The Best Ten Day Costa Rica Itinerary (2025) with Hotels and Transportation Tips

Hello Wanderer! Planning a 10-day trip to Costa Rica but don’t want to spend hours figuring out every detail?

This 10-day Costa Rica itinerary is the perfect shortcut — it will save you tons of planning time.

Ten days might sound like enough, but for a country with so many dispersed highlights, you need to be strategic. In this guide, I’ve organized the trip with geography in mind and made sure you’ll have time to truly connect with the essence of Costa Rica — Pura Vida (the easy, relaxed way of life). As you know, traveling isn’t a race; it’s not a business trip.

If you follow this itinerary ,you’ll explore lush rainforests, pristine waterfalls, golden beaches, towering volcanoes, and diverse wildlife. Plus, I’ve included recommended hotels, tours, and transportation options to make your trip planning simple and stress-free.

So let’s dive into the Pura Vida lifestyle and make the most of your 10 days in Costa Rica!

🌿 Have more time? Check out my Two-Week Costa Rica Itinerary for first-time visitors to explore even more of this beautiful country.

🌿 Short on time? See my 7-Day Costa Rica Itinerary and 5-Day Costa Rica Itinerary to make the most of your trip to paradise.

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Quick Facts about Traveling to Costa Rica

• Best time to visit Costa Rica: December to April (dry season)
• Official language: Spanish
• Currency: Costa Rican colón (CRC)
• Exchange rates :
  • 1 USD ≈ ₡509.29
  • 1 EUR ≈ ₡580.99
• Is Costa Rica safe for tourists? Yes, it’s generally safe. Just take standard travel precautions.
• Main religion: Roman Catholic
• Ideal trip length: 10 to 14 days for a well-balanced experience
• Costa Rica travel budget: Mid-range to affordable. Costa Rica offers excellent value, especially for nature and adventure lovers. You can explore updated costs on Numbeo’s Costa Rica cost of living page.
  

How to Get to Costa Rica

Costa Rica is easily accessible by air. The two major international airports are:

• San José – Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
• Liberia – Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR)

Most international travelers fly into San José, which offers the broadest selection of flights from North America, Europe, and Central America. Liberia is ideal if you’re heading straight to the Pacific Coast or beach resorts.

You can fly direct to Costa Rica from cities like Miami, New York, Houston, Toronto, and Madrid. Once you land, getting around is easy with domestic flights, buses, shared shuttles, or car rentals.

How to Get Around Costa Rica

Whether you’re planning a 10-day Costa Rica itinerary or staying longer, getting around the country is part of the adventure. Here are the best ways to travel between destinations:

1. Domestic Flights

Flying is a time-saving option, especially for long distances. The top local airlines include:

• Sansa Airlines – Reliable and affordable
• Costa Rica Green Airways – Family-run with high safety standards
• Aerobell Airlines – Efficient flights to key locations like Quepos and Tambor

✈️ Easily compare and book domestic or international flights with Trip.com.

2. Rental Cars

Renting a car is ideal if you want full flexibility, especially in remote or mountainous areas.

• Adobe Rent a Car – Trusted local provider
• Alamo Costa Rica & National Car Rental – Internationally recognized options
• For rugged terrain, a 4×4 is highly recommended.

🚗 Compare rental prices on Trip.com for both local and global companies.

3. Public Buses

Costa Rica has an extensive and budget-friendly bus system:

• Empresa Alfaro – Caribbean coast
• Tracopa – Pacific coast and Guanacaste
• MEPE – Nationwide routes

They’re great for low-cost travel but may be slower and less comfortable.

4. Shuttle Services

For comfortable, door-to-door transfers between popular destinations, consider:

• Costa Rica Shuttle – Reliable service with Wi-Fi
• RideCR & Shuttle Express Tamarindo – Great for beach towns
• Tico Shuttle – Ideal for airport transfers
• Monkey Ride & Gecko Explorer – Personalized and flexible routes

🚐 Book a smooth airport pickup with Welcome Pickups for peace of mind when you land.

5. Taxis & Ride-Sharing

In cities like San José, official red taxis with meters are common—always ensure the meter is running. Uber is also available in most urban areas and is often cheaper and more convenient.

