Costa Rica is a small country in Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. While Costa Rica is about the size of West Virginia in the United States, it packs a wide variety of flora and fauna.
You could spend weeks exploring all it has to offer (I spent 4 months here!), but if you’re short on time, this 7-day Costa Rica itinerary will give you a taste of the best the country offers as this is one of the most beautiful and ecologically diverse countries in Latin America.
It’s definitely a favourite destination for visitors who enjoy natural wonders and some tranquillity, from volcanoes and rainforests to beaches and wildlife. You’ll see why Costa Rica is known as the “rich coast” as you go along this 7-day itinerary
While there are plenty of things that draw you into this small nation from all over Earth (including rich culture), it also offers something new every day, something different from what your friend might have seen when they were last here.
During your trip, you’ll have ample opportunities to visit several beaches, volcanoes, and national parks depending on where you venture.
To tell you the truth, 7 days in Costa Rica is not enough to visit all of the country’s natural wonders and rich cultural heritage, but if you plan your trip correctly, you can surely have an awesome week.
So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | San Jose - Jaco - Playa Hermosa | Hotel Terraza del Pacifico |
| Day 2 | Quepos, Manuel Antonio National Park | Guest House Pura Vida |
| Day 3 | Uvita | Uvita Pirates Hostel |
| Day 4 | Corcovado National Park | Poor Man's paradise Lodge |
| Day 5 | Corcovado National Park | Poor Man's paradise Lodge |
| Day 6 | Los Quetzales National Park | Iyok Ami Hostel |
| Day 7 | Cartago - San Jose |
JUMP TO: The Costa Rica Packing List Every Traveller Needs! Travelling to Costa Rica vs Panama
At A Glance
- Weather In Costa Rica
- Getting Around Costa Rica
- Our 7-day Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary
- Things To Know Before Visiting Costa Rica
Weather In Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a country of eternal spring, with lush rainforests and many rivers. The average temperature in San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital city, clocks 25ºC or 77ºF. Checking detailed weather information on sites like Sunheron beforehand to plan your perfect holiday.
Dry Season
The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from December until April. This is when tourism in this country spikes as well, so if you’re planning a trip anytime soon it’s best to go ahead and book your accommodation and flights before then!
Wet Season
If you’re looking to avoid crowds and get a more authentic experience of Costa Rica, consider visiting during the wet season (May to November). While you may have to deal with some rain during your trip, you’ll also find lower prices on accommodation and flights and fewer tourists at popular attractions.
Best Time To Visit Costa Rica
For the optimal Costa Rican experience, plan your visit during the dry season from December to April. This period ensures minimal rainfall, providing ideal conditions for exploring lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and pristine beaches.
Embrace sunny days and engage in thrilling adventures, making the most of the enchanting beauty Costa Rica has to offer.
Getting Around Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a small country, but there are many different ways to get around.
By Car
The most popular and convenient way to get around Costa Rica is by rental car. This gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and make stops along the way. Rather than wasting time waiting for buses or taking expensive taxis, you can simply hop in your car and go.
You can choose from a variety of rental car companies, but it’s important to compare prices and read reviews before you book. Be sure to ask about hidden fees, such as taxes, surcharges, and insurance, so that you know exactly how much your rental will cost.
The driving license requirements for renting a car in Costa Rica are the same as they are in your home country – you’ll need a valid driver’s license. Be sure to bring these documents with you when you pick up your rental car.
In general, the roads in Costa Rica are in good condition. However, there are some areas of the country that can be difficult to navigate due to potholes, washed-out bridges, and lack of signage.
We knew we’d be taking the adventurous route, hence when we rented the car from Orbit Car Hire, we specifically asked for a 4WD/ all-wheel drive.
This trip was made possible thanks to our preferred car rental partner Orbit Car Hire, which we turn to for all our car rental needs, no matter where in the world we are.
By Bus
If you’re looking for an affordable way to travel in Costa Rica, consider taking the bus. The country doesn’t have a well-developed public transportation system but if you inform yourself correctly, you can find all the information about terminals where buses depart, the schedules and routes. \they cover most destinations and run frequently throughout the day.
As your luggage is unattended, make sure you never leave anything out of sight. We’ve heard cases of belongings being taken away during the intermediate stops.
Tickets for the buses can be purchased online in advance here, on the spot at the bus station, or through a travel agency.
