Costa Rica is a dream destination for travelers seeking adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and rich biodiversity. We recently took a trip to this beautiful country to celebrate my husband’s retirement, and it was an experience filled with unforgettable moments. From lush rainforests and volcanic landscapes to stunning beaches and wildlife encounters, Costa Rica delivered in every way. We only had 7 days, including travel, but I have to say that we sure did get a lot in!

Planning Our Trip with AnyWhere.com

To make the most of our time in Costa Rica, we let AnyWhere.com plan & book our trip, a fantastic travel company that specializes in customized itineraries. They came highly recommended and took care of all the details—accommodations, transportation, and activities—making our trip seamless and stress-free. One of the best parts was their local expertise; they recommended unique experiences and hidden gems we might not have found on our own.

If you’re considering a trip to Costa Rica, I highly recommend checking out AnyWhere.com. You can take the quiz on their website, plug in your budget, along with days you’d like to travel and they will build a custom itinerary just for you. You can tweak if needed and build the perfect trip. Their team is knowledgeable, responsive, and makes travel effortless so you can focus on enjoying the adventure.

Are you ready to come along on our trip? Here’s our daily itinerary with some noteworthy restaurants. I am sharing a real life experience with real pictures without all of the fancy filters.

Day 1-San José

We flew into SJO and didn’t get in until pretty late at night. Our flight was delayed and it took us longer than usual to get through customs. AnyWhere.com arranged our transportation from the airport to our first destination city. Thankfully our driver was waiting for us right outside the airport door because it was about 10PM, when our pickup was supposed to be 8:40PM! I have to admit, I was nervous if he’d still be there. He was ready to drive us to Arenal which was about a 3 hour drive. He was so gracious the entire trip eager to answer our questions about his beautiful country, as he navigated the Costa Rican mountain roads like a pro.

Day 2-La Fortuna

We woke up in our own bungalow at the Arenal History Inn. I woke up to the sounds of the most beautiful birds. With just 10 private bungalows, this boutique hotel was quiet and comfortable. Ours was nestled at the end of the row, surrounded by jungle with hummingbirds galore. We had a delicious breakfast at the restaurant located on the grounds-Piura. This was included in our stay, and we could order right off the menu. We then had time to relax at the pool, which we has all to ourselves.

Lunch-Puira Restaurant

Inspired by the northern city of Peru, the cradle of Peruvian gastronomy, with a greater variety of dishes from all over the world.

Arenal Volcano

Next up, our guided volcano hike. One of Costa Rica’s most iconic landmarks, Arenal Volcano is a breathtaking sight, towering at over 5,400 feet. Located in Arenal Volcano National Park, this majestic, cone-shaped volcano was one of the country’s most active until 2010. While it no longer erupts, the surrounding region is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Visitors can hike scenic trails with views of old lava fields, soak in natural hot springs, and explore the lush rainforest, home to exotic wildlife like howler monkeys, toucans, and sloths. Whether you’re zip-lining through the treetops or relaxing in a thermal spa, Arenal is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Costa Rica.

I highly recommend having a guide. They have so much knowledge that they share with you and they know just where the wildlife is.

Next, stop: Baldi Hot Springs: A Luxurious Thermal Escape

Nestled in the heart of the Arenal region, Baldi Hot Springs offers a relaxing retreat surrounded by lush rainforest and stunning volcano views. Fed by the geothermal energy of Arenal Volcano, Baldi boasts 25 mineral-rich thermal pools, each with varying temperatures to suit every comfort level. The beautifully designed resort features cascading waterfalls, swim-up bars, and even waterslides for a fun twist on relaxation. I was looking forward to this excursion and apologize that I didn’t document it better, but I was able to truly RELAX! Whether you’re unwinding in a secluded hot spring or enjoying a tropical cocktail by the pool, Baldi Hot Springs is the perfect way to soak in Costa Rica’s natural beauty.

Day 3: SKY TRAM AND SKY WALK ARENAL

This tour is a thorough exploration of the Arenal rainforest canopy. We hiked trials and walked over suspension bridges that offer peerless views of the jungle, and then we went for a ride above the canopy in a cable car. This tour was at our own pace. We did see a small waterfall, but I was a bit disappointed as we learned before our hike that the trail to a larger waterfall was closed.

Lunch: Restaurante La Caribeña

They boast having the best seafood of the Caribbean, and I love the Jamaican vibe. Our waiter insisted we try a Chiliguaro, Costa Rican’s official celebration drink. Overall, our experience was delicious!

Day 4: Transportation To Quepos

This trip was a long one and when I questioned our Trip Designed Patricia, she assured me that it would be well worth it and you’ll see that this definitely WAS true! We were dropped off at Hotel Plaza Yara. This small boutique hotel featured an art gallery in the lobby and a dog named Yara 😉 Our suite opened up to a pool surrounded by the jungle. We heard monkeys howling and gazed at macaws right above our heads.

