10 Days in Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary for First Timer

If you’ve ever dreamed of chasing waterfalls, zip-lining through cloud forests, and watching sloths in the wild – all in one trip – then Costa Rica is calling your name. Costa Rica isn’t just a destination, it’s an experience. Think rainforests dripping with wildlife, waterfalls so blue you’ll think they’re photoshopped, and beaches that make you forget what day it is. In ten days, you can soak it all in without feeling rushed, if you know where to go. And trust me, after spending 10 days in Costa Rica, I totally get the hype.

When I mapped out our 10 day Costa Rica itinerary, I wanted to see it all — volcanoes, rainforests, beaches — without rushing from one spot to another. Planning a 10 day Costa Rica itinerary can feel overwhelming with so many incredible places to explore. After plenty of research and navigating some bumpy jungle roads, I curated this perfect Costa Rica Road trip itinerary that highlights the country’s most unforgettable spots.

In this Costa Rica travel blog, I’m sharing the exact itinerary – a road trip that starts and ends in San José and takes you through some of the country’s most unforgettable spots. This blog is packed with best places to visit in Costa Rica, driving tips, must-do activities, where to stay, and little things I wish I knew before going. Basically everything to help you plan your own Costa Rica adventure with no stress.

My husband and I spent 10 days road-tripping through Costa Rica, and this Costa Rica itinerary takes you through the highlights – from hidden waterfalls in Bajos del Toro to the famous Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna, the cloud forests of Monteverde, and the wildlife-filled beaches of Manuel Antonio.

Whether you’re visiting Costa Rica for the first time or looking to add new adventures to your itinerary, this guide has everything you need to plan an epic Costa Rica road trip.

So, let’s dive into the 10 day Costa Rica road trip itinerary!

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The Perfect 10 Day Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary

Just you know, Costa Rica is full of incredible places to explore, from the Pacific coast to the Caribbean side as well as mountainous and rainforest regions. Everyone’s travel style is different, so feel free to adjust the plan to fit what excites you the most.

Day 1 : Arrival in San José

If you’re flying into Costa Rica, you’ll most likely land at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, the capital. Before you go, check the visa requirements for your nationality to make sure you have everything you need for entry.

Depending on your arrival time, I recommend keeping this day simple i.e. focus on getting settled, adjusting to the tropical weather, and preparing for the road trip ahead. After a long flight, you’ll appreciate taking it slow rather than rushing straight into the mountains or beaches. I’ve shared more details (and tips for planning your trip) in the Costa Rica Travel Guide.

Once you’ve collected your luggage, you can either take a taxi or pre-arranged shuttle to your hotel if you’re staying in the city, or pick up your rental car right at the airport. Renting a car is the best option for this 10-day itinerary since it gives you flexibility and allows you to explore off-the-beaten-path spots like Bajos del Toro and Río Celeste. If you’re not comfortable driving, you can still do this itinerary using private shuttles and guided tours. Just know it will require more planning and flexibility.

My Costa Rica road trip began with a flight from New York City to San José, landing at Juan Santamaría International Airport. I chose Avianca Airlines, which included a technical stop in Honduras.

I landed in San José in the evening, picked up my rental car right at the airport, and headed straight to my hotel for the night. After a long travel day, I didn’t try to squeeze in sightseeing. San José was just my starting point for the road trip ahead.

If you’re arriving late like I did, I recommend booking a hotel close to the airport so you can get a good night’s rest before hitting the road in the morning. There are plenty of options within 10–15 minutes of SJO — from comfortable chains like Hampton Inn & Suites or Holiday Inn Express to boutique stays if you prefer something more local.

Use this evening to grab a quick dinner (most airport hotels have restaurants or nearby sodas), charge your devices, and stock up on essentials for the trip — like water, snacks.

My stay for the night in San Jose: This B&B near the airport (perfect for one night stay)

Day 2 : Bajos del Toro – Blue Falls & Catarata del Toro

Bajos del Toro is much quieter than the famous La Fortuna, which makes it the perfect first stop on a Costa Rica road trip. Tucked away in the Central Highlands, this tiny town is surrounded by misty cloud forests and waterfalls that feel like they’ve been pulled straight from a movie scene.

