Costa Rica packs an incredible amount of biodiversity and natural beauty into a relatively small country, making it perfect for a two-week adventure. This Costa Rica itinerary combines thrilling wildlife encounters, refreshing waterfalls, and pristine beaches while mixing bustling tourist hubs with quieter, more authentic destinations.
At A Glance
Best Time To Visit
Costa Rica’s dry season runs from January to April, offering the most predictable weather but also the highest prices and biggest crowds.
The green season, from May through November, brings lush landscapes and more favorable hotel rates. Typically, you’ll get sunny mornings followed by afternoon rains that cool things down. However, avoid September and October if possible, as these months see the heaviest rainfall in central areas and along the Pacific coast.
Itinerary Overview
San José
This Costa Rica itinerary starts and ends at Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) near the capital city San José. We recommend heading straight to your first destination unless your flight schedule requires an overnight stay. In this case, there are some excellent accommodations near the airport.
Where to stay:
- Finca Rosa Blanca ($$) – This beautiful organic coffee estate offers stunning mountain views and is just 20 minutes from the airport, making it an ideal choice for your first or last night.
- Xandari Resort & Spa ($$) – This boutique eco-resort features tropical gardens and a full-service spa, located 20 minutes from SJO airport.
Bajos Del Toro
Nicknamed “the land of a thousand waterfalls,” this mountainous area is covered in lush jungle, volcanoes, and some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica. Despite being home to spectacular natural wonders, Bajos del Toro remains refreshingly off the beaten path. It offers an authentic cloud forest experience, free from the crowds typically found in more famous destinations like Monteverde.
Getting there: It’s a 90-minute drive from Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) through the mountains.
Where to stay:
- El Silencio Lodge & Spa ($$$) – The only luxury lodge in this remote cloud forest paradise, offering nature trails, hummingbird gardens, and three on-site waterfalls.
Activities & Experiences: hiking to waterfalls, birdwatching (you can see quetzals here in April and May), cloud forest nature trails
Sarapiquí
Another off-the-beaten-path destination in this Costa Rica itinerary, Sarapiquí is known for its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and thrilling adventure activities. This area is a hotspot for frogs and snakes, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers looking to capture some of Costa Rica’s most elusive creatures.
Getting there: From Bajos del Toro it’s just a 90-minute drive.
Where to stay:
- El Lugar ($$) – This is the most luxurious option in Sarapiquí, though some areas are still under construction. While you’ll see many birds from your balcony, there are no nature trails on site, and you’ll need to visit nearby areas to experience the rainforest.
- Selva Verde Lodge ($$) – This eco-lodge is more basic than we would typically recommend, but it’s situated in a stunning location in the rainforest near the Sarapiquí River. It features multiple trails, abundant wildlife, and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Activities & Experiences: birdwatching, wildlife and nature walks, rainforest and hanging bridges, whitewater rafting, chocolate tours, horseback riding
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La Fortuna
La Fortuna is one of Costa Rica’s most popular tourist destinations, and rightfully so – it has so much to offer! Sitting in the shadow of the majestic Arenal Volcano, this area combines stunning natural beauty with an incredible diversity of activities. From relaxing hot springs and thrilling hanging bridges to spectacular waterfalls and zip-lining adventures, La Fortuna delivers something for every type of traveler. It’s also one of the best places to see sloths in Costa Rica, making it a wildlife lover’s dream.
Getting there: From Sarapiquí it’s a 90-minute drive on a good road.
Where to stay:
- Nayara Gardens ($$$) and Nayara Tented Camp ($$$$) – This is as close to perfection as you’ll find in La Fortuna. The luxury casitas come with private pools and volcano views (when Arenal isn’t hiding behind clouds). The service is exceptional, and the property features hot springs surrounded by rainforest where you can spot sloths right on-site.
- Arenal Observatory Lodge ($$) – If you’re serious about nature and want to wake up as close to the volcano as possible, this is your place. The location is unbeatable for birdwatching, and the wilderness trails right outside your door are incredible.
Activities & Experiences: hanging bridges, sloth and nature trails, birdwatching, hot springs, zip-lining, chocolate and coffee tours, Místico Park, La Fortuna waterfall, Arenal Volcano hiking trails, day trip to Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge
Sámara / Playa Carrillo
Sámara beach is known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful coastline, perfect for leisurely sunset strolls, relaxing, and swimming. The area has several surf schools since the waves are ideal for beginners looking to catch their first rides. Just a five-minute drive away lies Playa Carrillo, which offers unspoiled natural beauty and tranquility. The lack of resorts and beachfront development gives this stunning beach an authentic, untouched feel.
Getting there: The 4-hour drive from La Fortuna takes you through changing landscapes as you leave the volcanic region behind and head toward the Pacific coast.
Where to stay:
- La Caravana ($$) – We fell in love with this quirky little spot the moment we arrived. Three vintage caravans have been transformed into the most charming accommodations we’ve seen, positioned perfectly just meters from one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches. It’s intimate, magical, and utterly unique.