Tips for Getting Around Costa Rica

• Check bus and shuttle schedules in advance
• Drive cautiously—many rural roads require a 4×4
• Allow extra time when traveling during the rainy season

With reliable options for every budget and travel style, navigating Costa Rica is easier than ever. Whether you’re sticking to a 10-day Costa Rica travel plan or extending your stay, choose the transport methods that match your pace—and enjoy every stop along the way!

Your 10 days Itinerary in Costa Rica

📅 Day 1 – Arrival in Alajuela (near SJO Airport)

Morning/Afternoon

Welcome to Costa Rica! After arriving at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in Alajuela, your adventure kicks off just a short drive from the terminal.

🚖 Transport Options from SJO Airport:

• Official Airport Taxi – Reliable and easy, about $10–$15 to central Alajuela (roughly 10 minutes).
• Hotel Shuttle – Many nearby hotels provide free or low-cost shuttles—check when booking.
• Welcome Pickups – Book in advance for a smooth, stress-free transfer with a professional driver waiting upon arrival. Perfect for a relaxed start to your trip.

Evening

Soak up the vibe in Alajuela Central Park—stroll beneath shady trees, people-watch by the fountain, and dive into your first Costa Rican flavors at a local soda.

Where to Stay in Alajuela

• Budget-Friendly: Great value stay near the airport
• Mid-Range: Comfortable hotel with great amenities
• Luxury: High-end stay

📅 Day 2 – Alajuela → La Fortuna (Arenal Volcano)

Morning

Journey from Alajuela to La Fortuna — your gateway to the majestic Arenal Volcano and endless adventure.

🚐 Transport Options:

• Shared Shuttle – Sit back and relax in an air-conditioned ride for around $50 per person (≈3.5 hours). Reserve ahead for a smooth, no-stress journey.
• Public Bus – Best for budget travelers at just $5, but be ready for a 4.5–5 hour ride with more stops.
• Uber – Works in San José, but for long-distance trips it’s less reliable and can cost $100+. Not the top pick for this leg.

Discover La Fortuna town and its vibrant local market. Unwind in the natural hot springs—many hotels provide shuttle services to nearby springs, or you can enjoy a relaxing evening by booking this convenient hot springs tour.

Where to Stay in La Fortuna

• Budget-Friendly: Top-rated stay for budget travelers
• Mid-Range: Charming hotel with volcano views
• Luxury: Upscale resort with premium hot springs access

• Hot Springs Experience: Relax in La Fortuna’s best thermal springs

📅 Day 3 – Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna Waterfall

🌋 Full-Day Adventure Option

Maximize your day in La Fortuna with a combo tour featuring Arenal Volcano, La Fortuna Waterfall, and Hot Springs. This guided experience includes transportation, a naturalist guide, and plenty of time to unwind in thermal pools — ideal for fitting all the highlights into one seamless day without the stress of planning.

Prefer to Explore Independently?

Morning

Take a taxi to Arenal Volcano National Park for hiking and wildlife spotting.

🚖 Getting there: Take a taxi from La Fortuna (~$10–$20).

Afternoon

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall (~$10 taxi), swim in the natural pool.

Wrap up your day with a hearty dinner at a local soda — cozy, family-run eateries dishing up authentic Costa Rican home cooking.

Recommended Combo Tour

• Arenal Volcano + La Fortuna Waterfall + Hot Springs: Book the full-day guided experience

📅 Day 4 – Hidden Gems in La Fortuna

Morning

Start your morning with a refreshing dip at El Salto — a local favorite swimming hole just minutes from town, complete with a natural rope swing and laid-back vibes.

🚖 Getting There:

• Catch a quick taxi (~$5–$10), or stroll over if you’re nearby — it’s an easy and scenic walk.
• Pro tip: Wear water shoes! The rocks are sneaky slippery.

Afternoon

Immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s vibrant culture with a coffee and chocolate tour. These interactive experiences typically feature tastings, traditional stories, and a stroll through local farms. Most tours include complimentary transportation from La Fortuna, making it an easy and delicious way to spend your afternoon.

Soak up the lively vibes as you stroll through town — follow the mouthwatering aromas to a local street stall and treat yourself to crispy empanadas, sweet churros, or fresh tropical fruit. A delicious adventure awaits!

