costa rica tour 2 wochen

Costa Rica Rundreise – Reiseroute für 2 Wochen + meine Tipps & Highlights

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Gründe für eine Costa Rica Rundreise gibt es viele. Das Land, was übersetzt so viel bedeutet wie „reiche Küste“ ist tatsächlich reich – reich an einsamen Stränden, reich an unberührter Natur, reich an Tieren unterschiedlichster Arten, reich an Abenteuern. Wie schützenswert diese Naturschätze sind, das hat Costa Rica im Gegensatz zu vielen anderen Ländern in Lateinamerika sehr früh entdeckt und engagiert sich wie kein anderes Land für Nachhaltigkeit & Naturschutz. Immerhin stehen ein Viertel der Landesfläche unter Naturschutz!

Apropos Landesfläche: All diese Naturschätze verteilen sich auf eine Fläche von 51 Quadratkilometern. Damit ist das Land gerade einmal so groß wie das Bundesland Niedersachsen. Zwei bis drei Wochen solltet ihr dennoch für eine Costa Rica Rundreise einplanen. Denn die Straßen sind entweder schlecht oder chronisch verstopft. Und schließlich geht es ja auch darum, die Reise mit allen Sinnen zu genießen und nicht nur von Sehenswürdigkeit zu Sehenswürdigkeit zu hetzen.

Für wen Costa Rica das Richtige ist? Für alle, die die Abwechslung mögen. Die nicht nur am Strand liegen wollen, sondern den Dschungel erkunden und die Tierwelt beobachten möchte. Für alle, die ein entspanntes Reiseland in Lateinamerika suchen, in dem man auch als Frau ganz problemlos auf eigene Faust unterwegs sein kann und in dem fast jeder ein paar Brocken Englisch spricht. Für alle, denen Nachhaltigkeit und Naturschutz am Herzen liegen und die bereit sind, dafür auch mal den einen oder anderen Dollar mehr zu bezahlen.

Costa Rica Rundreise: Meine Reiseroute + Highlights für 2 Wochen

Ich selbst war gemeinsam mit meiner Schwester zwei Wochen im November in Costa Rica unterwegs. Direkt am Flughafen haben wir unseren Mietwagen in Empfang genommen und unsere Rundreise gestartet. Mehr zur Reisezeit, dem Thema Mietwagen und weitere reisepraktische Tipps verrate ich euch am Ende des Artikels.

Stopp #1 – Heredia & der Nationalpark Braulio Carrillo

Da wir uns das Verkehrschaos in San Jose sparen wollten, nicht so die Städtefans sind und generell auch nicht so viel spannendes von der Hauptstadt des Landes gehört hatten, sind wir von der Mietwagenstation direkt in die Provinz Heredia aufgebrochen. Auch die gleichnamige Hauptstadt der kleinsten Provinz Costa Ricas mit ihren über 100.000 Einwohnern haben wir links liegen gelassen und haben uns direkt nach San Isidro begeben. Auf Grund seiner Lage in den Hügeln oberhalb von San Jose haben sich hier viele Geschäftsleute niedergelassen, welche die kühlere Luft, die Natur und die Ruhe zu schätzen wissen. Auch ein paar Kaffeefarmen gibt es in der Gegend. Für uns war San Isidro mit seiner beeindruckenden gotischen Kirche der ideale Ort um unsere Costa Rica Rundreise zu starten, uns an das Klima zu gewöhnen, einen ersten Überblick zu bekommen und uns für die Weiterreise mit Lebensmitteln und einer lokalen SIM-Karte auszustatten.

Ausflugstipp: Der Nationalpark Braulio Carrillo

Aber auch im näheren Umfeld gibt es Einiges zu sehen: Den Barva Vulkan zum Beispiel. Oder den nahe gelegenen Nationalpark Braulio Carrillo. Während der Barva-Vulkan nur im Rahmen einer viertägigen Wanderung besucht werden kann, lohnt sich ein Ausflug in die 45.000 Hektar große „Lunge von San José“, den Nationalpark Braulio Carrillo, auch schon für einen halben Tag. Der Nationalpark besteht aus zwei Sektoren. Während der Sektor Quebrada Gonzáles (Eingang Carrillo) ganz einfach über die neue Routa #32 auf dem Weg nach Limon erreicht werden kann, befindet sich der Eingang zum Sektor Barva 21 km nordöstlich von San José zwischen den Vulkanen Irazú und Poas.

Wir haben uns für den Sektor Quebrada Gonzáles (Eintrittt: 10 USD) entschieden und diesen Teil des Nationalparks auf einem kleinen, rund eineinhalb Kilometer langen Rundwanderweg erkundet, auf dem wir auch gleich unser erstes Faultier der Reise oben in den Bäumen entdeckt haben. Der Rundweg war ideal um einen ersten Einblick in die wunderschöne Dschungellandschaft von Costa Rica zu bekommen und sich auf der Fahrt an die Karibikküste unterwegs die Beine zu vertreten. Ich kann euch einen Stopp auf dem Weg nach Limon also nur ans Herz legen!

Ausflugstipp: Britt Coffee Tour

Wer mehr über die Kaffeeproduktion in Costa Rica erfahren möchte, dem kann ich auch die Britt Coffee Tour in Heridia ans Herz legen. Allen, die schon tiefer in das Thema Kaffee eingetaucht sind, werden die Informationen während der Tour sicher etwas zu oberflächlich sein, denn es geht hierbei vor allem um Basics. Wir hatten aber mit einer Gruppe von Mexikanern viel Spaß den kurzweiligen Erklärungen zu folgen und ein wenig vom lokalen Kaffee zu probieren.

Mein Hotel-Tipp : Wir haben die ersten zwei Nächte bei Phil auf einer Coffee-Ranch übernachtet. Wir haben die Unterkunft über Airbnb (mit meinem Link erhaltet ihr 34 Euro Rabatt auf eure erste Buchung) gebucht. Das Apartment hat uns generell gut gefallen und Phil war ein super sympathischer Gastgeber, wir haben jedoch eine Küche vermisst, da es auf der Ranch sonst keine Verpflegungsmöglichkeiten (in der Nähe) gibt. Zum Frühstücken kann ich euch die Cafeteria Bromelias del Rio an der Routa 32 sowie die KAN Cafeteria in Heredia empfehlen.

Stopp #2 – Karibiküste: Puerto Viejo & Cahuita

Von Heredia ging es für uns über die Routa 32 nach Puerto Limón und dann direkt weiter entlang der Karibikküste nach Puerto Viejo. Die Fahrt hat insgesamt rund vier bis fünf Stunden gedauert. Während Puerto Limón von der Industrie rund um den großen Hafen dominiert wird, sind die Orte Puerto Viejo und Cahuita zwei nette Badeorte an der Karibikküste, die, vor allem wegen der vielen palmengesäumten Sandstrände in unmittelbarer Umgebung, einen Aufenthalt lohnen. Die meiner Meinung nach schönsten Strände findet ihr rund um die Punta Uva sowie im Cahuita Nationalpark. Hier kann ich euch den rund 8 Kilometer langen Wanderweg entlang der Punta Cahuita und der Punta Vargas zum Nationalparkeingang in Puerto Vagas nur ans Herz legen. Insgesamt haben wir drei Nächte an der Karibikküste verbracht.

Noch ein Tipp: Wer mag und/oder zur Schildkrötensaison von Oktober bis März oder Juli bis Oktober in Costa Rica ist, kann im Anschluss noch den Tortugero Nationalpark besuchen.

Weiterlesen -> Alle weiteren Tipps zur Karibikküste erfahrt ihr in meinem ausführlichen Artikel Die schönsten Strände in Costa Rica & die Frage: Karibik oder Pazifik?!

Mein Hotel-Tipp : Das entspannte Sueño Grande B&B mit leckerem Frühstück und einem wunderschön angelegten Pool in Puerto Viejo sowie die einsamen, etwas in die Jahre gekommenen aber günstigen Bungalows des Hotel La Diosa in Cahuita

Stopp #3 – La Fortuna & rund um den Arenal Vulkan

Ebenfalls vier bis fünf Stunden dauert die Fahrt von Cahuita nach La Fortuna. Die Stadt liegt am Fuße des Arenal Vulkans, dem aktivsten und zugleich jüngsten Vulkan in Costa Rica. Auch wenn der Vukan selbst wegen seiner Aktivität nicht bestiegen werden darf, lohnt es sich in der Gegend rund um seinen Krater ein paar Tage zu verbringen. Hier gibt es mit dem Mistico Hanging Bridge Park einen sehr schönen Hängeseilbrückenpark, der einen Besuch lohnt. Auch locken die heißen Quellen sowie der La Fortuna Wasserfall zu einem – mehr oder weniger erfrischenden – Bad. Wir waren insgesamt vier Tage in La Fortuna und es war definitiv einer der Höhepunkte unserer Rundreise.

Weiterlesen -> Alle weiteren Tipps zu La Fortuna erfahrt ihr in meinem ausführlichen Artikel Rund um den Arenal-Vulkan in Costa Rica – Meine Tipps & Highlights

Mein Hotel-Tipp : Ideal für Selbstversorger sind die Bungalows im GreenLagoon Wellbeing Resort . Wir fanden das Resort in Echt nicht ganz so schön wie auf den Fotos, waren aber mit Preis und der wunderschönen Lage in den Hügeln oberhalb der Stadt und in unmittelbarer Nähe zum La Fortuna Wasserfall sehr zufrieden. Auch das vegetarische Frühstück war sehr gut!

Wer die wunderschönen Tabacon Hot Springs besuchen möchte, dem kann ich nur empfehlen auch eine Nacht im dazugehörigen Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa zu verbringen. Das kostet oft nur wenig mehr als der Daypass und ihr habt eine Übernachtung in einem wunderschönen Zimmer mit Blick auf den Dschungel sowie ein umfangreiches Frühstückbuffet inklusive. Noch dazu habt ihr Zugang zu den exklusiven Shangri-La Gardens, die meiner Meinung nach den schönsten Teil der Spaanlage darstellen.

Stopp #4 – Monteverde Cloud Forest

Schon die rund vierstündige Anreise von La Fortuna zum Monteverde Nebelwald ist ein Abenteuer für sich. Zunächst folgt ihr der Straße 142 fast einmal rund um die Laguna Arenal, den größten Süßwassersee Costa Ricas. Danach schraubt ihr euch auf unbefestigten Schotterstraßen die Hügel rund um Monteverde hinauf (und hinab). Generell gelten die Straßen in der Region als die schlechtesten des ganzen Landes und sind eine der Gründe, warum ihr unbedingt einen Mietwagen mit Allradantrieb wählen solltet.

Das Bergdorf Monteverde (beziehungsweise eigentlich Santa Elena) war einer der ersten touristisch erschlossenen Regionen in Costa Rica. Das merkt man alleine schon an der Vielfalt an empfehlenswerten Cafés und Restaurants, die man hier, quasi mitten im Nichts, so normalerweise nicht erwarten würde. Empfehlenswert ist zum Beispiel The Open Kitchen , wo es nicht nur leckere Veggie-Burger sondern auch lokales Craft Beer gibt.

Monteverde vs. Santa Elena Reservat

Aber das ist natürlich nicht der Grund, der die Besucher nach Monteverde zieht. Vielmehr sind es die beiden Naturschutzgebiete, das Nebelwald Reservat Monteverde sowie das Santa Elena Reservat, die wegen ihres speziellen Klimas tausende von Tier- und Pflanzenarten beherbergen. Wenn ihr, wie wir, nur eine Nacht in Monteverde verbringt, habt ihr die Qual der Wahl: Entweder ihr entscheidet euch für das Monteverde-Reservat, das ihr auf angelegten Wanderwegen erkunden könnt, oder ihr besucht den Selvatura Adventure Park im Santa Elena Reservat. Auch wenn das Reservat kommerzieller ist, habt ihr so die Möglichkeit, die Landschaft nicht nur vom Boden sondern auch von zahlreichen Hängeseilbrücken aus kennenzulernen. Wir haben uns für letzteres entschieden, und da wir bereits vor 8 Uhr morgens am Parkeingang waren, mussten wir unser Erlebnis nur mit einem weiteren Pärchen teilen. Generell lohnt es sich bei beiden Reservaten früh morgens zu kommen, um den vielen Besuchern zu entgehen und die höchste Chance auf Tiersichtungen zu haben.

Mein Hotel-Tipp : Für Monteverde habe ich einen besonderen Übernachtungstipp für euch. Wir haben nämlich bei einer unheimlich netten Familie in einem gläsernen Baumhaus übernachtet. Die Lodge liegt etwas außerhalb von Santa Elena und ist damit nur für Reisende mit Mietwagen zu empfehlen. Die Cabañas La Montaña bestehen aus jeweils zwei Etagen. Oben befindet sich das Schlafzimmer mit einem kleinen Bad. Im unteren Bereich gibt es ein Sofa sowie eine voll ausgestattete Küche und ein weiteres Badezimmer. Das Frühstück kocht die Besitzerin morgens liebevoll in der eigenen Küche.

Stopp #5 – Pazifikküste: Santa Teresa

Knapp zwei Stunden dauert die Fahrt von Monteverde nach Punta Arenas, von wo aus wir die Fähre nach Paquera auf der Nicoya-Halbinsel genommen haben. Es gibt zwar auch eine Landverbindung, allerdings sind die Straßen schlecht und besonders in der Regenzeit von einigen Flüssen durchzogen, die man dann überqueren muss.

Mit der Fähre von Punta Arenas nach Paquera

Die Anreise mit der Fähre ist somit um einiges stressfreier, sicherer und die Fährfahrt eine willkommene Abwechslung zu den Stunden im Auto. Wer zu Stoßzeiten die Sorge umgehen möchte einen Platz auf der Fähre zu bekommen, kann sich vorab online ein Ticket für das entsprechende Schiff (hier gehts zum Fahrplan ) besorgen. Seid auf jeden Fall mindestens eine halbe Stunde vor Abfahrt rechtzeitig dort, da das Auffahren auf  die Fähre ein wenig Zeit kostet. Angekommen in Paquera dauert die Fahrt nach Santa Teresa noch einmal eine gute Stunde. Auch auf der Nicoya-Halbinsel ist ein Allrad-Fahrzeug von Nöten, da viele Straßen – einschließlich der Hauptstaße in Santa Teresa – nicht asphaltiert und von tiefen Schlaglöchern übersät sind.

Was die Strandorte in Costa Rica angeht, sind die kilometerweiten Sandstrände sowie das entspannte Surfer-Flair von Santa Teresa ganz klar mein Favorit. Verpasst auf keinen Fall das leckere Frühstück bei The Bakery , das (vegetarische) Sushi von Katana Asian Cuisine oder die Veggie-Burger mit Portobello-Mushroom bei Burger Rancho sowie den Sonnenuntergang im Banana Beach Restaurant .

Weiterlesen -> Alle weiteren Tipps zu Santa Teresa und der Pazifikküste erfahrt ihr in meinem ausführlichen Artikel Die schönsten Strände in Costa Rica & die Frage: Karibik oder Pazifik?!

Mein Hotel Tipp: Wir haben in einer wunderschönen Holz-Villa mit Balkon im Griss Lodge & Villas übernachtet. Die familiäre Anlage befindet sich nur wenige Meter vom Strand entfernt und besitzt einen hübschen, kleinen Pool samt Whirlpool im Innenhof. Frühstück wird nicht serviert, allerdings gibt es auch in direkter Nähe viele schöne Cafés. Oder ihr verpflegt euch selbst, da die Villa über eine voll ausgestattete Küche verfügt.

Stopp #6 – Alajuela, Bajos del Toro & der Poas Vulkan

Die letzten zwei Nächte in Costa Rica haben wir wieder in der Nähe des Flughafens in der Provinz Alajuela verbracht. Plant für die Fahrt dorthin von Santa Teresa auf jeden Fall einen knappen Tag ein. Wir haben die Fähre um 11 Uhr genommen und waren am Nachmittag in Alajuela. Die (flächenmäßig zweitgrößte) Stadt ist nicht nur wegen ihrer Lage zum Flughafen ein guter Ausgangspunkt.

Ausflugstipp: Der Vulkan Poas

Auch der Vulkan Poas ist in unter einer Stunde Fahrzeit zu erreichen. Seit einer längeren Sperre ist dieser nun wieder für die Öffentlichkeit zugänglich. Allerdings müsst ihr die Tickets dafür vorab über ein Online-Tool buchen. Das System ist etwas kompliziert. Zunächst müsst ihr auf dieser Seite einen Account erstellen. In diesen loggt ihr euch nach erfolgreicher Registrierung ein und klickt auf Buy >> Online Reservation >> Wildlife Area >> Parque Nacional Volcan Poas. Ihr müsst euch dann für ein Datum sowie eine Uhrzeit entscheiden und dieses unter Entry Date auswählen. Hier empfiehlt es sich möglichst früh am Morgen zu kommen, da am Vormittag oft Wolken aufziehen und die Sicht auf den Krater versperren. Depature Date ignoriert ihr. Danach müsst ihr noch detaillierte Informationen zu den einzelnen Personen angeben. Wir hatten leider sehr viel Pech und am Morgen unseres Besuches hat es wie aus Eimern geschüttet und so haben wir unsere Tickets schweren Herzens verfallen lassen, nachdem es oben am Vulkan nur noch schlimmer wurde.

Ausflugstipp: Bajos & Catarata del Toro

Sehr gelohnt hat sich dagegen für uns der Besuch des Nebelwalds Bajos del Toro –  genauer gesagt des Wasserfalls Catarata del Toro , den man über eine kurze Wanderung durch den dichten Dschungel erreicht. Unterwegs gibt es immer wieder eindrucksvolle Aussichten auf den mächtigen Wasserfall und außer uns war an diesem Tag niemand sonst dort. Nicht weit entfernt liegt auch der „Hidden Treasure Waterfall“, dessen Besuch wegen des Regenwetters allerdings zu gefährlich war, und der Cascada Pozo Azul.

Noch ein Tipp: Auf halbem Weg von Alajuela zum Nebelwald kommt ihr noch an einem weiteren Wasserfall direkt an der Straße vorbei, wo sich ein kurzer Fotostopp ebenfalls lohnt.

Mein Hotel Tipp:  Wir haben in einem ruhigen Boutique Hotel oberhalb von Alajuela, dem Buena Vista Chic Hotel übernachtet. Die Betten waren unheimlich gemütlich und die Zimmer geräumig. Allerdings scheint das Hotel auch bei geführten Gruppenreisen sehr beliebt zu sein. Ich kann euch daher nur empfehlen zum Abendessen in den Ort zu fahren und dort entweder im Jalapeños Central oder dem El Chante Vegano Restaurant einzukehren. Beide sind sehr empfehlenswert und haben eine große Auswahl an veganen/vegetarischen Gerichten.

Allgemeine Tipps für eure Costa Rica Rundreise

Reisezeit & wetter in costa rica.

Die Trockenzeit in Costa Rica geht von Dezember bis April und wird häufig als beste Reisezeit angegeben. Dann sind natürlich die Straßenverrhältnisse am besten und das Wetter am sonnigsten für einen Badeurlaub. Wenn ihr aber lieber den Regenwald erkunden oder an der Pazifikküste surfen möchtet oder ganz generell vor Ort weniger Touristen und günstigere Preise haben möchtet, ist die Regenzeit von Mai bis November als Reisezeit geeigneter. Für uns war der November ein idealer Kompromiss, der das beste aus beiden Welten vereint hat. Genauso empfehlenswert sind die Monate April/Mai. Diese Monate sind auch als Zwischensaison bekannt.

Kosten einer Costa Rica Rundreise über 2 Wochen

Zugegeben, Costa Rica ist kein günstiges Reiseziel und das ist auch gut so. Denn sämtliche Eintritte in Nationalparks kommen am Ende dem Erhalt des Landes zu gute. Und wer auf eigene Faust unterwegs ist und sich zumindest teilweise selbst verpflegt, kann sich auf der Reise die ein oder andere teure Mahlzeit im Restaurant sparen. Denn die sind teilweise sogar teurer als bei uns in Deutschland.

Wir haben für unsere Flüge mit KLM rund 650 Euro pro Person bezahlt. Der Mietwagen via Sunnycars schlug für die gesamten drei Wochen mit 450 Euro zu buche. Für die Unterkünfte haben wir im Schnitt um die 100 Dollar pro Nacht ausgegeben. Wenn man zusätzlich noch ein Budget von 40 Euro pro Person und Tag für Restaurantbesuche, Eintritte, Tanken sowie Einkäufe rechnet, kommt man auf einen Gesamtpreis von um die 2.000 Euro pro Person. Natürlich kann man in Costa Rica auch deutlich günstiger leben, aber auch schnell deutlich mehr Geld ausgeben.

Costa Rica Rundreise mit dem Mietwagen

Wer Costa Rica auf eigene Faust erkunden möchte, der kommt um einen Mietwagen nicht herum. Generell habe ich das Autofahren in Costa Rica als sehr angenehm empfunden. Die anderen Verkehrsteilnehmer fahren meiner Meinung nach rücksichtsvoller als ich es in anderen Ländern in Lateinamerika oder der Karibik kenne und die Straßen sind fast überall gut ausgeschildert. Nur so könnt ihr Stoßzeiten an den Touristenhighlights vermeiden und zu den wunderschönen, etwas abseits gelegenen Stränden, Wanderwegen und Unterkünften gelangen. Wie bereits erwähnt, kann ich auf Grund der mancherorts schlechten (nicht asphaltierten) Straßen nur zu einem Mietwagen mit Allradantrieb raten.

Wir haben unseren Mietwagen (wie immer) über Sunny Cars gebucht. Wegen der besonderen Alles-Inklusive-Leistungen wie unbegrenzte Kilometer, Vollkaskoschutz mit Erstattung der Selbstbeteiligung, Erstattung von Schäden auch an Glas, Dach, Reifen, Unterboden inklusive Ölwanne und Kupplung ist Sunnycars für mich mittlerweile die erste Anlaufstelle für Mietwagenbuchungen im Ausland. Denn so muss ich mir keinen Kopf um eventuelle Schäden vor Ort machen. Also: Lasst euch für all diese Leistungen keine teure Zusatzversicherung vor Ort andrehen!

Lesestoff für deine Costa Rica Rundreise

Als Vorbereitung für die Reise kann ich euch das Merian-Heft über Costa Rica empfehlen. Auch das Geo Special Costa Rica & Panama ist eine tolle Vorfreude auf die Reise. Vor Ort haben wir den Lonely Planet Costa Rica genutzt und waren sehr zufrieden damit. Und wer vor Ort ein schönes Reisetagebuch führen möchte, dem kann ich das Costa Rica Reisetagebuch nur ans Herz legen.

Ward ihr schon einmal in Costa Rica und habt selbst eine Rundreise gemacht? Oder habt ihr noch Fragen? Dann ab in die Kommentare damit!

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12 Comments

Hallo Jana, vielen Dank für diesen ausführlichen Reisebericht. Ich plante im November diesen Jahres nach Costa Rica zu fliegen, nun wird das wohl nix werden durch den Corona Virus. Aber ich speichere mir den Bericht ab, dass ich schnell zugreifen kann sofern es doch irgendwann los gehen kann. Ich habe auch deinen Reiseblog auf meinem Blog verlinkt mit Text und Bild. Für dich alles Liebe und bleib gesund, Marcel

Liebe Jana, dieser Blog ist wirklich ganz toll geschrieben, logisch aufgeteilt und bietet alles, was ich mir als Costa Rica Neuling wünsche. Ich habe soeben spontan entschieden und gebucht; mir bleiben nun 3 Tage zum Planen und Vorbereiten und deine Berichte waren Gold wert. Ich freue mich riesig auf diese Erfahrung, auch wenn ich allein reise =) LG, Franzi

Ganz toller Reisebericht, danke für deine Mühe! Wir fliegen im Dezember und dank deinem Blog konnte ich meine Route super planen 😊

Hallo Jana, wirklich schöner Reisebericht und beeindruckende Bilder. Die Erlebnisse machen Lust auf mehr und ich das Land ist definitiv auf meiner To-Do Liste. Ich glaub, ich bin so ein Mensch, der es gern kühler mag und im August wäre mal so eine Zeit, wo ein Trip in die kühleren, verregneten Regionen auch faszinierend sein kann, was auf den Bilder schön zu sehen ist.

wie habt ihr so günstige Mietwagen dort bekommen für 3 Wochen?

Preise schwanken immer ständig, Mietwagen sind leider in letzter Zeit sehr viel teurere geworden…

Hi Jana, super Bericht, hab mir gleich alles in google Maps abgespeichert :-) Du schreibst oben, dass Du zwei Wochen unterwegs warst, beim Mietwagen, aber drei Wochen. Wir haben drei Wochen gebucht, warst Du zwei oder drei? Wenn zwei, könnten wir noch etwas Zeot fürs Tauchen einplanen :-) LG Silvan

Es waren gute zwei ;-)

Vielen Dank liebe Jana. Dank deiner Reise und deiner Artikel haben wir uns für unsere Hochzeitsreise für Costa Rica entschieden. Wir haben auch ungefähr die selbe Route gewählt, nur sind wir sie andersherum gefahren. Den Eingang vom Baurilo Carillo an der Route 32 haben wir leider nicht gefunden… Mittlerweile sind die Straßen auch besser geworden an manchen Orten. Die Landverbindung Santa Teresa nach Monteverde ist komplett niegelnagelneu. Die Preise für Lebensmittel haben in den Supermärkten stark angezogen. Es ist manchmal sogar günstiger Essen zu gehen als selbst zu kochen. Costa Rica ist einfach wunderschön. Die Menschen sind total nett und gastfreundlich.

Hallo Jana,

zunächst vielen Dank für deinen tollen Blog!!! Wir fliegen Ende Februar für 16 Tage nach Costa Rica. Flüge und Unterkünfte sind bereits gebucht – nur der Mietwagen fehlt noch. Ich habe nun über verschiedene Anbieter die Preise verglichen. Bislang habe ich fast keine Angebote unter 1.000 EUR (für Kleinwagen ohne Allradantrieb) gefunden. Wie früh oder spät vor deiner Reise hast du gebucht? Denkst du, eine kurzfristige Buchung ist günstiger?

Liebe Grüße Laura

Was für ein ausführlicher Reisebericht. Unglaublich schöne Bilder – am Ende denkt man, dass man selbst dabei gewesen ist. Nach Costa Rica zu fliegen war sicher schon ein Erlebnis :-) Wenn ich Zeit und Geld habe, werde ich mir Costa Rica sicher mal geben, war bisher nur einmal in der „Nähe“ in Sao Paulo, Ist aber mit deinem Erlebnis nicht zu vergleichen. Danke für den wunderschönen Einblick vor allem die Bilder um den Vulkan haben mich tief beeindruckt.

Liebe Jana, wow, was für ein toller Reisebericht! Jetzt habe ich noch mehr Lust auf Costa Rica, vielleicht sind wir ja sogar zu Schildkrötensaison dort. Die Bilder sind phantastisch, so tropisch, wunderschön und so toll geschrieben ! Mal schauen, ob wir uns die Kaffeefarm anschauen oder ob wir dies schon in Mexiko machen. Aber meistens lernt man ja dann doch immer noch das ein oder andere neue Detail. Danke für diese ausführliche Zusammenfassung über deine Reise durch Costa Rica!

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The Perfect 2-Week Costa Rica Itinerary

Costa Rica is one of the most popular vacation destinations in Central America. Because this stunning country is so diverse and offers such a fantastic variety of things to see and do, it appeals to a massive crowd. Wherever you choose to visit, you’ll find yourself surrounded by laid-back expats, cheerful locals, excited backpackers, and luxury travelers. So no matter where you are, you’ll always fit in and feel comfortable.

Despite its relatively small size (Costa Rica is about the same size as West Virginia), it’s tricky to fit everything into just 2 weeks. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try! Spend your time wisely and you’ll be able to explore misty cloud forests, relax on Instagrammable beaches, ride a zipline like Superman, go whale watching, and loads more during your 2 weeks in Costa Rica. 

Putting together your own Costa Rica itinerary can be a challenge. There are just so many incredible must-see places that it can feel completely overwhelming just getting started. 

To help you out, we’ve done all the hard work for you and created a fun-filled travel guide you can follow to discover the best that Costa Rica has to offer. We’ve also thrown in a number of helpful tips and tricks to make sure your adventure gets off to the best possible start!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Two Weeks in Costa Rica

Preparing for costa rica .

All travelers need a valid passport to get into Costa Rica, regardless of where you’re coming from or what your purpose is. Your travel document should also be good for at least 6 months after your departure date. 

Visa requirements for the country depend on your nationality. Thankfully, Costa Rica has an exemption agreement with many countries and regions (including the US, Canada, the EU, and Australia). 

This means you can travel there as a tourist from any of these places for up to 90 days without a visa. To be 100% sure, it’s always worth confirming by checking the official website of Costa Rica’s immigration authority for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Things to Know Before you go to Costa Rica

One of the best things about Costa Rica is that there really isn’t a bad time to visit. For the best weather, plan your 14-day Costa Rica itinerary for December or January. If you’d rather save money, you’ll find the best deals and lowest prices in October. Or if spotting local wildlife is at the top of your priority list, you’ll have an incredible experience if you travel in July or August. 

It’s worth knowing that Costa Rica isn’t cheap. In fact, it’s one of the most expensive countries in Central America. One way you can make your money stretch further while also having an authentic Tico experience during your 2 weeks in Costa Rica is to eat at sodas. A soda is the name for a traditional Costa Rican restaurant where you can dig into a hearty, filling meal for less than 1,500 colones, which is just a few US dollars. 

