica trips currently on offer ⁀➷
- Costa Rica Quest
- Costa Rica: See & Experience it ALL in 11 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours
- Essential Costa Rica – Package with Manuel Antonio National Park
Best Travel Insurance for Costa Rica? 🏥
Travel insurance is essential – it will save you thousands if something goes wrong on your Costa Rica itinerary. Do note that travel insurance is particularly crucial for Costa Rica due to the country’s adventurous activities and remote areas.
Nomad Insurance with SafetyWing is amazing, as it covers emergency medical evacuation and bedside visits, starting at just $42 per 4 weeks.
You can use it as a subscription service, meaning you don’t have to pay for the whole year upfront. Instead, you’re charged every 28 days, until you cancel, giving you the ultimate level of flexibility.
There’s also no limit on travel duration, so you don’t need a return date (and a return ticket) in order to activate your insurance. So it’s the perfect safety net for anyone on the move!
Check SafetyWing Insurance out for yourself here:
Conclusion: 10 Day Costa Rica Itinerary 🦥 🌴
The stunning landscapes and incredible biodiversity of Costa Rica make it a top destination for travellers from all over the world. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a chance to connect with nature, Costa Rica truly has something for everyone.
So if you have 10 days to spare, why not complete this 10 day Costa Rica itinerary yourself? I can assure you that you won’t be disappointed with the magic of this tropical paradise! ✨
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