Looking for a week filled with volcanoes, rainforests, and tropical beaches? This Costa Rica itinerary 7 days is your ultimate guide to experiencing the country’s incredible biodiversity, adventure activities, and laid-back pura vida lifestyle. In just one week, you’ll soak in hot springs near a volcano, hike through cloud forests, spot sloths and toucans in the wild, and unwind on golden Pacific beaches.
Whether you’re a nature lover, thrill-seeker, or just in need of a refreshing escape, this 7-day itinerary will show you the best of Costa Rica—without feeling rushed.
Why Choose a 7-Day Costa Rica Itinerary?
One week is the sweet spot for discovering Costa Rica’s lush landscapes and incredible wildlife without feeling overwhelmed. A well-planned Costa Rica itinerary 7 days gives you time to explore volcanoes, jungles, and beaches—all at a relaxed pace.
Here’s why 7 days in Costa Rica is the perfect trip length:
- Compact But Diverse: Costa Rica may be small, but its ecosystems are incredibly varied. In just seven days, you can experience mountains, waterfalls, hot springs, and two coastlines.
- Adventure Meets Relaxation: This itinerary blends adrenaline-pumping activities like ziplining and white-water rafting with peaceful beach time and wildlife watching.
- Easy to Navigate: While the roads can be winding, the country is traveler-friendly, and popular destinations are well connected by shuttles or rental cars.
- Ideal for All Travelers: Whether you’re a solo adventurer, couple, or family, a 7-day Costa Rica itinerary can be tailored to suit your travel style and budget.
With smart routing and just a touch of spontaneity, this Costa Rica itinerary 7 days offers a taste of everything that makes the country magical.
Costa Rica Itinerary 7 Days Overview
This 7-day Costa Rica itinerary is crafted for travelers who want to experience the country’s most iconic destinations without feeling rushed. You’ll start in the capital city, move north to volcanic landscapes, then head west to the misty cloud forests and finally unwind on the Pacific coast. Each day brings new adventures—perfectly balanced between nature, wildlife, and relaxation.
Day 1: Arrive in San José – City Intro & Local Food
Your journey begins in San José, Costa Rica’s capital and main airport hub. While it’s not the main attraction, it’s worth spending your first day adjusting, trying local food, and prepping for the adventure ahead.
- Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
- Check into a hotel near downtown or in the nearby suburb of Escazú
- Visit Mercado Central or Barrio Escalante for authentic Costa Rican cuisine
- Optional: Explore Museo del Oro Precolombino or National Theatre
- Relax after your flight and prepare for an early departure to La Fortuna the next day
Tip: If your flight arrives early, consider booking a food or coffee-tasting tour to kick off your Costa Rica experience.
Day 2: La Fortuna – Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs
Leave the city behind and head toward La Fortuna, one of Costa Rica’s most famous adventure hubs. Home to the iconic Arenal Volcano and rejuvenating hot springs, this area offers a beautiful mix of scenic views and soothing relaxation.
- Drive or take a shuttle to La Fortuna (approx. 3 hours from San José)
- Check into a hotel with volcano views or jungle setting
- Hike one of the Arenal Volcano trails in Arenal National Park
- Explore La Fortuna Waterfall (optional: swim at the base)
- End the day with a soak in the Tabacón, Ecotermales, or Baldi Hot Springs
Tip: Book hot spring passes in advance, especially during high season (Dec–April). For budget-friendly options, try free natural rivers like Río Chollín.
Day 3: Adventure Day – Ziplining, Waterfalls or Rafting
Today is all about adrenaline! La Fortuna is a playground for thrill-seekers, offering everything from treetop zipline circuits to white-water rafting. Choose your adventure—or mix and match—for a day packed with unforgettable moments.
- Start your day with a canopy zipline tour over the rainforest canopy (Arenal Mundo Aventura or Sky Trek)
- Option 1: Book a white-water rafting tour on the Balsa River (Class II–III) or Sarapiquí River (Class III–IV)
- Option 2: Take an ATV or horseback ride to hidden waterfalls and scenic viewpoints
- Enjoy lunch in La Fortuna town or at a local organic farm
- Optional: Relax again in a hot spring or try a night wildlife tour
Tip: If you’re short on time or energy, combine light hiking and a hot spring visit instead. There’s no shortage of options here!
Day 4: Monteverde – Cloud Forest & Wildlife Night Tour
Say goodbye to volcanoes and head into the clouds—literally. Monteverde is Costa Rica’s legendary cloud forest region, known for misty trails, hanging bridges, and rich biodiversity. It’s a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers alike.
