Destinations 
Exuberant Adventure: 10 Days of Sport and Nature in Costa Rica
From lush jungle to towering volcanoes, an exciting journey awaits!
Have you ever dreamed of running with monkeys or kayaking with crocodiles as neighbors? Then welcome to Costa Rica! This small Central American country, despite its modest size, offers an abundance of adventures for brave sports and nature enthusiasts. No room here for lounging on the beach (unless you plan on doing push-ups in the scorching sand). Costa Rica is a natural arena where your cardio is tested by towering volcanoes, tropical forests teeming with life, and raging rivers ready to welcome you for rafting descents. 🏞️
For ten days, you will be able to immerse yourself in this green paradise, where it is sometimes said that toucans cheer you on as you pass by. From San José, the vibrant capital, to elegant Arenal, then to the mystical mists of Monteverde and finally to the coastal splendor of Manuel Antonio, prepare to catch your breath, or lose it completely in the face of so much beauty. And who knows, maybe you'll return an expert in howler monkey calls (an essential skill for your next parties with friends). Ready to put on your hiking boots and swimsuit?
Top 10 Activities
1. Hike on Arenal Volcano
Challenge the spectacular Arenal Volcano with an intense hike. Prepare to get hot (and not just because of the lava).
2. Ziplining in Monteverde
Fly over the cloud forest on a zipline. Promise, you won't be the first to scream.
3. Rafting on the Rio Pacuare
Tackle the rapids of the famous rio Pacuare and test your ability not to fall off the raft.
4. Surfing at Playa Jacó
Catch the wave at Playa Jacó, ideal for beginners and expert surfers.
5. Kayaking in the Mangroves of Damas
Paddle through mysterious mangroves and watch the wildlife by your side.
6. Diving at Isla del Caño
Explore underwater life and its secrets at Isla del Caño.
7. Hiking in Cahuita
Discover the exuberant flora and fauna in Cahuita National Park during an unforgettable hike.
8. Climbing at Cerro Chirripó
Take on the ultimate challenge by climbing Costa Rica's highest peak.
9. Mountain Biking in Orosi Valley
Ride through the picturesque landscapes of the orosi Valley.
10. Turtle Watching in Tortuguero
Witness the turtles nesting in the fascinating Tortuguero National Park.
Urban Exploration and Sports Activities in San José (Day 1 to Day 2)
Welcome to San José , the beating heart of Costa Rica and the ideal starting point for your sporting itinerary. Put on your sports shoes, because San José is much more than just a transit city. It offers unique opportunities to anchor your journey in a blend of cultural and sports experiences. Start your journey with a guided bike tour, winding through charming cobblestone streets, and uncover the hidden secrets of the capital. Take the time to stop and savor a hearty casado, a traditional Costa Rican dish, in a small local soda. And why not run in the Parque Metropolitano La Sabana, nicknamed the "lung of San José," for a morning jog?
San José may not be a lush jungle, but it prepares your adventurous spirit for what's to come in the days ahead. From vibrant street art to bustling markets, it's an effervescent taste of Costa Rican culture, while allowing you to recharge your energy for the sporting challenges that await beyond the urban confines.
Activities
San José Bike Tour
Description : Embark on your bike for an urban adventure that combines sport and cultural exploration. Pedal along iconic avenues and lesser-known spots while discovering the fascinating history of San José narrated by your local guide. Don't forget to wave at the pelicans as you cross the Boulevard de la Cultura bridge!
Price : 20 €
Address : Rue de la Libertad, San José
Hiking at Cerro de la Muerte
Description : Here's a hike that doesn't bear its name for nothing! Tackle the legendary Cerro de la Muerte, a trail renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and... its climbs that will make you earn the summit. At the top , a breathtaking view of the verdant valleys and perhaps a cloud or two at your feet.
price : free
Address : Route Panaméricaine Sud, near San José
Salsa Dance Class
Description : Put your dancing skills to the test with a vibrant salsa class. There's nothing like a dance lesson to get your heart rate up and add a dose of "pura vida" to your stay. An energetic and joyful way to discover Costa Rican culture and perhaps impress your friends upon your return.