The most famous one and the reason I planned this stop is Catarata del Toro, a jaw-dropping 270-foot waterfall plunging into a volcanic crater. Just nearby are the Blue Falls of Costa Rica, a series of smaller waterfalls with vibrant turquoise pools where you can actually swim.

The drive from San José takes about 2 – 2.30 hours (approx 80 km) via route 126. As soon as I left the city behind, the road began winding through lush mountains, vibrant coffee plantations, and charming villages. This is where the curvy, winding roads really start, adding a sense of adventure to the journey.

Driving in Costa Rica can be a bit challenging if you’re not used to narrow roads, occasional potholes, and unpredictable local drivers, but taking it slow and staying alert makes it manageable. I used Waze (and sometimes Google Maps as I am used to it) most of the time for directions, and it worked well.

From what I researched before the Costa Rica road trip, the best way to get to Bajos del Toro is to take the route via La Paz Waterfall (route 126), which has better roads compared to the other options that Google or Waze might suggest.

Speaking of La Paz, I couldn’t resist pulling over at La Paz Waterfall, which sits right off the roadside. It’s a perfect quick stop to stretch your legs, take in the cool mist, and snap a few photos before continuing the drive.

Originally, I planned to visit Poás Volcano as well, but unfortunately, it was closed due to volcanic activity. It was a bit disappointing since I’d heard the crater views were spectacular, but safety comes first.

Google Map : I took this route to reach Bajos del Toro from San José.

When I arrived in Bajos del Toro, my first stop was the Blue Falls of Costa Rica. The guides at the entrance suggested visiting these falls before heading to Catarata del Toro, and I’m glad I followed their advice.

The Blue Falls are a series of bright turquoise cascades and pools. Normally, you can swim here, but since I visited during the rainy season, the water level was high and currents were stronger, so swimming wasn’t ideal. The hike itself is fairly easy, though some sections involve stairs leading up or down to reach different falls. I didn’t expect them to be this beautiful. Honestly, they felt like a true hidden gem.

Afterward, I drove a short distance to Catarata del Toro. At 270 feet tall, this waterfall plunges dramatically into an extinct volcanic crater. The hike down is steep, mostly stairs, and definitely gets your heart rate up on the way back, but the waterfall view at the end of the trail is just unforgettable.

Personally, I’d recommend the Blue Falls if you only have time for one — they felt more unique, and you get a lot more for your money since there are multiple waterfalls to explore. But honestly, both are worth it if you can fit them in.

Tickets for both attractions are purchased at the same entrance, and once you’ve got your wristband, you’re free to start exploring.

Parking is included in the fee, and the lots are secured, which gave me peace of mind leaving my rental car with luggage inside. The facilities are basic but clean, and the guides were friendly and always nearby to help with directions or assist at the waterfalls when needed.

Bajos del Toro itself is tiny. Just a handful of lodges and local sodas (small restaurants), which adds to its charm. I stayed at a small cabin-style guesthouse. If you want something luxe, El Silencio Lodge & Spa is gorgeous and set deep in nature, perfect if you’re celebrating something special

My stay for the night in Bajos Del Toro: This affordable guesthouse near Catarata del toro (perfect for one night)

If you are looking for a day trip from San Jose to visit Bajos del Toro instead of driving, you can find options here.

Day 3 : Drive to La Fortuna – Arenal Volcano, Chocolate Tour & Sloths

La Fortuna is one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations and for a good reason. It’s the ultimate mix of adventure and relaxation. The town itself is small but lively, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and tour companies, and it’s surrounded by incredible natural attractions. The Arenal Volcano, natural hot springs, and abundance of wildlife makes it a must-visit on any Costa Rica itinerary — especially for first-timers.

We continued our road trip to the iconic town of La Fortuna, home of the majestic Arenal Volcano. The drive took around 1.5 hours from our stay in Bajos del Toro.

My first stop was a coffee and chocolate tour, one of the best ways to dive into two of Costa Rica’s most famous products. These tours walk you through the entire process, from bean to cup and cocoa pod to chocolate bar, and of course, include plenty of tastings along the way. Popular options include North Fields Café and Don Olivo Chocolate Tour.

That same afternoon, we took a sloth-watching tour, walking through a sloth sanctuary where we spotted several sloths hanging lazily in the trees. Along the way, we also saw an owl, a brightly colored frog, and even a venomous nocturnal snake — equal parts scary and thrilling!