Water is safe to drink from the faucet throughout Costa Rica – unless you see a sign saying otherwise or are traveling in some rural areas. So pack a reusable bottle and fill it up! If you’re renting a car, it’s also good to know that all the gas stations are legally obligated to charge the same price, so you don’t have to waste time looking for the cheapest one. 

Getting Around Costa Rica

The easiest way to get around during your 2-week trip to Costa Rica is definitely by driving. If you’re confident behind the wheel, rent a car and explore at your own pace. If you choose this option, it’s best to avoid using Google Maps and opt for the Waze app instead. 

Waze is much more accurate when it comes to time estimates and road closures in Costa Rica. If you don’t want to be stuck to your phone, you can rent a GPS when you rent a car instead.

Using private transfers or hiring a driver are both great alternatives – but they’ll work out to be much more expensive and you’ll be forced to stick to someone else’s schedule. But if you’re traveling as a group or you’re sure you don’t want to drive, they may be your best bets. 

Public transport is an option, but it’s definitely not the most comfortable. Buses are very affordable ($1-$20 per journey) and there are stops all over the country. The main downside is that a lot of buses don’t have air conditioning. 

This may not sound like a big deal, but it can be a nightmare with Costa Rica’s intense heat and humidity. This can make for a very distressing trip – especially if you’re traveling with a lot of luggage and aren’t sure where to get off. 

Costa Rica Itinerary: 2 Weeks to Explore the Highlights of the Country

San josé – 2 nights.

The best 2-week Costa Rica itinerary has to start in San José . The capital city of Costa Rica, San José is often overlooked and simply used as a stopping point between landing in and embarking on an amazing adventure. But you’ll find loads of Costa Rica’s top attractions hidden in the country’s bustling capital.

Nicknamed “Chepe” by locals, San José is the perfect place to experience the more urban side of Costa Rica. Get ready for a couple of days filled with fascinating museums, excellent restaurants, incredible coffee, and a historic downtown area. 

Get to Know San Jose

Things to do in San José

Learn more about Costa Rica by spending a few hours at the Museo Nacional De Costa Rica . This family-friendly museum has everything from traditional 16th-century outfits to a charming butterfly garden. 

If you’d rather kick off with some beautiful scenery, consider spending the day at La Paz Waterfall Gardens instead. This popular spot is also home to the largest animal sanctuary in the country. 

Feeling energetic? Then hike to the giant hand at La Chimba Coffee Farm . You’ll get some fantastic pictures and can finish with some of the best coffee you’ve ever had in your life. For something a little more substantial sign up for a food tour and go shopping at local markets before making delicious plantain empanadas with the help of a local expert! 

Waterfall & Coffee Farm Day Trip

Getting To San José

San José is Costa Rica’s international airport, so it will almost certainly be the one you’ll land at. After you arrive, you have a number of different options to get to your hotel. The easiest way is to choose a hotel with an airport shuttle bus and hop on it.

Other speedy solutions include renting a car (although driving in San José can be a bit nerve-wracking!), paying for a private transfer, jumping in a cab, or hailing a cab with Uber. It’s important to note that while Uber doesn’t operate throughout the country, it is available across San José. 

Uvita – 1 night

Next up is one of the best places to visit in Costa Rica and a must on any Costa Rica itinerary – Uvita. This small and peaceful area has a casual backpacker vibe with far fewer crowds than San José and much greener landscapes.

It’s an excellent place for catching a glimpse of the local wildlife, surrounding yourself with unprecedented beauty, and watching gorgeous sunsets. Despite being pretty quiet, there are still plenty of cafes, bars, restaurants, grocery stores, and boutiques in the center of town. 

Things to do in Uvita

Uvita is where you’ll find one of the must-see places in Costa Rica – the Marino Ballena . Also known as the Whale Tail, this attraction is the spot where two beaches meet to form what looks like a giant whale tail. If you’ve got a drone, you’ll be able to see the tail in all its glory.

Whale Waching in Uvita

If you’ve got enough time to spare, we suggest making your way to the Nauyaca Waterfall. This stunning natural attraction is made up of two incredibly powerful waterfalls that thunder into giant pools you can swim in.

Consider signing up for a whale-watching excursion (you’ll see plenty advertised throughout the town) if you’re visiting in January-March or July-October. These are the best months for spotting the magnificent creatures in Uvita.

Travel to Nauyaca Waterfall

Getting to Uvita

The easiest way to get from San José to Uvita is by driving. The distance is around 140 miles, which takes about 4 hours. This may sound like quite a long journey, but the road takes you along a well-made coastal highway, so the drive is comfortable and there are plenty of panoramas to admire. 

If you’re traveling by bus, head to the Tracopa LTDA Bus Terminal in the south of San José via Uber or a taxi. Look at the departures board and hop on the next bus heading along the Ruta 27 x Costanera. All buses that follow this route stop at the Uvita bus station on the side of the main road.

Drake Bay – 1 night

Drake Bay is one of the best places in Costa Rica because it’s the gateway to Corcovado National Park. While you can stay in La Sirena Ranger Station within the park, the accommodation in Drake Bay is much more comfortable and better located. 

Corcovado is definitely one of the main reasons travelers come here, but Drake Bay has a lot to offer, too. Here you’ll find stunning beaches, dazzling sunsets, and a small town with a friendly, relaxed vibe that will instantly win you over.

Join a Wildlife Tour in Drake Bay

Things to do in Drake Bay

As you’ve only got one day in Drake Bay, we suggest you spend all your time at the Corcovado National Park. Since this part of the country is protected, you can’t visit yourself – you can only go as part of a tour. 

Your adventure will begin with a boat trip that passes by gnarled mangrove trees. Before you even arrive, you’ll have the chance to spot all kinds of creatures hiding in the trees and swimming in the water. 

When you land, you’ll hike around the national park in search of amazing creatures, from sloths, coatis, and agoutis to snakes, giant spiders, and tapirs. Corcovado tours last a full day and usually include lunch at one of the rangers’ stations.

Look for Various Species in Drake Bay

Getting to Drake Bay

Getting to Drake Bay can be a major hassle if you don’t have a car. Even if you’re not planning on driving around the rest of Costa Rica, it’s worth renting a car just for this part of the journey.

The route you’ll take covers around 90 miles and hugs the coast from Uvita before heading slightly inland through Palmar Norte. This drive takes you through the Piedras Blancas National Park and the Reserva Forestal Golfo Dulce before arriving in Drake Bay. If you’re traveling during the rainy season, it’s almost certain that you’ll need a 4×4 to complete the journey.

Manuel Antonio – 3 nights

Next, it’s onto one of the best cities to visit in Costa Rica — Manuel Antonio. This hugely popular village is lined on one side by white sandy beaches and on the other by lush jungle. 

No matter when you go, you’ll find it packed with tourists spilling out of cafes, shopping for souvenirs on the streets, and sipping cocktails out of coconuts. You won’t find any authentic Tico experiences here, but it’s definitely worth spending a few days in Manuel Antonio for the gorgeous scenery and excellent attractions. 

Things to do in Manuel Antonio

The Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the best places to go in Costa Rica. This breathtaking paradise is teeming with hiking trails, lookout points, golden beaches, and dense forests. Here you can spot everything from bugs, birds, and bats to snakes, monkeys, and sloths. 

Explore Manuel Antonio National Park

If you need a break, Manuel Antonio is a wonderful place for a beach day. The beach inside the Manuel Antonio National Park is stunning and the water is always warm enough for swimming. If you’d rather save your money, you can go to the nearby Espadilla Norte Beach for free.

For something a bit more exciting, consider ziplining or an ATV tour. Or unleash your inner foodie and spend a day at the Villa Vanilla Spice Farm where you’ll embark on a gentle hike that goes past a huge collection of spice trees. There’s a good chance you’ll see some local wildlife here, too. 

Take an ATV tour at Manuel Antonio

Getting to Manuel Antonio

It’s back in your rental car to get from Drake Bay to Manuel Antonio! You’ve got to go back on yourself the way you came, along the coast and past Uvita, but it’s worth the long drive for the chance to visit the Corcovado National Park at the southern end of Costa Rica. 

Don’t want to drive for 4 hours? Head to the ferry port and take a boat directly to Sierpe. From here, take a taxi (or walk, if you’ve got a backpack or minimal luggage) to the Sierpe bus station and ride the Tracopa bus to Ciudad Cortés. From here, you need to ride another Tracopa bus to Quepos and a final Tracopa bus to Manuel Antonio.

Jacó – 2 nights

If you’re into watersports, you’ll have an amazing time in Jacó. One of the most beautiful cities in Costa Rica, this lively beach resort town is the perfect place to soak up the sunshine, splash around in the waves, and sip some tropical cocktails.

Jacó is popular with a younger crowd and because of that, it’s got a fantastic nightlife scene. So if you’ve been wanting to wear something that’s a little dressier than your usual Costa Rica clothes, now is the time. Jacó is also the last coastal destination you’ll experience on your trip, so make sure you enjoy it! 

See the Best of Jaco

Things to do in Jacó

Jacó is a fantastic place to go surfing. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an experienced surfer or you’ve never even touched a board, you’ll find loads of kiosks offering lessons and rental gear for people of all levels. 

If you’d rather stay dry, embark on a catamaran cruise to Tortuga Island. After a short boat trip, you’ll be treated to breakfast, lunch, free-flowing drinks, beach chairs, umbrellas, beach toys, snorkeling, a banana boat ride, and an eco-hike.

Explore Tortuga Island

For something a little more invigorating, sign up for a white water rafting adventure instead . You can continue the adrenaline rush by spending a day at Vista Los Sueños Adventure Park . This incredible place invites you to push yourself to the limits with ziplining, ATV safaris, horseback riding, canyoning, and more! 

Nature and Adventure Getaway

Getting To Jacó

You’ll be glad to hear that the trip between Manuel Antonio and Jacó is short in comparison to the other routes you’ve done! If you’ve got a car, you can drive along the coast until you reach the popular resort town. The journey covers 45 miles and should take you around 1 hour and 20 minutes to complete.

Alternatively, you can head to the Manuel Antonio bus station and catch a Tracopa bus to Jacó. There are buses every 3 hours and the trip takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Monteverde – 3 nights

Monteverde is where you’ll find some of the most spectacular Costa Rica attractions. This lush and incredibly eco-diverse area is hidden away high in the mountains – so make sure you bring plenty of warm clothes! This is where you’ll find Costa Rica’s famous cloud forests, as well as stunning coffee plantations, rainforest trails, and adventurous activities. 

As well as the pristine nature, Monteverde also boasts a small town known as Santa Elena. The center of this town is buzzing with cool microbreweries, trendy cafes, mesmerizing art galleries, delicious restaurants, and souvenir shops filled with everything you could ever want. 

Things to do in Monteverde

The Monteverde Cloudforest is a must on any 2-week Costa Rica itinerary. These one-of-a-kind forests are known for the low-lying clouds and mist that hang between the trees, making you feel like you’re walking in the clouds. 

Keep an eye out and you can spot insects, butterflies, birds, reptiles, and mammals. Stop by the Colibri Cafe before you leave. This is one of the very best places in all of Costa Rica to see hummingbirds. 

La Reseerva Boaque Nuboso is another cloud forest worth visiting. Here you’ll find 8 miles of trails to explore in search of plant and animal life.

Make sure you keep an evening free for a night walk. Around 85% of Monteverde’s wildlife is active after sunset and a night tour is the best way to see snakes, sloths, scorpions, and spiders moving around in their natural habitat.

If you’re craving adventure, have a go at canyoning in Monteverde. You’ll find countless excursion companies in Santa Elena offering trips to help you rappel down cascading waterfalls, past giant orchids, and into refreshing pools.

Experience the Tropical Cloud Forest

Getting to Monteverde

Driving to Monteverde takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. The route mostly follows the coastline until you hit Puntarenas. From there, you go inland and start climbing up until you reach the mountain resort town of Monteverde. The journey is around 74 miles and you’ll pass all sorts of landscapes, from rugged beaches to tropical rainforests. 

There’s no simple bus route between Jacó and Monteverde. If you don’t want to drive, the best alternative is to find a shuttle bus that is following the journey when you want to travel or pay for a private transfer. 

La Fortuna – 2 nights

Your last stop is one of the top places to see in Costa Rica – La Fortuna. This small town has a dynamic vibe and is filled with adventurous travelers eager to explore the natural attractions La Fortuna has to offer.

Take a look around and you’ll discover the perfect balance of exhilarating activities and relaxing spots. So whether you never want the fun to end or you’re ready to slow things down now that your vacation is coming to a close, you’ll have a fantastic time in La Fortuna. 

Escape into Nature in La Fortuna

Things to do in La Fortuna

La Fortuna’s hot springs are one of the must-see places in Costa Rica and the perfect way to wind down your 2 weeks in Costa Rica. Whether you choose to pay for a hotel pass and relax in luxurious heated waters or keep it natural and unwind in one of the free hot springs, the hot springs at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa are something you’ve absolutely got to experience. 

If you’d prefer something a little more exciting, check out El Salto. This is a rope swing that you can grab and plunge into a pool fed by small waterfalls. For something even more adventurous, sign up for a white water tubing experience and zoom over thrilling rapids in your personal river tube! 

The Arenal Volcano National Park is another highlight worth checking out. Here you can choose from countless hiking trails, all of which reward you with spectacular views of the volcano. 

The La Fortuna Waterfall is also worth a visit if you’re craving more waterfalls. It’s a long hike to the bottom (around 30 minutes) but it’s worth it for the chance to see the powerful waterfall that plummets 230 feet down. 

Book a Room at Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa

Getting To La Fortuna

You’ve probably come to expect it now — the best way to get from Monteverde to La Fortuna is by car. The journey takes you through the mountains, past forests, and between grassy fields. It takes around 3 hours to follow the mountain drive, which is 70 miles long. 

If you’re traveling without a car, skip public transport and sign up for a private shuttle. These buses leave a couple of times each day and move directly between Monteverde and La Fortuna. The journey takes the same amount of time as driving and only costs around $35.  

There you have it! That’s our perfect 2-week Costa Rica itinerary. Where will you be visiting on your trip to Costa Rica?

Planning a trip to Costa Rica? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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About the Author:

Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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The Perfect 2-Week Costa Rica Itinerary

Post summary: The perfect itinerary for 2 weeks in Costa Rica

This post contains affiliate links, which means that I will make a small commission of the purchase you make using my links – at absolutely no cost to you! 

Costa Rica may be a small country, but it has A LOT to offer. 

Something that sets Costa Rica apart from nearby Central American countries like Belize and Guatemala is it’s country-wide dedication to sustainability and conservation. This small Central American country is a nature lover’s paradise and the world’s poster child for eco-tourism. 

Costa Rica has an abundance of striking scenery, exotic wildlife, and a serious commitment to sustainability. Couple those with the laid-back pura vida lifestyle and it’s easy to see why it’s so easy to fall in love with this tropical paradise!

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation (or both!), Costa Rica is the perfect destination for your next two week trip. So let’s dive into the planning, logistics, and must-see stops to help you plan an epic two weeks in Costa Rica!

Table of Contents

Short on time? Pin this itinerary for later!

Costa Rica’s diverse landscape includes rainforests, mountains, beaches, and volcanic crater lakes. It’s also home to an abundance of wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, toucans, and turtles. And the best part is that Costa Rica is relatively small, making it possible to see a whole lot in just two weeks!

With those things in mind, I crafted this itinerary based on our own Costa Rica road trip, the places we loved, and the things we wish we did a little bit differently. 

This is the best itinerary if you want to see a little bit of everything – and then some! It’s also jam packed to make sure you have the most epic adventure possible.

Keep reading for an overview and detailed day-by-day outline.

The 2-Week Route Overview

This 2 Week Costa Rica Itinerary starts and ends at San Jose International Airport in San Jose, Costa Rica . It heads north from San Jose to the town of La Fortuna, before heading to the mountains of Monteverde and then all the way down the Caribbean coast to Corcovado National Park on the southern tip of the Osa Peninsula.

You can also start this trip from Costa Rica’s second largest airport in Liberia. However, starting from Liberia will require some backtracking, and flights into San Jose are usually much cheaper. 

For getting around, this itinerary is best completed with a car. But it’s not an issue if you won’t have a car because Costa Rica has a wonderful bus system. Relying on public transport will just require more advanced planning overall and you will not be able to make all of the stops in between destinations.

Here’s a quick overview: Click here to view the map in Google Maps

Day 1: San Jose

Day 2-4:  San Jose to La Fortuna

Day 5: La Fortuna to Monteverde

Day 6: Monteverde

Day 7: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio 

Day 8: Manuel Antonio to Uvita 

Day 9 – 10: Uvita

Day 11 – 13: Drake Bay 

Day 14: San Jose 

Estimated total drive time: 15 hr 16 min

Estimated total miles for this route: 519 miles (835 km)

Short on time? Scroll down for this 10 day itinerary!

Have extra time? Scroll down for this extended 4 week itinerary!

  Read next: How to plan your road trip using Google Maps

Day 1: Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica

This 2-week Costa Rica road trip starts in San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica. 

On your first day, you will arrive in Costa Rica and get your bearings. How much time you will spend in San Jose depends on when you arrive, since some flights land very early in the day and others arrive late at night. 

If you arrive early in the morning, I recommend driving straight to La Fortuna if you have the energy. Overall, I don’t recommend wasting your time sightseeing in San Jose. It’s not a great city and there are a ton of incredible places waiting for you in La Fortuna! 

However, if you do decide to spend a day in San Jose, then check out the Central Market, the Municipal Craft Market, or learn about Costa Rica’s history at one of the museums. 

Where to stay in San Jose

The best areas to stay near San Jose are the Cariari Ciudad and San Antonio de Belén areas. These areas are located close to the airport, just outside of the city. 

View all stays in San Jose here .

Day 2: San Jose to La Fortuna

If you spent the night in San Jose, then today is the day to get an early start to the adventure capital of Costa Rica – La Fortuna! 

On the way to La Fortuna, stop at La Paz waterfall gardens, which are located in the cloud forest about 1 hour outside of San Jose.

La Paz is a privately-owned nature preserve that houses rescued wildlife and has some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the country. The waterfall gardens are open year round, but visit their website for up to date entrance information before you go. However, you might want to skip La Paz if you are traveling on a tight budget. At roughly $50 per person, we found it to be pretty pricey. 

If you don’t mind driving out of the way, a better alternative is Catarata del Toro near the tiny town of Bajos del Toro. Catarata del Toro is the tallest waterfall in Costa Rica and definitely one of the most impressive. This stop adds an extra hour to your drive, which is inconvenient if you just got off a redeye flight. But honestly you won’t regret it.

 The entrance fee to Catarata del Toro is $12 per person and the hike is 1.3 miles round trip. The trail descends down a steep staircase that winds through the cloud forest and ends at the base of the waterfall. Allow yourself approximately 2 hours once you get there to get the full experience.

When you’re done, grab a local lunch at Soda Shaddai before continuing to La Fortuna.

Catarata del Toro, the tallest waterfall in Costa Rica

How to get from San Jose to La Fortuna

The driving distance from San Jose to La Fortuna is 131km (81 miles). You can travel this distance by car, bus, or van transfer. The journey will take about 3 to 4 hours, depending on how you get there.

Without stops, driving yourself takes approximately 3.5 hours. You won’t need a 4×4 in La Fortuna as most of the roads are in good shape. 

Bus or shuttle

If you don’t have a car, you can take a public bus or shuttle service from the SJO airport to La Fortuna. However, you won’t be able to stop at La Paz Waterfall Gardens or Bajos del Toro. 

There are several non-direct buses to choose from. But there is only one public bus that runs directly to La Fortuna from the San Jose. It departs at 8:40AM from Terminal 7-10 in San Jose City Center and costs about 3,000 CRC ($5).  

Private and shared shuttles are also available and come with the advantages of more comfort and door-to-door drop off. The price of a shuttle ranges from $54-$150 depending on the company and how many people are traveling with you. 

It’s easy to get around once you arrive in La Fortuna. You can use the red taxis, Uber, or arrange a tour that offers return transport from your lodge.

Where to stay in La Fortuna

There’s no shortage of hotels, VRBOs, AirBnbs, and eco-lodges in La Fortuna! And the best part is that many of them have a great view of Arenal Volcano.

View all stays in La Fortuna here.

Budget ($): Sloth Cabins (Cabañas Sueños del Arenal) and Hotel Bijagua

Moderate ($$): Hotel El Silencio del Campo  and Tifakara Boutique Hotel

Splurge ($$$): Nayara Gardens

TIP: Check in hours are usually around 2-3PM for most hotels and Airbnb’s in Costa Rica. If you happen to arrive in town well before check in, book a 1/2 day pass to one of the hot springs resorts. This is a super relaxing way to pass the time and also gives you a secure place to park your car with your luggage in it.

Popular resorts, such as Tabacon, usually recommend that you make reservations in advance. However, if your plans are up in the air, check out Hotel Los Lagos, which is first-come-first-served. Hotel Los Lagos is also a real hidden gem because they don’t advertise their day passes online, so it’s rarely crowded and basically never sells out.

For more information, check out my guide to Best Things to do in La Fortuna .

Day 3-4: La Fortuna

Welcome to La Fortuna!

Serving as the gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna is best known for its spectacular nature, ample opportunities for adventure, and it’s proximity to the famous Arenal Volcano. You’ll know you arrived because you have a clear view of the volcano from just about every angle! Seriously, you can’t miss it.

Get ready to spend the next several days relaxing in volcanically heated hot springs, walking above the jungle canopy, hiking through lava fields, and taking on whatever adventure calls your name. 

While you’re in La Fortuna, don’t miss out on hiking Rio Celeste in Tenorio Volcano National Park . Getting there is an easy and scenic 1.5 hour drive from downtown La Fortuna. The most convenient way to get there is by car, but you can also book a day tour or shuttle to take you there. 

It’s day 5 of your two weeks in Costa Rica – and I hope you’re excited because today you go to Monteverde, a small adventure town located in the heart of the Cordillera de Tilaran Mountains.

If you are driving, then wake up for sunrise and check out Mistico Hanging Bridges on your way to Monteverde. The hike through Mistico Park is about 2 miles (3.2km) and crosses 16 hanging bridges. We arrived at the hanging bridges around 6:30AM  and had most of the park to ourselves, since tour buses don’t arrive until 9:00 AM. Early morning is also the best time to see wildlife, such as snakes, frogs, and howler monkeys! 

Once you arrive in Monteverde, grab some food at Stella’s, and watch the sunset from Cerro Plano Viewpoint/Mirador Valle Escondido Preserve ( here’s the exact location ). It was one of the most beautiful sunsets we saw in Costa Rica!

How to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde

The distance from La Fortuna to Monteverde is 66 miles (106 km). While the two towns look close to each other on the map, they are separated by Lake Arenal, which makes getting between them a lengthy journey. 

By car, your only option is to drive around Lake Arenal via Route 142, which takes about 3.5 hours. 

Coming from La Fortuna, the first half of the drive to Monteverde curves around Lake Arenal on a paved and well-maintained road. However, the last half of the drive is on rough, unpaved roads that climb in elevation through the mountainous Guanacaste region.

We found that high clearance was more important than having 4WD for this drive, but you would likely need a 4×4 in the rainy season.

Shuttle and boat

Without a car, the best way to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde is by taxi-boat-taxi.

You will take a shuttle from your lodge in La Fortuna to the dock at Lake Arenal. From there, it’s a scenic 1 hour boat ride across Lake Arenal, and then another shuttle ride to your lodge in Monteverde. It sounds complicated, but you can hire a tour to take care of all of the arrangements for you – so all you have to do is show up!

You can also book a shuttle from La Fortuna to Monteverde, which takes about 3-4 hours. 

For this trip, I would not recommend taking the public bus because the bus ride can take up to 8 hours.

Where to stay in Monteverde

Monteverde is a another big tourist part of Costa Rica, so there are a ton of places to stay. There’s a place for every budget and experience,  ranging from upscale glamping and unique farm stays, to modest hostels and luxury hotels overlooking the cloud forest.

View all stays in Monteverde here.

Budget ($):   Monteverde Rustic Lodge   and  Casa Rayo de Luna

Moderate ($$): Los Pinos Lodge and Garden

Splurge ($$$): Hidden Canopy Treehouses , Koora Hotel , Chira Glamping Monteverde

For a more remote and local experience, check out this rustic cabin located on an organic farm outside 20 minutes from downtown Monteverde. We stayed here for 2 nights and it was one of the highlights of our trip! However, I don’t recommend this cabin unless you rent a 4×4 because you basically have to go off-roading to get there.

Monteverde is famous for it’s rare cloud forests, which are some of the most unique and biodiverse ecosystems in the world. The cloud forests form at high altitudes and are shrouded in a constant layer of mist and low-hanging clouds. These rare forests make up less than 1% of all forests on Earth, yet they support 2.5% of the entire world’s biodiversity!

The best way to experience the cloud forest is by hiking in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve . Get there by 7AM to beat the crowds and hike the Sendero Camino (Road Trial), which leads to a hanging bridge suspended high above the canopy. From there, take the Sendero Wilford Guindon trail back down. Hiking this loop takes about 1.5 – 2 hours and allows you to see a whole lot in a short amount of time!

If you prefer something more adventurous, visit Monteverde’s hanging bridges parks and go ziplining.

After you explore the cloud forest, refuel at Cafe Colibri (aka the Hummingbird Cafe) to enjoy the astonishing show of hummingbirds. You can also take a local coffee tour or browse the shops in town.

One of my favorite things in Monteverde was how many local art galleries and craft shops there are! For great local handicrafts, check out  Monteverde Art House , which is a locally owned art center that sells original pieces from local artists. We picked up a beautiful handcrafted vase and some other local artwork.

Day 7 of 2 weeks in Costa Rica: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

Wake up and enjoy breakfast at Orchid Coffee before traveling down the Pacific Coast to the white beaches of Manuel Antonio. It takes about 3.5-4 hours to drive from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio, so plan to spend a good portion of your day in the car. 

On the way, stop and stretch your legs at the famous Crocodile Bridge . This bridge passes over the Tarcoles River on the Costanera Sur Highway (Route 34), about halfway between Monteverde and Manuel Antonio.

Park your car in front of the shops on either side and then walk out onto the bridge. Once you’re out there, look down to see an astounding number of enormous American crocodiles hanging out on the river bank. 

Note: Please practice responsible wildlife tourism and do not feed the crocodiles!

How to get from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

It takes about 3.5-4 hours to drive between Monteverde and Manuel Antonio. The drive is very easy and straightforward, as it mainly follows the highway straight down the Pacific Coast to Manuel Antonio.

There is no direct bus between Monteverde and Manuel Antonio, so you will have to take three separate buses. Take the first bus from Monteverde (Santa Elena) to Puntarenas and then take another one from Puntarenas to Quepos. Finally, take a third one from Quepos to Manuel Antonio. 

Alternatively, you can book a shuttle to Manuel Antonio through trusted companies like Interbus, Monteverde Shuttle Bus, or RideCR. While it’s pricier than the bus, the shuttle is a very convenient way to get directly from your hotel in Monteverde to your hotel in Manuel Antonio without having to worry about changing buses and finding your way around. 

However, if you rely on public transportation for this 2-week itinerary, then I suggest staying overnight in Uvita instead of  Manuel Antonio. The reason for this is because the town of Manuel Antonio is not that great and if you stay there for 1 night, then you will have to worry about finding a place to store your luggage the next day while you visit the national park. It’s honestly just not worth the hassle, so just go straight to Uvita and book a guided day trip from Uvita to Manuel Antonio National Park for the next day. 

Where to stay in Manuel Antonio

There’s no shortage of places to stay in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. Whether you’re looking for a luxury bungalow or a more budget-friendly option, you’ll be able to find it here.

The majority of lodgings are located along the main road between the town of Quepos and Manuel Antonio National Park, but there are also Airbnb’s, resorts, and more local stays along side roads and in the hills.

Prices for lodging tend to be toward the mid-to-high end as you get closer to the national park, but there are still some budget friendly options and hostels. The most affordable prices are closer to Quepos.

View all stays in Manuel Antonio here

Budget ($): Hostel Plinio and Peace of Paradise Hotel

Moderate ($$): Tranquilidad Resort and Hotel La Mariposa

Splurge ($$$): Tulemar Bungalows & Villas

Day 8: Manuel Antonio to Uvita

You will spend the first half of this day exploring the picture perfect beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park.

Tickets   to the national park can only be purchased online directly from the national park website or as part of a guided tour package. There are only 300 tickets per time slot, so book your ticket a few days ahead in order to get the earliest time available.

The park is open from 7AM – 4PM every day, except it is closed on Tuesday. To get there, put  this location into your GPS, which will take you to the correct entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park. 

While you can visit the park on your own, you will get the most out of your experience if you hire a licensed guide. A guide will help you spot hidden wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and iguanas and use a spotting scope so you can see them up close.

You can purchase an official guided tour  for about $60 per person, which includes your entrance fee. However, I recommend booking through Airbnb Experiences instead because group sizes are usually a lot smaller. You can book this quick  2 hour tour through Airbnb  (entrance ticket not included) or this more robust 3-hour experience that includes your ticket price. 

Note: If you follow this 2-week itinerary, you will check out of your accommodation before you visit the national park. If you have a car, DO NOT take your luggage with you and leave it in the car. Instead, arrange for your accommodation to store your luggage in a safe location during the day. And then go back and pick it up before you drive to Uvita.

