THE BEST COSTA RICA ITINERARY

Often people plan for a trip to Costa Rica as they would any trip down south to a Caribbean Island. They look for a great resort with great food, on a great beach. But I believe there is a better way to approach planning a trip to Costa Rica that will result in an unforgettably amazing experience.

Many people know that Costa Rica consists of lush rainforests, majestic volcanoes, spectacular water falls, unique plant, bird and animal life and yes beautiful beaches.

But what many people don’t realize, is that travelling from the resorts on the Pacific coast to reach this immense biodiversity can take many, many hours. It can therefore, be very disappointing to spend an eight-hour day of driving only to have a very brief Costa Rican experience. Driving back and forth daily from the coast to the interior of Costa Rica is not only tiring but also an inefficient use of valuable vacation time.

What if instead, you started your vacation in the interior of Costa Rica soaking in the geothermal hot springs at a spa resort at the foot of the Arenal Volcano? Once you fully enjoy this area for a few days, you can then carry on to experience the Monteverde Cloud Forest, then finally you can end your vacation relaxing at a resort on the Pacific coast. Wouldn’t you feel like you have really experienced Costa Rica while still returning home feeling rested and relaxed?

These are some of the amazing things you will be able to fully experience on a well-planned itinerary that is customized personally for you:

Jungle Tranquility

Just imagine, checking into your resort with a view of the Arenal Volcano and spending your days relaxing in the natural geothermal hot springs heated by the volcano. The springs are utilized both for therapeutic healing as well as simple relaxation in the tropics. Trust me, you can do a day trip here from the Pacific coast, but once you get here you will want to stay for a few nights rather than a few hours to truly enjoy all this area has to offer.

Volcano Hike

The massive Arenal Volcano is one of the most well-known spots in Costa Rica. The surrounding area around the volcano is often used for kayaking, boating, and paddle boarding. Hot springs and waterfalls are also present, with zip lines and horseback riding available below the volcano summit. Rincon de la Vieja National Park's centerpiece is another volcano that offers views of the Nicoya Peninsula and Lago de Nicaragua.

Waterfalls

La Fortuna waterfall by Arenal is an approximate 20-minute hike presenting a massive waterfall with a jungle backdrop. Another favorite is located in Tenorio Volcano National Park in the Northern Plains, offering bright blue waters. Lesser-known waterfalls include Bajos del Tori in the Alajuela province and Catarata del Toro, which plummets into an extinct volcanic crater with aerial views.

Forest Ziplining

Whether it's through the evergreen Monteverde Forest or through the vibrant jungle canopy, ziplining is very common and one of the most popular tourist activities in the Costa Rican jungle.

Wildlife

Nearly 25% of the country is preserved for national parks and wildlife. It is home to 27 national parks and takes up five percent of the world's biodiversity. The Los Quetzales National Park allows birdwatchers to get a full aerial view of the various species of birds. Monkeys are very apparent in the jungles as well. The Corcovado National Park is another prominent place to visit for frequent whale-watching and dolphin sightings.

Rio Rafting

Named as a Biosphere Reserve, Rio Pacuare offers a white-water Caribbean experience through the safari-like jungle. According to National Geographic, it is one of the top spots for white-water rafting. The highlight of rafting in the Rio Savegre includes coming into contact with the jaguars, tapirs, and birds that pass by the riverside.

Jungle Drives

The 4x4 is recommended for the best driving experience throughout Costa Rica. The off-beaten paths present unique views but require vehicles that can beat their own path. Driving on the beach, however, is not permitted. Another favorite way for locals to get around is via horseback.

Surfing

Towns such as Samara, Avellanas, and Tamarindo are great places for year-round surfing on these Pacific and Caribbean coasts. The warm water and steady wind combo make Costa Rica a surfing paradise. Many of the beaches offer boards and lessons for beginners.

Deep Diving

The majority of shore islands on the Pacific coast are the hub spots for scuba and deep diving, offering plenty of sea diversity with various species of sharks, dolphins, and much more. A renowned spot for divers is The Gulf of Papagayo in the Guanacaste province.

I love Costa Rica and I know why it is a favorite destination for many people. All of this variety within one country allows for a truly unique experience and a different type of adventure around every corner. I would love to help you experience Costa Rica in a way that is planned and customized perfectly for you.