- Depart La Fortuna and drive toward Monteverde (approx. 3.5–4.5 hours via scenic mountain roads)
- Check in to a lodge or eco-hotel nestled in the forest
- Walk the hanging bridges at Selvatura Park or Sky Adventures for misty canopy views
- Visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve for light hiking and wildlife spotting (resplendent quetzals, sloths, frogs!)
- In the evening, join a wildlife night tour to see nocturnal creatures like kinkajous, tarantulas, and sleeping birds
Tip: Monteverde is cooler and wetter than other regions—pack a light jacket and waterproof layers!
Day 5: Drive to Manuel Antonio – Pacific Coast Arrival
It’s time to trade misty forests for sunny shores. Today, you’ll descend from the highlands and head to Manuel Antonio, one of Costa Rica’s most beloved beach destinations, known for its national park, wildlife, and stunning coastline.
- Depart Monteverde and drive to Manuel Antonio (approx. 4–5 hours via coastal highway)
- Stop for lunch en route in Jaco or at scenic roadside cafés
- Check into a hotel or eco-resort near Manuel Antonio Beach or Quepos town
- Spend your afternoon relaxing at the beach or hotel pool
- Enjoy sunset views over the Pacific—head to El Avion or Cafe Agua Azul for great food and photo ops
Tip: Book accommodation early—Manuel Antonio is popular and fills up quickly, especially during dry season (Dec–April).
Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park – Wildlife & Beach Day
Today is a perfect mix of jungle exploration and beach relaxation. Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most accessible and wildlife-rich reserves—home to sloths, monkeys, colorful birds, and pristine beaches all in one compact area.
- Arrive early at Manuel Antonio National Park (gates open at 7:00 AM – closed on Tuesdays)
- Hike one or more of the park’s trails:
- Sendero Perezoso (Sloth Trail)
- Sendero Mirador for panoramic views
- Cathedral Point Loop for a mix of forest and cliffside scenery
- Spot howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, toucans, iguanas, and sloths
- Swim and relax at Manuel Antonio Beach or Playa Espadilla Sur inside the park
- Exit the park mid-afternoon and enjoy a fresh seafood lunch in town
- Optional: Book a sunset catamaran tour or relax at your hotel
Tip: Hire a certified naturalist guide at the park entrance—they’ll help you spot wildlife you’d otherwise miss.
Day 7: Morning at the Beach + Return to San José / Departure
Your Costa Rica journey ends with a peaceful morning by the ocean or one final wildlife encounter. Depending on your flight schedule, you can enjoy a slow breakfast, a last walk on the beach, or a quick souvenir stop before heading back to San José.
- Wake up early for a sunrise beach stroll or a dip in the Pacific
- Grab breakfast with an ocean view or at your hotel
- Optional (time-permitting):
- Visit Playa Biesanz – a quieter cove great for swimming
- Stop by a local artisan shop in Quepos for souvenirs
- Begin your return drive to San José (approx. 3 hours)
- Drop off rental car or transfer to Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
- Depart Costa Rica, pura vida-style
Tip: If your flight is very early, consider staying the final night near San José to avoid morning travel stress.
Estimated Budget for 7 Days in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is not the cheapest destination in Central America, but it offers excellent value for nature and adventure experiences. Here’s a general idea of what you might spend on a Costa Rica itinerary 7 days, depending on your travel style:
7-Day Cost Overview (per person)
| Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler |
| Accommodation (6 nights) | $180 – $300 | $450 – $800 |
| Meals & Drinks | $100 – $150 | $200 – $300 |
| Transportation (car/shuttle) | $80 – $150 | $150 – $250 |
| Tours & Activities | $150 – $250 | $300 – $500 |
| Entrance Fees (parks, hot springs) | $40 – $70 | $70 – $120 |
| Misc. (tips, souvenirs) | $30 – $50 | $50 – $100 |
| Total Estimate | $580 – $970 | $1,220 – $2,070 |
Pro Tip: Renting a car offers more flexibility and can save money if traveling in pairs or small groups.
Conclusion
A well-crafted Costa Rica itinerary 7 days is all you need to explore the country’s volcanoes, rainforests, and beaches in one unforgettable trip. Whether you’re hiking through the cloud forest, spotting sloths in the wild, or soaking in natural hot springs beneath a volcano, this one-week adventure offers the perfect mix of nature, culture, and relaxation. With smart planning and an open heart, Costa Rica’s pura vida lifestyle will leave you refreshed and inspired.