How to get from Manuel Antonio to Uvita

Uvita is 44 miles (71 km) from Manuel Antonio. The drive only takes about 1 hour and follows the highway down the coast.

While a 4×4 isn’t required on the main roads in Uvita, you may need a 4×4 to reach the accommodations nestled up in the hills. Check with your hotel/host ahead of time. They will advise on what type of transportation you need to get there. 

Taking the public bus is the cheapest way to get from Manuel Antonio to Uvita Center. The bus costs between $3-8 and takes about 3 hours. Alternatively, you can book a shuttle or taxi. The easiest way to arrange a shuttle or taxi is to ask your lodge to recommend a driver. 

However, once you get to Uvita, everything is very spread out. So, either plan to do a ton of walking or call a cab to take you around. If you find a taxi driver you like, ask for their phone number so you can call them whenever you need a ride. 

Where to stay in Uvita

If you want to be close to the action, consider staying in the heart of town. Here, you will be in walking distance to Uvita Beach and Marino Ballena National Park. For a more relaxed and local atmosphere, choose a lodge at the north end of Uvita, in the lush hills above the town. You can also stay around the charming nearby town of Dominical.

View all stays in Uvita here

Budget ($): Casa Viva Barrel , Oasis Uvita , and  Ballena Paraiso

Moderate ($$): Oxygen Jungle Villas & Spa and ArtVillas Costa Rica

Splurge ($$$): Rancho Pacifico

Day 9: Uvita 

Uvita is famous for its pristine beaches, lush jungle, and stunning hillside boutique hotels. 

At first glance, Uvita isn’t very spectacular. The town itself is basically a collection of shops and strip malls lining the highway. But if you venture just slightly off beaten path, you’ll find that the real draw of Uvita is its natural beauty. 

Uvita is a popular spot for surfers, thanks to the year-round waves. It’s also home to some of Costa Rica’s most impressive beaches, waterfalls, and wildlife. 

Although it is becoming increasingly popular, Uvita is still relatively unknown to most tourists. For this reason, it’s a lot quieter than other parts of Costa Rica and maintains more of a local feel. So if you crave quieter, less crowded places, Uvita will feel like a breath of fresh air – especially after traveling to Manuel Antonio and all of the other tourist spots in the North Pacific regions!

How to spend 1 full day in Uvita: 

Morning: Book an early morning trip to visit the majestic Nauyaca Waterfalls , which tumble over a combined 200 feet (61 meters) into a large natural swimming pool. . Alternatively, book an early morning whale watching tour to see humpback whales. The best time to see whales in Costa Rica is January – February and July – September. 

Afternoon: Explore the small town of Uvita and nearby Dominical. I personally loved Dominical and highly recommend browsing the souvenir tables next to Playa Dominical!  For more adventure, check out the Uvita Waterfall (called “Catarata Uvita” on Google Maps) or Cascada El Pavon. Both waterfalls are easy to reach, so you could probably see both if you really wanted to. However, I recommend picking one and taking your time to relax and enjoy! 

Sunset: Don’t even think about missing a sunset on the Pacific Coast!

For the best sunset, visit Marino Ballena National Park, which is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including dolphins, humpback whales, and turtles. If you have a drone, send it up at low tide to see where the two beaches meet and create a formation known as the whale’s tail!

  Read next: How to Visit Nauyaca Waterfalls near Uvita

Day 10: Uvita to Drake Bay

This day of your 2 weeks in Costa Rica will be spent traveling to Drake Bay, located way down on the Osa Peninsula. But don’t worry, this full day of travel isn’t boring as it sounds. Since Drake Bay is super remote, getting there is an adventure in itself! 

While there are a few ways to get to Drake Bay, the  best (and most fun!) way to get there is via a 40 minute boat ride from Sierpe  (pronounced sea-air-pay ).

The boat ride from Sierpe to Drake Bay takes about an hour. It takes you down the Sierpe River and then out into the Pacific Ocean and along the rugged coast of the Osa Peninsula. It’s super fun!

Tip: Make sure you have enough cash to last you in Drake Bay. You will need cash for the majority of things in Drake Bay, including tours, food, and the boat ride to get there. There are no ATMs in Sierpe or Drake Bay, so don’t forget to stop at the ATM in Uvita before you leave!

How to get from Uvita to Drake Bay

From Uvita, you will first need to travel to Sierpe to catch the boat to Drake Bay.

There is a a bus that departs once a day from Uvita Station and goes directly to Sierpe Station. The ride takes about 1h 40m and costs between $3-5. 

By car, the drive from Uvita to Sierpe takes about 50 minutes. It is very important to know that you won’t take the car with you to Drake Bay. Instead, you will leave it in Sierpe until you get back.

To park your car, drive to La Perla del Sur Restaurant , which is right next to the Sierpe River Ferry. There will be people outside asking you where you’re going. Tell them you’re going to Drake Bay and that you need a parking pass. From there, they’ll direct you to the guy handing out parking passes and he’ll tell you where to park.

As of 2022, the price for parking is 3,000 colones ($4.36) per day. Don’t lose your parking pass! You will use it to pay for parking when you come back to pick up the car.

Taxi boat schedule from Sierpe to Drake Bay: 

The boat leaves from Sierpe to Drake Bay twice a day.

• 11:30 AM – $15 USD (9,000 colones) per person
• 3:30 PM – $20 USD. (13,000 colones) per person

The cost of the boat is for a one-way ticket, which you will pay in cash (either dollars or colones) before you get off the boat. The ride takes about 1 – 1.5 hours , depending on how many stops the boats take to drop people off at various lodges along the way.

Where to stay in Drake Bay

If there’s anywhere in Costa Rica to splurge on lodging, it’s in Drake Bay. Partly because Drake Bay is such a beautiful place, but also because most lodging in Drake Bay is more pricey than in other parts of Costa Rica. 

If you want a modest escape, choose a small hotel or rustic cabin close to town. These places are more bare bones and typically offer breakfast packages or a very modest meal service, but have the advantage of being closer to town so you can explore more easily.

For a more luxurious stay, there are top notch eco-lodges and boutique hotels further outside of town that offer all-inclusive packages. These lodges are nestled deep in the hills among secluded slices of jungle or along the coast along private beaches. 

Pretty much everywhere in Drake Bay offers the same tour packages, regardless of where you stay. And every lodge will help you book everything once you get there. However, if you’re a type A planner, then it might give you peace of mind to contact your accommodation ahead of time to let them know what tours you’re interested in.

View all stays in Drake Bay here

Budget ($): Sunset Lodge , Casa Pequeña , Life for Life Hostel (Sea Turtle Marine Conservation Project)

Moderate ($$): Las Cotingas , Las Caletas Lodge

Splurge ($$$): La Paloma Lodge and  Copa de Arbol Beach & Rainforest Resort

Day 11 – 12: Drake Bay

Welcome to Drake Bay! While it’s the last stop on your two week Costa Rica itinerary, it’s also the best of them all. 

As one of the least visited parts of Costa Rica, Drake Bay truly feels like you’ve stepped into a real life Jungle Book. Set in a thriving, biologically diverse lowland rainforest, Drake Bay offers a huge variety of pristine beaches, lush jungle, and exotic wildlife.

One of the things you MUST do in Drake Bay is visit Corcovado National Park. Drake Bay is the gateway to Corcovado National Park, which is one of the most intense and biologically diverse places on earth. It is entirely wild and unspoiled, filled with virgin beaches, thick jungle, and wildlife around every single corner. The park is heavily protected and you can only access it with a guide and a permit . 

Almost all of the lodges in Drake Bay can help you arrange a guided day trip or overnight tour to Corcovado.

A guided tour to Corcovado National Park

Other must-do things in Drake Bay are taking a night tour with Tracie the Bug Lady, relaxing on the secluded beaches along the Drake Bay Public Trail, and snorkeling with vibrant marine life at Caño Island. 

And at the end of an adventure filled day, head over to Kalaluna Bistro for a gourmet meal made from local ingredients. From your table, watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean. Don’t forget to look up to spot scarlet macaws flying overhead on their way back to their nest for the night. 

Read next: The Ultimate Guide to Drake Bay, Costa Rica

Day 13: Drake Bay to Uvita

On day 13 of your two weeks in Costa Rica, you will say goodbye to Drake Bay and head back to Uvita. To get back to Uvita, you will first take the boat from Drake Bay to Sierpe.

There are two public boats that leave Drake Bay to go back to Sierpe:

• 7:15 AM – $15 USD per person
• 2:30 PM – $20 USD per person

You will pay for the ride in cash before you get off the boat in Sierpe. 

If you have a car, pay for your parking with the ticket they gave you when you first arrived.

To take the bus, catch a taxi or shuttle to the station in Palmar Norte, about 20 minutes away. From there, a bus leaves every 4 hours to Uvita. However, if you have an early flight the next morning, then just take this bus straight back to San Jose. 

Day 14:  Uvita to San Jose 

Your adventurous 2-weeks in Costa Rica is coming to an end, as you pack up to catch your flight home.

If you have time, wake up extra early and catch one last sunrise at Playa Uvita. Then, grab breakfast to go at Cafe Mono Congo in Dominical before you make the 3 hour drive back to San Jose.

Hopefully you’ll be ending your trip with plenty of amazing memories and epic photos to tide you over until your next visit to Central America! 

For your IG: 70+ Instagram Captions for Travellers

Costa Rica Entry Requirements for COVID-19

As of writing this (July 2022), Costa Rica is open to travelers from all countries. You do not need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test, proof of vaccination, or proof of insurance that covers COVID-19 related illness. There are no required health screening procedures required upon entry to Costa Rica.

It is no longer mandatory to wear a mask throughout the country, but hand-washing and temperature taking protocols are still in place in popular tourist areas.

This information is up-to-date as of July 2022. For more details and the most recent information, please review the information from the US Embassy website or the Costa Rica Tourism Board .

Getting to Costa Rica

There are two major airports in Costa Rica :

• Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose
• Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) in Liberia 

SJO is usually the best airport to fly into because it’s the often the cheapest and most convenient starting point for a country-wide road trip. It’s also the best airport if you prefer to fly direct because you can usually find a non-stop flight to SJO from major cities in the United Sates.

However, you might want to fly into Liberia if you find a really great flight deal or if your first/only travel destination is in the Guanacaste region, such as Monteverde, Tamarindo, or the Papagayo Peninsula. Flights into Liberia are usually more expensive than SJO, but it might be worth paying slightly more for a flight into Liberia if it means you’ll spend less time traveling once you arrive in Costa Rica. 

When it comes to finding the best flight deals, timing is everything. For the cheapest prices, aim to book your tickets at least three months in advance and avoid peak season and major holidays.  For the most part, flight prices are highest during the dry season, which runs from January – April. 

If your travel dates are flexible, you might be able to find cheaper flights during the “green season” from May-December. Within the the green season, the months of September and October tend to have some of the lowest airfare prices. However, the green season is the rainy season, so come prepared for tons of rain to accompany those low prices.

The best way to travel in Costa Rica: How to get around for a Costa Rica 2 Week Itinerary

Renting a car.

If you want to see a lot in a short amount of time, then the best way to travel in Costa Rica is by rental car. A rental car is also the best way to complete this specific 2 week Costa Rica itinerary. 

With a rental car, you can easily visit different regions, go at your own pace, and stop whenever something catches your interest.

While renting a car in Costa Rica can be pretty pricey, I truly think it’s worth splurging on if you can. Luckily, a lot of the roads in Costa Rica are in great shape, so you won’t need a 4×4 for the places on this 2 week itinerary unless you need one to reach your accommodation or if you’re traveling in the rainy season.

In general, renting a 4×2 with high clearance will be fine between December – April , and will save you a ton of money.

I highly recommend renting your car from Adobe Rent a Car to get the best prices without hidden fees. We used them for our own trip and the whole process was flawless.

Using public transportation

If you don’t want to rent a car, public buses, taxis, and shuttle services are very accessible in Costa Rica. While not nearly as convenient as a having your own car, using a combination of public transportation and private shuttles can get you almost anywhere you need to go. 

Though private transfer services appear expensive at first glance, they are often priced for the entire vehicle, not per person. So, depending on how many people you are traveling with, private shuttles might be the cheapest and most comfortable way to get around. 

When to visit

The weather is of the most important things to consider when planning a trip to Costa Rica.

The best time to visit Costa Rica is during the dry season, which runs from mid-December to April. In the dry season, the weather is hot and humid with occasional rain showers. The downside is that it’s also the busiest time of year in Costa Rica, so expect higher prices and crowded beaches.

The cheapest and least crowded time to visit Costa Rica is the rainy season (May-November). Just be prepared for cooler temperatures and heavy rain. Although the wet weather can be a bit discouraging, the upside is that lodging and other activities are much cheaper during this time. 

The wettest months are September and October, so try to avoid those. For the best combination of weather and crowds, try visiting in May, June or November. 

How much does a two week trip to Costa Rica cost?

A two week trip to Costa Rica can be expensive, depending on your travel style and accommodation choices. The most expensive part of the trip is likely to be the car rental, because prices vary significantly depending on the type of vehicle you choose.

To complete this two week itinerary, having a rental with high clearance is more important than a having a 4×4. Not having a 4×4 will save you a lot of money, but even a 4×2 SUV can cost upwards of $100 per day. Alternatively, you can take public transportation, which is significantly cheaper but may not be as convenient.

Accommodation costs can also add up, especially if you stay in luxury hotels or resorts. However, there are many ways to save money on accommodation in Costa Rica! For example, you can rent a budget hotel or hostel, go glamping, or choose an off-the-beaten-path Airbnb. If you’re willing to rough it, you can even camp for free in some of Costa Rica’s national parks.

When it comes to food, Costa Rica is relatively expensive compared to other countries in Central America. A meal at an upscale or American-style restaurant costs about $20-30. But if you eat at the sodas (the small local restaurants), a typical meal is usually $5-8 for a full plate of food.

Keep in mind that prices can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the location. Overall, a two-week trip to Costa Rica can cost anywhere from $1500 to $3,000, not including your flight.

How much we spent in 2 weeks in Costa Rica

Here’s exactly how much we spent on a 2 week road trip through Costa Rica in January:

• Car rental: $1400
• Airbnbs: $1150
• Boats/Public transport: $70
• Entrance fees and parking: $280
• Tours: $270
• Local handicrafts/souvenirs: $150

GRAND TOTAL: $4040

These prices are for two people and we split everything in half, which came to $2020 per person for the whole trip, or $1010/person/week.

We did treat ourselves to some splurge stays and a few fancy meals, so we weren’t being as careful with our budget as we normally are.

But overall, Costa Rica is not an ultra budget friendly destination. We found that prices are extremely comparable to the United States. Especially the price of a rental car, accommodation, and some restaurant prices. There are also entrance fees to just about everything, which is great because the money goes toward conservation. But definitely something to factor into your budget before you go!

Is Costa Rica safe?

With its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and friendly people, Costa Rica is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Central America. But is Costa Rica safe? The short answer is yes, as long as you follow a few precautions.

Costa Rica has a relatively low crime rate, and visitors are rarely the victims of violence. However, there are some things to be aware of – as with anywhere you travel.

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, is common in busy areas like airports, on buses, and around tourist hotspots. Always be aware of your surroundings, don’t flash expensive items, don’t walk around at night, and hold your backpack on your lap when you’re on the bus.

It’s also important to be cautious when driving. Some roads are in poor condition and there is a risk of carjackings in remote areas. And finally, never  assume parking is secure! Never leave valuables visible in your car and always roll up your windows and lock your doors.

Overall, Costa Rica is a safe place to visit, and with a little common sense, you’ll have a wonderful time. 

Download the 2-week itinerary to take it with you on the go!

The Best 10 Day Itinerary for Costa Rica  

Are you wondering what is the best 10 day itinerary for Costa Rica? Follow this 10 Day Costa Rica itinerary that hits all of the highlights…and then some! 

10-Day Route Overview

Follow this abridged route from the capital city of San Jose, up La Fortuna and then west to the cloud forests of Monteverde. After that, travel straight down the Pacific Coast to Uvita, which can serve as your home base for day trips to Manuel Antonio and Caño Island.

Access the 10 Day Itinerary on Google Maps

Day 7: Monteverde to Uvita

Day 8 – 9: Uvita (day trip options from Uvita: Manual Antonio, Caño Island, whale watching)

Day 10: Uvita to San Jose

Estimated total drive time: 13 hr 6 min

Estimated total miles for this route:  432 miles (695 km)

Extend Your Costa Rica Trip: A 4-Week Itinerary 

Have extra time to spare? See both the Pacific and the Caribbean Coast to make a giant and completely epic Costa Rica road trip!

4-Week Route Overview

Costa Rica is a pretty small country, so you can actually cover quite a bit in 4 weeks. Follow this 4 week road trip from San Jose to the Caribbean coastal towns of Puerto Viejo and Tortuguero.

From Tortuguero, travel northwest to La Fortuna and Monteverde, before visiting the volcanos and waterfalls in El Rincon de la Vieja National Park.

Next, hop between the quaint beach towns around the Nicoya Peninsula.

Finally, cross the Gulf of Nicoya and head all the way down the Pacific Coast to the dense jungles of Drake Bay and Corcovado National Park. 

Access the 4 Week Itinerary on Google Maps

Day 2-7:  Visit Puerto Viejo (3 days) and Tortuguero (3 days) on the Caribbean Coast

Day 8-10: La Fortuna

Day 11-12: Monteverde

Day 13: El Rincon de la Vieja National Park

Day 14-18:  Drive around the Nicoya Peninsula. Visit Tamarindo (1 day), Nosara (2 days), Santa Teresa (3 days). On Day 18, take the ferry across the Gulf of Nicoya to Manuel Antonio.

Day 19:  Manuel Antonio to Uvita 

Day 20-21: Uvita

Day 22: Uvita to Sierpe and then take the water taxi to Drake Bay

Day 23-26: Drake Bay 

Day 27:  Drake Bay to Uvita

Day 28:  Uvita to San Jose 

Estimated total drive time: 36 hr 56 min

Estimated total miles for this route:  1135 miles (1826 km)

Did you find this 2 Week Costa Rica Itinerary and Travel Guide helpful? Let me know in the comments!

More from central america.

The Ultimate Guide to Drake Bay, Costa Rica (Things to Do, How to Get There, and Where to Stay!)

11 Awesome Things to do in La Fortuna, Costa Rica: The Ultimate Travel Guide

The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Rio Celeste Costa Rica

Nauyaca Waterfalls in Costa Rica: What To Know Before You Go

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All You Need to Know About Renting a Car in Belize | Cost, Tips, FAQs; Updated Guide 2022

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Hi, I’m Jackie! I’m a travel photographer and content creator based near the Adirondack Mountains of Upstate New York. I’m also a millennial who works full-time, yet I still find ways to travel frequently without breaking the bank, because traveling is what makes me feel most alive. Now I help fellow travelers who also work 9-5 and are looking for ways to travel more with limited PTO.

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Costa Rica 2-Week Tours and Itineraries

Discover the best 2-Week multi-day tours in Costa Rica with Bookmundi. We offer a total of 11 Costa Rica 2-Week tours and itineraries with 21 customer reviews.

• Costa Rica Travel Guide
• Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

11 Trips in Costa Rica with 21 Reviews

• Starts San Jose, Costa Rica
• Ends San Jose, Costa Rica

Supersaver | Discovering Costa Rica, 14 Days

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Active and outdoor & Beach Active and outdoor , Beach & Wildlife safaris and game drives 'data-more-tripid='31469'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Eco Lodge & Lodge
• Transport Boat & Bus
• Age Range 10-99 yrs
• Operated in Spanish, English
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,630
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 395
• Total Price from: US$ 2,235
• May 08 10+ seats left
• May 09 10+ seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Basic Costa Rica: Coastlines & Cloud Forests

• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Wildlife & Cultural, religious and historic sites Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='4640'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Hostel & Home-stay
• Transport Boat, Bus, Private Vehicle, Taxi & Ferry
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,299
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 325
• Total Price from: US$ 974
• May 12 Only 10 seats left
• May 19 Only 2 seats left

Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride

• Activities Bicycle tours
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge & Resort
• Transport Boat, Coach & Bus
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Jul 06 Only 1 seat left
• Aug 10 Only 4 seats left

Explore Costa Rica

• Activities Wildlife & Cultural, religious and historic sites Wildlife , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='4642'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Lodge
• Transport Boat, Private Vehicle & Bus
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,099
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 775
• Total Price from: US$ 2,324
• Apr 18 Only 3 seats left
• Apr 21 Only 3 seats left

Full Costa Rica Adventure 14D/13N

• Activities Adventure & Wildlife Adventure , Wildlife , Trekking and Hiking & Explorer 'data-more-tripid='32337'>+2 more
• Transport Private Vehicle, Boat & Bus
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Apr 14 10+ seats left
• Apr 15 10+ seats left

Full Costa Rica Explorer 14D/13N

• Activities Adventure & Wildlife Adventure , Wildlife , Trekking and Hiking & Explorer 'data-more-tripid='32338'>+2 more

Cycle Costa Rica

• Activities Bicycle tours & Active and outdoor Bicycle tours , Active and outdoor , Wildlife , Explorer , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Adventure & Safari 'data-more-tripid='21931'>+5 more
• Transport Boat, Bus & Private Vehicle
• Oct 05 10+ seats left
• Nov 16 10+ seats left

Trending Destinations and Activities in Costa Rica

• Starts Granada, Nicaragua
• Ends Panama City, Panama

Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal

• Activities Active and outdoor & Cultural, religious and historic sites Active and outdoor , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Bicycle tours & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='22746'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Boat, Bus & Ferry
• Oct 05 Only 10 seats left
• Nov 02 10+ seats left

Family Costa Rica Rainforest and Wildlife Adventure

• Activities Family & Active and outdoor Family , Active and outdoor , Explorer & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='17203'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge & Eco Lodge
• Age Range 7-95 yrs
• Jul 06 10+ seats left
• Jul 20 Only 5 seats left

• Ends Managua, Nicaragua

Costa Rica & Nicaragua

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Transport Boat, Bus, Taxi & Ferry
• Age Range 16-99 yrs
• Nov 10 Only 7 seats left
• Feb 10 Only 8 seats left

Best of Costa Rica Family Holiday

• Activities Family
• Transport Boat, Private Vehicle, Bus & Minibus
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Jul 06 Only 5 seats left
• Jul 20 10+ seats left

Traveling to Costa Rica for 2 weeks? Chat with a local travel specialist in Costa Rica who can help organize your trip.

Costa Rica 2-Weeks Tour Reviews

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Ultimate Two Week Costa Rica Itinerary

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Two-Week Costa Rica Itinerary

This post is all about the best two-week Costa Rica itinerary.

Are you planning a trip to Costa Rica and wondering where to go? This is my idea of the perfect Costa Rica itinerary for travelers who have two weeks to spend there.

I spent a little over two weeks in Costa Rica with G Adventures.

This itinerary is a modified version of the itinerary we followed in their Costa Rican Adventure tour.

If you only have two weeks in Costa Rica, this itinerary will allow you to see all the highlights of the country and maximize your time exploring Costa Rica!

There’s a mix of beaches, jungles, and mountains in this itinerary so you can get an idea of all the biodiversity and variety of experiences that this country has to offer.

Day 1: San Jose

Start your trip in San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital city where most international flights arrive.

Many travelers skip the capital entirely, but it’s worth spending a day in this cool, urban city before you begin your journey around the natural wonders of Costa Rica.

After you get settled in, spend the afternoon and evening exploring the city.

Where to stay:  Gran Hotel Costa Rica

What to do in San Jose:

• Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica
• Tour the opulent, historic National Theater
• Admire the street art on Calle 17
• Have dinner at one of San Jose’s many trendy restaurants

Day 2-4: Puerto Viejo

Next stop is Puerto Viejo! This is one of Costa Rica’s coolest beach towns  located on the Caribbean coast. It’s about a 4.5 hour drive from San Jose. 

The Caribbean influence is evident in Puerto Viejo, with lots of reggae music and dishes with island flavor. This laidback beach town attracts lots of surfers due to its great waves.

Where to stay:  Le Cameleon Boutique Hotel

What to do:

• Rent bikes – it’s the best way to get around town!
• Take a surfing lesson with Surf Meds Caribe ($60)
• Hit the beach at Playa Cocles or Playa Chiquita
• Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center ($20)
• Kayak or paddleboard on the Punta Uva River

Day 4-6: Tortuguero

From Puerto Viejo, it’s a 4-hour drive up the Caribbean coast to arrive in Tortuguero. Most of this area is a national park and it’s one of the best places in the country to go to spot wildlife.

It’s also extremely rugged and remote, with the towns and lodges only accessible by boat!

This was where I saw some of the most wildlife in Costa Rica, including sloths, monkeys, caimans, and toucans. You’ll also want to wear TONS of mosquito repellent here!

Where to stay:  Aninga Lodge

• Take a guided boat tour through the canals
• Kayak or canoe in the canals if you’re feeling more adventurous!
• See the turtles nesting (March through October)
• Explore Tortuguero town
• Climb to the top of Cerro de Tortuguero for a great view

Day 6-9: La Fortuna

From Tortuguero, it’s time to head inland to La Fortuna. This drive takes about 3.5 hours. La Fortuna is a small town near the stunning Arenal volcano. 

It’s also known as the adventure activity capital of Costa Rica. So if you’re looking for exciting activities that will get your adrenaline pumping, this is the place!

Where to stay:  Hotel Arenal Kioro

• Hike the Arenal volcano
• Go waterfall rappelling with Desafio Adventure Company ($90)
• Relax at one of La Fortuna’s many hot springs
• Visit La Fortuna Waterfall ($18)
• Go whitewater rafting
• Take a day trip to the Rio Celeste waterfall

Day 9-11: Monteverde

Next stop: Monteverde! This mountainous town has a cool, windy climate all year round.

There’s no direct route from La Fortuna because Lake Arenal is in the way. You can either drive around the lake (taking about 3.5 hours) or take a van-boat-van route passing through the lake (this option takes about the same amount of time.)

Monteverde is another one of the best places to spot wildlife in Costa Rica, and it also has its share of adventure activities like ziplining through the trees.

Where to stay:  Koora Hotel

• Go ziplining through the jungle with Selvatura ($50)
• Take a nighttime nature walk
• Walk the hanging bridges in the cloud forest ($37)
• Learn about how coffee is made on a coffee tour

Day 11-13: Quepos

Your last stop on your two week Costa Rica adventure will be Quepos.

It’s about a 3.5 hour drive from Monteverde, and the cool mountain air will quickly melt away into a warm beachy climate as you get closer to your destination.

Located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Quepos is another beach town that is known for its beautiful beaches and proximity to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can see lots of wildlife.

Where to stay: Gaia Hotel

• Visit Manuel Antonio National Park ($18)
• Spend the day relaxing at the beach
• Take a sunset catamaran cruise with Ocean King ($80)

Day 14: San Jose

On your last day, you’ll head back to San Jose from Manuel Antonio, which takes about 3 hours. 

From here you’ll head home from your amazing Costa Rica vacation!

I hope you enjoyed this two week Costa Rica itinerary!

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About Denise Cruz

Denise is a marketing executive who escaped corporate to travel the world… twice. A Brazilian native living in the U.S., she’s lived in 4 countries and visited 35+ others. After side-hustling her way to financial independence, she curates solo destination guides, slow travel tips, and travel blogging advice on Wander Her Way. When she’s not on the road, you can find her in Miami with her dog Finnegan.

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2 Week Costa Rica Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 2 week Costa Rica tour with TourRadar. Choose from 49 trips with 218 customer reviews, that range from 11 up to 14 days.

49 Costa Rica 14 Days tour packages with 218 reviews

Supersaver | Discovering Costa Rica, 14 days

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Full Costa Rica Explorer 14D/13N

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

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Explore Costa Rica National Geographic Journeys

We’ve travelled far and wide over this planet but the trip with National Geographic/G Adventures to Costa Rica was among our top three journeys. Thanks to TourRadar for booking it all for us. We were the only ones on our tour who had everything prebooked that was possible e.g. transfers, optional excursions etc. TourRadar allowed us to travel with prepaid vouchers vs booking and paying for activities on site. Thanks Tour Radar!

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Family Costa Rica Rainforest and Wildlife Adventure

It is a wonderful trip but I would suggest spend a bit less time doing the city trips and a bit more time at the wildlife areas as they were the star and the city trips were much less interesting.

Costa Rica Active Adventure

Great trip, really recommended!

Full Costa Rica Adventure 14D/13N

Costa Rica Wildlife Exploration

Great communication, professional high quality on-time transfers, good selection of activities and locations to visit, all accommodations were quality except for one (Rancho Corcovado Hotel was terrible). All guided activities were excellent except for one (Night Walk - Monteverde Cloud Forest).The company that provided the service was not professional. Overall I would highly recommend Green World Adventures to manage my wildlife adventure holiday - specify all rooms must have AC and plan on arranging some of your own local activities. Accommodations, guided activities and transportation were clean, safe, professional and enjoyable. The people of Costa Rica are friendly and welcoming and their country is beautiful - go have your own adventure!

Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride

Basic Costa Rica: Coastlines & Cloud Forests

The trip was fantastic! Adri was the best ceo I have had so far, very energetic, great recommendations and always up for a good time. The only downfall was the hotel in Monteverde was not the best accommodation and it needs some updates. Otherwise all the accommodations were great!

