ByCosta Rica may be small in size, but it’s full of amazing places that will make you fall in love. With lush rainforests, tall volcanoes, stunning beaches, and diverse wildlife, there’s something for everyone. Whether you enjoy nature, adventure, or simply relaxing, Costa Rica has it all.
Planning a costa rica in 10 days itineraries can be tricky because there’s so much to see. This guide takes you through the best spots in the country, from volcanoes to beaches, cloud forests to waterfalls.
This Costa Rica Itinerary 10 Days allows you to experience beautiful landscapes and fun activities. Whether you’re looking for exciting adventures or peaceful moments, this itinerary includes everything you need to ensure a truly memorable trip to Costa Rica.
Related: The Complete Costa Rica Packing List
Ready to hit the road? Here’s my ultimate 10-day Costa Rica itinerary!
How to reach Costa Rica
Fly into San Jose
Costa Rica has two main international airports: San José (Juan Santamaría International) and Liberia (Daniel Oduber Quirós International). San José is the Best airport to fly into in Costa Rica for this 10-day itinerary as it’s centrally located, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the country. If you plan to visit the Guanacaste region, known for luxury resorts and beaches, Liberia is more convenient.
For this trip, I will be guide about San José, which is easily accessible and central for traveling to various destinations.
Getting Around: Transportation in Costa Rica
Car Rental
Renting a car is the best option for flexibility and ease, especially if you want to explore Costa Rica at your own pace. Public buses are available, but they can be unreliable, slow, and more expensive when factoring in taxi costs or delays. Costa Rica’s attractions are spread out, and many of them are accessible only by car.
For a hassle-free car rental experience, I recommend booking with local companies like Alamo Car Rental Company. This company offers excellent customer service and reasonable prices with no hidden fees. Alternatively, use comparison sites like Car Rentals Costa Rica & USA to find the best deals across different companies.
Driving in Costa Rica
Note that road conditions and traffic can affect travel time. Google Maps or Waze estimates may be shorter than the actual time needed, so plan to add extra time to your journey.
Public Transportation
Although buses are available throughout the country, they are not always the most cost-effective or convenient choice. You may end up spending more on buses and taxis than if you just rented a car. However, if you’re comfortable navigating the schedules for costa rica 10 day itinerary, it’s an option for budget travelers.
Traveling with a Tour Group
If you prefer not to drive or manage public transportation, a tour group could be the solution. Companies like G Adventures offer group trips to Costa Rica, covering all the major destinations on this itinerary. Joining a group is a stress-free way to plan 10 day costa rica itinerary, especially if you prefer having everything organized for you.
Related: Best Costa Rica Celebrations You Don’t Want to Miss
La Fortuna: DAYS 1-3
Begin your Costa Rican trip in La Fortuna, the main entry point to Arenal National Park. Known for its stunning volcano views, thick rainforests, and rich wildlife, La Fortuna offers something for everyone. You can enjoy scenic hikes, exciting outdoor activities, and moments of peace at the local hot springs. It’s a great place to experience nature’s beauty in different ways.
Best Hotels and Resorts in La Fortuna
Nayara Tented Camp
This luxury resort is set in the jungle, offering a perfect escape for nature lovers. The accommodations combine comfort and adventure, with private terraces and plunge pools.
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Surrounded by 900 acres of tropical rainforest, this resort provides a tranquil hideaway. Guests can indulge in delicious local cuisine while enjoying the serenity of the natural landscape.
The Springs Resort & Spa
For a mix of adventure and relaxation, this resort offers stunning views of Arenal Volcano. The 165-acre property features natural hot springs, waterfalls, and an adventure center, ensuring you stay entertained while relaxing in nature.
Amor Arenal
A rustic yet luxurious resort designed for couples, Amor Arenal allows guests to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding tropical forest from private cabins or heated whirlpools. The property also offers daily yoga and meditation on its peaceful grounds.
Best Things to Do in La Fortuna
- La Fortuna Waterfall
Hike down 500 steps to reach the base of the 246-foot waterfall. The emerald pools below are perfect for a refreshing swim, or you can relax by the riverbank for a quieter experience. - Arenal Volcano Trails
Explore the trails surrounding Arenal Volcano, ideal for hiking, biking, or horseback riding. The 1968 trail offers stunning views of the volcano and lava fields. - Sky Adventures Arenal Park
For an adrenaline-packed day, try zip-lining or walking the hanging bridges at Sky Adventures Arenal Park, known for its breathtaking views. - Wildlife Tour
Join a guided tour through the jungle to spot exotic wildlife. Visit EcoCentro Danaus for a close look at tropical birds and frogs. - Coffee & Chocolate Farm Tour
Visit North Fields plantation to see the process behind Costa Rican cacao and coffee. Enjoy tastings of organic chocolate and locally brewed coffee.
Monteverde: DAYS 4-6
Monteverde, located about 2.5 hours from La Fortuna, is famous for its cloud forests and excellent birdwatching opportunities. These forests are cooler than rainforests, situated at higher altitudes, and depend on mist and cloud cover. They’re home to unique wildlife and rare plants. Costa Rica hosts most of the world’s cloud forests, and walking through one feels magical, with misty surroundings and rich biodiversity. While the roads to Monteverde can be rough, a 4×4 is recommended, especially during the rainy season, for comfort and safety.
Best Hotels and Resorts in Monteverde
El Silencio Hotel
A luxurious retreat in Monteverde, featuring spacious villas with private jacuzzis, exceptional dining options, and a relaxing spa and yoga experience amidst the cloud forest.