By Private Shuttles
If you want something more luxurious, consider shuttles or ask for luxury buses these are great options for added comfort.
Our 7-day Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary
Although most people just come to Costa Rica for its pristine beaches (think Tamarindo, Nosara, Santa Teresa) and jungle adventures (think Arenal, La Fortuna, Corcovado), or as a getaway from the city, there’s more to it than the beaches, volcanoes and jungle!
Read along to find out our 7-day itinerary cruising through Costa Rica’s southwest Pacific coast, starting and ending from the capital San Jose, passing through Jaco, Uvita, Corcovado National Park, and looping back, passing through some of the lushest forests in Costa Rica.
Day 1: San Jose-Jaco-Playa Hermosa
Coming straight from the capital of San Jose, drive straight to one of the closest beaches from San Jose, Jaco. Jaco is a beach town like any other, with many bars and clubs. It has great nightlife if you want to go out and have a taste of how the party is carried out in Costa Rica.
Jaco is also a great beach for beginner surfers wanting to get their surf on.
Next, you’ll pass by Playa Hermosa. Translated to beautiful in Spanish, it’s a must-visit for any surfer.
Playa Hermosa is a nice beach with black sand that covers it all, which means that if you walk barefoot in the middle of the day, you probably will suffer.
It’s a popular spot for surfers as the waves are constant and pretty big, but if you’re not into surfing or don’t know how to, the view is worth a stop too. Rest under the shade of a tree or learn how to surf if the waves are small.
Stay in: Hotel Terraza del Pacifico
You can choose to spend a night here if you want to take a lazy beach day or spend some time learning surfing.
Otherwise, you can move on to the next destination, Quepos to spend the night, and spend more nights in Corcovado National Park instead!
Day 2: Quepos, Manuel Antonio National Park
Nestled between the jungle and the sea, Quepos is a small town with a big personality. Despite its size, Quepos is a major hub for Costa Rican adventure, offering everything from world-class surfing to zip-lining through the rainforest canopy.
And of course, no visit to Quepos would be complete without spending your day in the Manuel Antonio National Park, just 10 minutes from Quepos! This park has a pristine environment that’s been preserved for future generations.
The thing to note is, entrance to all major National Parks in Costa Rica is only available online via their portal and requires you to register yourself as a user. The entrance fee to Manuel Antonio is USD 18 per person.
You can book the entrance tickets online in advance here.
If you somehow have no way of accessing the portal online, you can ask your accommodation to help you book. Expect to pay a little “service fee” if you’re choosing this option.
You can book guided tours that include entry into this beautiful place as well, which I highly recommend. They know this place, as well as the sneaky animals that reside here much, much more than you, and your trip here will be so much more enriched by their know-how.
The beaches and trails inside the recreation area are accessible at all times of the year with a few exceptions; Tuesdays have been designated as off-limits for safety reasons. The rules are simple: No food, pets, or drones inside the park.
After a great walk from the jungle and mangroves of Manuel Antonio National Park. you can go lounging on the pristine public beaches that line the coast as well. Espadilla Norte opens until sunset and it’s well worth catching it from here!
Last but not least, be wary about the parking. There were people more than one kilometer before the park stopping us and telling us there was no more parking ahead and we had to park where they directed us when there were actually more parking spaces right in front of the beach and national park. Also, they’d try to knock you off the parking fee. They tried to charge us USD 10 for a few hours of parking. If you’re good, you can get away with paying nothing, like we did.
There are several private parking areas leading up to the park, so don’t park in the first place you see and save your energy walking in the nature reserve instead!
Stay in: Guest House Pura Vida
Guest House Pura Vida is a cosy and affordable place to stay during your vacation in Quepos, located just 2 kilometres from the town centre in a nice environment surrounded by nature. Couples especially love this charming guest house with its comfortable rooms complete with hot water and fans. You can choose between shared or private bathrooms.
Day 3: Uvita
Uvita is a small town located in Costa Rica’s Puntarenas Province. The town is situated on the Pacific coast and is home to a variety of businesses and attractions.
Visitors to Uvita can enjoy surfing, hiking to waterfalls, zip-lining, horseback riding, ATV and many more. There are also several shops and restaurants in town, as well as a number of artisan stores selling handcrafted goods.
Uvita is a popular destination for both Costa Ricans and foreign tourists alike and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings. They’re most known for their coast in Punta Uvita which resembles the shape of a whale’s tail. To get to the tip of the whale’s tail, you’ll have to go at low tide.