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Touring Costa Rica "Fly & Drive"

Pura Vida Costa Rica - Premium Adventure

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Essential Costa Rica with extension to Guanacaste, Tamarindo Beach & San José City

The trip was very well organized and very complete. The team was always available to answer any question or support us. Also during the tour, everything went very well. The transfers were on time, the hotels were outstanding and also the tours were great. Absolutely do this tour or reserve with this team.

The Best of Costa Rica (From Caribbean Coast to Pacific Side)

Everything worked really well from when Felipe picked us up from the airport in San Jose to our departure. You will spend quite a lot of time travelling but this is essential if you want to see as much of Costa Rica as you can and this tour really gave as so much more than others on offer. The drivers of the shared transport minibuses were punctual, drove carefully and were very pleasant and helpful. All of our tours and guides were really great and we saw and learned so much more than people who tried to explore the national parks by themselves. Some of the descriptions of our itinerary in Arenal were not completely accurate - it is 500 steps and not 300 down to the La Fortuna waterfall, and the nature walk in the Arenal Volcano Park is not on mostly flat trails - there is even a sign at the start of the trail which warns that it is a steep incline! At 65 with dodgy knees I decided to give the waterfall a miss but enjoyed the volcano walk with the aid of a walking pole, proper walking shoes and a guide who was careful to go at a pace within my ability. Felipe had recommended that we visit the Jaguar Rescue Centre in Puerto Viejo - they don't actually have any Jaguars there but this was a real highlight of our tour - you must go there to see baby sloths and monkeys!! Tortuguero at Mawamba Lodge was great even in terrible weather and storms (the worst they had had for years apparently) and Laura our guide was amazing - so enthusiastic, informative and fun.We even saw turtles hatching on the beach and scuttling down to the sea. Accommodation and meals provided as part of the tour were generally very good - we particularly loved the eco lodges we stayed in and especially Cala Lodge in Monteverde. Hotel Los Lagos in La Fortuna is a big commercial hotel but its series of hot springs and thermally heated swimming pools more than made up for that! However, on our first evening there we ate a la carte in their restaurant and the food was terrible! Much better and cheaper to get a taxi to the nearby town for $8 where there are lots of restaurants. We had chosen to stay at El Faro Hotel in Manuel Antonio but this was rather disappointing compared to everywhere else we stayed - the location is very close to the National Park, and the hotel staff and swimming pools were great but the hotel is up a steep hill, the accommodation itself was very tired and breakfast was the worst we had whilst in Costa Rica. Overall, we had a brilliant time and would definitely recommend Green World Adventures.

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Primate Costa Rica

What people love about 2 week costa rica tours.

The tour was everything we hoped for and more, Great nature, great leader & great travelling companions.

All good, everyone had a great time and the whole package was great. One minor comment, and perhaps this is actually about CR itself, but none of the places we ate at seemed to do much in the way of kids portions. So, we seemed to waste a lot of food!

The tour was well-organized and packed with great activities.

Regions in Costa Rica

• Tortuguero National Park (7)
• Monteverde (5)

Other Regions in Costa Rica

• Monteverde 10 day Tours (34)
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• Tortuguero National Park 3 week Tours (6)
• Tortuguero National Park 10 day Tours (5)
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• Costa Rica Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
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Costa Rica Travel Information

2 Week Costa Rica Itinerary: Volcano, Rain Forest, Cloud Forest and Beach

November 10, 2023 By Sammi 55 Comments

Need tips for planning your 2 week Costa Rica trip? We can help! We put together this exact 2 week Costa Rica itinerary for my family and friends. They absolutely loved it as it had the perfect mix of adventure, beaches, down time and rain forest.

Furthermore, in this sample itinerary, you will find our personal recommendations for hotels, tours, restaurants and travel tips. You can also click this link 2 week Costa Rica itinerary to see our interactive map of this itinerary.

This two weeks in Costa Rica itinerary goes to La Fortuna, Monteverde, Santa Teresa and Playas del Coco and flies in and out of Guanacaste Airport. This post has affiliate links

A Few Things to Know About This 2 Week Costa Rica Itinerary First

• Our group of 6 with carry on only rented a 7 passenger SUV to have the most flexibility, comfort and convenience for our adventurous group. (We do not recommend doing this if your group has lots of luggage or are tall/large in size.) However, you can do this itinerary via shared shuttles, private shuttles or bus. Thinking about renting a car? Get our Costa Rica car rental discount and extra freebies. Want to book private shuttles? Contact us to get a quote!
• Second, this itinerary flies into and departs from Guanacaste Airport in Guanacaste .
• Third, the best time for this itinerary is the summer months such as January through April for the best weather. However, it is doable any time of the year. If you visit during the rainy season, you need to make sure you are staying on the main paved roads and that you rent a 4wd or high clearance car. We personally did this itinerary in August and got quite a bit of rain in La Fortuna and Monteverde, but thankfully we packed properly for rainy season.

Day 1: Land in Liberia Airport , Drive to La Fortuna (~3 hours)

Collect your rental car and head to La Fortuna right away. This is about a 3 hour drive. If you’re arriving in the late afternoon or evening, we don’t recommend driving all the way. In that case, you can stay a night in Liberia first. Here are our suggestions for hotels near Liberia airport. You can also stop halfway in Nuevo Arenal by Lake Arenal .

*It gets dark by 6 PM everyday in Costa Rica and we don’t recommend driving long distances at night.**

If you’re landing at the Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO Airport code) for some reason, it is also about a 3 hour drive. Same advice as Liberia, we don’t recommend driving if you’re arriving in the late afternoon or evening. It’s best to stay by the airport and then leave the next day to drive in the daylight. You can check our post for hotels near San Jose Airport for hotel recommendations.

Travel planning tip: Stop by Llanos de Cortes waterfall on the way from Liberia – La Fortuna to see a beautiful waterfall in the dry tropical forest. It’s a 5 minute walk to the waterfall from the parking lot.

Days 2-4: Arenal and La Fortuna

La Fortuna is an area in the northern lowlands famous for the Arenal Volcano and Lake Arenal surrounded by lush rain forests. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica, La Fortuna is the best place for your first introduction to the country.

It offers many adventure activities as well as wildlife watching opportunities. Spend the next couple days adventuring through the rainforest and volcano!

Where to Stay in La Fortuna

There are a ton of hotel options in La Fortuna and Arenal. We stayed at Arenal Observatory Lodge , an incredible lodge close to Arenal Volcano. If you want to splurge on for hotels on your trip, this is the best place to do so in this itinerary. You can check our list of best luxury hotels in Arenal .

If you want to stay in town and are on a budget, we recommend Hotel Las Colinas or Hotel El Secreto La Fortuna .

If you’re coming with a family or big group, check out this Airbnb in Arenal that fits up to 12 people.

What to Do in La Fortuna

• Arenal Volcano Hike : Walk the trails of the national park to see the impact of the 1968 eruption. Visitors can go for a leisurely hike through the park to get beautiful views of the volcano and the lake. Another excellent volcano hike is the Arenal 1968 private reserve. Arenal Observatory Lodge also has their own hiking trails.
• Canyoning: Rappel down cliffs and waterfalls 200 feet tall in the middle of the rain forest. Feel the adrenaline flow through your fingertips as you grip tightly onto the rope and hop down deep into the jungle. Read more about canyoning in La Fortuna.
• Rio Frio Nature Safari: Float down the Rio Frio river while your guide points out wildlife such as caimans, toucans, sloths, otters, birds and more. Read more about this La Fortuna river safari float. You can also visit the Rio Frio river in Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge by river boat if sitting on a raft is not possible (not for babies/infants or seniors).
• Hot springs: No visit to Arenal is complete without a trip to the hot springs. Soak in pools of varying temperatures surrounded by the lush rain forest. Some of them even have views of the volcano! Best time to go is at night.
• Farm to table cooking class: Super fun and educational. A must for anyone who likes food and cooking. La Fortuna was originally a farming town so you can learn a lot about farming and gardening in Costa Rica and Costa Rican food .

What Our Adventurous Group of Young Adults (mid to late 20’s) Did

Day 2: 4 in 1 combination tour with hot springs to see the highlights of the area (hanging bridges, La Fortuna waterfall, volcano hike and hot springs with dinner included). As we had a car, we visited these places ourselves but we highly recommend you to book a tour that includes a guide, so you can learn more about the area and have someone take you around.

Day 3: Relaxed, went to the pool, walked around the Arenal Observatory Lodge trails, visited Fortuna town to shop and eat. We also visited the hot springs again – unfortunately no hot springs offer multi day passes, only 1 day passes so we had to purchase another pass.

Day 4: Canyoning in the morning, rest, nap, lunch in town and then an easy 1 kilometer trail Sloth Walk in the afternoon to see wildlife.

There are plenty more activities to enjoy in Arenal and La Fortuna. For more ideas, check out our post of top things to do in La Fortuna and save some money with our La Fortuna tours discount!

Recommended Restaurants

La Fortuna Pub, Organico, Soda Garra Pata, Piuru Peruvian, Rainforest Cafe, Soda Nene, Pollos Fortueño, Don Rufino, Chocolate Fusion and Soda La Hormiga.

For local food, Soda Garra Pata and Soda La Hormiga are great options. For a nice dinner out, Don Rufino is a favorite. La Fortuna Pub has lots of craft beer and games for a fun night out.

Days 5-7: Monteverde (Drive around 3 hours)

Leave mid morning to your second destination, Monteverde . If you don’t have a car, you can take the water taxi across Lake Arenal which costs around $45 USD per person and takes around 3 hours. They have a taxi boat in the morning and afternoon (~8 AM and 2 PM). Contact us to book this taxi-boat-taxi!

Travel day tip: To make the most of our day, we stopped by Rio Celeste on the way from La Fortuna to Monteverde to see the sky blue river. We left La Fortuna at 6 AM to get to the Tenorio National Park at 8 AM, hiked the park for 3 hours, had lunch in Bijagua and then drove 2.5 hours to Monteverde, arriving around 5 PM before dark.

Monteverde is home to an incredible tropical cloud forest, has excellent hiking, ziplining and birdwatching and is also the site of the first zipline in Costa Rica.

Read our Monteverde travel tips guide for more information.

Where to stay in Monteverde

We love the El Establo Hotel, Hotel Belmar, Hotel Poco a Poco , Senda Monteverde and the Monteverde Country Lodge which is the one where we stayed. El Establo is a bit more expensive and has bigger rooms with two floors with beautiful views of the cloud forest.

Airbnb is also an excellent option in Monteverde. We stayed at this Airbnb in Monteverde , perfect for couples or groups of 4.

What to Do in Monteverde

• Ziplining: Monteverde is famous for their cloud forest canopy tours, with some of the longest and highest in the country. The most popular canopy tours are SkyTrek , Selvatura Park and 100% Aventura.
• Hanging bridges: Discover the wonders of the cloud forest by walking on hanging bridges high up in the tree top canopy.
• Bird watching:  Monteverde is one of the few places in Costa Rica where you can see the elusive Resplendant Quetzal among many other beautiful birds. A great place for birdwatching in Monteverde is the Curi Cancha Reserve.
• Hike the cloud forests: This is an absolute must do. The 3 reserves, Monteverde, Santa Elena and Children’s Eternal Rain Forest all have beautiful viewpoints, well maintained hiking trails and ample wildlife opportunities. Read this guide to decide which Monteverde cloud forest reserve should visit.

What We Did

Day 5 : We relaxed at our hotel and checked out the town the day we arrived. After dinner at Sabor Tico, we did a bit of souvenir shopping in town.

Day 6 : One day adventure at Selvatura Park including ziplining, hanging bridges, butterfly garden, sloth center, insect exhibit and herpetarium. This is a full day activity. After we finished the park, we went to our hotel to freshen up and then had dinner at the Tree House Restaurant in downtown. We did more souvenir shopping downtown.

Day 7 : A walk in Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve in the morning. Alternative option: birdwatching at Curi Cancha Reserve or coffee & chocolate tour . If you love hiking, check out the El Tigre Waterfalls hike. Then Cerro Pinocho for sunset.

Tree House, Tramonti, Monteverde Brewing Company, Panaderia Jimenez, Orchid Coffee, Choco Cafe, Taco Taco and Restuarante Sabor Tico.

Tramonti has amazing pizza and Sabor Tico is the best for local food. Orchid is great for breakfast and lunch. Panaderia Jimenez is a local bakery with great Costa Rican breakfasts.

Day 8: Travel to Santa Teresa (~5 hours)

Today is a travel day to a popular beach and surf town in the Nicoya Peninsula , Santa Teresa . We first went to Puntarenas to catch the ferry and then drove to Santa Teresa. Read our tips to taking the Puntarenas ferry.

If you’re not driving, the best option is to take a shuttle. Shared shuttles are around $65 USD per person, private is around $285 USD. You can also take the public bus.

For the bus, take a bus to Puntarenas (4:30 AM, 6 AM and 15:00) and grab a taxi to the ferry dock. Once you arrive at Paquera dock, take the public bus to Cobano (6:15, 8:15, 10:15, 12:15, 15:15, 16:30, 18:15). If you arrive in time, you can get a bus from Cobano to Santa Teresa, or take a taxi. Last bus from Cobano to Santa Teresa is 14:30.

The ferry is very nice with beautiful views of the Gulf of Nicoya nd you can see what Puntarenas , an important fishing town in Costa Rica is like.

Days 9-10: Santa Teresa, Mal Pais, Playa Carmen

The next couple days are yours to enjoy at the beautiful, lesser visited beaches of Santa Teresa , Mal Pais , Playa Hermosa and Playa Carmen. Santa Teresa attracts surfers, yogis and those looking to escape the busy crowds of touristic areas.

What to do in Santa Teresa

Here you can try surfing, watch the beautiful sunsets on the beach, go horseback riding or take a yoga class. All we did was check out different beaches, watch the sunset, lay by the pool, shop, eat and relax. No excursions in Santa Teresa this time, just beach time.

Our first week in Costa Rica was full of excitement and adventure, so we took these beach days to relax.

Where to Stay in Santa Teresa

We stayed at Hotel Santa Teresa which was really nice. It’s about a 1 minute walk to the beach and you’re close to small supermarkets and restaurants. Casa Chameleon Mal Pais is an incredibly nice hotel for couples and honeymooners. Selina Santa Teresa (North and South) is a great one in town.

If you prefer to be in a quieter part of this area, we highly recommend Lua Villas in Playa Hermosa . We stayed here before for a surf trip and it was a fantastic place for our group of 5. It’s about a 15 minute drive to Santa Teresa downtown however, so you need a car.

Drift Bar, Banana Beach, The Bakery, Eat Street, Burger Rancho, Zula restaurante, Somos Cafe, Soda Pura Vida and Habaneros. If you’re vegan/vegetarian, Drift Bar is a fantastic option.

The Bakery is a local favorite for pastries and coffee.

Day 11: Drive to Playas del Coco ~4 hours

Today is a travel day and the fourth destination in this 2 week Costa Rica itinerary is Playas del Coco . This town is a small fishing village in the North Pacific. For the easiest driving route, you should take the Route 21 past Paquera, Nicoya and then Route 151.

Take your time on this drive and make sure to leave in the morning/mid-morning so you drive during daylight. Also do NOT stray off the main road, there are many rural roads on this route, do not take them. Stay on the main road!

Days 12-13: Playas del Coco

For our last few days in Costa Rica, we relaxed and enjoyed a lot of downtime by the pool and the beach. We only did one excursion, a private boating tour around the Gulf of Papagayo to snorkel.

Our Recommendations

Private beach hopping, snorkeling and fishing tour: Visit beautiful hidden beaches and go snorkeling. Fish, watch the sunset, snorkel, have the best beach experience on this private beach hopping and boating tour in Playas del Coco. *Dedicate one full day to do a full day beach hopping and snorkeling tour which is what we did*

Shop, relax, eat, watch the sunset, swim at the pool, walk on the beach, just enjoy!

Where to stay

My brother and friends rented a house on Airbnb in the Las Palmas neighborhood. There are many rentals on Airbnb where you can get a fully furnished condo with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a pool. Breeze Residencies and Pacifico are two other popular condo complexes in Playas del Coco. There are also bigger houses for rent up in the hills.

For groups and families, we recommend these condo rentals instead of hotels. There aren’t a ton of hotels in Playas del Coco anyways, there are more vacation rental options. The rentals are more comfortable for larger groups and families who want the amenities of home.

Java Coffee, Coconutz, Johann Bistro, Soda Teresita, Le Coq, Cafe Corazon, Restaurante Claudio y Gloria, Chorotacos, Zi Lounge, Coconutz, and Villa Italia.

Day 14: Fly out of Guancaste Airport(~30 minute drive)

And the two week Costa Rica trip has come to an end. Fly out of Guanacaste Airport and make sure to arrive at least 2-3 hours before your flight.

Tips for this Two Week Costa Rica Itinerary

• Monteverde is considerably cooler than the rest of the destinations, so make sure to bring a jacket and long pants when visiting the cloud forest.
• Make sure to bring the appropriate clothing and gear for the activities such as hiking sandals, beach gear, hiking, etc. You can check our packing list for Costa Rica for more tips.
• Have a few more days? Consider adding more beach time in Santa Teresa and/or Playas del Coco.
• Want to add another destination? Head to Samara or Nosara for more beach or you can check out the Curubande area for tropical dry forest.
• If you’re looking for more of a party vibe, stay in Tamarindo instead of Playas del Coco.

2 Weeks in Costa Rica Budget

If you’re staying in hotels that are about $100 USD a night, spending about $60 USD a day on food and doing a few tours, your estimated cost for this sample 14 day Costa Rica itinerary will be around $1800-2000 USD per person not including the car rental or flights.

Your budget really depends on where you stay, where you eat and what you do (excursions/tours). You can do it luxury and expensive, mid range or cheap ish.You can lower your costs by staying in budget hotels, doing few or no excursions and eating at cheap places only.

Want more itinerary ideas? Check out this 1 week Costa Rica itinerary, this 5 day Guanacaste itinerary , another 14 day itinerary or this 10 day Costa Rica itinerary.

Costa Rica Vacation Checklist

• First time to Costa Rica? Read our First Time in Costa Rica guide.
• Not sure how to move around Costa Rica? Read our How to Get Around Costa Rica guide to find the best transportation method for you.
• Click the link to get our detailed Costa Rica Packing List so you know what essential items to bring.
• Do not forget to purchase Travel Insurance for your trip to Costa Rica.
• Stay connected by purchasing a prepaid SIM Card in Costa Rica.
• Save money with Mytanfeet Deals for tours and hotels. Save more money with our Costa Rica Car Rental Discount.

Join our mailing list and get our free Costa Rica eBook!  

Reader Interactions

March 14, 2024

This is so helpful! We are considering a trip to Costa Rica. We’d have 2 weeks but would be interested in fitting in San Jose for a day or two as well. How might you alter this itinerary to fit in San Jose? Thank you!

You can fly into San Jose AIrport, stay a day or two, then remove one of the beach destinations and fly out of LIR as it’s much closer than SJO to Coco/Santa Teresa

February 10, 2024

Hi, We’re coming to Liberia next month, love your 2week tour but wondering how might fit in a visit to manuel Antonio instead of playa de coco, any suggestions

You can just substitute Manuel Antonio for Coco but then I would cut out Santa Teresa because you’re going to need those extra days to travel back to LIR Airport if you are flying out of there, you will most likely need to travel back to LIR the day before your flight from Manuel Antonio since it’s like a 5 hour drive

December 18, 2023

Hi there. Would you share the links of the “one full day beach hopping and snorkeling tour” at Playa Del Coco? Thank you.

December 20, 2023

Boating in Playas del Coco

K Henry says

October 21, 2023

I have another question, could I do Tamarindo first, then La fortuna, Monteverde then Santa Teresa then to airport (LIR)? I wanted to start beachy, then end beachy. Or would another order work better? Is Santa Teresa too far? I think the outgoing flight is 5 pm, so seems like plenty of time to get there.

October 22, 2023

Sure that can work fine

Kathy Henry says

October 19, 2023

Hello. I love this blog. I am overwhelmed trying to figure out where to go. We will be travelling with our 2 girls 21 and 24 years old. We are will be arriving in LIR, heading straight to La Fortuna (2 nts), Monteverde (2), Santa Theresa (3), then Tamarindo (3). My husband surfs, so prefer surfing beaches. I feel like this is a good mix of beach and mountain locale. I am wondering though, if Monteverde is that different from Arenal that I need to visit both. Maybe I could substitute somewhere else?

October 20, 2023

You can definitely visit both, Monteverde is cloud forest, La Fortuna is rainforest so if you can fit it, visit both. You can read our Monteverde or Arenal post for more information.

Kelley says

September 16, 2023

This site has been so helpful as my family plans a trip to Costa Rica! There are 4 of us, 2 kids that will be 14 and 11. We were going to get a package deal through a travel type agency – I like the ease of that, but it is not the best accommodations. We definitely DO NOT want to drive. How can we set up our trip ourselves but have transfers to everything? Are there companies to help with that? Thanks again.

September 18, 2023

Hi Kelley, we have emailed you information about setting up private transfers

October 21, 2022

Hi Sammi and Yeison, I tried searching for flights in the SAMSA website but couldn’t find anything from SJO to Drake Bay or viceversa for January 2023. Do you have any idea what could be the problem? Thanks! I already have my itinerary in mind but need to find transportation between the places I want to see. I will be there for 2 weeks and I want to go to the South Pacific coast and South Caribbean coast.

I think they haven’t put up their schedules yet so you can contact them directly or try again later

July 31, 2022

We land in LIR in early Nov at 6:30 pm…So staying in LIR and then heading to La Fortuna for three nights then on to Samara to relax for 8 to 9 days..Trying to decide if we should stop at Rio Celeste. If so I am worried about leaving our items in the car. So, thinking it would be best to spend the night at the Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel. So, they could hold our items maybe? Just curious about your thoughts. Thank you

August 1, 2022

Something important to remember is that it gets dark in Costa Rica by 6 PM and November is still rainy season – Rio Celeste closes at 4 PM and it’s a 2 hour drive from LIR to Rio Celeste so by the time you get there after landing at 630 PM, it’s dark and everything will be closed.

I recommend to stay the night at Rio Celeste Hideaway HOtel and then visit Rio Celeste the next morning, normally hotels in Costa Rica will hold luggage for guests before and after check out.

Lillian says

July 22, 2022

Hi! How would you alter this itinerary to fit into 8 days? Love this itinerary, but unsure of what should be cut out/what would work if we were to travel in August of this year, traveling out of SJO.

I would remove one of the beach destinations and pick just one, and then shorten Monteverde to 1 full day only. So it could be something like Day 1 SJO – La Fortuna, Day 2 and 3 La Fortuna, Day 4 – travel to Coco or Santa Teresa, Day 5, 6 and 7 – beach. Day 8 fly out (if you are flying in and out on Day 1 and 8)

Vivian says

March 14, 2022

Would you recommend a 4×4 for this 2 week itinerary and what do you estimate to be the total distance traveling.

March 18, 2022

We do recommend a 4wd for this itinerary, you can check the map on this post to see the routes and distances

Tara McDermott says

January 7, 2022

Hi! what do you think about doing this itinerary from SJO? how would you alter it?

January 8, 2022

You can from SJO, just make sure that you set a day apart to travel to SJO Airport from Coco as that drive is around 5 hours with no traffic.

July 18, 2021

Hello! We’re planning a 1.5-week trip to Costa Rica starting the first week of September. We will be driving to La Fortuna for 3 nights, then driving to Monteverde for 3 nights, followed by 4 nights in Manuel Antonio.

I know this is during the rainy season, but how bad does it get realistically? Would it be pouring rain if we tried to hike around Monteverde or Manuel Antonio? Would there be any chance of being “rained in” and confined to the hotel or is it mainly just scattered showers?

July 20, 2021

Hello Abe, you can check our Costa Rica weather for more information. High elevation mountain areas like Monteverde and rainforest areas tend to rain more so make sure you come prepared for rain and schedule all your activities and long drives in the mornings.

Haleigh Bevins says

May 4, 2021

Hello! A friend and I are planning a two week trip to Costa Rica in July. At present, we are flying into Liberia and planning 2-3 days in Monteverde, 3-4 days in Arenal, 3-4 days in Tamarindo, and 3-4 days in Santa Teresa or Manual Antonio. We want to see some of the highlights of Costa Rica, but we also don’t want to cram everything in. Is this too many places to visit? If so, what would you suggest dropping? We also will be taking shared shuttles to each location.

May 7, 2021

Hi Haleigh, sounds good since you’ll be giving yourself 2-4 days in each spot.

February 29, 2020

Hello Sammi,

We’ll be staying for 3 nights at Puerto Jimenez area (Playa Platanares) and then two nights further at Osa peninsula. We’ll have a rented vehicle (Suzuki Jimny) to drive around and we are on a budget meaning we’ll be avoiding expensive tours. Any advice on the places to see in this area? Your site is very helpful. Thank you in advance.

March 4, 2020

Check out Carate and Matapalo (nice surf beaches). You can read our Osa Peninsula guide for more info (Puerto JImenez is in Osa Peninsula just fyi 🙂 )

June 1, 2019

Hi Krista, personally I would think so because you will be doing a ton of driving and to add Samara/Santa Teresa (which are not close to each other driving wise) will be adding many more hours of driving. I think it will be better to use that time to enjoy Manuel Antonio and Monteverde rather than stuffing in more destinations.

Krista says

Hi Sammi, I’m loving your blog! It has been SO helpful! I am visiting Costa Rica in July for 2 weeks and plan to rent a truck to make up my own itinerary. I will be landing in San Jose and drive out to Puerto Viejo to spend a few days, then taking a tour up to Tortuguero, and returning to Puerto Viejo. I then plan to go to Manuel Antonio and will end up in the Monteverde area for a few days. I will be flying out of Liberia. Would it be too much to include Samara/Santa Teresa as well? Thanks so much for your advice! Krista

February 3, 2019

Hello, I am planning a trip to Costa Rica next week for about 10 days. I will choose a hotel or hostel that accepts credit card. When they tell prices in usd and in colones, systematicaly is it possible for them to charge in usd or their system let them charge only in colones ? Thank you.

They will usually ask you which one you want to be charged in. USD is the normal here, but if you want colones you can ask for that.

YOOJIN says

February 1, 2019

Hello we were planning on going from MOnte Verde to Santa Theresa . You rec driving to Puntarenas and then taking the ferry. Is that better or faster than driving around the peninsula to get to Santa Theresa?

The ferry is more fun for sure than driving but you can do either. I’d recommend the ferry since you can see the Gulf of Nicoya whereas the drive around is pretty boring to be honest.

Lauren says

December 29, 2018

Do you think it’s possible /worth it to drive to Rio Celeste for a day trip from Bahia Pez Vela? How long would the drive take? We were originally thinking of doing rio Celeste and Llanos de Cortez on the way back.

We are a group of 6, two in their 60s, two in their 30s and two 16 year olds.

December 30, 2018

Hi Lauren! Definitely, you can do both. The drive will take around 2.5 hours one way and this is a very common and popular day trip from Bahia/Coco area. You can read our guide to RIo Celeste and Cortes here: Rio Celeste and Catarata Llanos de Cortes I would go early in the morning to Rio Celeste to enjoy the hike. Llanos is a very short walk down and you can spend the rest of the afternoon there.

July 3, 2018

Hi guys, Manuel Antonio to Montezuma is pretty far and if you’re only taking bus (no shared shuttles), you will need to make sure you plan out your travel day accordingly so you can catch the bus to Puntarenas and get the ferry in time. Then to Barra Honda, there is no bus to the national park. You can stay in Nicoya, the biggest city near the park but in the actual park there are no hotels and there is no bus that goes directly up there but you can taxi Have a great time in Costa Rica!

Madeline Roberts says

Hello! We are two female backpackers from the UK coming to Costa Rica for 3 weeks in August. We haven’t fully booked anything yet but we have a rough plan and we were wondering if you had any thoughts or tips in regards to our itinerary seen below:

1. San Jose – one night 2. Manual Antonio 3. Montezuma 4. Malpais – Santa Teresa 5. Barra Honda de Nicoya 6. Monteverde 7. La Fortuna – Arenal 8. Tortuguero 9. Puerto Viejo 10. Back to San Jose to go home.

Are we being too ambitious for 3 weeks, bearing in mind we will be travelling via buses?

Many thanks in advance – Maddy and Anna

Brenda Pierce says

February 2, 2017

Help!!! I am trying to put together an itinerary for my 25th anniversary. We are planning to go to CR for 2 weeks, but the 2nd week (12/21/17) is my anniversary and I am planning to bring my 2 daughters with their spouse, along with my in-laws for a surprise to my husband. That would be 8 total in the party the second week, and he has no idea. I am really leaning towards a home rental for the full second week somewhere by Domicial or Uvito or a little further south. It is cheaper for our kids to fly into San Jose. Is it less expensive in this area for the beaches and activities? Lastly, I would like to visit the Arenal Volcano area, and he would like to do a little deep sea fishing and golf. What suggestions would you have on starting from San Jose airport and returning to San Jose airport. Is it terrible to miss out on Guanacaste and that area? Sorry this was so long, just trying to head in the right direction and do the best loop/route. Love reading your posts, thanks for sharing

December 3, 2016

Hi, the tour to Barra Honda isn’t quite like that. It’s a great tour but there’s nothing else much to do in the area or stay in the national park area so it’s up to you. I honestly think it’s better to skip it since it’s a long travel day from Monteverde to Santa Teresa (it’s better to take the ferry).