Dinner & Sunset at La Terraza Café Bar Restaurante

This Restaurant in Manuel Antonio has the best ocean view. And the sunset sure didn’t disappoint!

The food and drinks were pretty good, and there were a few monkeys too!

Day 5: Catamaran and Snorkeling Tour

This was a half day excursion on a catamaran operated by Iguana Tours that included dinner & views of the sunset. After we cruised around a bit, we had the chance to go snorkeling, slide down the slide and kayak. I was amazed at how warm the water was. I wish I could show you some of the fish we saw, but I didn’t have an underwater camera. We had a very small group and the crew was absolutely amazing! They made sure we had plenty of drinks and music while cruising with the dolphins.

Day 6: Manuel Antonio National Park: Where Jungle Meets the Sea

Consistently ranked among the top 10 national parks in the world by sources like TripAdvisor and Forbes, Manuel Antonio National Park is a breathtaking blend of lush rainforest, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife. Though it’s Costa Rica’s smallest national park, it boasts incredible biodiversity—visitors can spot capuchin monkeys, sloths, toucans, and iguanas while hiking its scenic trails. The park’s stunning white-sand beaches, like Playa Manuel Antonio, offer crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Whether you’re exploring the jungle, encountering exotic wildlife, or relaxing on a postcard-perfect beach, it’s easy to see why Manuel Antonio is considered one of the most beautiful national parks in the world.

We had a guide who was extremely knowledgeable and knew just where all of the animals were hiding. After our guided walk, we had time at the beach and to do a little exploring on our own.

Dinner: Emilio’s Cafe

Emilio’s Cafe, nestled in the heart of Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, is a culinary gem renowned for its delectable cuisine, inviting ambiance, and breathtaking ocean vistas. The café offers a diverse menu that caters to various palates, featuring fresh seafood, traditional Costa Rican dishes, and an array of delightful desserts.

Day 7: Back to San José to catch our flight

Here’s more helpful information if you’re considering planning a trip to Costa Rica.

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

Costa Rica has two distinct seasons:

• Dry Season (December – April): This is the best time to visit for sunshine, minimal rain, and excellent beach weather. It’s also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
• Green Season (May – November): While rain is more frequent, this season offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and better deals on accommodations. September and October tend to be the rainiest months, especially on the Pacific coast.

If you’re looking for a balance between good weather and fewer tourists, late November to early December or May can be great times to visit.

Why Visit Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is known for its commitment to sustainability, stunning national parks, and warm hospitality. Here are a few reasons why it’s a must-visit:

• Biodiversity: Home to 5% of the world’s species, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
• Adventure Activities: Zip-lining, white-water rafting, hiking, and more.
• Beaches: Beautiful coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.
• Pura Vida Lifestyle: A laid-back, friendly atmosphere that makes visitors feel at home.

Packing Essentials for Costa Rica

If you’re planning a trip, packing smart can make all the difference. Here are some must-have items:
✅ Light, breathable clothing – The tropical climate can be hot and humid.
✅ Rain jacket or poncho – Afternoon rain showers are common.
✅ Hiking shoes or sturdy sandals – Many adventures require good footwear.
✅ Bug spray – Mosquitoes are inevitable in the rainforest.
✅ Sunscreen and hat – The sun is strong, especially at the beach.
✅ Waterproof phone case – Great for waterfall hikes and boat rides.
✅ Binoculars – Perfect for spotting sloths, monkeys, and toucans.
✅ Refillable water bottle – Stay hydrated while being eco-friendly.

Travel Tips for Costa Rica

• Currency: Costa Rican colón (CRC), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted.
• Language: Spanish is the official language, but many people speak English.
• Transportation: Renting a 4×4 is helpful for exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.
• Eco-Friendliness: Costa Rica is serious about conservation, so be mindful of your environmental impact.
• Safety: Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America, but always exercise normal travel precautions.

Final Thoughts: Pura Vida in Costa Rica

Our trip to Costa Rica was nothing short of magical—an adventure filled with stunning landscapes, thrilling activities, and unforgettable moments. From exploring Arenal Volcano and soaking in the Baldi Hot Springs to hiking through the world-renowned Manuel Antonio National Park, every experience left us in awe of this country’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Traveling with AnyWhere.com made our journey effortless, allowing us to focus on making memories while they handled the details.

If you’re looking for a destination that offers both relaxation and adventure, Costa Rica should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re zip-lining through the rainforest, spotting wildlife in national parks, or unwinding on a pristine beach, this incredible country embodies the “Pura Vida” lifestyle—a reminder to slow down, embrace nature, and enjoy life to the fullest.