The annoying thing is, that you’ll have to pay an entrance fee at the ticket booth to visit the beach, as it’s part of Marino Ballena National Park. It’s USD 6/ CRC 4000 for tourist adults, and you can exit the park and re-enter with your ticket. Here, they can advise you of the tide status so you can plan your visit to the “tail”.
This place is a great location for an overnight stop not only because you can enjoy a beautiful and untouched beach, but there are also several attractions to visit.
Reptile Land is a zoo for all types of cool reptiles, both small and big. You can also find the occasional birds, turtles and fishes too.
Another great activity here is the Nauyaca Waterfalls which are only 30 minutes from Uvita. For this hike, an entrance ticket is necessary. The entrance fee is about USD 10/ CRC 6700 for foreigners and USD 6/ CRC 3500 for nationals. The parking fee is USD 4. You can get it at their office here.
While it’s open from 7 am to 2 pm, aim to arrive before 12 noon as you’d have to walk 4 km to the waterfall from the closest parking lot, which is 2 km from the office. You’d have to leave the waterfalls by 3:30 pm. Also, only guide dogs are allowed.
Unless you’re taking a tour that includes food, remember to take some snacks!
Stay in: Uvita Pirates Hostel
This hostel pleasantly surprised us. Run by a Canadian who moved to Costa Rica, he gave us a very pleasing and welcoming vibe and helped us with everything we needed to know. The private rooms are smaller but are sufficient for a one-night stay.
There are many games available to socialize and pass the evenings, as well as a kitchen. The wooden deck upstairs is idyllic for spending your morning sipping coffee, which is what I did!
The best thing is, it’s located at the south end of the whale tail and is within walking distance of the beach, so grab a surfboard and have a fun time at the beach!
Day 4 & 5: Corcovado National Park
Located in southwestern Costa Rica, Corcovado National Park is one of the most biologically intense places on Earth. With just a little luck and a guided tour, you’ll be able to behold the amazing variety of plant and animal life, including many endangered species that this place offers.
Once in the park, there are a number of different trails to explore, each of which offers its own unique insights into the park’s natural wonders. This must be done with a guide as it’s easy to get lost and there are dangerous animals.
You can book it online or on the spot, though you’d save so much time and hassle by booking online beforehand.
The best time to visit Corcovado is during the dry season, from December to April, when the trails are less muddy and the chances of seeing wildlife are higher. However, even during the rainy season, Corcovado is an unforgettable experience.
You’ll want to allocate at least 2 days (or better yet, more!) for visiting Corcovado National Park to make the journey in worth it.
Stay in: Poor Man’s Paradise Lodge
The most common places to spend the night are at Drake Bay or Puerto Jimenez. From here, depart early in the morning as the park can only be reached by boat from Drake or by hiking an arduous trail from a nearby town of Puerto Jimenez at any of the ranger stations.
Drake Bay is where we stayed and recommend staying if you like being away from civilization and closer to nature. This is a small town located very close to the Park. The town is situated on a bay of the same name and is surrounded by jungle-covered hills.
Its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful natural and untouched surroundings make it a popular destination for tourists. The town is home to a number of restaurants and small hotels. The roads leading in are all dirt roads, that’s why you’ll want a 4×4/ all-wheel drive car, especially if going during the rainy season.
Drake Bay is also a popular jumping-off point for tours of Corcovado National Park because boats depart from here, as well as for diving, fishing and snorkelling trips to nearby Caño Island.7
Poor Man’s Paradise is located 30 to 40 minutes’ drive from Drake Bay at a place called Rincon de San Josecito. I have to say, it’s a great place. It impressed me how beautiful the surroundings were and how calm everything was. There’s literally nothing in this place, only wild animals and plants, which makes it very beautiful.
It almost feels like a resort with its own private beach simply because of its vast proximity and the facilities they’ve got. IF you’re looking to be in nature and escape civilization, I recommend Poor Man’s Paradise.
If you prefer to be closer to a main town and tours available, another great recommendation by locals to stay in Puerto Jimenez is Bosque del Cabo.
This excellent hotel is located at the end of Puerto Jimenez. Bosque del Cabo is a 3-star hotel but is 5-star in reality. If you’re lucky, you can even spot the rare tapir, which visited the property a couple of times.