Recommended Tour

Coffee & Chocolate Experience in La Fortuna: Join this local farm tour with tastings

📅 Day 5 – La Fortuna → Monteverde

Morning

Head to Monteverde, Costa Rica’s enchanting cloud forest region, famous for its rich biodiversity and refreshing mountain air.

🚖 Transport Options:

• Shared Shuttle – Sit back and enjoy the scenic ride! Comfortable and convenient, it costs around $75 and takes about 3.5 to 4 hours.
• Public Bus – A budget-friendly choice, but less ideal due to infrequent schedules and longer, less direct routes.

Afternoon

Unwind in Monteverde’s charming town—sip fresh Costa Rican coffee at a cozy café, browse local shops, or just soak in the mountain vibes.

Experience Monteverde’s magic after dark with a guided night tour, where you can spot sloths, glowing insects, tarantulas, frogs, and other nocturnal wildlife in their natural environment. If you prefer a quieter evening, simply relax and enjoy the calm ambiance of your lodge.

Where to Stay in Monteverde

• Budget-Friendly: Affordable eco-stay with forest vibes
• Mid-Range: Comfortable lodge with great views
• Luxury: Elegant retreat surrounded by nature

Recommended Tour

Monteverde Tropical Forest Night Walk (Guided): Book the nocturnal wildlife experience

📅 Day 6 – Monteverde Cloud Forest

Morning

Start your day exploring the renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you’ll encounter rare wildlife, vibrant greenery, and tranquil hiking paths.

🚖 Getting There:

• A short taxi ride from most hotels costs around $5–$10.
• Alternatively, book a guided tour to gain expert insights into Monteverde’s unique ecosystem.

Afternoon

Ziplining or hanging bridges tour (often hotel pickup included).

• Hanging Bridges Guided Tour — Stroll high above the forest floor on scenic suspension bridges through the cloud forest canopy.
• Zipline Canopy Tour — Glide over the treetops for an exhilarating, adrenaline-pumping adventure.

 Be sure to book your tour in advance to reserve your preferred time slot.

Evening

Wind down at your hotel or head into town for a cozy dinner—think warm dishes, cool mountain breezes, and that magical Monteverde mist all around.

Recommended Tours

• Zip Line Canopy Tour: Book here
• Hanging Bridges Guided Tour: Book here

📅 Day 7 – Monteverde → Manuel Antonio

Morning

Travel to Manuel Antonio, famous for its stunning beaches and national park.

🚖 Getting There:

• Shared Shuttle: ~4–5 hours, $60–$70, door-to-door with possible stops.
• Private Shuttle: ~3.5–4.5 hours, $250–$350, direct and flexible.
• Public Bus: ~6–7 hours, $10–$15, requires multiple transfers (Monteverde → Puntarenas → Quepos → Manuel Antonio).

Afternoon

Settle into your hotel and relax at Playa Espadilla — a spacious, beautiful beach ideal for swimming, lounging, and wildlife watching.

Evening

 Enjoy a laid-back evening:Unwind at your hotel, or head to a cliffside restaurant where you can savor dinner with jaw-dropping sunset views and the sound of waves below—pure Costa Rican magic.

Where to Stay in Manuel Antonio

• Budget-Friendly: Affordable stays near the beach
• Mid-Range: Comfortable hotels with great amenities
• Luxury: Upscale resorts with ocean views

📅 Day 8 – Manuel Antonio National Park

Morning

Start your day early with a walk or a short taxi ride (~$5) to Manuel Antonio National Park. Arrive at opening time to avoid crowds and spot monkeys, sloths, and colorful tropical birds.

Afternoon

After hiking the scenic trails, unwind on the park’s beautiful beaches:

• Playa Manuel Antonio – calm and family-friendly
• Playa Espadilla Sur – quieter and perfect for swimming

Evening

Wrap up your day with a relaxed evening:

• Unwind at your hotel, or
• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Manuel Antonio or nearby Quepos.