Price : 15 €
Address : escuela de Baile, Avenida Central
Restaurants
La Casona del Maíz
Description : A small gastronomic gem , La Casona del maíz will amaze you with its corn-based specialties. Sip a strong costa Rican coffee while savoring a tortilla filled with exquisite local flavors. Don't be surprised if you end up licking your plate, here, the tortillas steal the show!
Price : 10-30 € per person
Address : Calle Central, San José
Restaurante Silvestre
Description : A tribute to the national flavors and culinary traditions of Costa Rica. Here , each dish is a culinary masterpiece, from local fish ceviche to desserts inspired by grandmotherly recipes. Looking for a gustatory journey? Silvestre will not disappoint you.
Price : 20-50 € per person
Address : Calle 3, Avenida 11, San José
Soda Tapia
Description : For a complete immersion in Costa Rican daily life, head to Soda Tapia for a traditional casado. Enjoy rice, beans, meat, plantains , all in a friendly atmosphere. The fast and warm service is also a delight!
Price : 5-15 € per person
Address : Avenida Central, San José
Accommodations
Hotel Grano de Oro
Description : once a Victorian mansion , Hotel Grano de Oro is now a peaceful haven in the heart of San José. Elegant rooms, lush greenery, and a terrace for sunbathing - it's here you can be royally lazy and still look good.
Price : 100-200 € per night
Address : Calle 30, San José
Selina San José
Description : Mix with style at Selina San José, where vibrant street art meets modern comfort. Whether you want to meet other travelers or relax solo, this chic place has everything you need, including a library where you can read in peace.
Price : 50-120 € per night
Address : Avenida 9, Calle 13, San José
hostel Pangea
Description : For budget travelers, Hostel Pangea is the place to be. With its friendly atmosphere and rooftop pool, it's the perfect choice to meet other explorers. Bonus: the rooftop bar offers a stunning view of the city skyline!
Price : 20-50 € per night
Address : Avenida Sexta, San José
San José has much to offer, whether you're an adrenaline junkie or prefer to explore the local culture at your own pace. Once you've gotten the city's agile pulse, it will be time to embark on even greater adventures in Costa Rica's breathtaking nature. 🌿🚴♂️
Adventures in the Heart of Nature at Arenal/La Fortuna (Day 3 to Day 4)
Ready to feel the roar of volcanoes and the call of the rainforest? Head to Arenal and La Fortuna! Here, excitement knows no limits, and nature is your playground. surrounded by fascinating volcanic landscapes, you'll engage in thrilling activities. Fortunely , Arenal is not just a volcano; it's a magnet for adrenaline junkies and fairy-tale landscapes. Imagine yourself suspended in the air , sliding along a zipline, the wind roaring in your ears as you soar over a breathtaking canopy. You can also trek verdant paths , with an eye on the impressive cone of Arenal Volcano, which, though dormant, always inspires respectful humility. It is even said that every step on this fertile land connects you a little more to the indomitable spirit of Costa Rica.
After a full day, plunge into natural hot springs, a little luxury that the earth offers you with open arms. Let the water soothe every tired muscle while enjoying the lush backdrop. Whether camped at the volcano's foot or relaxing near a waterfall, Arenal and La Fortuna promise you a total immersion in the pure and wild energy of nature. 🌋🌿
Activities
Ziplining through the Canopy
Description : Enjoy the adrenaline rush while zipping through the rainforest canopy. Secure your helmet tightly, for you'll fly over landscapes only birds usually see! Feel your heart race with each glide, and don't forget to scream, it helps you breathe. Between tension and wonder , this flight promises unforgettable memories.
Price : 50 €
Address : Route of Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna
hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park
Description : Trek the trails of arenal Volcano National Park where every step brings you closer to the impressive summit. Admire ancient lava flows and surround yourself with exuberant biodiversity. Keep your camera handy; capuchin monkeys are regulars here! One watchword: don't forget water, but also your smile.
