One Week in Costa Rica (Unique Itinerary in 2026)
Why Visit Costa Rica in 2026?
Costa Rica has always been a paradise for travelers, but 2026 makes it even more exciting. With eco-friendly travel on the rise, improved infrastructure, and new boutique hotels in both the jungle and along the coast, there’s never been a better time to explore this Central American gem. Whether you’re craving lush rainforests, golden beaches, volcano treks, or wildlife encounters, Costa Rica has it all—and in just one week, you can get a taste of its very best.
Recommended Travel Items for Your Trip
Day 1: Arrival in San José – Coffee, Culture & City Stroll
Most international flights land in San José (SJO), the capital city. While many travelers skip straight to the beaches, spending your first day here gives you a unique start to your adventure.
- Morning/Afternoon: Arrive at SJO, check into a cozy boutique hotel, and shake off the jet lag with a Costa Rican coffee tasting tour. (This country is famous for some of the best beans in the world!)
- Evening: Take a stroll through the vibrant downtown, where you can visit the National Theater, admire local street art, or explore the Mercado Central for a taste of authentic casado (rice, beans, and meat dish).
🌟 Travel Tip: Book a night in San José instead of rushing out—you’ll appreciate the cultural immersion and get a gentle start before the adventure ramps up.
Day 2: Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna Hot Springs
On your second day, it’s time to head straight into Costa Rica’s adventure heart: La Fortuna.
- Morning: Take a scenic 3-hour drive (or shuttle) from San José to Arenal Volcano National Park. The cone-shaped volcano is one of the most iconic sights in the country. Hike along the lava trails, spot howler monkeys, and keep your camera ready for panoramic views.
- Afternoon: Cool off at La Fortuna Waterfall, a stunning 230-foot cascade surrounded by jungle. Don’t forget your swimsuit for a refreshing dip.
- Evening: End the day soaking in natural hot springs heated by the volcano. From luxury resorts like Tabacón to hidden jungle springs, this is the ultimate way to relax.
🌟 Travel Tip: Stay overnight in La Fortuna for the next leg of adventure—you’ll need your energy.
Day 3: Monteverde Cloud Forest – Misty Trails & Coffee Plantations
Time to swap volcanoes for clouds! After breakfast in La Fortuna, take a scenic journey (about 3–4 hours, often with a lake crossing and winding roads) to Monteverde, home of the legendary Cloud Forest Reserve.
- Morning: Hike along mist-covered trails where towering trees drip with moss, and colorful birds like the resplendent quetzal swoop above. The atmosphere feels straight out of a fairytale.
- Afternoon: Visit a coffee or chocolate plantation for a behind-the-scenes tour. You’ll learn how Costa Rica’s most beloved exports are grown and processed—and of course, enjoy a tasting session.
- Evening: Stroll across the famous hanging bridges for jaw-dropping canopy views, then settle into a cozy eco-lodge surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.
🌟 Travel Tip: Pack a light rain jacket—the cloud forest is misty year-round!
Day 4: Ziplining & Night Safari in Monteverde
Monteverde isn’t just about quiet hikes—it’s also one of the world’s adventure capitals.
- Morning: Kickstart your adrenaline with ziplining through the canopy. Some lines stretch for nearly a mile, giving you the feeling of flying over the treetops. If you prefer something calmer, opt for a guided birdwatching tour instead.
- Afternoon: Explore more of Monteverde at your own pace—perhaps check out the butterfly gardens or reptile exhibits for a closer look at Costa Rica’s unique wildlife.
- Evening: Embark on a night safari walk with a naturalist guide. Under the cover of darkness, you might spot sloths, tree frogs, armadillos, and other nocturnal creatures that most visitors miss.
- 🌟 Travel Tip: Don’t forget sturdy shoes—Monteverde’s trails can get muddy.
Explore night safari with proper guide
Day 5: Manuel Antonio – Beaches & Wildlife Encounters
After a couple of days in the misty mountains, it’s time to chase the sun. Drive about 4–5 hours south to the Pacific Coast, where the famous Manuel Antonio National Park awaits.
- Morning: Arrive in Manuel Antonio and check into a beachfront hotel or eco-lodge.
- Afternoon: Head straight into the national park, a magical blend of rainforest, white-sand beaches, and turquoise water. Expect to meet capuchin monkeys, lazy iguanas, and maybe even a sloth lounging in the treetops.
- Evening: Watch the sun dip below the Pacific horizon while enjoying fresh seafood at a local restaurant.
Manuel Antonio National Park guided tour is available!
🌟 Travel Tip: Manuel Antonio is small but very popular—book your park tickets online in advance to avoid missing out.
Day 6: Manuel Antonio – Snorkeling, Kayaking & Lazy Beach Time
After spotting monkeys and sloths yesterday, today is all about soaking up Costa Rica’s tropical beach vibes.
- Morning: Head out on a snorkeling or kayaking tour along the coast. Beneath the clear waters, you’ll see colorful fish, coral reefs, and maybe even a sea turtle gliding by.
- Afternoon: Return to Manuel Antonio’s stunning beaches—Playa Espadilla is a favorite—for a laid-back afternoon of swimming and sunbathing. If you prefer more adventure, you can go for paddleboarding or a guided mangrove boat tour.
- Evening: Treat yourself to a sunset dinner with fresh ceviche, grilled mahi-mahi, or Costa Rica’s classic casado (a hearty plate with rice, beans, plantains, and your choice of protein).
🌟 Travel Tip: Always keep snacks in your bag, but watch out—the cheeky monkeys here love to steal food!
Day 7: Back to San José – Souvenirs & City Strolls
It’s the last leg of your Costa Rican journey. After breakfast, make your way back to San José (about a 3-hour drive).
- Morning: Stop at a roadside fruit stand along the way and try tropical treats like rambutan or guava.
- Afternoon: Once back in San José, spend a few hours exploring the capital’s charm. Check out the National Theatre, wander through colorful Central Market, and maybe pick up some coffee beans or hand-painted oxcart souvenirs to bring home.
- Evening: Wrap up your week with a farewell dinner in Barrio Escalante, the city’s foodie neighborhood packed with creative Costa Rican cuisine and lively spots.
🌟 Travel Tip: If you’re catching an evening flight, leave enough buffer time—traffic in San José can be unpredictable!
Haven’t booked an airline ticket? Book the cheapest flight here
Conclusion: Why This 7-Day Costa Rica Itinerary Works
In just one week, you’ve hiked a volcano, wandered through a cloud forest, soared on a zipline, spotted wildlife in rainforests and beaches, and soaked up the Pacific Coast’s golden sunsets. Costa Rica may be small, but its diversity is unmatched—making it the perfect country for a one-week adventure.
This itinerary strikes the balance between adventure and relaxation: thrilling moments in La Fortuna and Monteverde, paired with beach bliss in Manuel Antonio and cultural time in San José.So pack your hiking boots, swimsuit, and sense of adventure—Costa Rica in 2025 is ready to wow you.