Activities & Experiences: chill at the beach, go surfing, soak at tide pools, visit Macaw Recovery Network, observe sea turtles nesting and hatching (seasonal), horseback riding
Santa Teresa
Santa Teresa is a paradise for surfers and anyone seeking laid-back vibes, artistic spirit, and a good time with friends. The town has maintained its bohemian charm while developing into one of Costa Rica’s premier beach destinations, attracting everyone from world-class surfers to digital nomads looking for the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Getting there: The drive from Sámara takes 3.5 hours.
Where to stay:
- Nantipa ($$$) – A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, this boutique retreat sits right on Santa Teresa beach, surrounded by jungle. Expect wildlife visits on your patio as part of the authentic Costa Rican experience.
- Arjau Santa Teresa ($$) – This small adults-only hotel places you right in the center of Santa Teresa with restaurants and cute boutique shops at your doorstep. It’s just a 5-minute walk to the beach through the jungle, and you won’t need to set an alarm in the morning – the howler monkeys will wake you up.
- Hotel Santa Teresa by the Beach ($$) – Fully renovated in 2023, this hotel sits steps from the beach. Its clean, minimalistic design lets the natural beauty take central stage.
Activities & Experiences: beach hopping, surfing, soaking at tidal pools, hiking to Montezuma waterfall, Tortuga island boat tour, Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, Curu Wildlife Reserve
Manuel Antonio
The final destination in this 2-week Costa Rica itinerary is one of the most visited areas in the country, and for good reason. Manuel Antonio perfectly combines beautiful beaches, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife all in one compact area. Despite the crowds, it remains a must-visit destination where you can spot sloths and monkeys in the national park and then relax on pristine beaches, making it the perfect way to end your Costa Rican adventure.
Getting there: The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Santa Teresa to Manuel Antonio is by using Zuma Tours Taxi Boat & Shuttle Service. You’ll depart Santa Teresa around 7:00 AM and arrive in Manuel Antonio 4 hours later. Another option is to take the ferry from Paquera to Puntarenas and then drive the rest of the way, which takes around 5 hours in total.
Where to stay:
- 727 Fuselage Home in Hotel Costa Verde ($$$) – The most unique hotel room in Costa Rica, housed in a Boeing 727 fuselage. You’ll have wildlife visiting your terrace and amazing views from this one-of-a-kind accommodation.
- Arenas Del Mar ($$$$) – This beachfront luxury hotel offers a unique combination of beach and rainforest experience with exceptional service and abundant wildlife right on-site.
- Sumba Lodge ($$$) – An exclusive private luxury estate with only 4 suites and 24-hour full staff service. This adults-only retreat is peaceful, beautifully designed, and offers stunning views, complemented by exceptional service. If you want to escape the crowds during high season, this is your place.
Activities & Experiences: Manuel Antonio National Park, bird watching, Nauyaca Waterfall, Manuel Antonio beaches, Rainmaker Conservation Park, mangrove boat tour
Day 1: San José Arrival & Bajos Del Toro
Your Costa Rica itinerary begins with arrival at San José SJO airport, followed by a scenic drive to El Silencio Lodge nestled in the cloud forest of Bajos del Toro. Take time to settle into your accommodation and recover from your flight while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Depending on your arrival time, you might want to take a leisurely stroll to the on-site waterfalls or spend some quiet time watching hummingbirds in the garden as you adjust to Costa Rica’s natural rhythm.
Day 2: Bajos Del Toro
Today is dedicated to chasing waterfalls in Bajos del Toro, starting with a morning visit to The Blue Falls. The hiking trails lead to seven waterfalls, which, even on a cloudy day, have an incredible blue water color. All trails are well-signed, allowing you to visit all seven waterfalls or choose your favorites. We explored Las Gemelas (meaning “the twins” in Spanish) – a stunning set of two waterfalls side by side, plus Tepezcuintle and La Pintada. La Pintada has the most extraordinary horseshoe shape, and the entire surrounding area looks like something straight out of Jurassic Park. If you still have energy, we recommend including Celestial Waterfall, but be prepared for a challenging walk with plenty of steps.
After lunch, continue your waterfall adventure at Catarata del Toro, one of Costa Rica’s tallest waterfalls. The beauty of this waterfall is that you can see its impressive scale with little to no effort – once you walk through the entrance gate, you’ll have an incredible view from above.
Be sure to ask for a combined ticket for both Catarata del Toro and Blue Falls, as it comes at a reduced price.
Other notable waterfalls in the area you might consider as alternatives include:
- Catarata Vuelta del Cañón – Costa Rica’s most unique waterfall, accessible only to those willing to tackle an 11-kilometer return hike
- Rio Agrio Waterfall – Located on a property that also includes a dinosaur park, it offers wild jungle vibes
- Little-known Quebrada Gata Waterfall – Among the most impressive waterfalls you could find in Costa Rica
For safety reasons, we strongly recommend hiring a local guide when hiking to Vuelta del Cañón and Quebrada Gata Waterfalls.
Day 3: Bajos Del Toro To Sarapiquí
After breakfast, make your way to Sarapiquí for the next chapter of your adventure.
In the afternoon, visit the Tirimbina Biological Reserve for an authentic rainforest experience. It also features the country’s longest suspension bridge, measuring 262 meters in length and 22 meters in height. The reserve offers several well-marked trails that allow you to explore this pristine rainforest.
