Untamed Treasures

A whirlwind itinerary through Costa Rica's National Parks

The best of Costa Rica’s treasured national park system: Two active volcanos, a unique cloud rainforest and pristine white sand beaches. With this itinerary, you’ll get a taste of just how biodiverse this country is within a 100 KM radius of the airport.

Airport: Juan Santa Maria (SJO)

Itinerary Length: 1 week to 10 days, but you won’t run out of things to do if you make it a full 2 weeks.

Adventure Level: Thrilling

Best Time of Year: December-April

A hummingbird showing off its tropical hues in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

A Note on Costa Rica’s National Parks

Costa Rica’s National Parks (AKA their national treasures) and reserves make up about 28% of the total land mass in Costa Rica. For a country that’s about the size of West Virginia, that doesn't seem like a lot of land, but they hold an incredible amount of biodiversity in both flora and fauna. The other cool thing is that they are very accessible in price and by public transportation. If you are a resident or citizen of Costa Rica, the entrance fees typically cost around $3 USD for adults and $1 USD for kids. While foreigners take on the brunt of the costs, around $16 USD for adults and $5 USD for kids, it’s still a bargain compared to the US or Canadian National Park systems. It’s best to book your entrances ahead of time on the official SINAC website (do not pay extra on other sites). For some parks, pre-booking is the only way to gain entrance, and there is likely little to no cell service to buy the entrance when you arrive. Some parks also have specific timed entry, so best to book far in advance.

This itinerary is meant to give you a taste of the biodiversity this country has to offer within a realistic time frame, and will hopefully leave you wanting to come back to see the other 24 parks during your next trips to Costa Rica.

Poás Volcano National Park (Day 1)

Poás Volcano is so close to the central valley that if you arrive to Costa Rica before midday, you can easily hop over there from the airport. If you prefer to take it slow, get to Poás early on your first full day in Costa Rica, and make it a stop before heading to Arenal Volcano/La Fortuna. You can arrive as early as 8 am, which is typically the best chance at getting a good view of the crater before the afternoon rain clouds roll in. There are plenty of trails to hike around here, and you could easily spend a half day here, visiting the Botos Lagoon and searching for elusive quetzals and armadillos. After you’ve worked up an appetite, be sure to stop by one of the street vendors on the way down the volcano who sell local strawberries doused in chocolate and condensed milk.

The Poás Crater a few years back on a fairly clear day. The crater changes daily, so it’s a great place to come back to over and over.

Instant diabetes in a cup, but I still think about these strawberries and condensed milk cups on a monthly basis.

Arenal National Park & La Fortuna (Days 2-5)

Arenal (Volcano) and La Fortuna (town) are the hotspots for adventure in Costa Rica. Not only are they tourist hotspots, but the ground around the volcano actually has hot water flowing out of it. You can spend the day traipsing through the jungle, scaling the volcano or swinging through the canopy. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, sit down to a wonderful meal cooked over an open fire typical of the San Carlos region, and then melt into the hot springs in the evening at one of the many resorts.

We definitely recommend staying at one of the resorts with hot springs, it just makes the logistics of being in a bathing suit in public easier. Los Lagos Resort has clean and simple no frills rooms and a great hot spring complex for both kids and adults right inside the resort. Plus, it has the access road to an epic viewpoint to get up close and personal with Arenal Volcano. La Fortuna also a great jumping off point to explore the famous blue rivers of Costa Rica and other water activities on Lake Arenal like kayaking, paddleboarding or tubing. You could probably spend your entire vacation here and not run out of things to do.

The viewpoint of the enchanting Arenal Volcano from Los Lagos Resort.

Things to Do in The Arenal Region

As we said, there’s so much to do here, and narrowing it down can be a challenge. These activities are unique to the Arenal area:

1. Guided Night Hike
   Explore Arenal National Park after dark and encounter wildlife like the elusive green tree frog, sloths, or yellow vipers hanging from trees.

2. Sky Adventures Zipline
   Catch a fly by view of the volcano on a thrilling zipline tour at Sky Adventures, offering unforgettable views and adrenaline-pumping excitement.

3. Hanging Bridges at Mistico Park
   Take an ethereal walk through the treetops on the hanging bridges of Mistico Park, surrounded by lush greenery and breathtaking views.

For Adrenaline Seekers
If you’re craving more adventure, try an ATV tour through secret jungle trails that lead to a local indigenous village. Or, experience a twilight boat safari on the Peñas Blancas River, looking for sloths. For water enthusiasts, a tubing adventure on the turquoise Rio Celeste or across Lake Arenal will get your heart racing.

