Make the Most of Your Time in Costa Rica

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? Read this first to maximize the things to see and do during your visit

A common question we get is "How many days should I spend in Costa Rica"? While Costa Rica is a small country (size of West Virginia), there are many things to see. The good news is that many sites are situated fairly close together, with great roads (mostly), throughout the country, makes it easy to get around. In 7 or 8 days you will be able to see the best of the country, with 2 weeks you will be able to get all the key highlights, and with more than 2 weeks, you will be able to really explore some regions in depth.

No matter how many days you have, our detailed guides will help you make the most of the time you have in Costa Rica.

Know how long you have already? Explore tours and itineraries by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days · 16 days

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How Many Days to Spend in Costa Rica

You can have a great adventure in Costa Rica in as short as a long weekend. With only a few days to spare, you'll have enough time to hike through a rainforest, see an active volcano, and take a surfing lesson. Of course, a week or more is recommended so that you can take advantage of the wide range of activities and biodiversity, giving you more opportunities to explore the culture and vast natural surroundings like a local. This is a breakdown of optimal itineraries to explore Costa Rica, from four days to two weeks.

Explore San José and checkout the neoclassical Teatro Nacional

3 Days in Costa Rica - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have just three days to spend in Costa Rica, it's wise to prioritize one location or region. From whitewater rafting to wildlife viewing and catching a world-class wave, here are some suggestions for how to spend a long weekend in this beautiful country.

If luck is on your side, you may spot the resplendent quetzal in the Cloud Forest Reserve

4 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With four days to spend in Costa Rica, it's wise to focus on one region. A popular choice is a highlights tour of the Arenal area, featuring volcano hikes and a dip in hot springs. Head to Manuel Antonio National Park for an active itinerary that includes surfing and kayaking, or travel to Monteverde for zip line adventures and horseback riding in the cloud forest. Alternatively, opt for a wildlife-themed luxury tour around the Osa Peninsula, or mix wildlife spotting with cultural experiences in Tortuguero National Park.

Go off the beaten path and discover Guanacaste trees in Rincon de la Vieja

5 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Off-the-Beaten-Path Itinerary Ideas

Five days in Costa Rica is the right amount of time to focus on an off-the-beaten-path region. Travelers eager to experience the unspoiled landscapes of the Caribbean Coast should set their sights on Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, while those seeking a mix of beach time and culinary delights will find Manuel Antonio National Park the perfect fit. Other options include an activity-packed trip in Rincón de La Vieja National Park or a wildlife adventure on the lesser-visited Osa Peninsula.

Check into your casita for two indulgent nights (photo courtesy of Río Celeste Hideaway Resort)

5 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Spend five days in luxury on a trip to Costa Rica and base yourself in one or two locations to soak up the country's lush landscapes and pristine beaches. Travelers seeking a mix of the two will find Vara Blanca and Manuel Antonio the ideal bases, while thrill seekers with a taste for creature comforts should opt for a rafting trip on the Río Pacuare. If you're seeking a lavish beach getaway, both Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and the Gulf of Papagayo provide the perfect setting.

5 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itineraries

With less than a week, it's possible to experience many of Costa Rica's star attractions. You can visit misty cloud forests, go whale watching on the Pacific, view wildlife in remote corners of the country, or hike around a volcano—just choose the adventure that suits you best. Let this diverse collection of 5-day itineraries inspire you to do just that.

Immerse in nature together in Costa Rica on a honeymoon

5 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

With five days in Costa Rica, honeymooners should focus on one region. Beach lovers can choose from a leisurely visit to Manuel Antonio or an active itinerary in Guanacaste that includes daily snorkeling. Wellness-focused newlyweds can retreat to Bajos del Toro for jungle hikes and couples spa treatments. Those keen on a hiking and beach honeymoon can do both in the Northwest, and lovebirds passionate about wildlife will find opportunities to see and learn about unique species in Tortuguero.

Explore the clear waters of Manuel Antonio National Park

6 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With six days in Costa Rica, travelers can easily explore one or two destinations. Itineraries fun for the whole family include a trip to La Fortuna Waterfall Reserve, an excursion to Manuel Antonio National Park, a wildlife excursion around Arenal Volcano (plus a zip line adventure!), and a trip plan centered around volcanoes and beaches. Add a cultural element to the trip by spending a day exploring the historic center of San José. Read on to learn more about your options for family-friendly trips around Costa Rica.