Day 4: Sarapiquí
Start your morning with a nature walk at Pierella Ecological Garden. It’s a wonderful place that offers beautiful nature experiences with a diverse array of animals, birds, and fascinating insects. This three-hour rainforest walking tour was the best nature walk we did during our entire Costa Rica itinerary, so we highly recommend it. You can enjoy a home-cooked lunch there afterwards. Be sure to contact them before arriving to avoid disappointment and ensure a guide is ready for you.
Later in the day, choose from whitewater rafting, a chocolate tour, or another nature tour. You could visit Frogs Heaven or Dave & Dave’s Nature Park for additional wildlife encounters.
Day 5: Sarapiquí To La Fortuna
Wake up early for a bird watching tour to make the most of the morning hours when birds are active. After breakfast, transfer to La Fortuna for the next phase of your adventure.
Since you’ll have some time before check-in, consider doing a coffee and chocolate tour if you haven’t experienced one yet. Several companies offer these tours in La Fortuna. We particularly enjoyed the one with North Fields. The tour takes you through cacao, coffee, and sugar cane areas, where you learn how to process each of these goods. You’ll sample chocolate, lots of coffee, sugar cane juice, and sugar cane liquor. It’s highly informative and well-organized.
Once you check in, enjoy your afternoon at Nayara Gardens. Why not hit some trails in search of resident sloths or relax at the hot spring pools surrounded by rainforest?
Day 6: La Fortuna
Dedicate this day to enjoying what La Fortuna has to offer. Nature lovers may be interested in Místico Park and one of the sloth-watching tours available in the area.
Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges is one of Costa Rica’s most visited attractions. We recommend arriving early for the most enjoyable experience – around 6:00 AM or 6:30 AM if possible. This jungle trail spans about three kilometers and includes six hanging bridges suspended between the treetops. While it definitely feels more like a well-maintained park than a wild jungle, the experience is still worthwhile.
Return to your hotel for breakfast before embarking on a sloth watching tour. You can observe both three-toed and two-toed sloths at Bogarin Trail or Sloth’s Territory, along with other wildlife.
Day 7: Day Trip To Caño Negro
Rich biodiversity and exceptional birdwatching opportunities make Caño Negro, near Costa Rica’s northern border with Nicaragua, a fantastic day trip from La Fortuna. This destination offers a peaceful and remote atmosphere while you observe wildlife from a boat. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers seeking unique wildlife encounters.
Day 8: La Fortuna To Playa Carrillo
If you’re interested in birdwatching, you have time for one last tour in the La Fortuna area before departing. Later, make your way to Playa Carrillo with a lunch stop along the scenic route. Once you arrive, check in at the charming La Caravana and settle into this unique accommodation. End your day with an afternoon swim and a peaceful sunset beach walk along pristine Playa Carrillo.
Day 9: Sámara / Playa Carrillo
Today is all about embracing “pura vida” and the laid-back Costa Rican lifestyle. Relax at both Carrillo and Sámara beaches, switching between the two as you please. There’s a macaw recovery center at Punta Islita just 20 minutes away, along with other activities in the area for those seeking a bit more adventure.
Day 10: Playa Carrillo To Santa Teresa
Make your way to Santa Teresa and enjoy a slow, relaxed afternoon in this bohemian beach town. Santa Teresa offers several excellent restaurants and fantastic little boutique shops featuring locally made linen clothes. Take some time to pick up unique souvenirs that capture the artistic spirit of this coastal community.
Day 11: Santa Teresa
This day in your Costa Rica itinerary is perfect for embracing the surfing culture and beach lifestyle that Santa Teresa is famous for. Take long walks along the endless beaches, discover hidden tidal pools, and spend time watching surfers catch waves. It’s the ideal time to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere of Santa Teresa.
Day 12: Santa Teresa To Manuel Antonio
Make your way to Manuel Antonio, the final stop in your 2-week Costa Rica itinerary. Upon arrival, check into the famous 727 Fuselage Home and enjoy this unique bucket list accommodation. It’s the perfect way to kick off your final days in Costa Rica with something truly unforgettable.
Day 13-14: Manuel Antonio
You’ll have two full days to explore everything Manuel Antonio has to offer. Start by visiting Manuel Antonio National Park, but make sure you book the first entry slot of the day. The park is renowned for its combination of beautiful beaches, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife, making it a highlight for many visitors to Costa Rica.
Take a day trip to the stunning Nauyaca Waterfall, one of the most impressive in the country.
Don’t forget to spend quality time enjoying Manuel Antonio’s beautiful beaches.
Day 15: Manuel Antonio And Departure
If you haven’t been interested in birdwatching before this trip, by now it’s likely become one of your favorite activities. Spend your final morning in the Esquipulas rainforest for the last chance to spot some of the country’s incredible avian diversity.
Keep in mind that it takes 3-4 hours to reach San José, so ensure you leave with plenty of time. If your flight schedule permits, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at El Taller de Billy Sazón. It makes for the perfect finale of this 2-week Costa Rica itinerary.