For a Relaxed Pace
Prefer to keep it low-key? Kayak or paddleboard on Lake Arenal, unwind with a spa treatment at the luxurious Tabacón Thermal Resort, or venture to Tenorio Volcano National Park for a day trip to witness the stunning Rio Celeste waterfall.

No matter your pace, Arenal offers a variety of unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.

Arenal Volcano as seen from Mistico Park. The Volcano plays a fun game of hide and seek due to weather patterns it creates. We stood for 40 min waiting for it to pop out from behind the clouds, which lasted all of two minutes.

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve (Days 6-7)

High in the Tilarán Mountains, Monteverde offers a refreshing escape into one of Costa Rica’s most unique ecosystems. The combination of the proximity to the sea and the high altitude are what drive the warm ocean breezes upward and transform them into cool, misty air that sets the stage for a landscape brimming with biodiversity. Known for its conservation efforts and world-class eco-tourism, Monteverde is a haven for travelers looking to connect with nature in a meaningful way. With its winding trails, sweeping views, and vibrant local culture, this small mountain town strikes a perfect balance between adventure and tranquility.

The sun sets over the Nicoya Gulf and Nicoya pensinsula as seen from Moneteverde.

Things to Do in Monteverde

Things to Do in Monteverde

1. Explore the Cloud Forest Reserves
   Monteverde’s cloud forests are among the most biologically diverse in the world. Take a guided tour through reserves like Monteverde or Santa Elena to hike trails shaded by ancient trees and listen for many species of bird calls.

2. Experience the Canopy
   Monteverde’s treetops aren’t just for the birds. Zip-line through the mist or walk across suspension bridges at Sky Adventures or Moneteverde Extremo Park to get a different perspective on the forest below.

3. Discover Local Farms
   Visit coffee plantations to see how Monteverde’s rich volcanic soil and climate create world-renowned brews. Many farms also offer tours featuring chocolate and cheese production.

4. Hike Cerro Amigos
   Monteverde’s highest peak offers a challenging trek with panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see the Nicoya Gulf and beyond—a rewarding sight after a steep climb.

5. Night Walk Adventures
   As dusk falls, Monteverde transforms. Join a guided night walk to catch a glimpse of nocturnal wildlife, from frogs to kinkajous, and experience the forest in a whole new way.

The hanging bridges at Sky Adventures are a unique way to get up close and personal with wildlife in Costa Rica.

Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations, where vibrant rainforests seamlessly merge with the shimmering Pacific Ocean. Located on the central Pacific coast, this charming area is home to Manuel Antonio National Park, often ranked among the most beautiful in the world. Though it’s one of Costa Rica’s smallest national parks, it boasts incredible biodiversity, with more than 100 species of mammals and over 180 species of birds. Visitors are almost guaranteed to spot monkeys, sloths, toucans, and colorful crabs while exploring the park’s trails.

Beyond the park, Manuel Antonio provides a host of activities, from snorkeling in coral reefs to kayaking through mangroves. It’s also a prime location for spotting dolphins and whales during migration seasons.

With a bustling town offering delicious local cuisine, boutique accommodations, and vibrant nightlife, Manuel Antonio combines natural splendor with modern comforts.

Things to Do around Manuel Antonio/Quepos

Manuel Antonio offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. These activities highlight the unique experiences this iconic destination has to offer:

1. Explore Manuel Antonio National Park
   Hike the park’s well-maintained trails and discover pristine beaches, vibrant wildlife, and breathtaking coastal views. Don’t miss the chance to spot monkeys, iguanas, and sloths.

2. Snorkeling and Dolphin Watching
   Head out on a boat tour to explore the vibrant marine life of the Pacific Ocean. Swim alongside tropical fish, spot dolphins, and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of migrating whales.

3. Sunset Catamaran Cruise
   Relax aboard a catamaran as you glide across the ocean, sip on tropical drinks, and watch the sun set over the horizon in a spectacular display of colors.

For Adventure Seekers
Tackle the surf with a private lesson on Espadilla Beach or paddle through the mangroves of the Damas Island estuary, where you can spot herons, monkeys, and other wildlife. For a unique perspective, try a sea kayaking tour along the rugged coastline.

For a Relaxed Escape
Spend your day lounging on Manuel Antonio’s stunning beaches, such as Playa Biesanz, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Alternatively, unwind with a yoga class overlooking the ocean or indulge in a spa treatment at one of the area’s luxurious resorts.

Manuel Antonio’s beaches are the dreamy tropical landscape perfect for relaxing in all day.