Hotel Belmar
This eco-friendly hotel offers elegant rooms, breathtaking views of the forest, and a tranquil atmosphere for a serene getaway in Monteverde.
Cloud Forest Lodge Monteverde
Nestled in the forest, this peaceful lodge offers comfortable rooms and guided nature walks for a truly immersive experience in nature.
Cala Lodge
A boutique hotel with rustic charm, comfortable accommodations, and picturesque garden views, perfect for a peaceful stay.
Apartments Monte Luna Mountain View
Affordable apartments with stunning mountain views, offering a comfortable and convenient stay.
The Green Tree Lodge
Stay in cozy treehouse-style rooms with a rustic feel and stunning mountain views, ideal for nature lovers.
Best Things to Do in Monteverde
- Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. This 765-acre area is a sanctuary of biodiversity, featuring well-maintained trails suited to various fitness levels. It offers the chance to immerse yourself in dense cloud forests, where mist and moisture enhance the magic of the environment. It’s a prime spot for spotting rare wildlife, including quetzals, as well as offering views of lush trees, plants, and unique ecosystems. - Curi-Cancha Reserve
Though not a cloud forest, the Curi-Cancha Reserve is an excellent location for wildlife lovers. It’s a quieter, lesser-known reserve where you’ll find a variety of birds, including rarer species. Visitors frequently spot families of pizotes and monkeys, with the chance of seeing spider monkeys—a rare sight elsewhere in Costa Rica. It’s a great spot to enjoy a peaceful walk through the forest while observing the abundant wildlife. - Ziplining
Monteverde is renowned for its ziplining adventures. The area’s high, mountainous terrain offers exhilarating ziplines that provide sweeping panoramic views of the lush forests below. With some ziplines stretching several kilometers, you can expect adrenaline-pumping speeds and the sensation of soaring high above the canopy. If you’re looking for a thrill, be sure to visit 100% Aventura, home to the longest zipline in Costa Rica. - Night Tours
Costa Rica’s biodiversity comes to life at night. Guided tours in Monteverde allow you to discover nocturnal creatures that remain hidden during the day. On these tours, you may encounter frogs, tarantulas, porcupines, and even sloths. With a knowledgeable guide, you can explore the quiet forest paths, discovering its secrets after dark. It’s an experience that shows another side of the rainforest’s ecosystem. - Guided Birdwatching
Monteverde is one of the best places for birdwatching in the world. It’s home to hundreds of species, with the chance of spotting rare birds like the quetzal. Although some sightings can occur by chance, hiring a guide dramatically increases your chances of seeing rare species. Guides know where to look and can identify birds that might be missed by the untrained eye, giving you a deeper understanding of the region’s avian life.
Manuel Antonio: Day 6-10
Manuel Antonio, located on Costa Rica’s Central Coast, is famous for its stunning beaches and wide range of activities, making it a must-include stop in this costa rica itinerary 10 days. Whether you prefer relaxing on the sand or exploring nature through rainforest hikes, canyoning, and ziplining, there’s something for everyone. The area offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with luxury resorts and wildlife all around.
Best Hotels and Resorts in Manuel Antonio
This adults-only boutique hotel offers a luxurious stay with spacious suites surrounded by nature. It features a private reserve and exceptional service, perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation in a high-end environment.
A spacious resort situated in tropical gardens, offering an array of amenities including multiple pools, a full-service spa, and lush surroundings. Ideal for both adventure and unwinding.
This unique stay, including a converted airplane room, this hotel is located near Manuel Antonio National Park, offering easy access to nature with a touch of quirkiness.
An upscale resort with exclusive villas offering stunning Pacific Ocean views. Its peaceful and serene atmosphere is perfect for those seeking luxury with a quiet retreat.
A tranquil, adults-only hotel with cozy villas. Set in a peaceful area, it provides easy access to nearby attractions, making it a great option for a calm, intimate getaway.
Best Things to Do in Manuel Antonio
- Manuel Antonio National Park
Known for abundant wildlife and stunning beaches, this park offers easy access and quick exploration. Relax on Manuel Antonio Beach, one of Costa Rica’s best, while enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. - Canyoning in Manuel Antonio
Experience adventure with waterfall rappelling, ziplining, and treetop rappels. If you’re up for a thrilling experience, this guided tour will immerse you in nature and adrenaline. - Beach Hopping
Explore the area’s beautiful beaches like Manuel Antonio Beach, Espadilla Beach, and Biesanz Beach. Some beaches offer calmer waters for families, while others are great for surfing. - Surf Lessons at Playa Espadilla
Take advantage of beginner-friendly waves at Playa Espadilla, offering a great place for surfing lessons with local instructors.
Conclusion
This costa rica itinerary 10 days offers a fantastic blend of adventure, nature, and relaxation, making it an ideal choice for travelers, especially those flying from the US. With so much to explore, from rainforests to beaches, it ensures a diverse and fulfilling experience in a short amount of time. My advice is to focus on the activities you most enjoy and avoid overpacking your itinerary. There’s always the chance to return for what you missed!
Be sure to research the time of year you’re visiting—your experience will vary between the rainy and dry seasons. Planning ahead will help you make the most of your trip.
If you’re planning your next adventure after Costa Rica, consider Downtown Cancun. It’s a lively spot with great shopping, dining, and culture, offering a fun contrast to Costa Rica’s natural beauty. It’s the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a city experience before heading back home.
