Costa Rica 5 Day Itinerary

Everyone wants to go on vacation to Costa Rica these days. I get it. It’s such a beautiful country and the weather is fantastic. It has jungles, rain forests, and lots of beaches too. There truly is something for everyone in Costa Rica.

With travel time, most of my American clients only have time for a Costa Rica 5 day itinerary though. (Just not enough vacation time in the U.S.!) Sadly, if you don’t plan far enough in advance. flights into Liberia can be cost-prohibitive. So here’s an easy Costa Rica 5 Day itinerary package from San Jose International Airport. You’ll spend 3 nights close to the beach and 2 nights in the cloud forest, making it super easy to get back to the airport at the end of your trip.

Need help planning your trip? As a Virtuoso travel advisor, I can make your stay in Costa Rica entirely seamless. All you need to do is show up! Book a complimentary vacation consultation here and we can talk about the possibility of working together.

Here is my day-by-day suggestion for a Costa Rica 5 Day itinerary.

Day 1: Arrive at SJO, aka Juan Santamaría International Airport

If we work together, on the first day of your Costa Rica 5 day itinerary, I’ll arrange for a private driver to pick you up at the airport and take you to Manuel Antonio National Park. It’s about a 2.5 to 3 hour drive from SJO airport. Your driver will stop along the way so you can use the facilities and pick up some snacks and drinks.

Upon arrival at Manuel Antonio, you will check into your hotel and unwind after a long travel day. I have a few favorite options and will match you with the right property for a great stay. I will make sure you have a pool! And that you are close to the beach and restaurants.

Manuel Antonio National Park is a breathtaking destination, renowned for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal family vacation spot. Families can explore a variety of activities, including guided nature tours that showcase the park's rich biodiversity, where children can spot monkeys, sloths, and a multitude of colorful birds. The well-maintained hiking trails cater to all fitness levels, allowing families to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying panoramic views of the coastline. With opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and discovering hidden coves, Manuel Antonio provides the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Day 2: Explore Manuel Antonio and Go Ziplining

On Day 2 of our Costa Rica 5 Day itinerary, let’s get started with a two-hour guided nature hike in Manuel Antonio National Park. This is a great way to experience “Pura Vida” in Costa Rica.

As you walk along the well-maintained trails, you may spot the playful white-faced capuchin monkeys swinging through the trees or perched on branches. Keep your eyes peeled for the squirrel monkeys, known for their mischevious behavior, and the occasional howler monkey, whose distinctive calls resonate throughout the park.

The dense foliage is home to many species of birds. Look up to see the vibrant Scarlet Macaws, with their striking red, blue, and yellow plumage, or the elusive Resplendent Quetzal, celebrated for its vivid colors and long tail feathers. Other notable birds include the Brown Pelican, often seen near the beach, and the Yellow-throated Vireo, known for its cheerful song.

After your hike, enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch, which often includes "casado," a plate featuring rice, black beans, plantains, and a choice of protein such as chicken, beef, or fish. This meal is typically accompanied by a fresh salad and sometimes fried eggs or a small serving of "salsa" for added flavor.

In the afternoon, it’s time to fly over and through the canopies on a ziplining adventure. Some of the best ziplining in the world is found in Costa Rica, so I try to always include it in any Costa Rica 5 day itinerary! As you ascend to the platform high in the treetops, anticipation builds. Once you strap in and take that initial leap, the rush of adrenaline kicks in. You soar through the air, gliding from one platform to another, with the sensation of flying over the lush landscape below. The views are nothing short of spectacular; you'll catch glimpses of the coastline in the distance, alongside the rich green hues of the jungle.

Guides are on hand to ensure safety and share insights about the flora and fauna, enriching your understanding of this vibrant ecosystem.

After you first full day in Costa Rica, return to your hotel for some R&R. You deserve it!