Price : 15 €
Address : Arenal Volcano National Park, La Fortuna
Relaxing at Tabacón Hot Springs
Description : Dive into the therapeutic waters of Tabacón's natural hot springs. Mineral waters, heated by magma, envelop your tired body, turning aches into sweet memories. A hippic experience in the heart of the jungle where only interruptions are bird songs or leaf rustling.
price : 60 €
Address : Av Tabacón, La Fortuna
Restaurants
Restaurante Don rufino
Description : Come and discover typical Costa Rican cuisine reimagined at Don Rufino. Here, the dishes are as volcanic as the landscape, with flavors exploding in your mouth. Try the melting goat and finish with a flamed banana dessert, a local specialty that will give you fire inside!
Price : 20-50 € per person
Address : Route 702, La Fortuna
Soda Víquez
Description : For an authentic taste of Costa Rica without emptying your wallet, Soda Víquez is the perfect spot. Enjoy a hearty casado with beans and plantains like never before. Add a spoonful of local "picante" for an unexpected heat rise!
price : 5-15 € per person
Address : Avenida 331 , La Fortuna
Nene's Restaurant
Description : Discover a fusion of international and local cuisine at Nene's. Their fresh grilled fish fillet with local vegetables will delight you. Enjoy the family-friendly and amicable atmosphere that makes every meal a joy.
Price : 15-35 € per person
Address : Calle 468, La fortuna
Accommodations
Arenal Observatory Lodge
Description : Stay in an authentic volcanic observatory converted into a lodge. Wake up with a stunning view of Arenal Volcano. Here, even your morning coffee deserves an ovation! Enjoy a pool surrounded by lush jungle, and an exclusive hiking trail.
Price : 80-200 € per night
Address : Route 142, La Fortuna
Tabacón Thermal Resort & spa
Description : Absolute luxury and relaxation await you in this hotel with direct access to the famous tabacón hot springs. Imagine relaxing in a natural botanical garden, surrounded by steaming hot waterfalls. A waking dream for relaxation lovers.
Price : 200-400 € per night
Address : Av Tabacón, La Fortuna
Eco Arenal Hotel
Description : For total immersion in nature, Eco Arenal offers an ecological stay amid the greenery. With its wooden bungalows and sustainable management, you'll be in complete harmony with your surroundings. A great compromise for adventurers with a green heart.
Price : 70-150 € per night
Address : Calle 470, La Fortuna
Arenal and La Fortuna are full of charm and, above all, adventures. Whether you're seeking adrenaline or relaxation, this part of your journey surely reconnected you with the wild state and power of nature. Ready for the next stage? 🚵♀️🛶
Ecological Discoveries and Hikes in Monteverde (Day 5 to Day 6)
Perched in misty heights, Monteverde is a biodiversity haven and an invitation to exploration. This cloud forest sanctuary is a playground for nature lovers. For those with adventurous hearts and heads in the clouds, it's the perfect place to let yourself be carried away by the mystery and magic of the mountain ecosystem. Imagine walking on suspended bridges, surrounded by dense vegetation and the song of exotic birds. It is precisely in this enchanting place that you can reconnect with your wild spirit. 🌲
Monteverde invites you to slow down, take a deep breath, and immerse yourself in the exceptional natural richness that surrounds you. Each trail, each view, and each sound reminds you that you are part of a much larger web of life. Exhilarating hikes, vibrant butterfly gardens, and biological reserves await to offer you a plunge into nature in its purest form. And after a full day of discoveries, relax with a good cup of local coffee , produced on surrounding farms.
Activities
Hiking in Monteverde Reserve
Description : Trek the trails of monteverde Reserve, a place where nature unveils itself in all its splendor. Engulfed by clouds, the trees seem to rise from the mist to whisper their secrets to you. Listen to the concert of hidden frogs and, if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of the resplendent quetzal. A true fairy tale for hiking enthusiasts.
