Costa Rica Itinerary 10-Day: Beaches, Adventure, and Volcano
- Esteban Acedo
- Jun 3
- 5 min read
Ready for the trip of a lifetime? This 10-day Costa Rica itinerary blends volcanoes, cloud forests, and Pacific beaches. It’s perfect for backpackers, solo travelers, and families alike. At Pura Vida Traveling, we can help with transportation, tours, and insider advice, so your adventure is smooth and full of pura vida vibes!
Here’s the ultimate 2-week Costa Rica road trip itinerary!
Quick Overview of Your 2-Week Costa Rica Road Trip
Day 1-2: San José → La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)
Day 3-4: La Fortuna → Monteverde (Cloud Forest)
Day 5-7: Monteverde → Manuel Antonio (National Park & Beaches)
Day 8-10: Manuel Antonio → Santa Teresa (Surf & Chill)
Detailed Costa Rica Road Trip Itinerary
Day 1-2: San José ➔ La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano Region)
How to get there?
You can choose to rent a car and pick it up at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) to start your adventure heading north to La Fortuna.
Tip: We recommend renting a car through Adobe Rent a Car, one of the most trusted and eco-conscious
rental companies in Costa Rica. As our partner, they offer a special discount for Pura Vida Traveling readers.
You can also choose to take a shared shuttle ($60 per person) or private shuttle ($200 for 1–5 people) from San José Airport (SJO).
Things to Do:
Arenal Volcano National Park: Walk the easy Las Coladas trail to the 1992 lava flows for jaw-dropping volcano views, or hike the more challenging Cerro Chato (currently closed, but worth checking updates).
Hot Springs: Spend a relaxing evening at Tabacón, Baldi, EcoTermales, or Los Lagos. Some resorts offer hot spring day passes starting at $40. For more info, read our articles about The Best Hot Springs in La Fortuna
La Fortuna Waterfall: Hike down 500+ steps to reach a stunning 70-meter waterfall. Entry fee: around $18.
Adventure Tours: Book canyoning (waterfall rappelling), ziplining, or horseback riding around the volcano. Check the tours we offer in La Fortuna here.
Travel Tips:
Bring water shoes for the waterfall and a light rain jacket (it can rain at any time).
If you arrive early enough, consider visiting El Salto Rope Swing, a free local swimming hole.
Where to Stay:
Budget: Hotel Secreto La Fortuna
Midrange: Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
Luxury: Arenal Springs Resort & Spa
Day 3-4: La Fortuna ➔ Monteverde (Cloud Forest)
How to get there:
Shared shuttle ($60 per person) or private shuttle ($300 for 1–5 people) from La Fortuna.
The travel time: 4 hours approx.
Things to Do:
Coffee, Chocolate & Sugar Cane Tour: At Don Juan Tours, experience every step from bean to cup, and enjoy plenty of tasting! (~$35)
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve: Hike through misty trails, spotting hummingbirds, monkeys, and the famous quetzal. Entry: ~$25.
Night Wildlife Tours: Discover Costa Rica’s nocturnal side on a guided night walk to spot frogs, insects, and more.
Travel Tips:
Monteverde is cooler (15–22°C). Bring a sweater and a waterproof jacket.
Book activities a day in advance during the high season (December to April).
Where to Stay:
Budget: Mi Casa Su Casa Monteverde
Midrange: Poco a Poco Monteverde
Luxury: Hotel Belmar
Day 5-7: Monteverde ➔ Santa Teresa (Surf + Chill)
How to get there:
Shared shuttle ($60 per person) or private shuttle ($430) to Santa Teresa.
Travel time: 6 hours approx.
Things to Do:
Surfing Lessons: Santa Teresa is a surf town! Take a private surf lesson if you’re a beginner (around $80–$90 per session) or rent a board.
Relax on the Beach: Sunbathe at Playa Carmen, Playa Hermosa, or Playa Santa Teresa, long, golden beaches perfect for chill days.
Yoga Classes: Join a class at Nautilus Boutique Hotel to stretch and relax.
Explore Nearby Spots: Rent an ATV and ride to Montezuma waterfalls, Malpais, or Playa Coyote for a day adventure.