When it comes to where to stay, La Fortuna has something for every budget — from backpacker hostels to boutique eco-lodges with volcano views. Mid-range hotels like Arenal Observatory Lodge put you right inside the national park, while splurge-worthy stays like Nayara Gardens or Tabacón Thermal Resort pair luxury rooms with private hot springs.

We stayed at Cabañas Sueños del Arenal where you can see the Arenal Volcano right from your window. The view was incredible, and the stay was everything I was hoping for — peaceful, comfortable, and perfectly located.

Day 4 : La Fortuna Waterfall & Hot Springs

This day was all about chasing waterfalls and unwinding in hot springs. We started with a hike down the 500+ steps to reach the base of La Fortuna Waterfall, a breathtaking 200-foot drop into a crystal-clear natural pool. Swimming here is allowed, and the cool water felt incredibly refreshing after the humid tropical hike down.

In the afternoon, we shifted our gears from hiking to relaxation and soaked our tired legs in natural hot springs. La Fortuna has plenty of Hot Springs with day pass to choose from — Tabacón is the ultimate luxury option, while EcoTermales is more budget-friendly but equally serene.

I went for Choyín Río Thermal, which felt like the perfect middle ground. It offers amenities like showers, changing rooms, and parking, along with direct river access and hot pools. If you’re looking for something between the free public springs and high-end resorts, I highly recommend checking it out.

If you have extra time in your day, visit Mistico Hanging Bridges, where 16 bridges wind through rainforest canopy with epic volcano views and plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities. Another great option is Arenal Volcano National Park, where short trails take you through lava fields and forests with unbeatable views of the volcano.

La Fortuna is also famous for its adventure activities — perfect if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush. Popular choices include:

You can end your day with dinner at a restaurant offering open-air seating and volcano views. Popular picks include Don Rufino (modern Costa Rican cuisine) and Soda Viquez (traditional fare).

Day 5 : Río Celeste (Tenorio Volcano National Park) & Drive to Monteverde

We left La Fortuna early and made our way to Tenorio Volcano National Park to see the beautiful Río Celeste . Tucked inside Tenorio Volcano National Park, this river is famous for its surreal, milky-blue color the kind of shade that looks edited but is completely natural. The river’s bright blue color is caused by a chemical reaction between volcanic minerals – a phenomenon called the Teñideros.

The main roads are paved, but the final stretch near the park entrance can be a bit rough — an SUV or 4X4 rental makes the drive more comfortable, especially if you’re visiting during the rainy season.

The highlight of the park is the Río Celeste Waterfall, reached by a moderately challenging 3.5-mile (5.6 km) round-trip hike. The trail starts flat and winds through thick rainforest before climbing to the iconic staircase leading down to the waterfall viewpoint. The first time you see that vibrant blue water framed by jungle, it’s breathtaking and a little surreal The hike is moderate and can be muddy, but the views of Rio Celeste Waterfall are magical. Bring waterproof hiking shoes!

Along the trail, you can stop at El Teñidero, the spot where the two clear rivers merge and magically turn blue right before your eyes. There are also bubbling hot springs and steam vents scattered throughout the park, quite interesting.

Swimming isn’t allowed at the waterfall itself to protect the fragile ecosystem, but you can find designated swimming spots outside the park if you want to dip into the blue water.

One thing to know before you go – reserve your park entry tickets online in advance. The Tenorio Volcano National Park uses timed entries, and spots can sell out quickly during high season.

After lunch, we drove to Monteverde, a cloud forest region famous for its biodiversity and misty mountain landscapes. The road is bumpy, especially the last stretch, so take it slow

Based on my experience, take 605 / 606 route from Río Celeste to Monteverde — it’s fully paved and much easier to drive. The alternative routes suggested by Google Maps or Waze were gravel and unpaved (at least at the time I’m writing this), which can make the drive slower and rougher.

After reaching Santa Elena (aka Monteverde) I checked into Jaguarundi Lodge, which turned out to be one of my favorite stays of the trip. The lodge is tucked into a quiet part of town surrounded by trees and wildlife but still just a short walk from restaurants and cafés. The cabins are rustic yet cozy, with big windows that make you feel immersed in nature. If you want an affordable place that still delivers a true rainforest experience, definitely check out this stay! Be sure to check their website for the latest updates before your visit.