6 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With six days to spend in Costa Rica, one excellent option is a classic tour that takes you to popular highlights like Arenal and Manuel Antonio National Park. Active travelers might opt for a cycling tour or an adventurous itinerary featuring a two-day whitewater rafting excursion. Other great options include a wildlife luxury trip to the Osa Peninsula and a trip that mixes culture and nature in the Gulf of Papayayo. Learn more about the possibilities with these five unique itineraries.

1 Week in Costa Rica - 6 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Plan the perfect week in Costa Rica with these family-friendly itinerary ideas. From volcanoes and hot springs to waterfalls and estuaries, each plan features a range of outdoor experiences. Focus your time around hiking and wildlife viewing in national parks, opt for an adventure centered around volcanoes and Pacific beaches, or choose a trip filled with active pursuits like sailing and snorkeling around the coral reef off the Catalina Islands. With hands-on activities like chocolate-making workshops and nighttime rainforest walks, these action-packed trips are a hit with kids and adults alike.

Relax amid the sounds of the Costa Rican jungle in your private wooden cabin (photo courtesy of Amor Arenal)

1 Week in Costa Rica - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

With one week in Costa Rica on a luxury itinerary, you can get to know the country's captivating volcanic landscapes, cloud forests, and beaches on a highlights tour. Or, pair adrenaline-pumping activities with pampered afternoons while splitting your time between Turrialba and Puerto Viejo. Those looking for a romantic getaway will find the Gulf of Papagayo provides the perfect escape. Alternatively, if you prefer unpacking your bags for a more extended stay, opt for a trip featuring the Osa Peninsula.

1 Week in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With a week in Costa Rica, you can explore two to three locations. Nature lovers will delight in a natural wonders trip, complete with visits to La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Manual Antonio National Park, while those looking for an uninterrupted time at the beach will love a Caribbean coast itinerary. Or, if you're looking for a slice of luxury, base yourself at elegant lodges and get well off the beaten path while searching for unique wildlife.

Enjoy romantic beach evenings on a weeklong honeymoon in Costa Rica

1 Week in Costa Rica - 5 Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

During a one-week honeymoon adventure in Costa Rica, you can experience pristine rainforest, secluded beaches, and volcanic landscapes. For a mix of all three, opt for a fast-paced trip featuring Tamarindo, Rincón de la Vieja, and Monteverde. Or, slow the pace but increase activities during stays in La Fortuna and Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Wildlife-loving couples will find Drake Bay and Manuel Antonio the perfect fit, while those seeking a remote getaway embark on a road trip through Costa Rica's interior.

Soak up volcanic landscape views on your journey to Turrialba

8 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

An eight-day trip to Costa Rica provides plenty of time for both adventure and relaxation. Choose a classic tour that leads you to the country's volcanoes, cloud forests, and beaches, opt for a wildlife-focused tour of Tortuguero and Cahuita National Parks, or choose an active itinerary that includes whitewater rafting and zip-lining. Alternatively, choose a luxury tour, a cultural trip, or a cycling itinerary across the country. Find out more about your options by reading over these unique itineraries.

Snorkel with kids off the Costa Rican coast

8 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Spend eight days exploring Costa Rica's beaches, volcanoes, and cloud forests. These family-friendly itineraries offer both adventure and education. Divide your time between national parks, wildlife viewing excursions, and hikes to volcanoes and waterfalls, or opt for an itinerary that includes a full day of sightseeing historic San José. Families with smaller children might choose a trip with low-key outdoor activities, like a sunset catamaran cruise or a hike through a sloth habitat, while those with older kids may prefer an itinerary with zip-lining, snorkeling, and other adventure sports.

A little girl feeds a blue and gold macaw

9 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Hike to volcanoes, snorkel with tropical fish, and zip-line through the rainforest on these 9-day adventures designed for families. Each trip plan offers a mix of outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. The most classic itineraries lead you from Arenal to Manuel Antonio National Park and the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Other excellent options take you off the beaten path to destinations like Tortuguero National Park, the Gulf of Papagayo, and Sámara for boat tours, kayaking in the mangrove, hiking through a sloth habitat, and other active pursuits that will challenge and inspire travelers of all ages.

