San José Itinerary
Overview
This two week Costa Rica travel itinerary begins in San José, the bustling capital of Costa Rica, serving as the cultural and transportation hub of the country. While often overlooked, it offers fascinating museums, vibrant markets, and a taste of urban Costa Rican life.
How long to stay in San José
1 day
How to get to San José
Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). Taxi or Uber to downtown costs $20 (30 minutes).
Best hotels to stay in San José
- Selina San José: Trendy hostel with coworking spaces. Book here.
- Hotel Kekoldi: Budget-friendly boutique hotel with a garden. Book here.
- Grano de Oro Hotel: Luxurious hotel with colonial charm. Book here.
What to do in San José
- Visit the National Museum of Costa Rica ($11).
- Explore the historic Teatro Nacional ($10).
- Wander through the vibrant Mercado Central for local foods and crafts (Free).
Where to eat in San José
- Soda Tapia: Affordable and authentic Costa Rican dishes ($); Google Rating: 4.5.
- Café Mundo: Mid-range international cuisine in a cozy setting ($$); Google Rating: 4.6.
- Restaurante Silvestre: Upscale dining with a modern Costa Rican twist ($$$); Google Rating: 4.7.
Modes of transport in San José
- Public buses and taxis are affordable.
- Uber is widely available and reliable.
San José digital nomad rating:
3.5/5.
Pros: Reliable internet and coworking spaces.
Cons: Heavy traffic and limited green spaces.
Tortuguero Itinerary
Overview
Tortuguero, a standout destination on this two week Costa Rica travel itinerary, is a remote village surrounded by a pristine national park renowned for its canals, abundant wildlife, and nesting sea turtles. Accessible only by boat or small plane, it offers a unique escape into nature. This tranquil haven is perfect for eco-adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts.
How long to stay in Tortuguero
2 days
How to get from San José to Tortuguero
- Take a bus to La Pavona (4 hours; $10), then a boat to Tortuguero village (1 hour; $5). Alternatively, book a direct shuttle and boat combo ($60).
Best hotels to stay in Tortuguero
- Casa Marbella: Affordable riverside accommodation. Book here.
- Pachira Lodge: Mid-range eco-lodge with tour packages. Book here.
- Manatus Hotel: Upscale boutique hotel with modern amenities. Book here.
What to do in Tortuguero
- Explore the Tortuguero National Park by canoe or kayak ($15 entry + guide fees).
- Visit the Sea Turtle Conservancy for educational exhibits ($5).
- Walk along Tortuguero Beach (Free).
Where to eat in Tortuguero
- Miss Junie’s Restaurant: Traditional Caribbean dishes ($$); Google Rating: 4.5.
Modes of transport in Tortuguero
- Boats and walking are the only options within the area.
Tortuguero digital nomad rating:
2/5.
Pros: Beautiful surroundings and quiet environment.
Cons: Limited connectivity and no coworking spaces.
Arenal Itinerary/La Fortuna Itinerary
Overview
This two week Costa Rica travel itinerary continues in Arenal which is home to Costa Rica’s most iconic volcano, lush rainforests, and relaxing hot springs. La Fortuna, the nearby town, serves as the base for exploring this adventure-filled region.
How long to stay in Arenal/La Fortuna
3 days
How to get from Tortuguero to Arenal/La Fortuna
- Return by boat and shuttle to La Pavona. From there, take a shared shuttle to La Fortuna (6-7 hours; $60-$70). Alternatively, book a private transfer for convenience (5 hours; $180).
Best hotels to stay in Arenal/La Fortuna
- Arenal Backpackers Resort: Budget-friendly hostel with a pool. Book here.
- Selina La Fortuna: Social hub with coworking spaces. Book here.
- Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa: Luxurious resort with on-site hot springs. Book here.
What to do in Arenal/La Fortuna
- Hike the trails of Arenal Volcano National Park ($15 entry).
- Soak in natural hot springs, such as Baldi or Tabacón ($20-$75).
- Take a hanging bridges canopy tour for stunning views ($60).
- Visit the La Fortuna Waterfall, a breathtaking 70-meter cascade ($18).
- Enjoy a thrilling zipline adventure through the rainforest ($55).
Where to eat in Arenal/La Fortuna
- Soda Viquez: Traditional Costa Rican dishes at great prices ($); Google Rating: 4.7.
- Don Rufino: Mid-range dining with a mix of local and international flavors ($$); Google Rating: 4.5.