In the evening, after dinner and some quiet time in our cabin, I joined a night wildlife tour and got to see a completely different side of Monteverde. In just two hours, we spotted sloths, frogs, sleeping birds, stick insects, and even a tarantula. Walking through the cloud forest in the dark, guided only by a flashlight, felt thrilling and a little eerie — easily one of the most adventurous activities of the entire trip.

Day 6 : Ziplining, Hanging Bridges & Wildlife in Monteverde

We spent the whole day at Selvatura Adventure Park, which has everything you need for a full day in the cloud forest. I booked the full-day pass so we could try it all — thrilling ziplines (canopy tour), hanging bridges, and the wildlife exhibits.

We started with the canopy tour, flying over the forest like birds. Some of the lines are more than 1,000 feet long, making it one of the longest zipline courses in Costa Rica. There are 13 cables in total, and each one sends you soaring over valleys and misty treetops at amazing speeds.

Before the last zip-line is the famous Tarzan Swing. You step off a platform into a free fall before swinging high over the jungle. It’s terrifying for a moment and unforgettable right after.

If you want even more excitement, you can add on ‘the Superman‘. In this one, you lie face down with your arms stretched out and zip through the air like a superhero. It’s wild, crazy, and definitely worth thinking about if you’re up for the challenge.

Next, we walked across the hanging bridges, eight of them in total, suspended high above the rainforest floor. It felt peaceful and magical at the same time. From up there, you can see every layer of the rainforest, hear bird calls, and watch clouds drifting between the treetops. While the bridges swayed a bit, it added a little thrill without feeling unsafe.

After exploring the hanging bridge, My husband and I visited the Sloth Habitat and learned that Selvatura Park works closely with the Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica for this. You can ask your guide all kinds of questions about these slow-moving cuties!

The park also has a butterfly garden and a reptile exhibit. Everything was easy to explore and full of interesting facts, making it a fun and educational stop.

By the end of the day, we were happily exhausted – muddy shoes, messy hair, and a camera roll full of photos. Spending the whole day at Selvatura was absolutely worth it! Be sure to check their website for the latest updates before your visit.

Day 7: Curi-Cancha Reserve (Monteverde) + Drive to Jaco

We started the morning at Curi-Cancha Reserve, one of the best places in Monteverde for wildlife spotting. It’s a quieter and less touristy alternative to the famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, with peaceful trails winding through cloud forest and open meadows.

Curi-Cancha is especially popular with birdwatchers and is one of the top places in Costa Rica to spot the resplendent quetzal, a brilliantly colored bird with a long tail that many travelers hope to see. We booked a guided tour to increase our chances of spotting one, but luck wasn’t on our side — no quetzals this time! Even so, the reserve didn’t disappoint. We saw hummingbirds hovering over bright flowers, toucans flying overhead, owl relaxing on the tree and even spotted a small green snake napping on a tree branch.

If you have more time, you can also visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. It’s a bit more crowded but offers dense, misty forest and classic cloud-forest scenery.

After lunch, we started the drive down to Jacó, a lively coastal town known for surfing and nightlife. The trip took about 3.5 hours, with the scenery shifting beautifully from misty mountains to sunny beaches along the way. We arrived just in time to catch the sunset and wow, it didn’t disappoint.

We stayed at a resort with direct beach access, which turned out to be perfect for watching the sun set into the Pacific. That evening, we kept things simple and enjoyed fresh seafood at the resort’s beachfront restaurant. Nothing fancy — just the ocean breeze, sound of waves, and a relaxed vibe that felt exactly right after days of hiking in the cloud forest.

Day 8 : Manuel Antonio

After a relaxing beach time in Jaco, we made the two-hour drive south to Manuel Antonio. The coastal route is gorgeous, with palm plantations on one side and glimpses of the Pacific on the other. Manuel Antonio is small, but it’s packed with great restaurants, cafés, and plenty of places to stay, from budget hostels to luxury jungle resorts.

The highlight here is Manuel Antonio National Park, famous for its wildlife and postcard-worthy beaches. I booked this guided tour for our first morning, and I can’t recommend it enough. The park is full of animals — sloths, different kinds of monkeys, iguanas, birds, even snakes. But spotting them without a trained eye is almost impossible. Our guide carried a telescope, and within minutes, we were looking at a sloth curled up high in the trees and a tiny green iguana clinging to a leaf. Without him, I would have walked right past them like many who were not with the guide.