Price : 20 €
address : Main Entrance Monteverde Reserve, Monteverde
Butterfly Garden Tour
Description : Step into a colorful and aerial world by visiting Monteverde's Butterfly garden. Float amidst thousands of shimmering butterflies and learn about their life cycle. It's the perfect opportunity to test your photography skills and capture some wonder-worthy shots.
price : 15 €
Address : Calle de La Escuela, Monteverde
Suspended Bridges Excursion
Description : Cross the sky on impressive suspended bridges , offering a breathtaking view of the canopy. Each bridge is an invitation to explore and contemplate the beauty of cloud forests below. Breathe deeply and let the fresh mountain air revitalize you. A Monteverde classic for funambulists at heart.
price : 50 €
Address : Sky Adventures, Monteverde
Restaurants
The Green Restaurant
Description : A small culinary gem in the heart of Monteverde, the Green Restaurant offers tasty vegetarian dishes made from fresh local produce. Try their quinoa salad so rich that even a convinced carnivore might convert. The cuisine is as green as the surrounding scenery.
Price : 10-25 € per person
Address : Route 606 , Monteverde
Café Monteverde
Description : To enjoy a cup of coffee that warms more than the heart, head to Café Monteverde. With its homemade pastries and freshly ground coffee, it's the ideal spot for gourmet brunch lovers. Indulge in their banana cake, a delightful treat.
Price : 8-20 € per person
Address : Monteverde Main Road, Monteverde
Tramonti
description : A touch of Italy in the heart of the forest, Tramonti transports you to the Amalfi coast with its wood-fired pizzas and succulent pasta. Visit this restaurant for a romantic dinner or a casual evening with friends, and let the flavors of Italy enchant your taste buds.
Price : 15-35 € per person
Address : Route 620, Monteverde
Accommodations
hotel Belmar
Description : Nestled in the mountains, Hotel Belmar is an eco-lodge that combines luxury and sustainability. With its panoramic views, wooden rooms, and on-site ecological activities, it's a perfect place for nature lovers seeking to rejuvenate.
Price : 150-300 € per night
Address : Route 620, Monteverde
Monteverde Lodge & Gardens
Description : Surrounded by lush tropical gardens, this lodge invites you to completely disconnect from the outside world. Relax in the outdoor jacuzzi after a day of excursions. The warm service and welcoming atmosphere make you feel at home, away from home.
Price : 180-350 € per night
Address : Monteverde Way , Monteverde
Selina Monteverde
Description : young at heart and spirit, Selina Monteverde is the perfect place for modern adventurers. With its stylish rooms and lively common areas, it's an excellent choice for travelers looking to mingle while enjoying their comfort needs.
Price : 80-180 € per night
address : Calle 606, Monteverde
Monteverde will not fail to captivate your imagination and nourish your spirit with all its natural wonders. This magical place invites you to discover another side of Costa Rica, where escape dreams come alive within the cloud forest. 🌿☁️
Wild Nature and Beaches in Manuel Antonio (Day 7 to Day 9)
Manuel Antonio, a mosaic of idyllic beaches and dense jungles, welcomes you for the final chapter of your sporting journey in Costa Rica. It's the place where land and sea meet in an enchanting dance of waves and foliage. Get ready to swap your hiking boots for a swimsuit because here, the sand is your adventure ground. Enjoy the striking contrast between white sandy beaches and emerald green backcountry where biodiversity competes with ingenuity to capture your attention. 🏝️
Manuel Antonio National Park, though one of the smallest in the country, is a real concentrate of spectacular nature. Stroll among curious monkeys hanging from trees while exploring winding trails, or grab a surfboard to conquer the Pacific waves. And why not try snorkeling to uncover hidden secrets beneath the surface, where colorful fish dance around coral reefs? Manuel Antonio perfectly blends the pleasures of land and sea, making every day a new discovery.
Activities
Hiking in Manuel Antonio National Park
Description : Get lost in the tangled trails of one of the world's most beautiful national parks. Expect a close encounter with the local troublemakers: capuchin monkeys, sloths, and coatis, all ready to add a wild touch to your hike. Observing them is a spectacle in itself, so keep your eyes wide open and don't miss the natural show.
