10 Days in Costa Rica: The Best Itinerary for Your Visit

Best Things to Do with 10 Days in Costa Rica

Itinerary in Costa Rica: day 1

Take a walking tour of San José

Kick off your Costa Rica itinerary of 10 days by taking a walking tour of the capital of San José. This is one of the best ways to introduce yourself to this beautiful Central American country while you get acquainted with its principal city. Your local guide will tell you interesting facts about the region while offering tips to help you enjoy your visit. It is recommended that you tip your guide after this incredible experience.

The National Park of San José

The National Park of San José is one of the city's most historic outdoor spaces. It is the perfect place to stop off in the afternoon for a relaxing stroll while you take in the sights and sounds. While inside the park, you will find plenty of trees that offer shade.

Itinerary in Costa Rica: day 2

Playa Tortuguero

Playa Tortuguero is a black sand beach that is a must-visit spot during your time in the country. It is known as a sanctuary for turtles who make their nests in the area from July to October each year. During your visit, you will have plenty of time to soak up the sun while viewing baby turtles, colourful toucans and sharks.

Take a night walk in Tortuguero National Park

During the part of your Costa Rica itinerary of 10 days in the Tortuguero National Park area, we recommend going on a night walk. These tours often pick you up at your hotel or from the tour office. You will then board a boat that will take you into the Costa Rican rainforest, where you will embark on the adventure of a lifetime discovering amazing examples of local wildlife that include spiders, snakes and the iconic red-eyed frog.

Itinerary in Costa Rica: day 3

Zipline through the canopy in Arenal Volcano National Park

A true adrenaline rush awaits you when you soar over the canopy of the Costa Rican rainforest on a zipline during your visit to Arenal Volcano National Park. Your journey starts in an aerial tram that will take you to an observation point overlooking Lake Arenal. From there, you are set to take on of the fastest, highest ziplines in the country.

La Fortuna Waterfall

During your day in Arenal Volcano National Park, a visit to the La Fortuna Waterfall is a must-have experience. This stunning waterfall plummets 200 feet into a pool of crystal-clear water and is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. You can take a walk down the stairs to get an up-close-and-personal look at this natural wonder.

Itinerary in Costa Rica: day 4

The Monteverde Cloudforest

The Cloud Forest is one of the most popular places to visit while spending time in the Monteverde region of Costa Rica. It gets its name from its high altitude and is one of the few forested areas of its type in the world. During your excursion, you will encounter fascinating species of local wildlife while enjoying the unique experience of walking through the low-lying clouds that creep beautifully through the trees.

Lunch at the Colibri Cafe

After your amazing journey through the Monteverde Cloud Forest, a stop at the Colibri Cafe for lunch is in order. Sip on a cup of Costa Rican coffee and enjoy a satisfying bite to eat while you watch hummingbirds fly around your head. This is the perfect way to wrap up an invigorating hike through this spectacular natural area.

Itinerary in Costa Rica: day 5

The Jaguar Rescue Center

Located in the Costa Rican town of Puerto Viejo, the Jaguar Rescue Center is another must for your 10-day itinerary exploring the country's various regions. It is home to many animals that have become orphaned or injured. During your visit, you can marvel at different species of monkeys and birds. If you're lucky, you might even see the unique margay cat!

Explore Puerto Viejo on a bike

One of the best ways to experience the sights and sounds of Puerto Viejo is by renting a bike. There are standard and electric options available for you to hire for an afternoon spent cruising down palm tree-lined streets and sun-soaked beaches. You might even spot local animals, such as monkeys, sloths and toucans.

Itinerary in Costa Rica: day 6

White water rafting along the Sarapiqui River

Costa Rica's Sarapiqui River is one of the country's top spots for white water rafting. This is a great way to enjoy a thrilling adrenaline rush during your 10-day itinerary. As you float over pristine waters and battle exciting rapids, you can expect to see toucans and river birds flying overhead.

Take a chocolate tour

After the fun and excitement of your white water rafting adventure, it is time to enjoy a fun and tasty Chocolate Tour experience as the next part of your Costa Rica itinerary of 10 days. The country is renowned for its production of this sweet treat, and you have the opportunity to learn about the history of the industry during this educational tour.

Itinerary in Costa Rica: day 7

Explore Sámara

Located in the province of Guanacaste, Sámara is a charming town that is home to a plethora of restaurants and fashion outlets, as well as some of the country's finest beaches. Spend a rewarding morning simply exploring the town while grabbing lunch at one of the local eateries. This region is home to unique birds, monkeys and iguanas that you are likely to encounter during your excursion.

Spend an afternoon on the beach in Sámara

After you are done exploring the local area, it is time for some relaxation or a refreshing swim at one of the stunning beaches that Sámara is known for. The area is protected by a coral reef that causes the waters to stay calm. You will love the postcard-worthy landscapes and the feel of the warm sands on your feet. This is also a location that is perfect for those visiting with children.

Itinerary in Costa Rica: day 8

Go kayaking in Tamarindo

A kayak trip is one of the most unique ways you can experience the Tamarindo area of Costa Rica. Located between Playa Tamarindo and Playa Grande, you will find a series of estuaries that are perfect for exploring in a kayak with the assistance of a professional guide. During your journey, you can expect to encounter unique species of birds and might even see crocodiles sunbathing on the river bank.