Even if wildlife isn’t what draws you here, the park is still worth visiting for the beaches inside the reserve. Playa Manuel Antonio is a beautiful public beach — calm water perfect for swimming, soft white sand, and jungle on both sides and has all the conveniences you need: bathrooms, showers, and shaded picnic areas. Manuel Antonio National Park is the kind of place where you can hike in the morning, spot wildlife, and then spend the afternoon floating in the ocean.

One thing to know before you go – reserve your park entry tickets online in advance. The park uses timed entries, and spots can sell out quickly during high season. Booking early means you can plan your day without worrying about availability.

When it comes to where to stay in Manuel Antonio, there’s something for every budget — backpacker hostels, boutique eco-lodges, and luxury resorts with infinity pools. I chose a cozy budget friendly hotel with jungle views right from our balcony, and waking up to the sound of howler monkeys was the best. If you’re looking to splurge, resorts like Arenas del Mar or Hotel Costa Verde combine luxury with easy access to the park and beach.

After the park, we spent the evening exploring town and enjoying the vibrant food scene. Fresh seafood, casual beachfront spots, and sunset cocktails are easy to find here.

Day 9 : Cataratas Nauyaca (a day trip from Manuel Antonio)

Just under two hours from Manuel Antonio, tucked deep into the rainforest near Dominical, this two-tiered waterfall is one of the most beautiful in Costa Rica and one of the most fun to explore. We left Manuel Antonio early to beat the crowds and the midday heat.

There are two ways to see Nauyaca Waterfall: Don Lulo’s Nauyaca Waterfall and Nauyaca Waterfall Nature Park. We chose Don Lulo’s because it’s closer to Manuel Antonio. From Don Lulo’s Nauyaca Waterfall side, you can walk along wooden boardwalks, step out onto rocky riverbanks, and look down toward the lower falls. The Nature Park entrance, on the other hand, gives you a dramatic side view of the upper falls from a cave-like overhang — a great spot for photos. Just note that you can’t swim at the upper falls from either entrance, and the two access points don’t connect at the top, so choose one.

Once you arrive at start of the trailhead of Don Lulo’s Nauyaca Waterfall , you have three options to reach the falls: hike in, ride horseback, or hop on one of the park’s 4×4 trucks. The 4×4 truck ride to the falls cost $32 per person when I visited. It’s quick and a bit bumpy, and while it definitely saves time, you only get about two hours at the falls before heading back.

That said, if you enjoy hiking and want to save a bit of money, the $10 hike option is absolutely worth considering. The trail is about four miles round-trip, shaded most of the way, and gives you a chance to soak in the rainforest scenery at your own pace. Whichever option you choose, plan to start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the falls with fewer crowds.

When you finally reach the falls, the upper cascade is the first thing you see — a dramatic 150-foot curtain of water crashing into a deep pool below. A short scramble leads down to the lower falls, where calmer pools invite you to swim. The water is chilly but feels amazing after the truck ride or even more after the hike.

The lower falls are where you’ll spend most of your time — and honestly, they’re even more stunning in person than in photos. A massive cascade crashes into a turquoise pool surrounded by jungle, creating the perfect spot to cool off. We visited during the rainy season, so the flow was intense and the pool felt like a natural power shower rather than a calm swimming hole. In the dry season, it’s calmer and better for floating or lounging on the rocks.

There are plenty of flat rocks to leave your stuff while you swim, but I recommend packing light and bringing water shoes (the rocks can be slippery). A dry bag is also handy if you want to keep your phone or camera with you for photos.

By early afternoon, we drove back to Manuel Antonio and slipped right into beach mode at Playa Espadilla, just outside the national park. Soft sand, warm water, and vendors selling fresh coconuts and ceviche. It’s the kind of beach where time slows down.

We stayed to soak in the sunset – until, of course, rainy-season Costa Rica had other plans and suddenly it started pouring heavily on us! 😂 Stuck at a restaurant, we laughed as we called an Uber back to our hotel (just 5 minutes away), since our car was parked there and we’d been wandering town on foot. A funny little adventure to wrap up our last full day on the coast!