Hi! One thing to note is that Barra Honda is a national park in Nicoya ( Barra Honda National Park. ) that can be seen in one day, there isn’t really anywhere to stay or other things to do so it is a one day trip. I would skip it and use that as a travel day to Mal Pais instead because from Monteverde to Santa Teresa is a very far journey. Then from Tamarindo to Manuel Antonio is about a 4-5 hour drive so just keep that in mind. Renting a car is the best way to get around this itinerary because it’ll be very rushed taking the bus and you’ll be spending a lot of time waiting around for buses whereas a car you can save a lot of time. We have a great car rental promotion on the blog here: Costa Rica car rental discount

phuong mai says

Dear Sammi, Thank you for your input. I’ve read a lot about “Barra Honda” Since I’m in mid 50and my husband is 60. Even though we are active couple, but I want to make sure if the tour suitable for us. We did the https://insidethevolcano.com in Iceland, it wasn’t easy, but such an mazing experience. I’ve seen pictures, where people walk in the water up high to their chest?! From the Google map, we’ve planned to stop for Barra Honda tour on our way to Santa Teresa. Don’t you think it’s too ambitious or we should skip it?! If we decide to go, where can we book the tour? since we need the guide go into the cave. Also, Santa Teresa can we drive direct there, or we have to take the ferry? Yes, we’ll rent a car, and will plan to use it as much as we can. Thank you Sammi,

November 30, 2016

Hi, you don’t need a guide for the waterfall or national park, you can visit on your own. You can read more about the waterfall here: La Fortuna waterfall and the national park here: Arenal Volcano National Park

There is no tour from Santa Teresa to TOrtuguero as that is super far, those places are on opposite sides of the country.

November 29, 2016

Tortuguero is nice and you can add it to the first place when you land in San Jose, but if you plan to drive, you should get a SUV at least since the road there is super bumpy. Tortuguero is actually also a beach area so I recommend spending a few days in the Central Valley. You can stay a few days in San Jose and explore the national parks and waterfalls around, take a coffee tour or visit the local towns which is super nice. You can read more about what to do in the Central Valley here: Day trips from San Jose

Phuong Mai says

Hello, thank you for your post. My husband and I have booked a flight to COsta Rica , arrive to San Jose from Jan 1st – Jan 15. We’ve planned to rent a small car like Toyota Corolla, and drive around. Your 2 weeks sounds very nice, but we don’t like to visit too many beach area. Is there any other area you recommend or can we add Totuguero in the itinerary?

PhuongMai says

Dear Sammi, Thank you for your quick reply. When we are in Arenal; for the volcano and the water fall. Can we do it on our own or we need a guide. Is there a tour to Tortuguero from Santa Teresa? THANKYOU Sammi

December 2, 2016

Dear Sammi, I have been reading your block and folow you on youtube. Thank you for sharing your experience. After some research, I have came up with the itinerary about places I would like to visit. I’m not sure how many days I should stay in each place or my itinerary is too busy for my 14 days in Costa Rica. 1/ San Jose 2/ Poas volcano /La Paz water fall 3&4/ Arenal volcano/La Fortuna 5&6/ Monte Verde 7&8/ Barra Honda de Nicoya 9&10/Teresa, Malpais 11&12/Tamarindo 12&13/ Manuel Antonio Please let us know your thought in this itinerary. Thank you Sammi,

November 3, 2016

Hi Stef, yes it’s very safe for 2 white 24 year olds to drive – we have British friends who moved here and they drive all the time, it’s very normal and it’s super normal for tourists to rent cars. Families, solo female travelers, couples, even retirees rent cars and drive around Costa Rica, you see tourists driving all the time. Costa Rica is very safe (we don’t even have an army). THe roads aren’t the best but it’s manageable. Just use your common sense and never leave valuables in your car, that’s the most important thing. You can read this post for more safety tips: Costa Rica safety tips

Hi would you say its safe for two white 24 year old british couple to drive around CR for 2.5 weeks?

We have done so in Kenya and NZ – but wondering if CR is safe?

October 24, 2016

Hi J, if you’re taking the bus, just be aware that the bus from Tamarindo to Montezuma is quite long and you’ll need to make a change. On your way south you can stop in Samara or Santa Teresa, those are nice beach towns to visit.

October 23, 2016

Hello! I am planning on going to Costa Rica. I wanted to actually go from Tamarindo to Montezuma in 12 days! We were thinking of making two stops in between, two nights at each. Do you think that would work? What advice would you have for us? We are very flexible and have not planned anything yet.

Arlenne says

February 13, 2016

hi, really nice schedule, thanks for sharing!!! i just want to know how much did you spent in that trip?

February 14, 2016

I don’t have an exact amount, but I would say for each person was around $1800. They split the car rental cost which was about $1800 for two weeks among 4 people and we stayed in hotels that were around $75 a night. They did 3 tours around $70-100 each.

February 19, 2016

what did they rent? a 2016 Cadillac Escalade?

February 20, 2016

They rented a 4X4 7 passenger automatic Ford Everest which runs roughly $90 a day which is $1350 (automatic is more expensive), then you need to add the mandatory insurance on top of that which is about $375 and then they got super insurance which is another $300. Car rentals aren’t cheap in CR and we needed a big car for 6 people plus luggage.

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Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary: Ultimate Travel Guide

Welcome to Costa Rica, where “Pura Vida” is a way of life, sloths swing among the rainforest treetops, coconuts rattle in the wind, and baby turtles make their way to the sea for the first time. Two weeks is the perfect amount of time to enjoy Costa Rica, home to epic national parks, great surfing, beautiful beaches, and exotic wildlife found around every corner. Life is vibrant in this wonderful country – ready to be enjoyed in this Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary!

Ultimate Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary

Costa Rica has really got it right when it comes to protecting nature and wildlife . The government is doing its absolute best to ensure that animals are protected and species preserved, making it one of the best countries to visit for animal lovers! There’s nowhere quite like it, somewhere you’ll hear toucans in the early morning and monkeys howling at night on your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary.

Looking for a different itinerary? Read our 7-day Costa Rica itinerary or 3-week Costa Rica itinerary .

Two weeks is the ideal amount of time to visit all the top spots, whether it’s waterfalls and hot springs and volcanos in La Fortuna or the cloud forests of Monteverde . Enjoy this ultimate Costa Rica travel guide.

Did you know? Costa Rica generates more than 99% of its electricity using renewable energy!

Day 1: San Jose (arrival)

On day 1, you’ll likely fly into San Jose , Costa Rica’s capital city and one of two major airports in the country. Because of all the fantastic nature spots, you need to see on your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary, we recommend only staying in San Jose for a day. This amount of time gives you a chance to see a few city sights and recuperate from your journey.

Read: Things to do in San Jose, Costa Rica .

San Jose is not a pretty city but it is home to some nice gardens, museums, and a food market. Other than that we don’t recommend spending much time in this city. Join a food tour to learn a little bit about the city and Costa Rican food.

Where to stay in San Jose

The neighborhood of Amón in San Jose has some nice buildings to see and restaurants to visit; like Cafe Rojo and De Acá.

Hotels in San Jose 😴

Day 2: San Jose to Puerto Viejo

Wake up and enjoy a typical Costa Rican breakfast (Gallo Pinto!) before embarking on your journey to Puerto Viejo. If you’re renting a car in San Jose, your journey will take around 4 hours. Alternatively, book a shuttle or a tour, or take the local bus directly to Puerto Viejo. Once you arrive in Puerto Viejo, book your tours or activities for the next day. For example, rent a bike, surfboard, kayak, or go on a chocolate tour.

If transport might be an issue you can also visit Santa Teresa instead.

How to get from San Jose to Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo is about 4 hours drive from San Jose on good roads. Because of this, you don’t necessarily need a car with higher clearance from the ground (or a 4×4), although you might consider renting one for other destinations in Costa Rica. 

We recommend to rent a car in Costa Rica through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

By bus or shuttle:

The public buses (MEPE) leave from San Jose to Puerto Viejo about 5 times a day and take roughly 4.5 hours. It’s the cheapest way to travel with tickets starting from around 10 USD. If you want to be picked up from your hotel, and have a slightly more comfortable journey, opt for a shared shuttle with other travelers. This price starts from around 50 USD and takes approximately 5 hours (it’s a bit longer because of hotel pickups).

Book a bus or shuttle to Puerto Viejo

Where to stay in Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo has an entertaining atmosphere throughout the day and night. If you don’t mind a little bit of noise and music, stay in the center of town, so you’re close to all the amenities. If you want more of a tranquil experience, choose accommodation along the coast between Playa Cocles or Manzanillo.

Hotels in Puerto Viejo 😴

Day 3 – 4: Puerto Viejo

Enjoy your days in beautiful Puerto Viejo! This laidback little beach town is home to vibrant Caribbean vibes, friendly locals, and beautiful palm-tree-lined beaches. There is not a huge amount to do in Puerto Viejo ; it’s more about absorbing the atmosphere, relaxing on the beach, and enjoying cute cafes. There are also some great outdoor activities, from cycling to surfing and kayaking. 

Make sure also to visit the Jaguar Rescue Center, a home for injured and orphaned animals. You can join an educational tour and learn all about these beautiful animals, whether it’s Sloths or Margay Cats!

Read: 10 best things to do in Puerto Viejo

Day 5: Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna

Head north to La Fortuna, a tropical town famous for its hot springs and volcanic activity. The journey from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna is relatively long if you travel by public transport. If you’re driving, leave in the morning and aim to reach La Fortuna for lunch. This gives you some time to refresh and cool down in the spray of the La Fortuna waterfall or the pools under the El Salto rope swing.

More time available? Visit the waterfalls of Bajos del Toro on your way to La Fortuna!

How to get from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna

The journey from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna should take around 4.5 hours on well-paved roads. However, to avoid pothole damage, we recommend hiring a car with a bit more clearance from the ground. 

The journey from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna is fairly long and not super accessible by public transport. You’ll need to transfer buses in San Jose, which means the journey can take around 8-9 hours.

If you don’t have a car, the best option is to take a shared shuttle bus that leaves in the morning and takes around 6 hours. The cost of this is about 60 USD, but it’s far less hassle than the public bus.

Book a bus or shuttle to La Fortuna

Where to Stay in La Fortuna

La Fortuna has excellent accommodation for all types of budget. However, you’ll find the best accommodations and campsites just outside La Fortuna if you have your transport. If hot springs play a big part in your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary, consider staying in a hotel with hot springs that are also included in the nightly price. ( Here are all your hotel options ) 

Hotels in La Fortuna 😴

Day 6 of 2 weeks in Costa Rica: La Fortuna

Spend one of the most magical days in La Fortuna, enjoying nature’s very own playground! Wake up early and head for Arenal Volcano National Park, home to the country’s most active volcano! Don’t worry, though, rangers make sure to monitor the activity and close trails accordingly so you’re always safe.

Explore La Fortuna’s waterfalls, hot springs, and vulcanic landscapes on this day tour

Choose from one of the many trails and hike to some incredible volcano viewpoints. When you’re done, head back down into La Fortuna to take advantage of the geothermal activity in the area – yes, there are plenty of hot springs to enjoy! 

Read: Best Things To Do in La Fortuna

Day 7: La Fortuna to Monteverde

Today is the day on your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary to head to the luscious green landscapes of Monteverde! Monteverde is stunning, but the journey to get there is also exceptional, as you drive around the peaceful Lake Arenal that sits in the shadow of the volcano.

On your way, stop at Mistico Hanging Bridges, which are about a 30-minutes drive from La Fortuna. This fantastic jungle trail is about 3 km long and includes six adrenaline-pumping hanging bridges. From a height of 45 meters, you’ll have the opportunity to walk across bridges suspended between the treetops, gaining the unique chance to see an abundance of wildlife. Don’t forget to look out for the elusive red-eyed tree frog, an icon of Costa Rica!

How to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde

Although La Fortuna and Monteverde look close on the map, the mammoth Lake Arenal separates the two villages. This means you need to drive around its parameter, which takes around 3 hours. However, luckily, it’s a stunning drive, perhaps one of the nicest on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary! 

The roads around the lake to Santa Elena (Monteverde town) are all well-paved. Still, we recommend having a slightly more powerful car for the steep hills. (no 4×4 needed to visit Monteverde).

Buses leave from La Fortuna to Monteverde, but they take around 7-8 hours. Additionally, you won’t be able to visit the Mistico Hanging Bridges when traveling by bus. Alternatively, get a shared shuttle van for around 50-60 USD.

Book a bus or shuttle to Monteverde

Small ferries cross Lake Arenal, but they don’t take transport. If you are traveling without transportation, this can be an excellent option to get to Monteverde. The journey takes around 2 – 2.5 hours, and you’ll get to enjoy a trip across the lake with beautiful views of the volcano; it’s a unique way to travel! Prices start from 25 USD.

Where to Stay in Monteverde

Monteverde offers numerous accommodation options, from cabins in the forest to hotels in Santa Elena. ( See all your hotels options here )

Hotels in Monteverde 😴

Day 8: Monteverde

Welcome to Monteverde (Green Mountain), home to unique and rare cloud forests. In fact, cloud forests only make up 1% of all forests worldwide! These beautiful areas are given their name because of their high altitude, which causes mist and low-lying clouds to appear through the trees.

Explore the Monteverde or Santa Elena cloud forest trails, looking out for frogs, butterflies, insects, and monkeys (you can even see beautiful hummingbirds at a nearby cafe!). Take part in the exhilarating night walk experience at night, led by a knowledgeable local guide.

Once you’re done exploring the cloud forests, enjoy more adventures among the beautiful Monteverde nature, from ziplining and canyoning to coffee tasting .

Read: Top things to do in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Day 9: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

Spend your morning enjoying the colorful butterfly garden at Monteverde before starting your trip south to Manuel Antonio. Manuel Antonio is a lovely coastal town surrounded by pristine, white-sand beaches, beautiful blue ocean, and lush jungle. Most importantly, it’s home to Manuel Antonio National Park, known as one of the most beautiful in the world! Spot monkeys, sloths, and toucans in the wild by joining a tour of the National Park.

How to get from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio

It is an easy 4-hour drive from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio. However, all the roads are good, and you will not need a 4×4 car. About halfway, make a quick stop at the famous Crocodile Bridge , where you have a good chance of spotting crocodiles. Please do not buy any meat from the sellers because this interferes with the crocodile’s natural feeding habits. Plus, according to Costa Rican Law, you are prohibited from feeding wildlife.

Read:   Things to know about wildlife tourism

By bus or shuttle :

Unfortunately, there’s no direct bus from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio. Instead, take the Santa Elena ( Manuel Antonio ) to Puntarenas bus and change bus to Quepos. Once in Quepos, change buses to Manuel Antonio. The total journey will take about 6-8 hours and cost about 10 USD. 

Alternatively, book a direct shuttle between both destinations. ( See the shuttle options here )

Where to Stay in Manuel Antonio

The closer your accommodation is to Manuel Antonio National Park, the more expensive it gets. Therefore, we recommend staying between Quepos and the national park if you have your own transport. ( See all your hotel options here )

Hotels in Manuel Antonio 😴

Day 10: Manuel Antonio

Spend your day in Manuel Antonio National Park , one of the most beautiful natural areas in the world! Although it’s home to hundreds of different species, it’s also one of the smallest national parks, making it easy to explore on a day trip. Buy a ticket to enter the park and hike one of the many trails, looking for exciting animals like macaws, iguanas, sloths, and squirrel monkeys. We recommend taking a guided tour so you can get to learn heaps more about the diversity of the wildlife, flora, and fauna in this area.

Once you walk through the jungle trails, you’ll arrive at the paradise Manuel Antonio Beach (many people buy a ticket to enter the park just to spend the day here). Because these beaches are protected, they’re absolutely pristine, with the whitest sand and bluest water. Relax on the beach, listening to the sound of coconuts in the breeze while you spot iguanas roaming freely across the sand.

More about   Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica

Day 11: Manuel Antonio to Uvita

On day 11 of your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary, head to the beautiful town of Uvita, famous for whale watching and its backpacker atmosphere. 

Leave Manuel Antonio and stop at the Nauyaca Waterfalls on your way to Uvita. The entire journey takes about 1 hour but you should add 30 minutes to go off the beaten track to the waterfalls. Here, you’ll find two powerful falls with many gorgeous natural pools. Stop here for a swim and enjoy the power of nature! 

Read more about the Nauyaca Waterfalls

Once you arrive in Uvita, watch the sunset from Uvita Beach or Gusto Italian, which looks down onto Playa Hermosa. Alternatively, book a horseriding experience on the beach, galloping in the breeze as you watch the sun go down.

How to get from Manuel Antonio to Uvita

The journey from Manuel Antonio to Uvita is very straightforward, directly on the highway and taking only 1-1.5 hours. However, if you want to visit Nauyaca Waterfalls , add an extra half an hour.

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If you’re traveling by public transport, you will not be able to make a stop at Nauyaca Waterfalls . However, they are just a short journey from Uvita and can be visited on a day trip while you stay there. Buses leave from Quepos (near Uvita ) around 4 times a day and take approximately 2 hours, costing around 5 USD. You can take regular public buses to Quesos (from Manuel Antonio), which take about 30 minutes.

The shuttle bus is a more comfortable option that allows you to be collected directly from your hotel in Manuel Antonio, saving you the trip to Quepos. It’s a bit faster, taking 1.5 hours and costing around 40 USD per person.

Where to Stay in Uvita

Uvita town is split into two parts: the main town near the beach and the upper town across the highway towards Uvita Waterfall. When staying in the main town , hotels are more expensive, but you’re always walking distance from the beach and mostly surrounded by lush green. Alternatively, camp at one of the nearby sites or go glamping!

Hotels in Uvita 😴

Day 12 – 13: Uvita

Visiting Uvita between January – March or July – October? This is the best time to see the majestic humpback whale ( join a whale watching tour here )! As a happy coincidence, there is also a beautiful part of the beach called Marino Ballena (whale tail). At low tide, this sand passage is created in the shape of a whale’s tail, which is a beautiful thing to see on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary. 

Read about the best beaches in Costa Rica .

There are many other things to do in Uvita , whether it’s surf lessons, visiting Uvita Waterfall, or a mangrove tour. The mangrove tour is exceptional, providing the opportunity to see tropical birds, crocodiles, and turtles in the protected wetlands. Mangroves are also vital for the environment; they protect the shoreline, prevent erosion, and act as a habitat for many animals.

Read: Best Things to do in Uvita, Costa Rica

Day 14: Drive back to San Jose (Departure)

After an amazing 2 weeks in Costa Rica, it’s time to say goodbye to this beautiful country, taking with you all the fantastic memories of your adventure. On the last day of your Costa Rica itinerary, make your way back to SJO airport (a 3.5-hour drive from Uvita). Alternatively, if you have a flight late in the day, you could visit one more waterfall (like La Paz, which is an hour north of the city).

If you need a hotel close to the airport , stay at Alajuela instead of San Jose.

How to Visit Costa Rica in 2 Weeks

Costa Rica has unlimited treasures that could take months to explore. However, 2 weeks in Costa Rica is a good amount of time to see some of the greatest highlights. This Costa Rica travel guide provides various activities, destinations, and transportation options.

Getting to Costa Rica

There are two international airports in Costa Rica: San Jose International Airport and Roberts International Airport in Liberia. Most international flights arrive in San Jose, where your Costa Rica itinerary starts. Keep in mind that it is common that immigration that extremely long.

If you do fly to Liberia instead of San Jose, you can still do this Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary. However, the drive from Liberia to your first stop (Puerto Viejo) is around 8 hours, quite long. Instead, consider stopping at San Jose on the way to break up the journey, as there are lots of incredible natural sights to see just outside the city. 

Find the best flights to Costa Rica here

Getting Around on Your Costa Rica 2-Week Itinerary

The easiest way, by far, to get around Costa Rica is with a rental car . You’ll get the freedom to stop anywhere you like, at your own pace, which gives you the flexibility to complete your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary. It’s also far more comfortable than traveling by public bus (especially as on some routes you’ll have to change). 

Be aware that car rental prices can double in the high season and that it can be useful to book in advance.

Driving in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a reputation for having some pretty treacherous roads. However, these days, that’s not the case at all! Now you’ll find well-paved roads that are in good condition for all types of vehicles. The only unpaved road you might encounter on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary is if you take the wrong road from La Fortuna to Monteverde . Because of this, always use the Waze app in Costa Rica to find the right roads.

Tip: Some locals work as parking attendants and may walk up to you and ask for a very small payment to watch your car. This is a good service in general – just make sure they’re not overcharging you. Best is to ask your accommodation for the average rate in the area.

Do I need a 4×4 in Costa Rica?

You might have needed a 4×4 to drive in Costa Rica in the past. However, if you follow the main roads, you no longer need a 4×4. But to avoid any pothole damage, we recommend renting a car with some clearance from the ground. 

Renting a 4×4 can also be helpful in the rainy season when unpaved roads can get very muddy, especially if you’re planning on traveling to more remote areas too.

By Jeep with Tent or Campervan

For an unforgettable adventure, rent a 4×4 jeep in Costa Rica ! This is the most incredible experience, as you sleep under the stars, moving from place to place, and finding some gorgeous hidden spots. 

Best of all, renting a 4×4 jeep gives you the option to drive through national parks and cross rivers in Corcovado and Guanacaste areas. Although the rental price might seem expensive, it’s worth remembering that this is your accommodation, transport, and kitchen all in one. Because of this, your trip might actually end up cheaper! 

Read: Camping in Costa Rica – Everything you need to know

Traveling by local buses in Costa Rica is the cheapest way to get around, and many services are traveling to major destinations all over the country. However, it will take quite a bit longer. This is because the bus routes avoid highways and make stops instead of traveling direct. Plus, some routes will require changes, for example, the route from Puerto Viejo to La Fortuna.

Tip: bus timetables often change, so check times in advance.

Shuttles (12-seaters vans) are convenient to travel door to door in Costa Rica. Interbus is the largest shuttle operator and drives between all major destinations, offering you a more comfortable way to travel on your Costa Rica itinerary.  

These shuttles can be booked in advance, and it is recommended to do so, especially during the high season. We didn’t book in advance, which left us with no other option than to take an expensive taxi ride (oops!).

Find shuttles to all destinations in Costa Rica

Our Favorite Accommodations

There are many fantastic options when it comes to accommodation in Costa Rica. It might be camping on the edges of the rainforest, a beach bungalow, an artsy boutique hotel, or a backpackers hostel. Whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it in Costa Rica. Below are our favorites for each destination on this Costa Rica 2-week itinerary.

• San Jose: Casa 69 , Grano de Oro Hotel , and Escalante Hostel
• Puerto Viejo: Le Cameleon , Shawandha Lodge , and Pagalu Hostel
• La Fortuna: Casa Luna , Sangregado Lodge , and Poshpacker Hostel
• Monteverde: Los Pinos Lodge , Chira Glamping , and Outbox Hostel
• Manuel Antonio: The Falls Hotel and Teva Hostel
• Uvita: Seren Glamping , Karandi Hostel , and Uvita Paradise

How much do 2 weeks in Costa Rica Cost?

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world! It contains 5% of the world’s biodiversity, something that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is also known as the ‘Switzerland of Central America’ because of the high prices that come with the country’s beauty. 

Costs of Traveling in Costa Rica

Travel on a budget in Costa Rica, from $340 − $940 USD weekly per person, mid-range $950 − $1950 USD, and high-end from $1960 − $2650 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $50 − $150 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $10 − $80 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $60 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $80 − $150 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $30 USD
• Activities: $15 − $40 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit: Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary

The best time to travel to Costa Rica is from mid-December to April. This is the time with the most sunshine (between 15-30 degrees) and dry days (although you might experience a small rain shower in the afternoon). Because of the weather, this is the most popular season to visit Costa Rica, making it busy and expensive. 

The end of April to the end of November is the rainy season, with the most rain in October. However, don’t let this affect your choice as it never rains for long, only a few short rain showers each day. The rain also makes nature incredibly luscious! In addition, this period is much cheaper; you could even save a third of your total budget by traveling during this time.

Tip: Puerto Viejo is on the Caribbean coast and has slightly different seasons. August to October are generally dry, unlike other parts of Costa Rica.

Do I Need a Visa for 2 Weeks in Costa Rica?

Most passport holders do not require a visa to enter Costa Rica. However, you will need a valid passport and an onward plane ticket to prove that you will exit Costa Rica within 90 days.

Check here if you need a visa to enter

Is Costa Rica Safe?

Costa Rica is very safe for tourists, with some of the friendliest locals globally. It also has the lowest rate of violent crimes in all of Central America. However, like most countries in Latin America, it does have a few problems with drug trafficking, poverty, and pickpockets. Always keep your belongings within eyesight and exercise caution. This way, you’re unlikely to experience any issues.

Read: Tips on how to travel Travel Safe

Travel Insurance Costa Rica

Even if you’re only traveling in Costa Rica for 2 weeks, we recommend purchasing single-trip travel insurance. Although the country itself is safe, there is potential for accidents – for example, an injury after surfing, a canceled flight, or lost baggage.

Costa Rica Entry Requirements: Covid-19

At the moment, you need to complete this health form within 72 hours before you enter Costa Rica. However, you do not need to be vaccinated and do not require a negative PCR test. Despite this regulation, if you are not vaccinated, you will need to purchase a travel policy for your 2 weeks in Costa Rica. Be aware that the policy should cover up to 50,000 USD of medical expenses and 2,000 USD of accommodation expenses. ( Read the specifics here )

What to Pack for a Costa Rica 2-week Itinerary

Costa Rica is an incredibly diverse country with differing scenery, wildlife, and micro-climates. Because of this, the weather can change from a sunny 30 degrees to 18 degrees and rainy within a few hours. As such, we recommend taking layers and clothing that is quick-dry. 

Costa Rica Packing List

• Take layers – Layers of clothing are essential to add or remove items when the temperature changes.
• Quick-dry clothing – You can be almost certain to have a little bit of rain during your trip to Costa Rica. Take clothing made of fabrics that dry quickly because items take very long to dry due to the humidity.
• Microfiber towel – Like quick-dry clothing, it’s beneficial to take microfiber towels as they dry much faster and are incredibly lightweight.
• Waterproof backpack – Keep your valuables dry in a waterproof backpack or a rain cover that comes with your bag. 
• Raincoat – The final item for rain is a waterproof jacket/raincoat. Some can also be easily folded into a package that you can take anywhere.
• Hat – Luckily, there are also a lot of sunny moments. For that, take a hat/cap to protect against the sun for the hikes you will be doing. 
• Long socks & trousers – For some hikes, night walks, or evenings outside, you might also want to take long socks and trousers to cover your legs and prevent being bitten by mosquitos.
• Good footwear – Good walking shoes/sneakers/sandals is an absolute must. Hikes can be somewhat challenging with muddy or rocky paths. It’s not wise to wear flip-flops here. 
• Earplugs – Your nights can be disturbed by animal sounds, music, or when camping in Costa Rica , the sound of the waves. Earplugs save your night’s rest. 
• Camera – Capture memories of your 2 weeks in Costa Rica with a waterproof camera like a GoPro, or get good protection gear for your camera so you won’t have problems during an unexpected shower. 
• Power bank – For the long hikes, power outages, or moments in the jungle, it’s helpful to have a power bank to recharge your phone. ( Get one here )

Packing Sustainable Items

• Insect repellent – Bring an insect repellent but get a non-toxic product to prevent harming nature or animals.
• Sunscreen – An obvious addition to that is also sunscreen. We recommend a product without toxic ingredients, so it doesn’t harm the environment. ( Read about non-toxic sunscreens here )
• Refillable water bottle – Water is drinkable from the tap in almost all of Costa Rica except secluded locations like Tortuguero. No need to buy plastic bottles; refill instead!
• Stainless steel straw – Coconuts are available everywhere in Costa Rica. Carry a stainless steel straw with you and avoid plastic or single-use straws. Pro-tip: With stainless steel, you can scrape out the delicious inside of the coconut too.
• Reusable bag – Don’t take plastic bags when purchasing fruits or other items. Instead, carry your own!

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Costa Rica Itinerary: Ultimate 7-day Travel Guide

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Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Hey lovely. Aw hope you both had the most incredible time! :-) Your trip sounds thrilling! So excited to plan for this one.

Thank you for your advice hun. I was actually really keen on the campervan idea, having the option to be able to sleep in the wild etc. Will bring the cost right down, by not staying in hotels too :-)

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• Top Costa Rica Tours
• Costa Rica Attraction Guide
• Suggested Costa Rica Itineraries
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Costa rica in 2 weeks.

Costa Rica's Coastal Secrets

Flights & transport:, itinerary focus:.