Staying in Corcovado is exactly like living in the middle of a safari; you never know who or what you’re going to meet.
Day 6: Los Quetzales National Park
When doing my Costa Rica research, Los Quetzales National Park never came up as an attraction in Costa Rica. That’s how underrated it is! Thanks to the recommendation of a great local friend and conservationist Esteban, we decided to put this in our itinerary. Boy, would we have regretted it if we never stopped overnight here…
Los Quetzales National Park is a protected park located close to Cerro de la Muerte, a giant mountain with astounding scenery, where you can find a wide variety of flora and fauna at a little more altitude.
The park is home to the resplendent Quetzal, a beautiful and rare bird that’s the national symbol of Guatemala and they reside on the top of the trees of this forest. They’re commonly found in higher altitudes like Monteverde and here in Los Quetzales because this is where they can find the special tree they eat from.
The park is easily reached by car. You first need to get to the entrance of the national park. Many popular trails that wind through the park’s forest stem from here.
Once in the park, ask for the hike that suits you best as there are a number of different trails to explore, each of which offers its own unique insights into the park’s natural wonders.
Stay in: Iyok Ami Hostel
My friend Esteban who’s a local conservationist couldn’t have spoken more highly of this hostel, so I knew I had to check it out. He was right – I can’t recommend this hostel enough! Set amidst the fogginess of the national park, escape into an oasis of birdcall and foggy mornings with the smell of sweet dew from this cabin house.
You won’t have to worry about the cold nights as they generously offer thick and comfy blankets, a fireplace, and plenty of games to keep you entertained.
They also have their own menu with freshly-caught Tilapia!
The best part of this place is that they offer some great hikes down the forest right from their doorstep. Ask for a map and they’ll happily guide you through the difficulty level and distances you’re comfortable with. A great morning walk to set the tone of the day if you ask me.
Day 7: Cartago-San Jose
If you have some spare time en route to San Jose, there are a few places I can recommend visiting.
If you like paranormal activities, I recommend visiting Mirador del Sanatorio Carlos Durán. This is a sanatorium that was founded in 1918 for people with tuberculosis, and legend has it that all of them died here.
If you’d rather do a great hike through a national park situated on a Volcano, then consider Irazu Volcano National Park. This is a magical forest with many hiking routes and levels. You have to buy your entrance online beforehand to avoid being turned away past the opening times, which happened to us.
And finally, if you have some spare time, I recommend going to Turrialba Volcano. This is an active Volcano that has some impressive views. It encompasses 3 craters in total!
Things To Know Before Visiting Costa Rica
The population of Costa Rica is just under 5 million people, and the capital city is San Jose.
The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish, but English is getting more popular and spoken, especially in tourist areas.
Visa Information for Costa Rica
When planning a visit to Costa Rica, it’s crucial to understand the country’s entry requirements. Here are the key points to know:
Tourist Visa Waiver
Fortunately, Costa Rica welcomes tourists from many countries without the need for a visa. Citizens of the United Kingdom, the European Union, and numerous other nations can enter Costa Rica for tourism purposes without a visa for stays up to 90 days.
Valid Passport
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Costa Rica. It’s a standard requirement to enter the country.
Return or Onward Ticket
Immigration authorities may ask for proof of your departure from Costa Rica. It’s advisable to have a return or onward ticket.
Travelers coming from certain countries where yellow fever is present may need to show proof of vaccination upon arrival. Check if your country is on the list and arrange for vaccination if required.
Visa Extensions
If you wish to extend your stay beyond the initial 90 days, you can apply for an extension through the Costa Rican immigration authorities. It’s advisable to start the extension process well before your initial 90-day period expires.
Business and Work Visas
For those planning to work or conduct business activities in Costa Rica, a specific visa is required. It’s essential to obtain the appropriate visa category based on your intended activities.
Visa Requirements Change
Visa requirements can change, so it’s advisable to check with the official website of the Costa Rican embassy or consulate in the United Kingdom for the latest and most accurate information before your trip.
Currency In Costa Rica
The currency in Costa Rica is the colón (plural: colones), with an exchange rate of about 668 colones to 1 US dollar in July 2022. This rate changes with regularity and is a little harder to calculate than in many countries.
Can I Use Dollars In Costa Rica?
However, US dollars are also widely accepted throughout the country. Most large hotels, restaurants and tour operators will accept US dollars, and you can often get by using dollars instead of colones.