Day 10 : Return to San José

After an incredible 10 days exploring Costa Rica’s mountains, rainforests, waterfalls, and beaches, we set out early for the three-hour drive back to San José. The route from Manuel Antonio to the capital can vary with traffic, so I recommend keeping extra buffer time if you have a flight to catch. Once we returned the rental car, we boarded our flight back to NYC—feeling grateful for a truly unforgettable adventure in Costa Rica.

Things to know before you plan to visit Costa Rica

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

Costa Rica has two main seasons: dry (December to April) and rainy (May to November). The dry season is perfect for beach days and hiking, with plenty of sunshine. However, the rainy season brings lush green landscapes, is less crowded, and you can get cheaper deals on hotel and flight prices. If you don’t mind some afternoon showers, visiting during the shoulder months (May or November) could be a better option.

Driving tips for Costa Rica

Renting a car gives you freedom and flexibility, but driving here requires some patience. Roads outside major cities are often narrow, winding, and sometimes unpaved. A 4×4 or SUV is highly recommended, especially if you plan to visit places like Bajos del Toro or Monteverde. Use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps. Locals tend to trust Waze more, but I found both reliable. Drive cautiously, watch for potholes, and be prepared for slower speeds on the countryside roads.

I had no trouble renting a car with my US driver’s license, but it’s a good idea to double-check if you need an International Driving Permit along with your country’s driving license.

What to Pack for Costa Rica

Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing, swimwear and layers for cooler mountain mornings. Waterproof hiking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore waterfalls and rainforests. Don’t forget insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. A waterproof phone case or dry bag will protect your electronics during river hikes or boat trips. Finally, bring binoculars or a good camera lens if you want to capture Costa Rica’s amazing wildlife.

When I planned my trip, I wore full sleeves and long pants for extra protection in the jungle. Looking back, I wouldn’t recommend doing that the whole time. Pack Shorts, T-shirts, and comfortable walking shoes (preferably waterproof) so you can stay cool and comfortable. Just make sure you apply insect repellent and sunscreen often when you’re wearing shorts. And always keep your swimwear handy — you never know when you’ll stumble upon a waterfall or a perfect swimming spot.

Booking Tours & Accommodations

Popular parks like Manuel Antonio & Tenorio Volcano require advance reservation for timed entry, especially during high season. Booking guided tours for wildlife spotting or activities like ziplining adds value — local guides know where to find animals and ensure your safety.

When choosing accommodations, consider location carefully based on your expectation. Staying close to key attractions saves travel time, but sometimes a bit further out offers more tranquility and better nature experiences.

Safety Tips in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is generally safe for travelers, but you should still take basic precautions.

I’ve read about incidents of car break-ins, especially when belongings are left visible through the windows. Keep valuables secure, and never leave anything in plain sight when you park. Choose secured parking areas whenever possible and avoid leaving your car in unfamiliar spots.

On the trails, stick to marked paths and follow park rules — especially when it comes to wildlife.

Avoid driving during night time. If you need to drive at night, stay extra alert since many rural roads don’t have street lighting and lot of potholes.

Always keep a copy of your passport and emergency contacts with you.

Currency & Tipping in Costa Rica

The Costa Rican colón (CRC) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. It’s handy to carry some local cash for small purchases and tips. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory , around 10% at restaurants and a few dollars for guides or drivers is appreciated.

Useful Apps

Download apps like Waze for navigation, Google maps for offline maps, and Google Translate if you’re not fluent in Spanish. For weather updates, the Costa Rica National Meteorological Institute app helps you plan outdoor activities. And don’t forget WhatsApp — it’s widely used for communication here especially for your guided tours.

Final Thoughts

If you’re planning a trip to Costa Rica, my best advice is to enjoy all it has to offer. Balance exciting adventures with some downtime, keep your plans flexible, and don’t forget to appreciate the little things — like seeing a sloth slowly move through the trees or watching a beautiful sunset over the Pacific Ocean. The phrase “pura vida” isn’t just a saying here; it’s a way of living with happiness and gratitude.

I really hope that this post inspires you to plan your next trip to this beautiful country. If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments—I’m happy to help! And if you found this blog helpful, I’d love to hear that too!

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10 Days in Costa Rica : Perfect Road Trip Itinerary for First Time Visitors