• Spend three nights in Drake Bay, the remote gateway to some of the premier wildlife destinations in Costa Rica
• Explore Corcovado National Park, one of the biologically rich areas on the planet
• Discover the wildlife and waterways of Tortuguero, an important nesting site for green turtles
• Enjoy unrivalled wildlife viewing, including monkeys, sloths, dolphins and whales (in season)
• Visit both the Caribbean and Pacific coastlines

The Best of Costa Rica 2023

• Doka Coffee Tour
• Poas Volcano
• La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Tortuguero National Park

Arenal Volcano

• Manuel Antonio National Park

Corcovado National Park

• Cano Island Diving Tour

Discover Costa Rica

• Unrivalled wildlife viewing: howler monkeys, caiman and sloths
• Visit the beaches and waterways of Tortuguero, an important nesting site for green turtles
• Verdant rainforest, lush mangroves, lava fields and serene cloud forests
• Wonderful naturalist guides who will share their love of Costa Rica with you
• Relax on idyllic Pacific coast beaches
• Stay in comfortable ecofriendly lodges and hotels
• Citizen Science departures available on this trip

Extreme Costa Rica 2023

• Pacuare River

Costa Rica in 14 days - Magical Night of the Sea Turtles - Charm

Explore Costa Rica

• Hear a lecture from a researcher at the monteverde institute
• Learn how to make tortillas during a visit to a local family home
• Spot wildlife while cruising the canals of tortuguero
• Enjoy spectacular volcano views while soaking in hot springs
• Learn all about sea turtles at the sea turtle conservancy

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride

• Cycle along the stunning coastal highway with incredible Pacific views and beaches
• Ride through ever-changing tropical scenery, alongside coffee farms, volcanoes, banana plantations and rainforest
• Walk in Manuel Antonio National Park
• Search for wildlife in the waterways of Tortuguero National Park

Costa Rica - Coast to Coast

• Discover Costa Rica's diverse nature and wildlife, plus stay in a series of premium hotels
• Explore the Monteverde cloudforest and the 'mini amazon' of Tortugero
• Spend time on the Pacific Coast and visit Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula

Walks & Treks – Costa Rica Walking

• Enjoy walking through the lush rainforests at Monte de Barva
• Chance to take a dip and relax in the Arenal Volcano’s thermal waters at Ecotermales Hot Spring
• Hike past boiling mud springs in Rio Celeste National Park
• Enjoy a hike along the suspension bridges trail at the Heliconias Lodge

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Costa Rica: A World of Nature featuring Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano & Manuel Ant ...

• Taste for yourself why cacao is called “the food of the gods” and observe the process of converting this seed from bean to bar.
• Learn how to cook using a coconut before making some delicious local candy.
• Learn about Costa Rica’s ecosystem and local culture.
• Visit the world’s first sea turtle research station in Tortuguero National Park.
• Explore Arenal during a captivating 3-night stay.
• Stay in Tortuguero National Park and find yourself surrounded by wildlife.
• Hop aboard a river boat for a jungle crocodile safari and bird watching excursion.

Costa Rica at it’s best- Nature, whales and dolphins

• In Costa Rica tour we will visit
• Central Mountain Range with an authentic Costa Rican coffee plantation
• La Paz Waterfall Gardens and Poas Volcano
• Turtle Museum of the C.C.C. (Caribbean Conservation Corporation)

Cycle Costa Rica

• Cycle through a volcanic landscape rich with nature and abundant wildlife
• Explore the waterways of Tortuguero National Park
• Discover the trails and tropical beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park

Costa Rica Adventure Family Holiday

• Discover abundant wildlife – monkeys, sloths, birds and frogs are easy to spot
• Meet the residents of the Sloth Sanctuary
• Discover the beaches of both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts
• Enjoy comfortable accommodation throughout, most with swimming pools
• Take advantage of the flexible itinerary with plenty of optional activities: zip-lining, white-water rafting, a chocolate tour, and catamaran excursion

Costa Rica Wildlife Tour

• Discover incredible nature and wildlife on this two week adventure of Costa Rica
• Explore jungle waterways, active volcanoes and unspoilt tropical rainforest
• Spend time in the cloud forest and the 'mini amazon' of Tortuguero

Classic Costa Rica

• Swap the concrete jungle for real jungle on this trip into the rainforests, waterways, hot springs and palm-lined beaches of Costa Rica.
• Long-nosed tapirs, white-faced capuchin monkeys, elegant ocelots and three-toed sloths – Costa Rica is home to exotic animals, and this trip puts you in the perfect position to spot them all.
• Go deeper than the average tourist with a homestay in a quiet agricultural community; the perfect opportunity to experience local life and practice your Spanish.
• Refresh after jungle hikes spotting endemic wildlife in the rejuvenating hot springs of volcanic La Fortuna.
• Visit the indigenous Maleku community to share a traditional meal and learn about their way of life – this small tribe has big ambitions for regenerating local forests and natural habitats.

Best of Costa Rica Family Holiday

• Spend time with the Terraba community – an Indigenous group who have survived off the land for more than 500 years – and enjoy a shared lunch of local eats. The kids will love the chocolate-making lesson here!
• Walk through the diverse forest and jungle and take an incredible canopy walk along suspended bridges in Cloud Forest – lookout for sloths and various birdlife as you go.
• Experience life as the locals do by spending time on a family farm and learning how to cook authentic local Costa Rican food. 
• Enjoy some family downtime in the seaside town of Dominical at your eco-hotel, surrounded by stunning beaches and a tropical jungle.
• Look out for wildlife in the evergreen rainforest of Sarapiqui – a town known for its rich biodiversity – and enjoy some free time to maybe learn about the nocturnal creatures that dwell here.
• By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries.

Costa Rica Active Adventure

• Paddle through world-class rapids on the pacuare river
• Mountain bike in the shadow of arenal volcano
• Chill out to the sounds of crashing caribbean waves
• Stand up on a surfboard in puerto viejo
• Save up to 32% off trips to every continent on earth
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Costa Rica North and South: National Parks, Wildlife & Hot Springs

• Look for tropical birds and monkeys while kayaking the canals of tortuguero national park
• Soak in the restorative thermal springs at tabacón resort
• Hike to an intensely blue-coloured waterfall in volcán tenorio national park
• Savour delicious farm-to-table cuisine at a wellness eco-camp
• Search for wildlife in the pristine corcovado national park
• Spot sloths and hit the beach in manuel antonio antonio national park

Family Costa Rica Rainforest and Wildlife Adventure

• Spot prolific wildlife including howler monkey, sloth and armadillos
• Witness active volcanoes smouldering above dense rainforest
• Go snorkelling in the Pacific Ocean and walk along the beaches of the Caribbean Sea

Discover Costa Rica - with Dominical

• Enjoy unrivalled wildlife viewing – howler monkeys, caimans and sloths
• Discover verdant rainforest, lush mangroves, lava fields and serene cloud forests
• Learn from naturalist guides who share their love of Costa Rica with you
• Stay in comfortable eco-minded lodges and hotels

Related Trips & Tours

Costa rica reviews & ratings, why travelstride, additional details, what you should know before going on a costa rica tour.

Tours to Costa Rica usually focus on a combination of eco travel, wildlife, and adventure. You will usually find a tour that weighs one or two of these themes above the other.

If it’s your first visit to Costa Rica, try to find a tour that hits upon what Costa Rica is most known for. These include Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud F orest . Both attractions are extremely popular and are normally included in Costa Rica tour itineraries.

Outdoors and Active Costa Rica Tours

Most Costa Rica tours don’t have a heavy emphasis on cultural or historical sight seeing. Simply because the wildlife and outdoor tour activities are enough to occupy the days!

Wildlife lovers will want for nothing in Costa Rica, and most itineraries do focus heavily on the diverse wildlife found in Costa Rica’s rainforests and cloud forests. Some may not include Tortuguero National Park - and if you don’t want to miss observing sea turtles nesting or hatching be sure to find a tour that includes this park!

Some of the most famous animals you can see relatively easily in Costa Rica include the red-eyed tree frog, crocodiles, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, tapirs, basilisk lizards, coatimundis (the Costa Rican version of a raccoon!), and two kinds of sloth. A night safari might allow you to see some of the rarer or more elusive animals in the country, such as jaguars, kinkajous, tarantulas, and ocelots. Don't forget to look up - night is the best time to see snakes as they stalk for sleeping birds in the trees above. 

If you decide to go snorkeling or scuba diving , you may run into bottlenose dolphins (or go see them on a dolphin swim !), green sea turtles and leatherbacks, sharks, and all kinds of tropical fish. Whale watching is  also a great way to see orcas and humpback, blue, beaked, and pilot whales. 

If you are interested in going on a birdwatching trip , there are also tons of beautiful and exotic birds. There are green and scarlet macaws,  toucans, dozens of species of hummingbirds, and all kinds of birds of paradise -- including the rare national bird of Costa Rica, the Resplendent Quetzal. 

Weather in Costa Rica

It gets quite wet and humid in Costa Rica, and the country is prone to hurricane conditions. Tour activities may change depending on the time of year, but generally you can expect to be walking through the rainforest in every sense of the word.

Most tours in Costa Rica will provide wet weather gear, though it is a good idea to pack light weight waterproof clothing for the majority of your tour. Long sleeves and pants can go a long way toward insect protection as well.

Eco Lodge Accommodation on Costa Rica Tours

Costa Rica has a long history as a leader in eco travel, and a majority of trips to Costa Rica have an eco, sustainable, and green travel theme . These will often feature a stay at an eco lodge, or even a treehouse! These can vary from luxury accommodations to comfortable-but-basic.

Don’t expect terribly reliable internet and electricity - particularly in keeping with the eco lodge approach! These establishments are designed to be as eco conscious as possible, and your tour will reveal new ways you can help contribute and be a responsible traveler.

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Additional resources, coronavirus update.

Travelers entering the country will be required to self quarantine for 14 days and anyone showing coronavirus symptoms will be tested.

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Two Weeks in Costa Rica

Travel and Moving Blog

Costa Rica: Your 2-Week Itinerary

• Jenn and Matt
• Itineraries , Trip Planning

374 Comments

Last Updated: June 16, 2020

If you have two weeks to spend in Costa Rica—congratulations! Two weeks is plenty of time to get a taste of what this small Central American country has to offer. To get the most out of your vacation, there are a couple of things to keep in mind when planning your itinerary. First, don’t be fooled by how close destinations appear on a map. Costa Rica may be only the size of West Virginia/Switzerland but getting from one place to the next can take a full day due to poor road conditions, traffic, and mountainous terrain. Second, expect to make a stop in San José when going from one place to another. San José is a major transportation hub and connections on the public bus and shuttles are often made here even if it’s out of the way. If you rent a car, you may still have to pass back through the Central Valley to avoid certain mountain ranges.

The two-week itinerary below aims to show the best of Costa Rica while keeping travel times to a minimum. We suggest three destinations in an order that will let you experience beautiful mountains, beaches, and lush jungle, without spending too much time on the road.

Day 1: Arrive at San José International (SJO) airport. Stay overnight in the San José area.

Flights generally start arriving mid-day at SJO, so by the time you get through customs, immigration, and get your luggage (about one hour), it is already early afternoon. After a long day of travel, we recommend staying overnight in the San José area and getting an early start the next day.

Tip: Stay in Alajuela, which is actually closer to the international airport than San José. Hotel Buena Vista , in the surrounding hills, is a great option for those looking for a peaceful escape and panoramic views. Or, if you’d like something closer to the airport, try   Hotel La Rosa de America , a charming hotel with typical Costa Rican decor and friendly staff.

For more lodging recommendations, read our post Best Hotels Near SJO Airport .

Days 2-4: Retreat to the Highlands and visit Costa Rica’s famous Arenal Volcano.

The La Fortuna area is a great place to start your Costa Rica vacation. An unhurried downtown provides visitors with just enough convenience while surrounding plantations and mountain villages give a glimpse into the simple Tico lifestyle. A low rumble felt from the snoozing Arenal Volcano will be sure to wake your senses, but if you need more, try some of the many adrenaline-pumping activities available right outside town like zip lining, waterfall rappelling, or white-water rafting.

Getting There

Renting a car is a great option for this part of your trip. It’s less than a three-hour drive from San José and the rolling green mountains you maneuver will have you pulling over for plenty of amazing photo ops. Before getting behind the wheel though, know that driving in Costa Rica can be an adventure in itself. Roads and highways are steep and curvy, and the locals seem to forget their laid-back nature when driving.

If you decide to rent a car, check out this special discount for our readers to save 10-25%.   

If you’d rather leave the driving to the pros, you could opt for a private or shared shuttle van service. These vans are very popular and also reliable. We describe how each type works and how to book one in our post Shuttles in Costa Rica .  

Finally, if you’re looking to save some cash, take the direct bus from San José to La Fortuna (4-5 hours) for about $5 .

Arenal Volcano National Park

Arenal is one of Costa Rica’s five active volcanoes. In its heyday, it spewed bright orange lava on a near daily basis. Although Arenal’s activity has slowed considerably since 2010, it is still a spectacular sight. At over 1,633 meters (5,358 feet) tall, this perfectly conical shaped volcano towers behind the town of La Fortuna. For the best view, hit the trails within Arenal Volcano National Park. For more information on planning your visit, read our post  on hiking the park.

La Fortuna Waterfall

Just outside town, you’ll find a stunning waterfall that plummets 70 meters (230 feet) into a deep pool, perfect for swimming. The falls are accessible via a 15-minute hike down a steep set of stairs or by horseback or ATV. Be sure to bring your swimsuit for a refreshing dip in the cool waters. Admission is $18.

Hot Springs

After a day of hiking, reward yourself with a relaxing soak in one of the area’s naturally occurring mineral hot springs. You can make a day of it by visiting a resort like Tabacon or EcoTermales , or ask a local where to find the free springs that flow in the area.

F or more information and hotel recommendations, read our post on what to expect in   La Fortuna . 

Days 5-9: Head south to the beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio.

Manuel Antonio has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world—and that’s not just our opinion. Playa Espadilla has been so named by countless publications and was most recently ranked the best beach in Central America by TripAdvisor. But this area offers travelers more than only a great beach. With a plethora of hotels, restaurants , and bars catering to all budgets, and nature at your doorstep, it’s no wonder Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s top tourism destinations.

This is one trip where we do not recommend taking the public bus. Because there is no direct bus from La Fortuna to Quepos/Manuel Antonio, you would have to go through San José first, turning a five-hour trip into a 10-hour trip. Instead, opt for a shuttle or rent a car. Note that a rental car would also come in handy for day trips around the Manuel Antonio area.

Manuel Antonio National Park

Spend the morning exploring the many trails to see white-faced monkeys, sloths, and other jungle creatures in this picturesque park. For the afternoon, enjoy a picnic lunch at Playa Manuel Antonio, a beautiful cove off the main trail. This park is perfect for families because it has fairly flat terrain and easy-to-spot wildlife. For more specific information about the park, read our full   post .

Manuel Antonio is a great jumping off point for tours. There are a number of operators in the area where you can book all kinds of activities, including ATV, zip lining, white-water rafting, mangrove tours, kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, sportfishing, catamaran cruises , and surfing. Check out our Manuel Antonio Activities Guide for more ideas. 

Day Trip to the Wild Southern Zone

The whale marine park, marino ballena.

About an hour down the coast is the Costa Ballena region, where lush rainforest meets the sea. In the quiet town of Playa Uvita lies one of Costa Rica’s only marine national parks. Here, you’ll find another beautiful beach and the famous whale tail , a naturally occurring sandbar formed by converging ocean currents.

Nauyaca Waterfalls

Another stunning sight in this area is the Nauyaca Waterfalls. This two-tiered waterfall is one of the most beautiful cascades in all of Costa Rica. You can access it by hiking or on horseback. Read our full post for more details.

F or more information and hotel and restaurant recommendations, read our post on Manuel Antonio Trip Planning . 

Days 10-12: End your trip with adventure and relaxation in Drake Bay.

By this point in your trip, Costa Rica’s pura vida attitude will have set in. You’ll feel more relaxed and be ready to experience Drake Bay in all of its glory. Located in the dense jungle of the Osa Peninsula, Drake Bay is a nature lover’s playground. Here you can find some of Costa Rica’s most rare species like Baird’s tapir, white-lipped peccaries, and if you’re lucky, even big cats.

Drake Bay is also the perfect retreat for those of you looking to unplug and unwind. The village consists of only a handful of hotels, lodges, and camps, and with very few restaurants in town, most accommodations provide everything you need, including meals.

Be sure to bring a flashlight as street lighting is novel in this village that only recently became electrified.

With few roads going in and out of Drake Bay, access is limited. While you can technically drive there during some parts of the year, it is not recommended due to multiple river crossings and rugged terrain. The good news is that you really don’t need a car in Drake Bay and there are much easier ways to get there.

An affordable and fun option is to take a boat taxi up the Sierpe River. If you book lodging in advance, your lodge will probably make the arrangements for you. The ride lasts about an hour and is a tour in itself through miles of mangrove. Grab it at Las Vegas or La Perla, two restaurants in the small riverside town of Sierpe. 

Hiking in Corcovado National Park

Corcovado is the largest lowland rainforest remaining on the Pacific coast. Its climate can be best described as intensely hot and soupy. While hiking under such extreme conditions should not be taken lightly, there is no substitute to the park’s biological richness.

For the serious trekker, extend your vacation with a multi-day backpacking excursion, entering the park at San Pedrillo Ranger Station and exiting at La Leona Ranger Station (37 km/23 miles). Or if you’d rather skip the days of hiking and see the park in a single day, arrange a boat tour to Sirena Ranger Station, the area of the park with the most visible wildlife. Read our blog post   for more information.

Snorkeling or Diving at Caño Island

Caño Island is one of the best places in Costa Rica for diving and snorkeling. Along the reefs around the island, you can see pufferfish, turtles, huge schools of jack fish, and even white-tip reef sharks. The waters around Caño are notably rich in marine life so be sure to keep your eyes peeled to and from the mainland for dolphins and even whales, which come to the area to breed.

Hike to Playa San Josecito

For a long day hike, check out San Josecito Beach . The trail from Drake Bay, which follows the coast, offers scenic vistas and a chance to see wildlife like Scarlet Macaws, toucans, and all four types of monkeys that live in Costa Rica. Be sure to bring your snorkel gear as this beach has some of the best onshore snorkeling we’ve seen in Costa Rica.

For more information about visiting Drake Bay, including details on how to get there and hotel recommendations, read our post Drake Bay: Costa Rica Unplugged . 

Day 13: Head back to San José.

To make your international flight out of Costa Rica, you’ll probably need to head back to the San José area the day before. You can take a boat taxi back to Sierpe, then catch either the public bus or a shuttle. The public bus for San José leaves from the nearby town of Palmar Norte. The ride from Palmar Norte is about six hours, giving you a total trip time of eight hours. 

Shuttles are a faster option and are available for pick up right from the boat docks in Sierpe. Be sure to plan in advance because boat taxi service is limited.

Note that as of 2018, we no longer recommend domestic small planes in Costa Rica due to service and reliability problems.

Day 14: Head home.

Hopefully through this two-week itinerary you’ve enjoyed your stay in Costa Rica and have some fond memories to take back home. Two weeks is certainly enough time to get a sense of what Costa Rica is all about, but there’s plenty more to see if you’re already ready for another visit. We know what that’s like. After our first week-long trip in 2007, we were hooked, scoping out other areas of the country to explore on the plane ride home. Watch out Costa Rica lovers, because now, we live here!

Have questions about this itinerary? Leave us a comment below.

Looking for more info to help plan your trip check out these posts: .

• Driving in Costa Rica: What to Know Before You Go – Aren’t sure if driving is right for you? It can seem scary at first, but renting a car is by far the best way to explore the country. These tips will help get you ready to cruise on down the road.  
• Cost of Traveling in Costa Rica –  Costa Rica is a little more expensive than some other Central American countries. This post will give you a general sense of how much things cost, including hotels, restaurants, transportation, and tours.  
• Best Hotels Near SJO Airport – If you are flying in and out of San Jose, you might need to stay the night. Check out our picks for the best places close to the airport. 
• Packing List – Your trip might be months away but bookmark this list of some things you don’t want to forget.
• Custom Itinerary Trip Planning Service – Let us help create the perfect itinerary for your family/group. We work with you every step of the way and even take care of all the bookings for you. 

Related Posts

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2 Week Costa Rica Itinerary – Your Guide For 2024

Are you planning a 2 week Costa Rica itinerary? This is the only guide you’ll need!

Home to stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes, I guarantee you will have the time of your life during your two weeks in Costa Rica.

There’s more to this beautiful country than meets the eye, and with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin.

That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary with all the highlights so you can make the most of your time during your visit.

Table of Contents

OVERVIEW – 2 WEEK COSTA RICA ITINERARY

This 14-day Costa Rica itinerary starts and ends in San José, the capital city of Costa Rica, and where the main international airport is located.

Here is an overview of the perfect 2 Week Costa Rica Itinerary with my recommendations of places to visit in this order;

• Day 1 – San José (Arrival)
• Day 2, 3, & 4 – La Fortuna
• Day 5 & 6 – Monteverde
• Day 7, 8, & 9 – Santa Teresa
• Day 10 & 11 – Manuel Antonio
• Day 12 & 13 – Uvita
• Day 14 – San José (Departure)

QUICK ANSWERS: TWO WEEKS IN COSTA RICA

Before I jump into all of the best places to visit on this Costa Rica two-week itinerary, it’s important to get organized before your trip.

Here are some general travel tips you need to know before you go so that you can have a stress-free experience throughout this incredible country in Central America when you arrive.

HOW TO GET TO COSTA RICA?

The easiest and most convenient way to reach Costa Rica is to arrive by plane at San José International Airport SJO (Juan Santamaría International Airport).

For those who are already traveling in Central America, you’ll find many bus routes connecting Costa Rica with the neighboring countries of Nicaragua and Panama.

BEST TIME TO VISIT COSTA RICA?

Costa Rica is a country that can be enjoyed year-round, however, the best time to visit Costa Rica is from December to April, during the dry season.

If you want to avoid crowds during your 2 week Costa Rica itinerary and spend less on accommodation, traveling in July and August is also a good idea, although you may experience some rainy days.

HOW TO GET AROUND IN 2 WEEKS IN COSTA RICA?

When planning your Costa Rica 2-week itinerary, you’ll want to know the best modes of transportation to get around the country.

Thankfully, traveling Costa Rica isn’t difficult, and there are many different options available such as by bus, rental car, minivan, private transfers, and ferries, to name a few.

BUS & SHUTTLE BUS

Buses and shuttle buses are the most common way to get around Costa Rica, and they’re very reliable making them a great option for backpackers and the average traveler.

Bus fares vary and will cost you anything between USD $5 and USD $60, depending on the distance.

When traveling from one location to another, you can easily book shared shuttle buses with other travelers.

I recommend using the platform Bookaway to search and book all shuttle buses during your 2 week Costa Rica itinerary.

How to get from A to B, stress-free!

Compare and easily book buses, ferries, trains, or private transfers around the world on Bookaway!

With discounted ticket prices and a free app, Bookaway is a one-stop shop for all your ground transportation needs!

Renting a car in Costa Rica is one of the best ways to travel around the country at your own pace. The roads are safe to drive on with the majority of them being tar-sealed.

I recommend renting a vehicle with a larger engine that has more grunt to make it up steep, winding hills that you will come across.

Or go one better and hire a 4×4 vehicle for your 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary.

Although a four-wheel-drive vehicle is not necessary to travel around Costa Rica, it will allow you to reach some areas off the beaten track that a standard car would not be able to.

It’s easiest to pick up and drop off a rental car at San José Airport when you arrive and depart.

Please note : It’s best to book online well in advance, especially during high season, because rental cars tend to sell out very fast.

Car Rental – Search, Compare & Save!

Discover Cars are one of the world’s largest online car rental platforms with vehicles in 10,000+ locations.

Find the right car, in the right place, for the best price guaranteed!

OTHER MODES OF TRANSPORT

Apart from the above, you will find a variety of other transportation options available for your Costa Rica 2 week itinerary, from minivans and private transfers to taxis and Uber.

In addition, some ferries connect the various peninsulas and islands off the coast.

IS COSTA RICA EXPENSIVE?

Traveling for two weeks in Costa Rica on a mid-range budget will cost you around $2,000 – $4,000, including accommodation, meals, day trips, and car rental.

In general, a hotel will cost you anywhere between $50 and $150 (hostels cost as low as $10 a night), a meal costs between $15 and $30 per person, and transportation can be pretty expensive so you’ll want to budget around $200 per person per week.

Lastly, you should plan between $100 and $200 per person per week for entrance fees and day tours.

Of course, the more people in your group, the cheaper it’ll get, so that’s another factor to consider.

IS COSTA RICA SAFE?

All in all, yes, Costa Rica is a very safe place, however, you should always use common sense and be mindful of your surroundings.

For instance, avoid leaving your belongings and valuables unattended, don’t go to the beach alone at night, and stay away from buying illegal drugs.

DO I NEED A VISA FOR 2 WEEKS IN COSTA RICA?

A 90-day tourist visa is available for free upon arrival in Costa Rica for citizens of all countries. Click here for more information on entry requirements.

If you’re willing to stay longer in the country, you will need to leave Costa Rica and re-enter to get a new 3-month stamp.

That being said, 2 weeks in Costa Rica is a good amount of time, unless you really fall in love with the country (which I guarantee you will) and want to extend beyond 90 days.

2 WEEKS IN COSTA RICA ITINERARY

Now that we’ve covered all the general travel tips and logistics for planning your two weeks in Costa Rica, let’s get to the fun stuff!

So without further ado, here is the ultimate Costa Rica 2-week itinerary to help you plan your trip.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL TO SAN JOSÉ

Start your 2 week Costa Rica itinerary in San Jose, the country’s capital city.

After passing immigration, it’s time to get transportation to your hotel. You can simply grab a taxi out the front, order an Uber, or pre-book a private shuttle to your hotel .

I recommend booking a hotel in Alajuela, a small city located very near SJO airport. You can explore some of the local areas or just chill after a long journey of travel to get here.

Also, I suggest purchasing a sim card when you arrive at San José Airport, or from a local phone shop in town, so you can get online to use Google maps and other handy apps for your 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary.

If you arrive early enough and want to skip San José altogether, (don’t worry, you’re not missing out on much in this city) then I recommend making your way straight to La Fortuna.

I have gone into more detail below about how to get from San José to La Fortuna.

And, if you plan to stay for a week or more in San Jose, why not stop and learn some Spanish ? It will definitely help on your Costa Rica trip!

WHERE TO STAY IN ALAJUELA, SAN JOSÉ

Luxury: hotel martino.

MID RANGE: TERIDA AIPORT B&B

BUDGET: TOUCAN HOSTEL

DAY 2, 3, & 4: LA FORTUNA

La Fortuna is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and the first stop on this Costa Rica 2 week itinerary.

The small town is located at the base of the Arenal Volcano and its nearby hot springs and waterfalls make it a great place for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.

La Fortuna is also home to some of Costa Rica’s best hiking and birdwatching opportunities.

You can hike around the volcano for stunning views, or explore the rainforests in search of rare and exotic birds.

HOW TO GET FROM SAN JOSÉ TO LA FORTUNA

Getting from San José to La Fortuna is very easy as the roads are all tar-sealed and the route is clear with a distance of 115 km and a journey time of around 2.5 – 3 hours.

The earlier you leave San José the better as you’ll avoid the peak-hour city traffic, putting you in La Fortuna around lunchtime which leaves you half a day to explore.

When traveling by rental car to La Fortuna from San José, simply follow the route on Google maps which leads you northwest of the city, and as mentioned above, the journey time is around 2.5 – 3 hours.

BY SHUTTLE BUS

Shuttle bus transportation from San José to La Fortuna is the best and cheapest option for travelers not renting a car.

It’s best to book online in advance to guarantee a seat on the bus and the trip includes a hotel pick-up from San José City and also from Alajuela and a drop-off to your hotel in La Fortuna.

This journey takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes with two daily departures at 7 am and 2 pm.

BOOK NOW: SHUTTLE BUS FROM SAN JOSÉ TO LA FORTUNA

THINGS TO DO IN LA FORTUNA

La Fortuna is a mecca for adventure with many fun-fuelled activities and experiences to be had.

From walking among the treetops on hanging bridges to getting soaked beneath the falls at La Fortuna Waterfall – there is something here for everyone to enjoy.

Three days in La Fortuna is the perfect amount of time to tick off a few bucket-list adventures during your visit.

The best way to get around in La Fortuna (if you don’t have a rental car) is to rent a scooter or motorbike, hail a taxi, or order an Uber which is the cheapest mode of transportation.

HIGHLIGHTS IN LA FORTUNA

• La Fortuna Waterfall
• El Salto Rope Swing
• Mistico Hanging Bridges
• Arenal Volcano National Park
• La Fortuna Hot Springs

These are just a few of the must-see attractions to check out during your visit.

I have also put together a full blog post of 15 Awesome Things To Do In La Fortuna that you should definitely read.

MUST READ: 15 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN LA FORTUNA

WHERE TO STAY IN LA FORTUNA

Luxury: tabacon thermal resort & spa.

MID RANGE: CASA LUNA HOTEL & SPA

BUDGET: SELINA

DAY 5 & 6: MONTEVERDE

Situated in the Tilarán Mountains, Monteverde is a small Costa Rican town well-known for its lush, green scenery and abundance of wildlife.

You can explore the town’s many hiking trails, go birdwatching in the nearby forest reserve, or zip-line through the canopy of the cloud forest.

Also, Monteverde is home to several small family-run farms which produce cheese, honey, and other local specialties.

Monteverde is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature with its verdant landscapes and friendly atmosphere.

HOW TO GET FROM LA FORTUNA TO MONTEVERDE

There are a few transportation options available to get from La Fortuna to Monteverde including by car, minivan, or boat + shuttle bus.

If you’re renting a car , you’ll be able to reach Monteverde from La Fortuna quite easily as all the roads leading to the town are tar-sealed.

The route on Google maps will take you around the edge of Lake Arenal and then up the mountain range to reach Monteverde. The journey time is approximately 3 hours.

Traveling in a shared minivan is another option which includes a hotel pick-up with an experienced driver, and a drop-off at your hotel in Monteverde.

Departure times from La Fortuna are 8 am and 2 pm with a total journey time of approximately 3.5 hours.

BOOK NOW: MINIVAN FROM LA FORTUNA TO MONTEVERDE

By boat & shuttle bus.

