TravelSample route · 7 days
Costa Rica
Volcanoes, cloud forest and the Pacific coast, from San José to Manuel Antonio.
Costa Rica packs astonishing biodiversity into a short, drivable loop. Start in San José, hike and soak beneath the Arenal volcano, walk the treetops of the Monteverde cloud forest, then finish on the beaches and wildlife trails of Manuel Antonio.
A great first international road trip: short drives, eco-lodges, and a tidy mix of adrenaline and downtime.
The route · day by day
Day 01
Arrive in San José and pick up a rental car. Sleep: hotel in the city.
Day 02
Drive to the Arenal volcano and hot springs for hiking and a long soak. Sleep: eco-lodge near the park.
Day 03
Arenal adventure day — zip-lining or white-water rafting, then La Fortuna Waterfall. Sleep: eco-lodge near the park.
Day 04
Drive to the Monteverde Cloud Forest; explore by day and join a guided night tour.
Day 05
Drive to Manuel Antonio National Park for beaches, trails and wildlife. Sleep: beachfront hotel.
Day 06
Morning on the beach or kayaking, then explore Quepos town. Sleep: beachfront hotel.
Day 07
Drive to the airport and depart.
Make it yours
Love this route? Jennifer can book it — or tailor it.
Adjust the pace, the budget, the dates and the stops. Then we handle the reservations while you pack.