Price : 16 €
Address : Manuel Antonio National Park, Puntarenas
Surfing at Playa Espadilla
Description : Grab a board and challenge the waves of Playa Espadilla, a must-visit for surfers seeking thrills. Whether you're a novice or a tube champion, this beach offers ideal conditions for all levels. And if you fall more often than you glide, well , falling is part of the fun!
Price : 25 € (board rental included)
Address : Playa Espadilla, Manuel Antonio
Snorkeling at punta Catedral
Description : Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Punta Catedral and discover a captivating underwater world. Equipped with your mask and snorkel, explore the coral reefs and make friends with butterflyfish and other marine creatures. An aquatic adventure that awakens the curious child within you.
Price : 30 €
Address : Punta Catedral, Manuel Antonio
Restaurants
El Avión
Description : Dine aboard a former cargo plane transformed into an original restaurant , El Avión. Enjoy hearty dishes while taking in a stunning ocean view. Try their specialty, "ceviche de pescado," in this unique setting that takes you back in time.
Price : 15-40 € per person
Address : Main Road, Manuel Antonio
Café Agua Azul
Description : Overlooking the coastline, Café Agua Azul offers Latin American-inspired dishes with breathtaking views. their fish burger, a house specialty , will delight even the most gourmet palates, while the sunset makes a colorful entrance.
Price : 20-50 € per person
Address : Main Road, Manuel Antonio
La Cantina BBQ
description : For a relaxed evening, taste the grilled delights of La Cantina BBQ. Juicy meats grilled to perfection accompanied by homemade sauce, not to mention the live music shows that will liven up your evenings. A friendly experience under the tropical heat.
Price : 15-30 € per person
Address : Calle Principal, Manuel Antonio
Accommodations
Hotel Si Como No
Description : Perched on a hill, Hotel si Como No invites relaxation with its panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy the infinity pools and their famous spa to unwind after a day of exploration. A little slice of paradise to end your Costa Rican adventure in style.
Price : 250-500 € per night
Address : Jungle Road, Manuel Antonio
Hotel Costa Verde
Description : Just a step away from the beaches, Hotel Costa Verde offers suites with ocean views where it's nice to rest. Aviation enthusiasts will love their recycled airplane fuselage room, an unusual accommodation that literally leaves you on cloud nine.
Price : 150-300 € per night
Address : Coastal Road, Manuel Antonio
Makanda by the Sea
Description : Makanda by the Sea is the ultimate choice for glamorous travelers. With its private villas and infinity pool , this hotel offers an intimate and luxurious experience in the heart of nature. Perfect for a romantic getaway in symbiosis with the surrounding jungle.
Price : 300-600 € per night
Address : Rainforest Road, Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio marks an apotheosis of spectacular landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether it's to tame the Pacific waves or to get lost in the jungle, this stage will offer you eternal memories of an unforgettable trip to Costa Rica. 🌊🌴
Last Moments in San José before Return (Day 10)
Back in San José to conclude this breathtaking trip across Costa Rica, it's time to unwind while revisiting this vibrant city that welcomed you at the start of your adventure. A return to origins, with a spirit enriched by the many experiences lived between jungles, volcanoes, and beaches. Why not take advantage of this last day to discover a little more of what the capital has to offer? 💼
Take the time to wander through the artisan markets for a last souvenir shopping. these lively places are full of local products ranging from jade jewelry to delicious local chocolates, perfect for extending the taste of this trip once you're back home. And if you haven't seen the national theater yet, it's the perfect opportunity to admire this architectural masterpiece. Finally, take the chance to savor a final Costa Rican dish in a typical restaurant, raising your glass to this incredible sports and nature adventure across Costa Rica. Cheers!
Activities
Visit to the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum
Description : Dive into the past by visiting the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum where Costa Rica's history shines brightly. This museum offers an impressive collection of remarkably crafted gold pieces, silent witnesses of a bygone era. A cultural visit that gives you the opportunity to shine in society with your new historical knowledge.
Price : 11 €
Address : Calle 5 , san José
Strolling in the Central Market
Description : A true sensory immersion awaits you at the Central Market. explore the colorful stalls, smell the spices invade your nostrils and taste unforgettable local flavors. Whether for a souvenir or a snack, it is the dream place for one last authentic dive into Costa Rican culture.