I personally traveled by boat and shuttle bus to Monteverde which is the most convenient if you don’t have a rental car, and it’s a shorter journey than taking the minivan option around the entire lake.

When booking this option, it includes a hotel pick-up in La Fortuna, you’ll then be transported to the edge of Arenal Lake, and from here you’ll jump on a shared boat that will take you across the lake, and waiting on the other side is another shuttle bus that will transport you the rest of the way to your hotel in Monteverde.

Departure times from La Fortuna are 8 am and 2 pm with a total journey time of approximately 3 hours.

BOOK NOW: BOAT & SHUTTLE BUS TO MONTEVERDE

THINGS TO DO IN MONTEVERDE

Monteverde is a nature lover’s paradise, from coffee plantations to nature walks to welcoming locals, it’s an unmissable destination on your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary.

There are a number of exciting things to do in Monteverde and in just two days you’ll be able to experience the best of the best that this mountainous region has to offer!

As most of the attractions in Monteverde are located outside of Santa Elena (the main town), the best way to get around is by rental car, taxi, Uber, or guided tours that include hotel pick-ups and drop-offs.

Santa Elena, however, can be easily explored on foot as it’s a very small town and all the shops and cafes are located a stone’s throw from one another.

You may also want to check out some of these Costa Rica tours that include Monteverde on the itinerary.

HIGHLIGHTS IN MONTEVERDE

• Monteverde Cloud Forest
• Bird Watching Adventure
• Zip Lining in Monteverde
• Horseback Riding
• Coffee and Chocolate Tour

These are just a few of the fun-fuelled adventures to be had during your visit, however, be sure to check out my complete guide to 10 Awesome Things To Do In Monteverde for more!

MUST READ: 10 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN MONTEVERDE

WHERE TO STAY IN MONTEVERDE

Luxury: senda monteverde hotel.

MID RANGE: CHIRA GLAMPING

BUDGET: CASA TRANQUILO HOSTEL

DAY 7, 8, & 9: SANTA TERESA

Costa Rica is home to many beautiful places, and one of the most special is Santa Teresa, a slice of paradise that’s not to be missed on your Costa Rica 2 week itinerary.

This small town is located on the Nicoya Peninsula and is widely known for its stunning beaches and lush jungle landscape.

Among all the activities in Santa Teresa, you can go surfing, hiking, zip-lining, and even take an ATV tour!

HOW TO GET FROM MONTEVERDE TO SANTA TERESA

After enjoying a couple of days in Monteverde, this 2 week Costa Rica itinerary continues to Santa Teresa. There are several ways of getting here including by car, minivan, shuttle + ferry, and local bus.

For the sake of time and convenience, I highly recommend the minivan option for those who aren’t traveling in a rental car.

It’s not as cheap as the shuttle and ferry option or traveling by local bus, but it’s the most direct.

For this reason, I have only provided the car and minivan transportation options below, though if you want to see more budget alternatives, see this helpful guide .

From Monteverde to Santa Teresa by car, the distance is 215 km and the journey takes around 4 hours and 15 mins.

The road is tar-sealed and when you follow Route 21 on Google maps , you won’t get lost.

As mentioned above, traveling by minivan to Santa Teresa is the most convenient and direct. It includes a hotel pick-up in Monteverde and drop-off at your hotel in Santa Teresa.

There is only one daily departure from Monteverde at 9 am and the journey time to Santa Teresa is approximately 4 hours and 15 mins.

As there is only one departure per day, I recommend booking online well in advance to secure your seat.

BOOK NOW: MINIVAN FROM MONTEVERDE TO SANTA TERESA

THINGS TO DO IN SANTA TERESA

Santa Teresa is known for its bohemian vibe and beautiful beaches, and whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or explore the area’s many activities, Santa Teresa has something for everyone.

The best way to get around in Santa Teresa (if you don’t have a rental car) is by renting a scooter or ATV, hailing a taxi, jumping on the local buses, or exploring the area on foot.

HIGHLIGHTS IN SANTA TERESA

• Day Trip to Isla Tortuga
• Visit Montezuma
• Rent an ATV

RELATED ARTICLE: LAPOINT SURF CAMP IN SANTA TERESA

WHERE TO STAY IN SANTA TERESA

Luxury: hotel nantipa.

MID RANGE: CASA CECILIA BEACHFRONT

DAY 10 & 11: MANUEL ANTONIO

The end of this 14-day Costa Rica itinerary is approaching, and before leaving the country, you definitely can’t skip Manuel Antonio, a small coastal town popular for its incredible Costa Rica beaches , diverse wildlife, and hiking trails.

While in Manuel Antonio, you can enjoy plenty of activities such as exploring the stunning national park, soaking up some sun on the beaches, zip-lining through the treetops, and even taking a waterfall tour.

Of course, you’ll find several restaurants and bars, as well as stunning hotels, so you’ll have lots of choices on where to stay in Manuel Antonio.

HOW TO GET FROM SANTA TERESA TO MANUEL ANTONIO

The route from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio is a little longer than the previous locations above with a journey time of approximately 5.5 hours.

There are a few transportation options available to get from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio including by car + ferry, private transfer, or taxi boat + shuttle bus.

When traveling by car from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio, the fastest way is to take the vehicle ferry from Paquera ferry landing to Puntarenas ferry terminal, and from here drive down the coast to reach Manuel Antonio.

Click here to see the complete route on Google maps.

The cost of the ferry is $25 USD per vehicle and $2 USD per person, and the ferry takes 1.5 hours.

The ferry departure times from Paquera to Puntarenas are 5:30 am, 9 am, 12 pm, 3 pm, 6 pm, and 8:30 pm.

Once you’re in town, you can just book a tour in Manuel Antonio , which is a great way of visiting the area.

PRIVATE TRANSFER

Another great option, if you’re traveling in a group of up to four people, is to take a private transfer in a minivan for around $400.

It takes around 5 hours from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio and you can split the cost between you.

There are daily departures from Santa Teresa and you can choose a pick-up time that best suits you.

It’s not the cheapest option, but it’s the most direct and definitely worth spending a bit extra for a hassle-free transfer.

BY TAXI BOAT & SHUTTLE BUS

Taxi boat and shuttle bus transportation from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio is the fastest and slightly cheaper option for travelers not renting a car and not traveling in a group.

This option includes a hotel pick-up in Santa Teresa and a shuttle bus transfer to Montezuma Beach where you’ll jump onboard a taxi boat, the boat will take you across the Gulf of Nicoya to Playa Herradura, and from here another bus will be waiting to transport you the rest of the way to your hotel in Manuel Antonio.

This journey takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes with only one daily departure from Santa Teresa at 7 am.

It’s best to book online in advance to guarantee a seat on the taxi boat and bus.

BOOK NOW: TAXI BOAT & BUS TO MANUEL ANTONIO

THINGS TO DO IN MANUEL ANTONIO

Manuel Antonio is one of the most popular destinations on a 2 weeks Costa Rica itinerary and for a good reason.

With its national park, zip line opportunities, and incredible waterfalls, it’s no wonder that Manuel Antonio is one of the most beloved destinations in the country.

Depending on where you are staying in Manuel Antonio, getting around on foot is pretty easy. Alternatively, you can rent a car, order an Uber, hail a taxi, or jump on the local bus.

HIGHLIGHTS IN MANUEL ANTONIO

• Manuel Antonio National Park
• Nauyaca Waterfalls Tour
• Day trip to Santa Juana Mountain Village

WHERE TO STAY IN MANUEL ANTONIO

Luxury: los altos resort.

MID RANGE: HOTEL MANUEL ANTONIO

DAY 12 & 13: UVITA

The last stop on this 2 weeks Costa Rica itinerary is Uvita, a coastal town that is growing in popularity with tourists.

Uvita is situated on the edge of the rainforest and its main attractions are Uvita Beach and the Whale Tail in Marino Ballena National Park.

Both are known for their unique landscapes and azul waters which make it the perfect place to go swimming or surfing.

While you’re here, you may want to consider a day trip to Corcovado National Park or a half-day trip to Nauyaca Waterfall.

HOW TO GET FROM MANUEL ANTONIO TO UVITA

Getting from Manuel Antonio to Uvita is very easy as the roads are all tar-sealed along the coastal route with a distance of 65 km and a journey time of around 1 hour.

If you have a rental car, one stop along the way that I highly recommend is Nauyaca Waterfalls, Costa Rica’s most famous waterfall!

It’s a 1 hour and 30 minutes drive from Manuel Antonio and after your visit, it’s a further 1 hour drive to reach Uvita.

Alternatively, for those that don’t have their own transport, you can book a tour to visit Nauyaca Waterfalls but please note this tour can only be booked while you’re in Manuel Antonio as this is where the pick-up and drop-off point is.

When traveling by car to Uvita from Manuel Antonio, simply follow the route on Google maps which leads you along the coastline on Route 34 Costanera Sur and the journey time is around 1 hour.

Minivan transportation from Manuel Antonio to Uvita is the best and one of the cheapest options for travelers not renting a car.

It’s best to book online in advance to guarantee a seat on the bus and the trip includes a hotel pick-up from Manuel Antonio and a drop-off to your hotel in Uvita.

This journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes with three daily departures at 7 am, 1:30 pm, and 6:30 pm.

BOOK NOW: MINIVAN FROM MANUEL ANTONIO TO UVITA

THINGS TO DO IN UVITA

There’s no better place than Uvita to experience all that Costa Rica has to offer, especially for the last days of your 2 weeks in Costa Rica.

From hiking through lush rainforests to relaxing on pristine beaches, there are plenty of things to do in Uvita.

Getting around Uvita on foot is possible, however, some of the attractions are located a little bit outside of the main town so it’s best to rent a car, hail a taxi, or book guided tours.

See below for the must-see highlights in Uvita.

HIGHLIGHTS IN UVITA

• Uvita Beach
• Whale Tail (Marino Ballena National Park)
• Uvita Waterfall (Catarata Uvita)
• Uvita Beer Garden
• Nauyaca Waterfall

WHERE TO STAY IN UVITA

Luxury: kura boutique hotel.

MID RANGE: TROPICAL BEACH

BUDGET: LUMINOSA UVITA HOSTEL

DAY 14: DEPARTURE FROM SAN JOSÉ

After an epic 2 weeks in Costa Rica, it’s time to head back to San José Airport (SJO) for departure.

It’s a straightforward journey taking just 3.5 hours by car, or 3 hours and 45 minutes by shared minivan.

BOOK NOW: SHARED MINIVAN FROM UVITA TO SAN JOSÉ

On the last day of your 2 week Costa Rica itinerary, depending on what time your departure flight is, I recommend visiting another beachside town on the way back such as Dominical, or Jaco, or perhaps spending a few hours exploring San José City.

If you need to book a place to stay near San José Airport, click here to search all accommodation options on Booking.com .

2 WEEK ITINERARY COSTA RICA MAP

Click here for an interactive map of this 2-week itinerary Costa Rica.

WHAT TO PACK FOR 2 WEEKS IN COSTA RICA

For your 2 weeks Costa Rica itinerary, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

More Costa Rica Travel Guides

Click the button below to view all articles related to Costa Rica!

FINAL THOUGHTS – 14 DAY COSTA RICA ITINERARY

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions about how to spend two weeks in Costa Rica, please leave a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

Click here to find out how you can support the site organically .

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COSTA RICA'S LEADING ENGLISH LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

Costa Rican Specialists Protest for Better Working Conditions and Salaries

How is easter week (semana santa) in costa rica, costa rica contractor under investigation for prohibited practices, costa rica crocodile attack during nesting season turns deadly, costa rica braces for doubling of migrant influx in coming year, the ultimate 2 week costa rica itinerary.

Costa Rica is an unbeatable destination for a holiday that features pristine outdoors, thrilling adventures, and relaxation in paradise. The best part? You can experience much of what this amazing country has to offer with only a two-week tour. Gorgeous beaches, lush rainforests, active volcanos, and traditional villages are just some of the highlights of this itinerary.

Starting in San José, this ultimate 2-week itithings to donerary includes top destinations and activities through the central highlands, the Caribbean coast, and the Pacific coast of Costa Rica.

Day 1: Arrive in San José

Plan to arrive around midday or earlier at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) airport in Alajuela, just outside of San José. From the airport, taxis and local buses run to the city center.

Spend the afternoon enjoying a stroll through two of the city’s charming historic neighborhoods: visit the National Theater, wander through lovely plazas and appreciate the Victorian and Art Deco architecture of San Jose’s artistic hub, Barrio Amón, before finishing the evening with dinner at one of the eateries on Paseo Gastronómico La Luz (Calle 33) in Barrio Escalante.

Day 2: Río Pacuare

Wake early and prepare for an unforgettable white-water adventure down the Pacuare River. Tours depart daily from San José, with pick-up from your hotel, and start with a breathtaking bus journey through cloud forest to reach the put-in spot.

Then, a four- to five-hour journey downstream will take you through class II, III, and IV rapids, passing by waterfalls and through canyons along the way. Enjoy an optional swim in the impressive canyons towards the end of the journey.

Tours typically stop and provide lunch halfway down the river. Pack dry clothes for changing into at the final stop before heading back to San José just in time for dinner.

Days 3–4: Tortuguero

These next couple of days lead you to the traditional Costa Rica village of Tortuguero on the Caribbean coast for unique ecotourism opportunities. Your expedition there can be as adventurous or as relaxed as you prefer.

For the explorer, opt for a public bus to Pavones where you’ll hop aboard a boat for an incredible journey through jungle canals. Impressive birds, monkeys, and crocodiles can usually be spotted fairly easily. Alternatively, short flights run from San José to Tortuguero daily.

During your time in Tortuguero, plan to take a night tour to witness the magic of giant sea turtles nesting on Playa Tortuguero (February to October). Tour fees directly support the conservation of these endangered animals.

Spend the afternoons walking the beach, browsing the local craft stores, or canoeing the canals. For more fun, head to Tortuguero National Park where you can walk the flat, easy trails through dense jungle and along deserted beaches. You’ll likely run into other critters here, such as armadillos and sloths.

Day 5–7: La Fortuna

Your days in La Fortuna will be full of adventure. A shuttle transfer is an efficient way to travel from Tortuguero. Once there, rejuvenate and relax in the healing waters of the local hot springs.

Several luxury hot spring and spa resorts offer day passes, which often include access to the springs, food, and perhaps even waterslides. Tabacón, Eco Termales, and Baldi are popular resort options, while a taxi to Rio Chollin provides an opportunity to soak in the naturally heated river.

Dedicate one full day to trekking the trails in Arenal Volcano National Park. Here you can observe Costa Rica’s most iconic volcano, walk along old lava fields, and encounter the interesting ecosystems of the geothermal area.

Your final day in La Fortuna can include a morning hike to La Fortuna Waterfall for a spectacular jungle swim in the turquoise natural pool next to the towering cascade. Later, give a proper farewell to this enchanting town with a scenic sunset cruise on Lake Arenal.

Days 8–9: Monteverde

Now that you’ve been introduced to the jungles of Costa Rica, Monteverde will take you deeper into the majestic cloud forest. Departing La Fortuna, a Jeep-boat-Jeep shuttle service is the fastest and most scenic option for transportation.

During the journey, you’ll cross Lake Arenal and ride through lush countryside to Santa Elena, a popular town and our recommendation for lodging near Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. You’ll find many appealing craft stores, a local creamery, and botanical gardens to enjoy.

You will need the next full day to explore Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. This reserve has an extensive network of hiking trails including one that leads to epic views of the continental divide.

Pace your hikes to enjoy the lush scenery and spot rare wildlife such as quetzals, monkeys, and sloths. Next, head to Sky Walk, Costa Rica’s first hanging bridge leading through the forest treetops. Finish the day with a thrilling zipline tour through the rainforest canopy.

Days 10–13: Drake Bay

Let time slow down and enjoy nature’s best scenery and wildlife in Drake Bay in the Osa Peninsula, a six-hour drive from Monteverde. Alternatively, if you opt for a flight, head to San José and take a flight to Puerto Jiménez.

You may wish to finish your trip by kicking back in a hammock overlooking the bay, frequented by dolphins and whales . For more action, take a day or multi-day trek in nearby Corcovado National Park, one of the world’s most biodiverse places. Definitely reserve a tour to Caño Island for some of the best snorkeling and diving in Costa Rica. Deep-sea fishing, kayaking, ATV rides, and horseback rides are other excellent activities in Drake Bay to complete your Costa Rica trip.

Day 14: Depart through San José

A short local flight this morning from Puerto Jiménez will connect you to Juan Santamaría International Airport for departure. Be sure to book an afternoon flight out of San José to ensure sufficient time for connection.

Travel tips

• This tour crosses the entirety of Costa Rica, requiring travel time that some people may find tiring. For a slower pace or shorter itinerary, choose only 4–5 stops.
• For an extended trip, consider adding a multi-day rafting tour down Río Pacuare, which includes overnight lodging in the jungle and additional rafting fun.
• A raincoat, sunscreen, and hiking shoes are packing essentials for this tour as climate changes throughout the landscape and rains result in muddy terrain. Binoculars are suggested for optimal wildlife viewing.
• The best months to travel are from December to April for drier weather, optimal for outdoor activities.

With this two-week itinerary, you are sure to discover Costa Rica’s greatest gems and enjoy a variety of activities for an energizing, yet rejuvenating vacation. Pura vida!

This article is presented by Bookmundi . Bookmundi is a Denmark-based but global travel booking portal offering day tours, fixed group departures, and holiday packages in +120 countries around the world, including Costa Rica .

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The Ultimate 2-Week Costa Rica Travel Itinerary

Costa Rica is easily the most visited country in Central America and its efforts to gain popularity with tourists in a sustainable way have had an incredible effect. With luscious rainforest, rich biodiversity, stunning beaches and well-protected wildlife it’s a destination for those who love everything outdoors.

You could spend months in Costa Rica and still have plenty of adventures left, however, it’s reasonable to assume that 90% of us don’t have months to spare. 2 weeks is a bit more of a reasonable timescale for a trip, so grab your notepad and let this post inspire you and your Costa Rica travel itinerary. 

Day 1-2 

La Fortuna is known for its adventure-filled activities, relaxing hot springs and opportunities to spot and learn more about the wildlife in Costa Rica. Only 2/3 hours away from San Jose airport, it’s the ideal first stop. 

Begin the first day by taking a tour of some of the hotspots in La Fortuna. Starting with Arenal National Park where you will get close to Costa Rica’s wildlife and also see the mighty Volcano Arenal. After that stop by the powerful La Fortuna waterfall, before heading to a peaceful hot springs resort to unwind from the day.

Bright and early, start off day 2 by taking a morning sloth walking tour with expert guides who can help you spot some of the local cuties. Then fill your day with one of La Fortuna’s adventurous activities such as white water rafting, zip lining or canyoning. Before the second day comes to an end, be sure to head to your next stop, Monteverde. If you haven’t got a car, check out Bookaway for your best transport options.

Got more time to spare, see a breakdown of how I spent 4 days in La Fortuna –>

Day 3-4 

Monteverde is home to the infamous Costa Rican cloud forest and a worthy stop on your Costa Rica itinerary. The climate here however is a lot cooler and sees a lot of rain, so don’t forget the rain jacket.

Start day 3 by visiting the Monteverde Cloud Forest, a morning should be enough to walk around this dense jungle and take in some incredible views. You then have a few options for your afternoon; visit the hanging bridges, fly through the forest on ziplines, take on the El Tigre waterfall hike or rest for the afternoon and take a nighttime nature walk.

Day 4 depends on your transport situation, if you are getting public transport to Montezuma it may be an early start. If you are driving or have more time you could take on one of yesterday’s missed activities or explore the town, a cool spot is the Ficus Tree Bridge a short walk from the centre.

Discover 8 more wonderful things to do in Monteverde –>

Montezuma is a small town on the tip of the Nicoya Peninsula and you’ll find incredible views of the jungle meeting the sea here. Often overlooked for busier destinations such as Santa Teresa or Tamarindo, you can find a little bit of calm in Montezuma.

On your first morning head to Montezuma Waterfalls, there are 3 different falls to explore and plenty of swimming spots. After that, you could choose to spend the rest of the day on the beach (Playa Grande is the best), or in the evening you could take a tour to see some Bioluminescent Plakton.

For Day 6 you have two options, either take a tour to Tortuga Island or head to Santa Teresa for the day. A trip to Tortuga Island with Zuma Tours will see you boating along the coastline, snorkelling with marine life and eating a BBQ on a beautiful ocean island. Santa Teresa however is a nearby town popular with surfers and beach bums, be sure to catch a sunset before leaving.

Get up early for your final morning in Montezuma to witness a gorgeous sunrise and then if you have the time hike to El Chorro Waterfall. It’s about a 5-hour round trip, but it’s worth it to see this waterfall drop straight into the ocean. If you aren’t driving the quickest way to Jaco is by speedboat, for drivers go for the car ferry between Paquera and Puntarenas.

Read my ultimate travel to Montezuma for more details –>

Arguably one of the most well-known holiday destinations in Costa Rica, Jaco is home to jungle, beaches and more Costa Rican adventures. Although a touristic destination, Jaco is a great base for exploring the southwest of Costa Rica.

On Day 8 book yourself on a day tour to visit Manuel Antonio National Park, you won’t regret it. During the day you will be able to spot different bird species, monkeys, sloths and even more wildlife. There are also some incredible beaches to stop at in the national park. If you are back in Jaco in time go and watch the sunset from El Miro viewpoint.

Day 9 could see you taking surf lessons, visiting the crocodile bridge, going canyoning or maybe just exploring the nearby beaches. Jaco to Tortuguero National Park is a long drive, so you may want to consider breaking up the journey by spending the night in or near San Jose, this will be necessary if you are going by public transport.

Do you have more time? Consider adding an overnight stop in Manuel Antonio, Uvita, Punta Jiménez or Corcovado National Park .

Day 10-11 

Tortuguero national park.

Tortuguero is famous for its sea turtles that nest here between July and October, people flock here to see Costa Rica’s extraordinary wildlife and biodiversity. You’ll find yourself unable to drive to Tortuguero National Park instead ditch the car at La Pavona and catch a boat into this beautiful national park.

As there is a chance you may be arriving late on Day 10, don’t plan too much. If you do arrive at a decent time head to Tortuguero Beach for your first glimpse of the Caribbean coastline, but don’t swim here it’s not safe. However as the sun sets the rainforest comes alive, so head out on a night tour to take a glimpse at those nocturnal creatures.

Make the most of your full day in Tortuguero by joining a boat or kayak tour of the national park’s waterways on Day 11. These canals are surrounded by lush jungle and a lot of diverse wildlife, there is even a few hiking trails to check out if you wish. 

Day 12-14 

Puerto viejo.

Puerto Viejo is located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica in the south of the country and wins as my favourite destination in Costa Rica. This small town had a completely different feel from everywhere, a strong Caribbean influence gives Puerto Viejo its charm.

Depending on what your transportation plans look like you may not arrive in Puerto Viejo until later on Day 12. However when you do arrive, take a walk around the town, grab a bite to eat and soak it all in. Then go hire a bicycle to go explore the beaches between Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo, Punta Uva was my favourite spot.

Day 13 brings a few options, you can take a day trip to Cahuita National Park, walking through the jungle and snorkelling in search of marine life. Or explore the nearby Bri Bri village and learn more about this indigenous tribe and their spiritual practices. Or your final option is to spend the morning at the Jaguar Rescue Centre, before heading to Manzanillo Nature Reserve for a coastal jungle walk.

And already we find ourselves on the final day, maybe you have time for one of the days mentioned above, or perhaps just a quick dip in the sea before your journey home.

Discover more about Puerto Viejo in my travel guide –>

Costa Rica Travel Tips

• The easiest way to get around Costa Rica would be to rent a car, otherwise, there are tourist shuttles and public buses running between these destinations. The website, The Bus in Costa Rica , is so handy for looking at public bus routes and times.
• Costa Rica is an expensive travel destination, unlike other countries in Central America. Our average daily spend for the two of us in Costa Rica was £95. 
• The currency is Costa Rican Colones however most places, especially accommodation and tour companies will accept US dollars, always worth checking first though. 
• The national language of Costa Rica is Spanish, although out of all the countries we have visited in Central America, English is widely spoken here. However, it’s always good to have a few Spanish phrases in your back pocket.
• The plug sockets are type A and B which is the same as the US, so unless you have US chargers you will need a travel adaptor. I also recommend the worldwide ones as they not only allow you to charge more than one thing they work worldwide.

This itinerary can be followed exactly or just used as inspiration. It’s likely your trip will look different depending on budget, time scale and travel interests. All though useful to have an idea of what your trip may look like we all know they never go exactly to plan, so be sure to leave yourself some breathing room.

Let me know what you think of this 2 week Costa Rica itinerary in the comments and as always feel free to leave me any questions.

costa rica BLOG POSTS

Ultimate Travel Guide: Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

Ultimate Travel Guide: Montezuma, Costa Rica

8 Wonderful Things To Do In Monteverde, Costa Rica

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2 Wochen in Costa Rica: Die Top 10 Erlebnisse

Bei WeDesignTrips helfen Dir lokale Experten von Reiseveranstaltern unverbindlich Deine individuelle Costa Rica Reise zu planen.

Wir sind 2 Wochen quer durch die herrliche Natur Costa Ricas gereist und haben eine Menge erlebt. Beim Ziplining ging es durch die Baumwipfel des Monteverde Nebelwaldes , eine Bootsfahrt im Tortuguero Nationalpark brachte uns den Tieren und der Natur ganz nah und am Ende der Reise konnten wir noch einmal richtig schön am Strand entspannen! Wenn Du noch Inspiration für Deine Reise brauchst und wissen möchtest, was man bei einer 2-wöchigen Rundreise so alles erleben kann, dann lies hier einfach weiter und erfahre alles zu unseren Top 10 Erlebnissen in Costa Rica.  

Inhaltsverzeichnis

1. ziplining, 3. natur, natur, natur, diese routen führen dich in 2 wochen durch die atemberaubende natur:, 4. schokoladentour, 5. hängebrücken, 6. heiße quellen und wasserfälle, 7. nebelwald, 8. abenteuer roadtrip.

• 10. Morgenstund' hat Gold im Mund

Über den Wipfeln dem Gefühl des Fliegens ganz nah – Ziplining ist eine der Top Aktivitäten in Costa Rica. Das Land ist für seine aufregenden und besonderen Anlagen bekannt, in denen Du in einem Gurt sitzend an Stahlseilen von Plattform zu Plattform gleitest. Ein Guide hat uns erzählt, dass er als Kind mitbekommen hat, wie die verschiedenen Ziplining-Parks entstanden sind. Für ihn war das ein absolutes Highlight, denn die Kinder vor Ort waren gern gesehene Gäste der neuen Attraktionen.

Die Faszination am Ziplining hat uns nach anfänglichem Magenflattern schließlich auch gepackt: Nur die ersten eigenen Abstöße von den Plattformen sind eine Herausforderung. Danach macht Ziplining einfach nur noch Spaß !  

Empfehlung für dich

Diese Tour führt Dich in 14 Tagen   aktiv durch Costa Rica  und kann an Deine Wünsche & Vorlieben angepasst werden:

• Du bist abenteuerlustig ? Beim Ziplining im Nebelwald, Wildwasser-Rafting, wandern & reiten erlebst Du das Land intensiv!
• Du magst Die Natur ? Dann entdecke die überwältigende Artenvielfalt im Urwaldparadies Boca Tapada, dem Cahuita Nationalpark & Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui!

Abenteuerreise durch Costa Rica

ab 2.005,- €

Beste Reisezeit

November-April

Auf dem Rücken von Pferden durch die Landschaft des  Nationalparks Rincon de la Vieja : wenn wir uns jemals wie Cowgirls gefühlt haben, dann war es an diesem Tag. Von unserer Unterkunft aus ging es über Stock und Stein und durch Wälder zu einem Wasserfall . Da wir etwas Erfahrung mit Pferden hatten, durften wir sogar kurz über ein Feld galoppieren. Bei Sonnenschein und mit dem Vulkan im Hintergrund war diese Tour ein wahrer Traum. Auch Anfänger müssen sich vor einem Ausritt nicht scheuen: Die Pferde und Guides sind sehr erfahren und Du kannst in einem ganz gemächlichen Tempo starten!

Costa Rica ist bekannt als  Top Destination für Naturliebhaber . Dieser Ruf hat sich in unseren Augen absolut bestätigt. Von den Regenwäldern und Kanälen Tortugueros bis hin zu der trockenen Gebirgslandschaft in Guanacaste –vielfältige und teilweise unberührte Landschaften warten hier hinter jeder Ecke. Für uns ist es unmöglich, uns eine Lieblingslandschaft auszusuchen.     Unsere Top-Erlebnisse in der Natur Costa Ricas:  

• Bootsfahrt in Tortuguero : Vom Boot im wunderschönen Nationalpark Tortuguero aus Natur und Tiere zu beobachten, war ein absolutes Highlight unserer Reise.  
• Das Erkunden des Regenwaldes im Bri Bri Reservat im Süden Costa Ricas.
• Strandspaziergänge in Puerto Viejo de Limon und Tortuguero.
• Wanderungen zu Wasserfällen im Nationalpark Rincon de la Vieja.  

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ab 2.145,- €

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ab 1.914,- €

Januar - Dezember

Highlightreise durch Costa Rica und Pana...

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Schokolade macht glücklich. Als Naschkatzen können wir das bestätigen. Was wir auch bestätigen können: die Herstellung von Schokolade ist spannend und traditionsreich. Am Gelände der Trimbina Lodge durften wir hautnah miterleben, wie unsere liebste Süßigkeit früher hergestellt wurde, und was sich im Laufe der Zeit verändert hat. Außerdem durften wir selbst Hand anlegen und Kakaobohnen schälen, malen, zu Kakao verarbeiten – und natürlich immer wieder probieren.