9 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Nine days in Costa Rica offers a great canvas of exploration in this biodiverse paradise. Tour a handful of the country’s volcanoes, including Arenal, Irazú, Poás, and Turrialba. Relax in the thermal hot springs of La Fortuna. Explore the cloud forests of Monteverde, or go whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River—see the itineraries below for more on what to do during your trip.

Admire the beachfront views from your private infinity pool (photo courtesy of Casa Chameleon at Las Catalinas)

10 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in Costa Rica is an excellent amount of time to discover the country's pristine landscapes while staying in luxury accommodations and indulging. Enjoy the freedom a rental car provides on a road trip adventure stretching from Poás to Manuel Antonio, or take the trail less traveled on a journey featuring the Pacific coast's national parks. Alternatively, consider an activity-filled itinerary featuring Tortuguero, Arenal, and Papagayo, or delight in a bird-watching trip through the country's premier ecolodges.

Run and play with the kids on Costa Rica's beaches

10 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

From natural landscapes to wildlife experiences and adventure sports, Costa Rica has much to offer families. Travelers with younger children might opt for a 10-day itinerary with easy guided hikes and visits to wildlife refuges. And those with older kids may choose a trip plan that features zip-lining, whitewater rafting, and surf lessons. Whether you focus your time around Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest, base yourself in the surf town of Tamarindo, or go further off the beaten path on a trip to coastal Sámara, these family-friendly itineraries offer outdoor education and thrills for all ages.

Bond as newly weds as you keep your eyes peeled for tropical species, like purple-throated hummingbirds on a hike to Laguna de Hule

10 Days in Costa Rica - 4 Honeymoon Itinerary Ideas

Given Costa Rica's size, you can fit jungle, aquatic, and urban adventures in your 10-day honeymoon. Outdoorsy couples will enjoy rafting the Río Pacuare and ziplining in Turrialba. Wildlife lovers can go bird-watching in Monteverde and spot monkeys in Corcovado National Park. Couples keen on cuisine can sample Costa Rican fare in the Central Market and make chocolate with a Bribri community. Those seeking a slower pace will appreciate a sunset cruise in Tamarindo and a hot springs soak in Arenal.

Take on the Class III and IV rapids on the Río Pacuare

10 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Travelers with more than a week to spend in Costa Rica have time to experience more of what makes the country so exceptional. These unique 10-day itineraries lead you through the best of Costa Rica, whether you're interested in seeing the top natural highlights or focusing on a specific interest, like adventure activities or wildlife spotting. From a family-friendly tour to a coastal adventure featuring snorkeling and whitewater rafting, there's something for everyone.

11 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Outdoor adventure, wildlife viewing, and relaxing beach time await families on these exciting 11-day itineraries around Costa Rica! Travelers with younger children might opt for a trip featuring sunset sailing, farm tours, and easy walks through the rainforest, while those with older kids may prefer an itinerary with zip-lining and snorkeling around a coral reef. Whether you spend your time around Arenal Volcano and the Monteverde Cloud Forest or venture further to the beaches of Sámara and Palo Verde National Park, these trips offer fun for the whole family.

11 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With eleven days in Costa Rica, travelers have plenty of options. Combine popular highlights like Arenal Volcano, Monteverde cloud forest, and Manuel Antonio National Park, or delve into one region, like the Pacific coast. Other possibilities include a family-oriented itinerary, featuring wildlife viewing and kid-friendly outdoor activities, and a luxury tour that incorporates adventure sports like zip-lining and whitewater rafting. Learn more by reading over these five unique itineraries.

A sweeping view of the volcano in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Costa Rica

12 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With twelve days in Costa Rica, travelers can visit several regions. Choose a highlights tour that includes Arenal and Monteverde, focus on the top sights along the beautiful Pacific coast, or road-trip around volcanoes and national parks on a self-drive tour. Opt for a wildlife-centered adventure, enjoy a luxury itinerary featuring overnight stays in elegant eco-lodges, or take on the challenge of a cycling trip to the Caribbean coast—learn all about the possibilities with these unique 12-day itineraries.