Tamarindo Beach

It truly is hard to get too much of the beach while enjoying a Costa Rica itinerary of 10 days. Tamarindo Beach is one of the country's best. It is known for its long stretch of sand as well as its amazing waves. This is one of the best spots in the region for surfing, swimming, fishing and other water sports. In the evening, it transforms into a true nightlife hotspot.

Itinerary in Costa Rica: day 9

Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the oldest parks of its type in the world and is known as a sanctuary for animals and biodiversity. It is the country's smallest national park, which means that it is easy to see a good portion of it during your visit. You will find plenty of well-marked hiking trails that are easy to follow. They range in length from 1 to 9 kilometres.

Playa Espadilla Norte

Playa Espadilla Norte is the primary public beach in Manuel Antonio. You will find plenty of shady spots lining this beautiful stretch of sand and are likely to encounter unique animals such as iguanas. During your visit, you can take a surfing lesson. This is also an amazing spot to catch an unforgettable sunset as the evening rolls in.

Itinerary in Costa Rica: day 10

The Teatro Nacional Costa Rica

The Teatro Nacional Costa Rica, or National Theatre, is one of the most iconic locations in the Costa Rican capital of San José. It is renowned for its lavish furnishing as well as its impressive collection of marble statues. You can simply come in to have a look around, or you can catch a show if anything is on during your visit.

The National Museum

The National Museum is the place to visit for insight into the fascinating history and culture of Costa Rica. This amazing facility houses exhibits focused on the country's archaeology, natural history and anthropology and is a great way to wrap up your Costa Rica itinerary of 10 days.

Where to stay in Costa Rica

1. The Essentials of Costa Rica Fly Drive in 8, 10 or 12 Nights

The Essentials of Costa Rica Fly Drive in 8, 10 or 12 Nights is a whirlwind tour of this amazing country that takes place over your chosen length of time. Along the way, you will be comfortably accommodated in a series of Standard and Superior hotels. As an added perk, breakfast is served each morning.

This tour deal includes free-of-charge GPS, meals as per your itinerary and free entrance to Tortuguero National Park, among other details.

What we like: We love the fact that this tour deal takes you through some of Costa Rica's most iconic locations while offering potential room and hotel upgrades as a part of your Costa Rica itinerary of 10 days.

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2. Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Costa Rica 5*

A stay at the Planet Hollywood Beach Resort Costa Rica 5* is perfect for this amazing 10-day itinerary that we have suggested. Your deal is based on an all-inclusive dining package as you stay at a property that is set next to a breathtaking beachfront.

On-site amenities and services that you can look forward to during your stay at this 5-star property include Wi-Fi, outdoor parking, 7 different restaurant and bar facilities and leisure facilities that include a spa, an outdoor swimming pool, a kids' club and a fitness centre.

What we like: We love the fact that this property is perfect for a stay in Costa Rica, whether you are planning a couples' getaway or a family holiday.

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3. 9,11 or 13 Night Road Trip Through Costa Rica

Choose the 9,11 or 13 Night Road Trip Through Costa Rica for an unforgettable itinerary of 10 days in this renowned destination. Your journey will take you across the country's most stunning regions while you enjoy the chance to experience natural hot springs and the beauty of nesting sea turtles.

The cost of your booking includes car rental with GPS, a Standard Room of your choice at hand-selected hotels, a free, rechargeable phone card and unlimited access to the resort hot springs in Arenal and Rincón de la Vieja.

What we like: We love the unspoilt, natural settings that this amazing travel deal allows you to visit across Costa Rica.

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4. 7, 9 or 11-Night Adventure Tour in Costa Rica

Book the 7, 9 or 11-Night Adventure Tour in Costa Rica for a truly unforgettable getaway to the sun-soaked shores of this magical Central American country. Along your journey, you will stop off at active volcanoes, explore rainforests and visit charming villages.

The price of this booking includes your hotel accommodation as well as excursions in Tortuguero and a standard rental car, among other perks.

What we like: We love the lineup of locations that this amazing tour will take you through. They include San José, Arenal and Manuel Antonio.

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5. The Essentials of Costa Rica Self-Drive Tour

The Essentials of Costa Rica Self-Drive Tour is another incredible choice for your Costa Rica itinerary of 10 days. During this journey, you will visit locations that include San José, Puerto Viejo, Sarapiqui and Arenal.

Your booking includes assistance at the airport, shared transfers both in and out, hotel accommodation and entrance to Ecotermales in Arenal on day 2.

What we like: We love the fact that this tour package takes you to some of the leading ecotourism hotspots across Costa Rica while giving you plenty of time to relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

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Practical tips for visiting Costa Rica

A few practical tips for your Costa Rica itinerary of 10 days include ensuring that you bring along your sun cream, sandals and swimwear. The local currency in Costa Rica is the colón and the official language is Spanish.

When to visit Costa Rica

Mid-November to April is the best time to book a Costa Rica itinerary of 10 days. This is the driest time of the year, and the temperatures are hot, with up to 12 hours of sunshine each day.

How to get to Costa Rica

You can book flights to Costa Rica out of major travel hubs across the UK with regularly available routes. The average in-air time is around 15 hours for direct flights.

What to eat in Costa Rica

Make sure you sample local dishes, such as arroz con leche, olla de carne, gallo pinto and tamal, during your Costa Rica itinerary of 10 days.