Wer es etwas gemütlicher als Ziplining angehen und trotzdem Baumwipfel erkunden möchte, ist mit einer Hängebrücken-Tour gut beraten. Da wir während der Regenzeit in Costa Rica waren, hat sich der Begriff Regenwald für uns zwar absolut bestätigt, aber die Wolkenstimmungen und die Aussicht auf den Vulkan Arenal haben die Tour trotzdem zu einem einzigartigen Erlebnis gemacht.     Wir konnten Faultiere , verschiedene Frösche , Klammeraffen und weitere Dschungelbewohner entdecken. Das ‚gummiartige‘ Gefühl über Hängebrücken zu gehen ist auch etwas Besonderes und unsere Füße haben sich noch den ganzen Tag etwas lustig angefühlt. 

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Nach einem heißen Tag ins kühle Nass – oder umgekehrt. Die Wasserfälle und heißen Quellen Costa Ricas werden uns noch lange in Erinnerung bleiben. Die heißen Quellen haben wir in La Fortuna genossen und den beeindruckendsten Wasserfall inklusive Schwimmerlebnis durften wir in der Nähe von Puerto Viejo de Limón besuchen.  

Der Nebelwald wird von vielen als ein absolutes Highlight Costa Ricas angesehen. Wir können das nur bestätigen. Geheimnisvoll, abenteuerlich und wunderschön. Auf unserer Tour durch den Regenwald entdeckten wir Quetzale, Skorpione, eine Tarantel, Blattschneiderameisen und ein Faultier mit Baby.

Costa Ricas Nebelwald Monteverde: TOP 5 Highlights & mehr

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Am Anfang hat uns der Ruf der Straßen Costa Ricas etwas eingeschüchtert, aber das war schnell vergessen. Unser Auto hat uns zuverlässig an jedes Ziel gebracht und lateinamerikanische Musik voll aufzudrehen, während wir unter Palmen Küstenstraßen entlangfuhren, gab uns außerdem ein wirkliches Gefühl von Freiheit.

Diese Tour führt Dich in  15 Tagen  per Mietwagen  durch  Costa Rica  und kann an Deine Wünsche & Vorlieben angepasst werden:

• Bei Deiner Reise mit dem Mietwagen bestimmst Du Dein Reisetempo selbst!
• Entdecke mit dem Monteverde & Manuel Antonio Nationalpark, Puerto Viejo de Limón, dem Vulkan Arenal, etc. die absoluten Highlights Costa Ricas!

Mietwagenreise: Höhepunkte Costa Ricas

Oktober-April & August

In Costa Rica wird gerne und viel gegessen. Für uns ist es auf Reisen immer etwas ganz Besonderes, die Kulinarik des anderen Landes zu entdecken und zu erfahren, welche Köstlichkeiten es zu bieten hat. Die Gerichte in Costa Rica haben uns in dieser Hinsicht definitiv nicht enttäuscht. Essen hat hier auch eine soziale Komponente: Man kommt zusammen , genießt , und unterhält sich .   

10. Morgenstund' hat Gold im Mund

Zu guter letzt einige Erlebnisse der anderen Art: In Costa Rica geht jeden Tag um 18 Uhr die Sonne unter – das ganze Jahr über. Um möglichst wenig Tageslicht zu verpassen, haben wir uns dazu durchgerungen jeden Tag früh aufzustehen . Wenn Du in Costa Rica zwischen sechs und sieben aufstehst, bedeutet das aber nicht nur, dass Du mehr Tageslicht genießen kannst. Da die Einheimischen im Allgemeinen früh aufstehen und auch die Natur mit der Sonne erwacht, passt Du Dich damit dem örtlichen Rhythmus an und kannst auch einige Abenteuer erleben, die Dir ansonsten verborgen bleiben würden.     Unsere besten Erlebnisse am frühen Morgen:  

• Bootstour im Tortuguero Nationalpark: Tiere bei ihren Morgenritualen zu beobachten und die kühleren Temperaturen zu genießen war ein echtes Highlight.
• Strandspaziergänge in Puerto Viejo de Limon: Die ersten Sonnenstrahlen am Strand zu genießen hat schon etwas für sich.
• Sport : Wenn Du in der Hitze oder bei hoher Luftfeuchtigkeit nicht sporteln kannst, aber auch auf Reisen viel Bewegung brauchst, sind die Morgenstunden genau das Richtige für Dich.

Du hast nach all diesen Erlebnissen auch Lust auf eine Reise nach Costa Rica bekommen? Uns wundert das nicht! Wenn Du bereit bist, in Dein Abenteuer zu starten, dann lass Dich noch heute von unseren lokalen Experten beraten und starte Deine individuelle Reise nach Costa Rica! 

Unsere Vorteile für Dich bei WeDesignTrips

Lokale Experten Plane Deine Reise gemeinsam mit lokalen Experten direkt vor Ort

Maßgeschneidert Bei WeDesignTrips gleicht keine Reise der anderen, denn sie wird an Deine Wünsche angepasst

Kontakt vor Ort Auch während Deiner Reise stehen Dir unsere lokalen Experten mit Rat und Tat zur Seite

Nachhaltigkeit Durch Deine Buchung über WeDesignTrips profitiert die lokale Bevölkerung in Costa Rica

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If we only had 2 weeks: Costa Rica itinerary

Sometimes, I use affiliate/sponsored links with my recommendations, which if bought through might earn me a few pennies at absolutely no extra cost to you . This helps with the cost of keeping this site alive so I can continue to guide you on your travels. Please remember that I would never ever ever recommend anything I don’t or wouldn’t use myself. Big thanks to each and every one of you who have trusted my recommendations so far! Lozzy x

I kind of see Costa Rica as Latin America for beginners, because the country’s tourism industry is so hot that they’ve adapted to the tastes and needs of the average American traveller. For this reason, 2 weeks in Costa Rica is one of the best options for your first time in Latin America if you don’t speak Spanish . It’s also a fantastic country to travel with your family, as there are adventures to be had for all ages.

Like all my 14-day trip plans, this 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary has been crafted with backpackers and glampackers in mind, so will be a bit of a whirlwind if you’re used to 14-day all-inclusive-hotel-style holidays. Perhaps take out one of the destinations to give yourself a little more time to enjoy the journey if this is an issue.

After reading this 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary, you may also want to have a skim of:

• 16 breath-taking famous landmarks in Costa Rica to visit
• 12 must-knows before travelling to Costa Rica
• Chicken buses in Central America: A survival guide

I assume you’ll be flying in to start your 2 weeks in Costa Rica in the capital city, San José. There isn’t a huge amount for tourists to do in the city, and it’s not the most safe corner of the universe, so I’m suggesting you get a bus straight down to the Caribbean coast if your flight times allow it.

You may have to stay one night in San Jose if you land in the late afternoon or beyond. If this happens, Costa Rica Backpackers Hostel is the most popular spot to stay for budget travellers, and those wanting more luxury will enjoy the gorgeous Gran Hotel by Hilton . Here’s a guide to getting the airport bus to downtown San José .

This part of the world is not really the place for night buses, and luckily none of the legs in the journey of this Costa Rica itinerary are long enough to warrant travelling through the night anyway. However, it will mean a number of travel days during your 2 weeks in Costa Rica.

Infrastructure is generally not great in CR, with most roads just leading to the capital rather than the neighbouring town, so even I’m impressed that the below route is avoiding having to connect buses in San José so well.

Wherever possible, I strongly recommend taking private shuttles instead of public buses, just because buses take so much longer on the bumpy roads, and usually require route connections. Shuttles are easily organised through hostels/hotels and reputable travel tour sites like Viator or Get Your Guide .

When is the best time to visit Costa Rica?

A destination that’s popular all year round, there’s no wrong time to spend 2 weeks in Costa Rica, but you might want to avoid US school holidays, including around Christmas.

Rainy season (known as green season for the lushness it blooms) is from May to November, but because of the tropical climate the downpours won’t last too long, and the temperature will not be much affected. I was in Costa Rica during the months of May, June and July, and didn’t feel restricted by the weather.

The ideal 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary:

Here’s a quick run-down of my suggested 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary with recommended places to stay; below I’ll tell you more about what to do in each of these destinations.

What not to miss in your 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary:

Days 1-4: puerto viejo.

Welcome to the Caribbean! Puerto Viejo is the perfect example of Central America’s Caribe, with lots of fascinating cultural influence from West Africa (due to slavery), Jamaica (from the diaspora) and the indigenous Bribri people who have lived in the region since before records began.

The town is relatively small but not exactly quaint, and the vibe is incredibly laidback. The bars in Puerto Viejo tend to be pokey, but that doesn’t stop locals having amazing parties – there’s always a ladies’ night somewhere!

There are beaches on both sides of the cape. To the West, the sand is white/yellow, and to the East, it’s black.

Not to be missed in the first stop of your 2 weeks in Costa Rica is a guided tour of the Jaguar Rescue Centre (which doesn’t actually have any jaguars but does amazing work in researching and rehabilitating monkeys, sloths and more).

You should also spend a day renting bicycles to tinker down to the many beaches along the coastline – Punta Uva and Playa de Cocles are some of the best beaches in the area. Snorkelling in Cahuita is great for people who love a good reef.

Day 5-7: Tortuguero

Wildlife-lovers are going to absolutely adore this stop on my 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary. Tortuguero is famous for its popularity with several species of turtle, who come here between the months of July to October to lay their eggs in the sand (plus some rarer nesting from loggerheads in February-April).

Though the beaches are excellent during the day, expect to be more or less nocturnal if you want to experience watching turtle nesting (please go with an official tour to ensure you’re observing in a safe way).

If you’re interested in bird-watching, Tortuguero is a great spot to head to. You can see the 300+ species of birds here via kayak tours down the river or hiking through the national park.

You can also spot poisonous frogs, tarantulas and more by going on night walks through the rainforest .

Days 8-10: La Fortuna

Prepare to be hit by lushness! The most northern destination in your 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary is centred around the active Arenal Volcano, which looms over the green countryside. There is another volcano, El Chato, nearby, but it’s dormant and therefore infinitely less exciting, but still pretty damn cool for its turquoise crater lake.

A visit to La Fortuna promises an action-packed adventure in the highlands. Here, you can hike to see breath-taking waterfalls , take an extreme double volcano trail , soak up the natural hot springs , walk the hanging bridges , zipline or sky-tram over the canopy of the rainforest or just sit back and enjoy some small town Costa Rican life.

Days 11-14: Manuel Antonio

Let’s get deep into the rainforests of Costa Rica in Manuel Antonio. This is a national park that centres around the stunning beachy landmark of Punta Catedral, a satisfyingly symmetrical peninsula with sandy beaches and palm trees on both sides.

During this final part of your 2 weeks in Costa Rica, make plans to hike into the remoteness of the national park, visit wildlife centres, seek whales & dolphin sightings from a catamaran , explore the mangroves of Isla Damas by boat , shop in the farmers’ market in Quepos on a Saturday or spend a day lounging on the various beaches.

Don’t want to spend 2 weeks in Costa Rica on your own?

I don’t blame you for not wanting to travel for 2 weeks in Costa Rica on your ones; it’s something people tend to other love or hate. Thankfully, Costa Rica is a popular place for small group tours companies, with Intrepid and G Adventures being some of the most highly regarded amongst backpackers.

What’s exciting is that G Adventures have only just launched their new wellness retreat trips, and their Central America wellness route takes mindful travellers around Costa Rica . You can expect to finish the 8 days feeling refreshed, well-nourished and at peace after their hiking excursions, healthy menus, meditation and yoga sessions with a stunning backdrop. Accommodation is included for all 7 nights. You can then decide whether you’re feeling brave enough to do the final 6 days of your 2 weeks in Costa Rica travelling solo, or keep travelling alongside some of the friends you made at the retreat.

Got 3 weeks in Costa Rica?

If you have a few more days to play with, lots of people like to spend time in Jaco, which is not far from Manuel Antonio, and is great for surfing and partying.

3 weeks in Costa Rica will also just about give you enough time to head over to the peninsula to check out some more of the country’s Pacific beaches, such as Santa Teresa (image below).

Another popular region to visit during 3 weeks in Costa Rica is Guanacaste, which is home to more incredible hot springs, waterfalls and a volcano in the peaceful Rincón de la Vieja national park.

Not quite convinced on a Costa Rica itinerary?

If you’re not yet sold on a 2 weeks in Costa Rica itinerary, and want to hone in on where in Latin America to spend your 2 weeks’ holiday, you might also want to check these out before booking those flights!

• 2 weeks: Panama itinerary
• 2 weeks: Nicaragua itinerary
• 2 weeks: Belize itinerary
• 2 weeks: Guatemala itinerary
• 2 weeks: Mexico itinerary (Yucatán Peninsula)
• 2-week itineraries in South America

Or if you’re reeeeally not sure, head to: Which country should you visit in Latin America?

Liked this 2 weeks in costa rica itinerary.

Save it as a pin on Pinterest to refer back to my Costa Rica itinerary again later!

Last Updated on 29 October 2022 by Cuppa to Copa Travels

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Costa Rica Road Trip: A Two Week Itinerary

Have you ever wanted to add a bit of adventure to your vacation? If your answer is yes you should really consider planning a Costa Rica road trip.

 I know those all-inclusive vacations are easy to book and relatively hassle-free, but you don’t get to truly experience a destination by staying in one.

By renting a vehicle you would also have the opportunity to see Costa Rica at your own pace and get off the beaten path.

I traveled to Costa Rica in January 2020. 

Below are the details on how to plan your trip to Costa Rica. To skip and go directly to the itinerary (and pictures) click here.

When to visit costa rica.

Costa Rica has two seasons, the dry season (January – April), and the rainy season (April – December). I traveled to Costa Rica in January. However, with better weather comes more crowds. For reference, I started booking accommodations, flights, and vehicle rentals in April.

One of the reasons I started booking everything early is because I was travelling with six of my friends. This required multiple vehicle rentals, accommodation planning (their are a limited amount of rentals that take 7 people), and coordination with everyone.

Your costa rica car rental.

Having a reliable vehicle will be key for your Costa Rica road trip. After much research I went with Adobe Rent A Car . Adobe is a Costa Rican rental company that is well-reviewed, provides a high level of customer service, and offers rentals that are less than 24 months old.

 If you plan on going January – April I recommend booking your vehicle early.

Vehicle Rental Insurance

When I was planning this trip I found that a lot of people thought they had been scammed when renting a car in Costa Rica. While I am sure that may happen, a lot of the time it was due to the traveler having to purchase rental insurance.

In Costa Rica, it is mandatory to purchase third party liability insurance from the car rental company. There is no getting around this. However, you may be able to use your credit card for LDW insurance. LDW is insurance that covers damages to the rental vehicle. 

Credit Card (CC) Auto Insurance

If you do plan to use your credit card for this it is important to understand what is covered and what is not. Not all credit cards offer vehicle insurance, and they each have different rules, and amounts that are covered. 

It is really important to read the fine print on your credit card before using it as a form of insurance. You will also need a document from the cc company stating that you are covered in Costa Rica.

For example know: who is allowed to drive the vehicle, how much will your credit card cover in case of an accident, does it apply to rentals in Costa Rica. 

 A lso, some cc insurance might cover the damages to the vehicle, but not the time it takes to get fixed. In this instance you might have to pay the daily rate of the vehicle, to the car rental company for as long as it takes to get fixed). Most also require that the entire rental is paid with your cc.

Basically, if you plan to go with your cc insurance know all of the fine print. Adobe also recommends sending them the document from the cc company beforehand to ensure that they will cover the LDW.

What I went with...

The vehicles we rented were two 4X4 SUV. For insurance, I went with Adobe’s SPP Insurance. This is their extended protection plan. It is a lot more expensive, however, it offers a $0 detectable. Liability coverage goes from 100 000 to 4 million, and damages to the third party vehicle are $0. Now there are exclusions to this, so again it is important to read the fine print.

I know some people out there never buy insurance, however, this is not the time to risk it. Make sure you are covered.

Things to do in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known for three main things: Sustainability, nature, and adventure. When researching activities you are going to find that you have a lot of choices. 

For example, ziplining is on the top of a lot of people’s list to do in Costa Rica. But where do you do it? There are two companies in the Arenal area, and three in the Monteverde (Cloud Rainforest area). Which is the best? The same can be said for a lot of activities such as touring the hanging bridges, as well as coffee and nature tours. I’ll go over the ones we ultimately chose and why.

Tip: Do not pre book and activities on a driving day. Costa Rica is notorious for road delays, and you do not want to miss anything because you were stuck in traffic.

Where to stay in costa rica.

Whenever I travel I love staying at unique accommodations. Because we had our own vehicle we were able to stay at some pretty unique homes.

I will cover what we chose to stay with at each location. Some were unique and others were more convenient.

One of the most important things you should look for when booking your accommodations, is weather they have parking, and if it is free. Because we had two vehicles it was important we booked somewhere that had parking.

My costa rica road trip itinerary.

Day 1 - 3: Arrive in Liberia, Costa Rica (Drive to La Fortuna)

We arrived in Liberia, Costa Rica at 7 AM on our red-eye flight from Calgary, Alberta. Set aside your first day to drive to La Fortuna, Costa Rica.

It just so happened that on the way to La Fortuna we were stuck in traffic for two hours, so expect traffic delays.

• Adobe Rent A Car offers free airport transfers from the Liberia Airport to their rental location. This must be set up before your arrival.

Where to Stay in La Fortuna, Costa Rica

We found an apartment on Air BNB just outside the town centre of La Fortuna. Finding accommodations when traveling in larger groups can be challenging. Fortunately, La Fortuna has a variety of options. The apartment we stayed in had multiple rentals available on Air BNB. 

Find Adventure around La Fortuna, Costa Rica

La Fortuna is small a tourist town in central Costa Rica that is very close to Arenal Volcano. It is also a hotspot for adventure activities.  If you are adrenaline junky then this place is for you.

Things to do in La Fortuna and Area

Go hiking at Tenorio Volcano National Park to see the Rio Celeste Waterfall

This is when having your own vehicle becomes invaluable. Tenorio Volcano National Park is home to the Rio Celeste waterfall and river. It stands out from others with its unique cool-aid blue waters. How blue it depends on how much it rains before you go. When we went the waters weren’t super blue as it had just rained.  

Due to this unique feature, it is a tourist hot spot and can get quite crowded. By having our own vehicle we beat the tour buses and had the place mostly to ourselves for the first hour or so.

Tip #1 The trails were muddy when we went so be prepared for that.

Tip #2 Go early in the morning to beat the crowds.

Hours: Entry 8 AM – 2 PM

Cost: $12 USD per person

Waterfall Repelling with Pure Trek Costa Rica

This was one of my bucket list items for things to do in Costa Rica. Canyoning down a waterfall. It was thrilling, and one of the classic things that you can do in Costa Rica. If you are an adrenalin addict like me then you won’t want to miss this. 

Tip: Bring water shoes with you.

Cost: $105 USD per person for the group experience, or $130 USD for the private experience. I have no idea how busy they are currently but when we went it was with a large group and you did have to wait for a while. If I were to go again I would pay for the private experience. It also comes with a meal.

See Sloths at Bogarin Trail

Bogarin Trail is located on the edge of La Fortuna. This made it super convenient for us to go to as we walked there from our rental. 

We even had a chance to speak with the owner who is very passionate about the land and gave us insight into the history of the property. I was able to see sloths from a distance, they can be pretty hard to spot as they are high in the treetops.

Tip #1 Hire a guide. We didn’t hire a guide, but there was one in front of us with another group, which is the only reason we spotted any sloths.

Some of the guides have telescopes that you can use to see sloths, and it seemed like those people had a better experience. (I still had a great experience, I just felt like since we were basically using a guide maybe we should have paid them).

Tip #2 Wear shoes, pants, and have OFF with you.

Tip #3 Look down. It was here we first spotted leaf cutter ants.

Cost : 5000 Colones

Relax at Tabacon Hot Springs

This was one of my favorite mornings in the La Fortuna area. Tabacon is one of many hot springs in the area, however, this one should be at the top of your list. 

Tabacon is unique in that the water is naturally flowing, and is heated by Arenal Volcano’s magma that flows below the springs. Some of the others in the area are either reheated, or the water is pumped into the springs. 

When To Go 

My friends and I went with the morning pass entrance with lunch. When I was reading reviews about the night pass a lot of people were saying that you could not really see the foliage.

Tip #1 Get the Pina Colada. It is the best I have ever had, although it is costly at $20 USD.

Tip #2 Bring water shoes

Cost: $77 USD per person in peak season

Note: If you want to save money there are natural hot springs in the area that are free. I personally didn’t go, but I thought it was worth mentioning. 

Day 4: Spend the night near the Arenal Volcano

Where to Stay

When looking for places to stay in the La Fortuna/ Arenal area I kept on glancing back to the Arenal Observatory.

This place is the closest you can stay to the volcano and is beautiful. But I didn’t have the budget to stay here the entire time, because of this we opted in for a one night stay.

RELATED ARTICLE: To learn more about my stay at the Arenal Observatory Lodge please click the link below.

Volcano Views at the Arenal Observatory Lodge

Things to do near the arenal volcano.

There are two parks you can go to see the volcano and hike some trails. The first is Arenal Volcano National Park, and the second is Arenal 1968. 

Unfortunately, I went to neither. It is the only thing that I missed out on doing. If I did have the chance to go again I would choose Arenal 1968. From everything, I read you have better views of the volcano. 

Day 5 - 7: Experience the Cloud Forest

Where to Stay in Santa Elena, Costa Rica

The main area to stay in to see the cloud forests in Monteverde, however, we chose to stay near Santa Elena.

Santa Elena is located 30 minutes from Monteverde and is less busy. While Monteverde has the Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, Santa Elena has the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve.

 In general, this area of the country, much like the Arenal area, is a hub for adventure. The difference is that instead of a rain forest, you have a cloud forest, and are a lot higher in elevation.

We stayed in this amazing villa 20 minutes outside of Santa Elena. Not only was it large enough to fit our entire group, but it was also located on a coffee farm. To learn more about our stay, check out the link below.

The Best Place to Stay in Santa Elena, Costa Rica

Things to do in santa elena, costa rica.

Go Ziplining and Walk the Hanging Bridges at Selvatura Adventure Park

After seeing all the different companies that provide hanging bridge and zipline tours I have to say that I felt a bit overwhelmed.

Ultimately we settled on Selvatura Adventure Park. If you have a dream of ziplining in the cloud rainforest, then this is your only choice. Selvatura is the only company that is located in the cloud forest.

Tip #1 If there are people that would rather not go zip-lining, there are other things they can do at this park, such as the hummingbird exhibit, and butterfly gardens.

Tip #2 You do have the option to add on a superman zip. I did do this but wish I hadn’t. This option is available on their longest zip, and it was sorta hard to take in the view going down this way.

Cost: $89 USD for the canopy tour, and treetop walk (not guided). Also known as the Gold Pack.

Learn How Coffee, Chocolate, and Sugar is made at Don Juan Tours

Don Juan Tours offers an immersive experience where you learn how coffee, chocolate, and sugar cane are processed. If you are a coffee lover then you should really take part in this tour.

This region of Costa Rica is where all Costa Rica’s coffee is produced, this is because the region is so high in elevation. 

You also will also be able to sample everything from the coffee that is brewed, to a chocolate drink, that combines the ground cacao beans and sugar cane juice that you will produce on the tour.

At the end of the tour, you also can help yourself to a cup of their coffee.

Tip #1 La Fortuna offers a Don Juan Chocolate Tour. While you will learn about the chocolate process on this tour, the Monteverde region does not grow chocolate. If you want a more detailed experience of how chocolate is produced, Don Juan offers chocolate tours in La Fortuna.

Cost: $32.90 USD per person

Hit the Trails at Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve

The Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve is a must-do on your Costa Rica road trip. It is less touristy than the nearby Monteverde Cloud Forest, which is one of the most visited in the world. 

I can’t compare the two as I only went to Santa Elena, but I can confirm there was almost no one on the trails.

We arrived around 2:30 PM, and because we had our own vehicle we didn’t have to rush back to catch a bus at closing time. 

I believe you can stay an hour after close if you have your own vehicle.

Cost: $16 USD per person.

Day 8 - 10: Relax in Puerto Carillo

Puerto Carrillo is a very small beach town 30 minutes south of Samara and is home to Playa Carillo one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. 

Where to Stay in Puerto Carillo

One of the reasons we stayed just outside this tiny beach town was because we found a tree house to stay in! It was super unique, although we probably didn’t need to spend three nights there.

Want to learn more about my Costa Rica tree house stay? Check out the article below.

My costa rica tree house experience, things to do in puerto carillo.

See one of Costa Rica's Best Beaches - Playa Carillo

Now I really only went to two beaches during my time in Costa Rica, but from everything I read Playa Carillo is truly one of the nicest in the country. It is considered a locals beach, but that doesn’t mean it’s not busy. In the evenings the parking lot seemed to fill up, so get there early. 

This is another advantage of having your own vehicle. Samara is a 10-minute drive from Playa Carillo. 

I wouldn’t recommend walking in between these two towns as there is not a sidewalk and the road is quite busy.

There are no official amenities on the beach, but you will find people selling different beverages from stands on wheels, such as coconuts. 

Visit the Macaw Recovery Network

While not located in Puerto Carillo, this Macaw Reserve is still worth a visit.

The reserve is located 40 minutes – 1 hour from Puerto Carillo, nearby Punta Islita. I would plan for more time than what your GPS says, the roads to get there were pretty bump. 

I was super impressed with this place. All proceeds you pay for your admission go towards helping save this endangered species. The interpreter was very knowledgeable about their program. 

You will spend the first half of your time here learning about the reserve, and why they are needed. The second half is spent observing the macaws from a distance.

At the end of your visit, you will have time to purchase souvenirs in their shop. Some are made from the locals in Punta Islita. Overall the tour wasn’t overly long, maybe 1 – 2 hours. We booked this tour on Airbnb experiences.

Tips for your Visit

Tip 1 : If you are a photographer bring a zoom lens. The birds are quite far away from a camera phone to get a clear crisp photo.

Tip 2 : Book in advance! They only allow a limited amount of people for every time slot. The date we originally going to go was booked, fortunately, we were in the area for another 4 days, and were able to book this tour at the end of our stay.

T ip 3 : If you are looking for locally made souvenirs I would wait until you go here. I wish I would have waited, but my budget was maxed out by this point. Items change all the time but they had these really cool wooden bird paintings that I would have loved.

Cost: $22 USD per person.

Day 11 - 13: Eat and Shop in Samara, Costa Rica

Samara is a small beach town in the Guanacaste region of Costa Rica. While not as touristy as somewhere like Tamarindo or Playa Hermosa, it still has that kind of vibe. With tons of restaurants, breweries, and activities to eat and do.

During my stay here, my friends and I spent our time eating out, shopping, and hanging out at the beach.

Where to eat in Samara, Costa Rica

Love burger.

This is a great beachfront restaurant featuring vegan cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We went here twice during our stay and their burgers and breakfast are amazing.

Roots Bakery

We only found this place towards the end of our stay in Samara, and one of the things we regret is not going here every day. There serve a variety of coffee drinks, as well as baked goods. If you get here early enough they sometimes have previous day baked goods on sale at a good price.

The Flying Taco

The best tacos I had in Costa Rica. Go here you wont regret it. 

Where to Shop

Gypsy boutique.

If you are looking for a more authentic souvenir wait until you can go here. I bought artwork and postcards made by Holalola, which is a Costa Rican based company. Beyond that, they also carry beachwear, jewelry, and more.

Holita Gusto Store

Located inside the entrance of the Gusto Beach Restaurant, this boutique shop has an assortment of beachwear and is where I purchased mine.

Please note that this store is a little pricey, and if you are on a budget there a lot of other stores that also sell bathing suits.

Day 14: Stay in Liberia, Costa Rica

While we could have left from Samara on day 15, we opted to stay in Liberia as we had an eight AM flight to catch in the morning. 

After arriving in Liberia we dropped off our vehicle rentals at Adobe Rent a Car. From there Adobe provided us with a complimentary shuttle to the Hilton Garden Inn Liberia Airport.

Adobe offers complimentary shuttles to and from the airport because this hotel is very close to the airport, this wasn’t a problem.

Stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Liberia Airport

We stayed at the Hilton for convenience. They are right next to the airport and provide a complimentary shuttle to the airport in the morning. 

What to do in Liberia, Costa Rica

Numu beer garden.

Numu is within walking distance from the Hilton Garden Inn and is located in an industrial neighborhood. I personally don’t drink beer, but my friends that do say it was good.

Inside it is actually a pretty cool space. There are two levels both with a seating area. If you move to the top level you can see their brewing process.

Resources for Planning your Costa Rica Road Trp

My Tan Feet

My Tan Feet is a Costa Rican Travel blog that offers a ton of information on traveling Costa Rica and is the only resource you need. 

If you want more information about renting a vehicle in Costa Rica, I suggest checking out their blog . I even used their discount code for my Adobe car rental. It allowed me to have two free drivers, instead of one, and a bunch of extras. Just click the link you won’t regret it.

Do you article about my Costa Rica road trip? If so please share 🙂

• January 20, 2021
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My name is Felicia, and I love planning my next adventure. Whether that be hiking into the mountains, or travelling abroad, I love discovering new places.

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