Price : Free (cost of purchases vary)
Address : Avenida Central, San José
Discovering the National Theater
Description : Don't leave San José without seeing the National Theater. With its impressive architecture and sumptuous interior, it's an unmissable visit that will leave you speechless. Imagine the richness of the performances that have taken place here, perhaps even letting your mind wander to the notes of an imaginary opera.
Price : 7 €
Address : Calle 1, San José
Restaurants
Restaurant Grano de Oro
Description : This restaurant of the famous Hotel Grano de Oro offers refined cuisine blending European influences with Costa Rican touches. Don't miss their thrilling filet mignon, which is sure to conquer even the most demanding palates. A chic setting ideal for concluding your stay in style.
Price : 30-70 € per person
Address : Calle 30, Avenida 2, San José
Café Mundo
Description : For a final meal in a relaxed atmosphere, Café mundo is an excellent choice. Their dishes, ranging from pizza to tasty vegetarian options, are accompanied by a convivial ambiance. Indulge in their famous chocolate cake to end on a sweet note.
Price : 15-40 € per person
Address : Calle 15 , Avenida 9, San José
Tin Jo
Description : Love Asian cuisine? Tin Jo offers a tempting mix of Asian dishes in an elegant setting. Discover their Thai red curry that will transport you directly to Asia. An exotic culinary experience to delight your taste buds before leaving Costa Rica.
Price : 20-50 € per person
Address : Calle 11, San José
Accommodations
Hotel Presidente
Description : In the heart of San José, hotel Presidente offers modern and colorful rooms that capture the city's dynamic energy. Enjoy their rooftop garden for a stunning view of urban life. An ideal place to end your journey on a high note.
Price : 100-200 € per night
Address : Avenida Central, San José
Balmoral Hotel
Description : With its prime location, balmoral Hotel offers easy access to all of San José's attractions. Its comfortable and spacious rooms are perfect for recharging your batteries. A cocktail to savor at their lounge bar is not a bad idea to celebrate the end of a memorable trip.
Price : 90-180 € per night
Address : Avenida Central, San José
Park Inn by Radisson
Description : For those seeking a blend of modern comfort and impeccable service, Park Inn by Radisson is the ideal choice. Enjoy their pool and fitness center for one last burst of energy before catching your return flight. The hearty breakfast is a notable bonus!
Price : 120-220 € per night
Address : Calle 68, San José
San José offers you one last chance to savor the Costa Rican atmosphere before heading back to the airport. Whether strolling through its streets or savoring its culinary specialties, enjoy these last moments to take a piece of Costa Rica in your suitcase and in your heart. 🌺✈️
Practical Information
Climate: Costa Rica experiences a tropical climate with a dry season (December to April) and a rainy season (May to November). Temperatures are generally warm, but cooler in mountainous regions like Monteverde.
Transport: Public transportation can be slow but is affordable and offers a scenic way to see the country. For more flexibility, consider renting a car, especially if you plan to explore more remote regions.
When to go ?: The best time to visit is from late December to April during the dry season , although the parks are greener and less crowded during the rainy season.
Budget: Plan a daily budget variable according to your accommodation and activity preferences, ranging from 80 to 200 € per day. Take advantage of many free outdoor activities to adjust your expenses.
Practical tips:
- Remember to pack light clothes but also a sweater for the heights.
- mosquitoes can be voracious; a good repellent will be your best friend.
- Don't leave your valuables visible in your vehicle.
- Learn some simple Spanish phrases to enrich your local interactions.
- Do not drink tap water, especially outside major cities.
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These practical tips will help you prepare for your trip to Costa Rica and make the most of your adventure through this culturally rich and diverse country.
Your Costa Rican odyssey ends here, but the memories of an incredible adventure are etched in your mind. From majestic volcanoes to the soothing rhythm of the ocean, every moment was a celebration of nature and sport. Costa Rica, with its rich biodiversity and warm culture, remains ready to welcome new adventurers eager for discovery. So , until the next trip , goodbye... or rather, pura vida! 🌍✌️
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