Recommended Tours

• Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour (includes ticket): Book your spot here
• Quepos Wooden Sail Yacht Cruise with Watersports & Food: Enjoy this fun water adventure

📅 Day 9 – Manuel Antonio → Playa Sámara (or stay an extra night in Manuel Antonio)

If you choose to head to Playa Sámara, here’s what your day could look like:

Morning

Time to swap jungle trails and wildlife for laid-back beach vibes. Head northwest to Playa Sámara for sun, calm waters, and pura vida charm.

🚖 Getting There:

• Shared Shuttle: ~5–6 hours, $60–$80, door-to-door with a set schedule.
• Private Shuttle: ~4.5 hours, $300–$380, direct, flexible, great for groups.
• Public Bus: 6–8 hours, $10–$15, multiple transfers (Quepos → Puntarenas → Nicoya → Sámara).
• Rental Car: ~4.5–5 hours, cost varies, flexible but avoid driving after dark.

Hit the golden sands, catch a few waves with a surfboard, or glide across the calm bay on a paddleboard—adventure or chill, your call.

Savor a beachfront dinner as the sky explodes in sunset colors—tropical vibes guaranteed.

If you choose to stay in Manuel Antonio, here’s your program :

Take a short taxi or walk (~$5–$7, 5–10 minutes) to Biesanz Beach, a hidden gem tucked between cliffs. Perfect for a peaceful swim, sunbathing, or just soaking in the tranquil jungle-meets-ocean vibes.

Afternoon

Head out on a Damas Island Mangrove Tour by boat or kayak—glide through lush waterways and spot monkeys, exotic birds, and reptiles. Hotel pickup included for a hassle-free adventure.

👉 Book the Damas Island Mangrove Boat Tour with Lunch for an unforgettable nature experience.

🌅 Enjoy a romantic sunset dinner at a hillside restaurant overlooking the Pacific. Arrive just before golden hour for the best views. Then unwind with a tropical drink as the jungle comes alive around you. Return by taxi or walk under the stars.

Where to Stay

Playa Sámara:

• Budget-Friendly: Affordable beachside stays
• Mid-Range: Comfortable hotels near the shore
• Luxury: Upscale resorts with ocean views

Recommended Tour

Damas Island Mangrove Boat Tour with Lunch: Reserve your spot here

📅 Day 10 – Return to San José Airport

Morning

Say goodbye to the waves and sunshine of Sámara as you begin your journey back to San José. Hop into your shared or private shuttle and enjoy one last scenic ride through Costa Rica’s beautiful countryside.

🚖 Getting from Playa Sámara  to San José Airport:

• Shared Shuttle: ~5½ hrs, $60–$65, comfy and reliable door-to-door service.
• Private Shuttle: ~4 hrs, $250–$280 per vehicle, flexible and stress-free.
• Public Bus: ~5½ hrs (via Nicoya or Hojancha + transfer), $65–85, best for seasoned budget travelers.

🚖 Getting from Manuel Antonio to San José Airport:

• Shared Shuttle: ~4½–5½ hrs, $60–$70, comfortable door-to-door ride with hotel pickup.
• Private Shuttle: ~3½–4½ hrs, $200–$280 per vehicle, direct, flexible, and hassle-free.
• Public Bus: ~6–7 hrs, $10–$15, budget-friendly but involves transfers (via Quepos or San Isidro).

Afternoon

Arrive at SJO with plenty of time to check in, grab a snack, and reflect on your epic 10-day adventure.

Evening

Take off with a heart full of memories and a camera roll packed with pura vida moments. Until next time, Costa Rica! 🇨🇷✨

This 10-day Costa Rica itinerary is designed to let you truly experience Pura Vida and smile every time you remember these unforgettable moments. Costa Rica is a magical country — one step closer to paradise.

From volcano views and cloud forest adventures to serene beaches and wildlife-filled parks, this guide gives you a little bit of everything. You’ll explore the lush landscapes of Arenal, walk among the treetops in Monteverde, spot sloths in Manuel Antonio, and end your journey with sunset bliss in Playa Sámara.

Remember: traveling is about connection, not rushing from place to place just for Instagram-worthy shots. I’ve made this mistake myself in the past. Take a deep breath, go at your own pace, and let this guide make your trip stress-free.

If you found this guide helpful, save it for later and share it with your friends! I’d also love to hear your thoughts — leave a comment and tell me about your travel experiences.