Travel Tips:
Roads can be dusty, pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and a scarf for ATV rides.
Book surf and yoga classes early if visiting during peak season.
Where to Stay:
Budget: Lost Boys
Midrange: Bohemia Experience
Luxury: Nantipa A Tico Beach Experience
Day 8-10: Santa Teresa ➔ Manuel Antonio (Beaches + National Park)
How to get there:
Shared shuttle ($90 per person) or private shuttle ($430) to Manuel Antonio.
Travel time: 4 to 5 hours.
Things to Do:
Manuel Antonio National Park: Easy hiking trails leading to stunning beaches. Spot sloths, white-faced monkeys, and colorful birds. Open Tuesday to Sunday, entrance ~$18.
Beach Days: Spend afternoons relaxing at Playa Espadilla (big, popular beach, our favorite) or Playa Biesanz (small, hidden beach, perfect for snorkeling and ideal with children).
Catamaran Tour: Cruise around the coastline, snorkel, spot dolphins, and enjoy sunset views. Some tours include drinks and lunch (~$85).
Optional Tours: Try a mangrove kayak tour at Isla Damas or go horseback riding to waterfalls.
Travel Tips:
The park can get crowded; arrive right at opening time (7 AM).
Manuel Antonio has a lively town vibe, great for dining and nightlife.
Where to stay:
Budget & Midrange: Villas Jacquelina
Luxury: Makanda by the Sea
Bonus Tips for Traveling in Costa Rica:
Transportation: Reliable shared or private shuttles are available throughout Costa Rica; book early during the high season.
Money: US dollars and major credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are widely available, but some remote areas may only accept cash.
Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available almost everywhere, but a local SIM card (Kolbi, Movistar) is handy. Check out our blog article for more information: Cellular Phone Service in Costa Rica - A Traveler's Guide
Sustainability: Bring reusable water bottles and bags to help protect Costa Rica’s ecosystems.
Final thoughts:
This 10-day Costa Rica itinerary perfectly blends adventure, relaxation, and iconic sights. From volcano hikes to beach sunsets, it’s a journey packed with unforgettable moments.
Stay open to surprises, Costa Rica’s magic often lies in the unexpected. Need help with tours or transportation? Pura Vida Traveling has you covered.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is 10 days enough to visit all these places in Costa Rica?
Yes! While Costa Rica may appear small on a map, travel times can add up due to winding roads and mountainous routes. This itinerary is well-paced, giving you enough time to enjoy each destination without feeling rushed. Be sure to plan your transportation in advance.
Should I rent a car or take shuttles?
It depends. If you like flexibility and adventure, renting a car is a great option. If you prefer a stress-free trip (especially with kids or heavy luggage), shared or private shuttles are super reliable and comfortable. Pura Vida Traveling can help you organize both!
When is the best time to follow this 10-day itinerary?
December to April (the dry season) is ideal for sunny days, clear roads, and beach-perfect weather. If you travel in the green season (May to November), expect fewer crowds, lower prices, and some afternoon rain showers but the landscapes will be extra lush and beautiful!
Should I rent a car or take shuttles?
It depends. If you like flexibility and adventure, renting a car is a great option. If you prefer a stress-free trip (especially with kids or heavy luggage), shared or private shuttles are super reliable and comfortable. Pura Vida Traveling can help you organize both!
When is the best time to follow this 10-day itinerary?
December to April (the dry season) is ideal for sunny days, clear roads, and beach-perfect weather. If you travel in the green season (May to November), expect fewer crowds, lower prices, and some afternoon rain showers but the landscapes will be extra lush and beautiful!
How much should I budget for a 10-day trip to Costa Rica?
A rough guide:
Budget travelers: $60–$100 per day (hostels, buses, local meals)
Mid-range travelers: $100–$200 per day (hotels, shuttles, tours)
Luxury travelers: $250+ per day (resorts, private transfers, premium tours)
Costa Rica can be accommodated within many budgets, and we can always help you find the best deals.
Can I adjust this itinerary to spend more time at the beach?
Absolutely! If you’re a beach lover, you could easily add an extra day or two in Santa Teresa or Manuel Antonio. We can suggest extra activities or chill beach spots depending on your travel style.
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