Day 3: Surfing Lessons and a Nighttime Hike of Manuel Antonio

When you wake up on Day 3 of your Costa Rica 5 day itinerary, head down to the beach for your surfing lessons! Taking surfing lessons at Manuel Antonio is perfect for beginners. Your lessons typically begin with a guided introduction on land. Instructors demonstrate the essentials, covering everything from paddling techniques to standing up on the board.

Once you're ready to hit the water, you'll find that the surf conditions are ideal for novices. The waves are consistent but manageable, allowing you to practice at your own pace. With the instructor by your side, you'll feel supported every step of the way.

After lunch, feel free to spend more time at the beach or perhaps return to your hotel for some pool time. (Maybe some monkey spotting as well!)

Then, in the evening head back to Manuel Antonio National Park for a nighttime hike. A nighttime hike in Manuel Antonio National Park offers a completely different experience compared to hiking during the day. (Of course, for all my Costa Rica itineraries, you will be picked up at your hotel for all of your activities.)

The first thing you’ll notice in the park at night is the air’s coolness, a refreshing relief from the heat of the day. With a headlamp or flashlight in hand, you'll navigate the trails, using your senses to identify the various fauna that bask in the moonlight. Creatures such as sleeping sloths, owls, and even the elusive kinkajou may become visible, providing a unique glimpse into their nighttime routines. At night, the forest really comes alive. Your friendly guide will introduce you to all the nocturnal creatures.

After your hike, head back to your hotel for some late night snacks and drinks before resting up for your drive to Vara Blanca tomorrow.

Day 4: Travel to Vara Blanca, the Cloud Forest

On Day 4 of your Costa Rica 5 Day itinerary, I’ll arrange for a private driver to drive you from Manuel Antonio to Vara Blanca, taking you through some of Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes. Along the drive, you’ll stop at the iconic bridge where alligators often bask in the sun, offering a thrilling view of these magnificent reptiles in their natural habitat.

Vara Blanca is a highland village known for its cool climate, lush vegetation, and easy access to stunning waterfalls and fertile coffee plantations. Visitors are drawn to this serene locale for its opportunities to explore nature and engage in outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and coffee tours.

Check into your hotel in Vara Blanca, where you can enjoy the resort’s variety of recreational activities, from swimming in pristine pools to guided nature excursions to visit local waterfalls. If we work together, I’ll make sure to select a resort with an array of great amenities and activities perfect for family enjoyment. Enjoy an early dinner and relax today because we have a full day of exploration tomorrow.

Day 5: Enjoy Your Resort in Vara Blanca

Sadly, today is Day 5 of your Costa Rica 5 day itinerary!! Make the most of this last day. The resorts in this part of Costa Rica include access to a serene river and several well-maintained walking trails that showcase the local flora and fauna. An exceptional highlight is an incredible wildlife sanctuary, where children can observe rescued animals such as toucans, monkeys, and jaguars, fostering an appreciation for conservation.

For interactive educational experiences, there’s also a botanical garden, where families can learn about native plants and their medicinal uses. Those seeking adventure can participate in zip-lining and horseback riding tours.

In addition, Vara Blanca is conveniently located near several popular attractions, such as La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where families can hike, marvel at cascading waterfalls, and visit the butterfly and hummingbird gardens. There are also some great bird-watching tours.

Day 6: Fly Home

Sadly, your adventure in Costa Rica has come to an end. A private transfer will pick you up and take you to SJO airport. Hasta luego!

Summary of Your Costa Rica 5 Day Itinerary

This short but sweet Costa Rica 5 day itinerary gives you a taste of this beautiful country, from the beach to the mountains and the waterfalls and cloud forest. Ready to make your trip a reality? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.

About Krista

I’m a Notre Dame grad and a Chicago Booth MBA based in Palm Beach, Florida. But I spent over 11 years living and working in London, England, selling financial data. My career and personal travel have taken me all over the world. To date, I’ve been to 78 countries. Now I bring the joy of travel to others at a Virtuoso travel advisor. Let me make your next vacation seamless for you.

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