Discover the wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park

13 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 13 days to spend in Costa Rica, you could choose a coast-to-coast highlights tour that takes you to volcanoes, beaches, and national parks. You might opt instead for an itinerary focused on the Caribbean side, an action-packed tour featuring whitewater rafting and ziplining, or a birdwatching tour that leads you to bird habitats around Costa Rica. For the ultimate mix of relaxation and adventure, try a self-guided road trip around the country's best beaches. Learn more with these five unique itineraries.

Enjoy a stroll on Conchal Beach in Costa Rica

2 Weeks in Costa Rica - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks to spend in Costa Rica, travelers can truly enjoy the country's natural beauty and geographic diversity. Look for wildlife in the national parks, relax on white-sand beaches, venture underwater to snorkel or dive with colorful marine life, or try adventure activities from whitewater rafting to zip-lining through the jungle. Stick to the highlights, choose a self-drive trip, opt for a luxury tour, or get off the beaten path with these five unique itineraries that showcase the best of Costa Rica.

Bond with the family as you explore Costa Rica's many beaches

2 Weeks in Costa Rica - 6 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in Costa Rica, you and your family can embark on a quick-paced tour featuring stays in Tamarindo, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio, and Drake Bay. Or, opt for a slower-paced trip with plenty of downtime between new activities and cultural excursions. Wildlife-loving families will find La Fortuna and Sámara the ideal spots to be based, while families with adrenaline-loving kids can zipline, surf, kayak, and horseback ride their way around the country.

Relish three nights in Uvita on the Osa Peninsula (photo courtesy of Kura Boutique Hotel)

2 Weeks in Costa Rica - 5 Luxury Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in Costa Rica is an excellent amount of time to delve into the country's incredible mix of luxury, adventure, and pristine nature. On a highlights tour, hike, bike, cruise, and snorkel your way from the Caribbean to the Pacific coast. Or, opt to include time in Turrialba's cloud forests and Uvita's unspoiled beaches to get off the main tourist trail. Wildlife enthusiasts who love their creature comforts can hop between luxury lodges while birders let private guides lead the way in search of exotic birds.

An emerald toucanet perches on a branch in Los Quetzales National Park

15 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

If you have 15 days to spend in Costa Rica, take your time exploring the country—see the best of multiple national parks, get off the beaten path with an interest-driven trip like birding or cycling. Road-trip around the country, hike through rainforests and snorkel around coral reef, mix adventure sports with luxurious spa treatments, and more, with these unique itinerary ideas.

Rappel down a rushing waterfall in Costa Rica

16 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Sixteen days is plenty of time for a comprehensive tour of Costa Rica. Hit the country's highlights on a classic itinerary featuring volcano hikes and hot springs, take to the open road on a self-drive trip to Arenal and the Nicoya Peninsula, choose a cultural tour, or stay in luxury lodgings on a wildlife-focused trip. Outdoor adventurers may opt for an itinerary filled with adventure sports, from whitewater rafting to canyoning, or a trip featuring wellness experiences. Learn more with these unique itineraries.

Marvel at the brightly colored birdlife in Monteverde

How Many Days to Spend in Monteverde

Monteverde is one of the Central American nation's most popular ecotourism hot spots, and the main reason travelers come here is to tour the cloud forests. In 24 hours, you can do many of the activities that make this area famous—ziplining, canopy walks on suspension bridges, and naturalist-led night hikes. With an extra day or two, venture into the surrounding countryside for coffee plantation tours and special garden visits. Read on to find out more.

How Many Days to Spend in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio National Park is a microcosm of many of the things that travelers come to Costa Rica for, and its proximity to San José makes it an ideal destination if you're short on time in the country—it's possible to go for just a day. But for travelers with more flexibility, extra time spent in and around Manuel Antonio won't be wasted, with so many natural and outdoor activities to enjoy. Here's a guide to spending your time in Manuel Antonio wisely.

How Many Days to Spend in Arenal

Arenal Volcano National Park (along with the gateway town of La Fortuna) is a highlight of any Costa Rica itinerary. In an afternoon, you can get a feel for the park from one of its hiking trails or hot spring pools, but you'll need a few days to further take advantage of the views and adventure activities that make this region special. With four days or more, you can add world-class whitewater rafting and Indigenous culture excursions to your itinerary.

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