Be wary of paying in US dollars anywhere. Check the exchange rate so that you know how much you’re actually paying. Many businesses will post the exchange rate prominently, but others may not. It’s always a good idea to pay in colones if you can, or even have some colones on hand in case you need them.
What’s The Best Way To Get Colones?
There are a few different ways to get colones. You can exchange money at a bank or currency exchange office, withdraw cash from an ATM, or use a credit card.
If you’re exchanging money at a bank or currency exchange office, shop around for the best rate. Exchange rates can vary significantly from one place to another, so it’s worth taking the time to compare rates.
Withdrawing cash from an ATM is usually the best way to get colones. The exchange rate will be very close to the official rate, and you will usually get a better rate than you would by exchanging money at a currency exchange office. Just be sure to check with your bank to see if there are any fees for withdrawing cash from an ATM in Costa Rica. I use multi-currency accounts Wise and Revolut which charge 0 fees for foreign withdrawals, no matter where I go. They are my go-to debit cards when it comes to anything foreign currency!
Using a credit card is another good option for getting colones. Many businesses will accept US dollars, but depending on the card you use, it’s possible that you’re charged a 3% foreign transaction fee.
Is It Safe To Use Credit Cards In Costa Rica?
Yes, it’s generally safe to use credit cards in Costa Rica. However, you should always exercise caution when using your credit card abroad.
Be sure to keep track of your spending, and don’t use your credit card at any insecure locations. It’s also a good idea to let your bank know that you’ll be travelling so that they don’t flag your account for fraud.
Tipping in Costa Rica
Tipping is not mandatory in Costa Rica, but it’s appreciated by good workers and encourages them to always gives the best service. I’ve seen first-hand how hard these tour operators work for very little payment, so if you’re happy with the service you received, a 10-15% tip is welcome.
Usually, you can leave the tip in cash or add it to your credit card bill if in a restaurant. For tour guides, it’s usually expected to tip them in cash at the end of the tour.
What’s The Cost Of Living In Costa Rica?
The cost of living in Costa Rica varies depending on your lifestyle. A solo traveller can get by quite cheaply, while a family or group may need to spend more.
These numbers vary depending on your budget but on average, you can expect to spend about USD 50 to USD 120 daily on food and lodging alone. This will get you a basic hotel room or hostel dormitory, and meals at local restaurants.
If you want to eat at nicer restaurants or stay in nicer hotels, you’ll need to budget accordingly.
Tours and activities will also add to your costs. This is one of the most expensive parts as there are many activities along the route that can only be done with a guide.
Many tours can be booked through your hotel or hostel. If you have limited time, it’s better to book in advance or work with professional local trip planners. A local can help you book the best tours with the best tour operators according to your trip plans and itinerary, so you can have a hassle-free holiday.
Safety in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is ranked as the 32nd safest country in the world, making it one of the safer destinations in Latin America. With no standing army, Costa Rica is one of the most peaceful countries in the world.
That said, as, with any travel destination, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety while traveling. Be sure to stay in well-lit and populated areas at night, avoid carrying large amounts of money or wearing expensive jewellery, and keep your belongings close to you when in busy areas. At night, it’s also a good idea to take taxis rather than walk.
The crime rate in Costa Rica is relatively low, but petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft are common in tourist areas. Be sure to keep your belongings safe and locked up when you’re not using them.
In general, Costa Rica is a safe and welcoming country for travellers. With a little common sense and awareness, you can relax and enjoy your trip without worry. You can easily avoid any potential dangers and have a safe and enjoyable trip to Costa Rica.
All travellers to Costa Rica should have comprehensive travel insurance. Before you plan your trip, be sure to check with Costa Rican travel insurance options so that you’re covered in case of any emergencies.
Many Costa Rican hospitals and clinics accept major international insurance plans, but it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance in case you need to be evacuated to another country for treatment.
Be sure to read the fine print of your policy carefully so that you know what is and isn’t covered. And don’t forget to pack your insurance card or policy information when you travel.
So there you have it! Our 7-day Costa Rica itinerary will give you a taste of all the best this beautiful country has to offer. From sandy beaches and lush jungles to active volcanoes and charming small towns, Costa Rica has something for everyone.
We recommend spending at least a week in Costa Rica (a month ideally) so you can truly experience all it has to offer, but if you’re short on time, this itinerary will help you make the most of your trip.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Costa Rican adventure today!
