How to spend 7 days In Costa Rica - 5 itineraries

Experience a world where nature is colored in all shades of green, sunsets light up the sky, and adventure whispers from misty mountains to sparkling shores. Welcome to Costa Rica, a realm of unbridled beauty and endless discovery. Explore five of our carefully designed, exciting Costa Rica itineraries for 7 days that will turn your trip to Costa Rica into an expedition of pure life, where every day is a new story inscribed in the tapestry of this Central American gem.

Itinerary #1: Tropical Costa Rica

On this 7-day itinerary, you'll visit volcanoes, dip in hot springs, drift lazily through the country's waterways, and search for wildlife in tropical lowland forests. Costa Rica's diverse ecosystem holds many natural treasures.

On the first day, your adventure begins with a warm welcome at San Jose's Juan Santamaria International Airport. Our representative welcomes you, tells you about Costa Rica's attractions, and familiarizes you with your itinerary.

The next day you will depart early in the morning for Tortuguero, passing through Braulio Carrillo National Park and traveling through the canals to Tortuguero National Park. Wildlife encounters await you as you travel along these lush waterways.

Day three opens with the Laguna Lodge Awakening Boat Tour. Sail through the intricate canals of Tortuguero, where the mornings are bustling with wildlife. On day four, your journey continues with a dip in the Tabacon Hot Springs.

An adrenaline-pumping canopy adventure awaits you on day five. The Canopy Titi tour will take you over zip lines and platforms, offering a breathtaking view of the wonders of the forest canopy

On day six, you'll tour Manuel Antonio National Park, a biodiversity paradise. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the park: sloths, monkeys, and exotic flora.

Finally, on the seventh day of this Costa Rica itinerary for 7 days, you will bid us farewell and return to the San Jose airport, reflecting on the wonderful experiences woven into the fabric of your Costa Rican journey. Read more.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this Costa Rica itinerary for 7 days.

Day one

• Arrival in San Jose.
• Overnight in San Jose.

Day two

• Tour of Tortuguero National Park.
• Overnight in Tortuguero.

Day three

• Laguna Lodge Awakening Boat Tour.
• Overnight in Tortuguero.

Day four

• Tabacon Springs with Dinner.
• Overnight in Arenal.

Day five

• Canopy Titi Tour.
• Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day six

• Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour.
• Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day seven

• Transfer from Manuel Antonio to San Jose Airport.

Interested? Don't miss the opportunity to book this trip now.

Itinerary #2: Beaches and Volcanoes

Head to Arenal to see volcanoes, waterfalls, and wildlife sanctuaries on our 7-day Costa Rica itinerary. Enjoy easy hikes or take part in an adrenaline-pumping river rafting adventure. Then head to Costa Rica's Central Pacific to enjoy the sand and surf surrounded by dense forests teeming with wildlife.

Your adventure begins in San José. On the second day, you'll travel to Poas Volcano National Park, where you'll explore its colossal crater and the picturesque Botos Lagoon. Next, you'll head to La Paz Waterfall Gardens.

On the third day, an exciting SKY River Drift adventure awaits you in Arenal Park. Discover the rainforest from new heights - soar on cables, take a controlled drop from a height, and ride a three-mile river on a tubing boat.

On day four, you'll change gears and head to Manuel Antonio, enjoying the natural splendor along the way. On day five, you'll travel to Manuel Antonio National Park to experience Costa Rica's diverse flora and fauna.

Kayaking and snorkeling on the ocean, a water adventure from the base at Manuel Antonio awaits on the sixth day. Paddle through islets and coves while watching seabirds in their habitat.

Return for a sumptuous dinner before day seven, when your Costa Rican odyssey concludes with a transfer to the San Jose airport. This week-long journey blends exciting activities and tranquil encounters to capture the essence of Costa Rica's diverse landscapes and wildlife. Read more.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this Costa Rica itinerary for 7 days.

Day one

• Arrival in San Jose.
• Overnight in San Jose.

Day two

• Poas Volcano and La Paz Waterfall Gardens.
• Overnight in Arenal.

Day three

• Sky River Drift in Arenal Park.
• Overnight in Arenal.

Day four

• On to Manuel Antonio.
• Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day five

• Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour.
• Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day six

• Ocean Kayaking and Snorkelling.
• Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day seven

• Transfer from Manuel Antonio to San Jose Airport.

Inspired? Don't waste any time and book this trip now.

Itinerary #3: Costa Rica’s Wild South

The Wild South is an unrivaled destination for hikers and nature lovers with a sense of adventure. Explore untraveled trails and see Corcovado, tropical rainforest, and one of the world's most important endangered wildlife sanctuaries with our 7-day itinerary through southern Costa Rica.

Starting in San José, you will travel to San Gerardo de Dota, a paradise for birdwatchers. Morning birdsong will greet you on day two as you explore the cloud forest, home to over 170 species of birds.

On day three, you'll be treated to the Birds of the Highlands and Páramo adventure in Los Quetzales National Park. Your guide will lead you through forested areas and diverse ecosystems, offering insight into the natural history of this unique area.

A kayaking excursion through the Hatillo Mangrove Forest on day four will immerse you in the rich biodiversity. Spot herons, monkeys, reptiles, and crabs among the mangroves. Day five is a hike to Corcovado National Park - you'll experience the park's rainforests and an amazing variety of wildlife.

Day six opens with a boat excursion to Caño Island for a colorful underwater adventure. Dive into the crystal waters of the Pacific Ocean, encountering colorful marine life.s

On the seventh day, the trip to Uvita will conclude with a transfer to the San Jose airport. Read more.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this Costa Rica itinerary for 7 days.

Day one

• Arrival in San Jose.
• Overnight in San Jose.

Day two

• Bird Watching Tour.
• Overnight in Savegre.

Day three

• Highland Bird and Paramo.
• Overnight in Savegre.

Day four

• Kayaking In Hatilo Mangrove Forest.
• Overnight in Uvita.

Day five

• Corcovado National Park Hike.
• Overnight in Uvita.

Day six

• Cano Island Boat Tour.
• Overnight in Uvita.

Day seven

• Transfer from Uvita to San Jose Airport.

Looking for a new experience? Book your trip now.

Itinerary #4: An Eclectic Escape in Costa Rica

On this 7-day trip, you'll immerse yourself in the heart of Costa Rica's diverse culture and breathtaking scenery. Your journey begins in San Jose, where the city's vibrant art scene and historic neighborhoods beckon.

On day two, you'll travel to the Orosi Valley, a hidden gem teeming with lush plantations and colonial architecture. Explore the enchanting ruins of Ujarrás and take a leisurely boat ride on the picturesque Cachí Lake.

On the third day, you'll head to the lush slopes of the Irazu Volcanoes National Park. See the towering Irazu Volcano, the highest active volcano in the country, and wander among the ethereal scenery of the Prusia Forest.

On day four, head to the mystical cloud forest of Monteverde. A night walk through the forest will reveal a captivating world of nocturnal fauna, from elusive owls to enchanting fireflies.

Day five is dedicated to the Arenal region, where you'll discover the legendary La Fortuna waterfall. Take a dip in the clear waters of the waterfall, surrounded by verdant landscapes.

On the sixth day, you will travel to Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific coast. Walking its trails, you will discover not only the park's famous biodiversity but also its historical hidden gems, such as ancient turtle traps from the pre-Columbian era.

The final day will end with a serene yoga session on the beach at Manuel Antonio. Commune with nature and say goodbye to Costa Rica with renewed vigor. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this Costa Rica itinerary for 7 days.

Day one

• Arrival in San Jose.
• Overnight in San Jose

Day two

• Orosi Valley and Cachi Lake.
• Overnight in Orosi.

Day three

• Irazú Volcano National Park Tour.

Day four

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Tour.
• Overnight in Monte Verde.

Day five

• Arenal Tour with Fortuna Waterfall.
• Overnight in Arenal.

Day six

• Manuel Antonio National Park.
• Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day seven

• Transfer from Manuel Antonio to San Jose Airport.

Interested? Don't miss the opportunity to book this trip now.

Itinerary #5: Costa Rica's Gastronomic and Natural Odyssey

Embark on a 7-day journey that will satisfy your taste buds and immerse you in the natural wonders of Costa Rica. Your adventure begins in San Jose, where a culinary tour will introduce you to the rich flavors of this country.

On the second day, you'll travel to the fertile lands of the Central Valley, where you'll take a hands-on cooking class to prepare dishes using local produce.

On the third day, you will travel to the biodiversity-rich Sarapiqui region. You will explore the Selva Verde Rainforest Reserve, discover hidden waterfalls, and learn about the complex ecosystems that live here.

On the fourth day, you will travel to the Turrialba region, known for its organic agriculture. You will travel to a farm where you will harvest and prepare a gourmet meal under the guidance of local chefs.

Day five is a visit to the Pacuare River, where you will embark on a thrilling whitewater rafting expedition. You will paddle through rapids surrounded by lush rainforests.

On day six, you will travel to Marino Ballena National Park on the Pacific coast. Enjoy a whale-watching excursion, meeting these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

On your final day, enjoy a picnic on the beach where you'll savor your culinary creations to the calming sound of the ocean. As you leave the Uvita region, you will take with you not only the memories of your gastronomic journey but also a deep admiration for Costa Rica's natural wonders. Book this trip.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this Costa Rica itinerary for 7 days.

Day one

• Arrival in San Jose.

Day two

• Cooking Class in Central Valley.

Day three

• Selva Verde Rainforest Reserve.

Day four

• Turrialba Region Adventure.

Day five

• Pacuare River Rafting Expedition.

Day six

• Marino Ballena National Park Tour.

Day seven

• Transfer from Uvita to San Jose Airport.

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now.

For even more inspiration, check out The Rough Guide to Costa Rica. You can also browse our customized Costa Rica itineraries or chat with our local Costa Rica experts.