- Chifa La Familia Feliz: Peruvian-inspired fusion cuisine ($$); Google Rating: 4.8.
Modes of transport in Arenal/La Fortuna
- Taxis and shuttle buses are widely used.
- Rent a bicycle or scooter for more flexibility.
Arenal/La Fortuna digital nomad rating:
4/5.
Pros: Reliable internet, scenic workspaces, and a range of activities.
Cons: Limited coworking spaces.
Monteverde Itinerary
Overview
Monteverde, a highlight of this two week Costa Rica travel itinerary, is a cloud forest haven celebrated for its misty landscapes, diverse wildlife, and eco-tourism activities. It’s a top destination for birdwatchers seeking the elusive quetzal and adventure enthusiasts craving zip-lining thrills. This enchanting spot seamlessly blends natural beauty with outdoor excitement.
How long to stay in Monteverde
2 days
How to get from Arenal/La Fortuna to Monteverde
- Book a shuttle-boat-shuttle combo via Lake Arenal (3.5 hours; $30). It’s the most scenic and efficient route.
Best hotels to stay in Monteverde
- Pension Santa Elena: Budget-friendly option with a cozy atmosphere. Book here.
- Selina Monteverde: Trendy accommodation with coworking options. Book here.
- Hotel Belmar: Eco-luxury hotel with panoramic views. Book here.
What to do in Monteverde
- Walk the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve trails ($25 entry).
- Take a guided night hike to spot nocturnal wildlife ($25).
- Experience the famous zipline canopy tour at Selvatura Park ($50).
- Explore the Butterfly Garden and learn about local insects ($15).
Where to eat in Monteverde
- Sabor Tico: Local sodas serving Costa Rican classics ($); Google Rating: 4.6.
- Tico y Rico: Cozy eatery offering a mix of local and international dishes ($$); Google Rating: 4.5.
- San Lucas Treetop Dining: Unique treetop restaurant with fine dining ($$$); Google Rating: 4.7.
Modes of transport in Monteverde
- Taxis and shuttles are the main options.
- Walking is ideal for short distances within the town.
Monteverde digital nomad rating:
3.5/5.
Pros: Peaceful environment, good internet.
Cons: Hilly terrain and few coworking options.
Manuel Antonio Itinerary
Overview
Manuel Antonio, a must-visit on this two week Costa Rica travel itinerary, boasts a breathtaking national park with white-sand beaches, verdant rainforests, and diverse wildlife like monkeys and sloths. This destination offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Its stunning scenery and vibrant biodiversity make it a favorite for nature lovers and beachgoers alike.
How long to stay in Manuel Antonio
3 days
How to get from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio
- Take a shuttle bus (5-6 hours; $60). Alternatively, rent a car for a scenic drive along the coast (5 hours).
Best hotels to stay in Manuel Antonio
- Hostel Vista Serena: Affordable with ocean views and a laid-back vibe. Book here.
- Hotel Villa Roca: LGBTQ-friendly boutique hotel with stunning views. Book here.
- Arenas del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort: Luxury eco-lodge with private beach access. Book here.
What to do in Manuel Antonio
- Visit Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful reserves ($18).
- Relax on the beaches inside the park, such as Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla Sur (Free with park entry).
- Take a catamaran tour with snorkeling and dolphin watching ($70).
- Enjoy a thrilling parasailing experience over the coastline ($75).
- Explore the vibrant local town of Quepos for souvenirs and dining (Free).
Where to eat in Manuel Antonio
- El Avión: A unique restaurant built inside a plane, offering local and international dishes ($$); Google Rating: 4.5.
- Café Milagro: Renowned for its coffee and hearty meals ($$); Google Rating: 4.7.
- Emilio’s Café: A top spot for breakfast and ocean views ($$); Google Rating: 4.8.
Modes of transport in Manuel Antonio
- Public buses run frequently between Quepos and Manuel Antonio ($0.50 per ride).
- Taxis and private shuttles are also available.
- Walking is great for short distances, especially around the national park area.
Manuel Antonio digital nomad rating:
4/5.
Pros: Great internet, stunning views, and a balance of work and play.
Cons: Fewer coworking spaces and higher accommodation costs.
Uvita Itinerary
Overview
This two week Costa Rica travel itinerary finishes in Uvita, a tranquil beach town famous for the whale-tail-shaped sandbar at Marino Ballena National Park and its laid-back, natural beauty. It’s a perfect spot for wildlife watching and relaxing.
How long to stay in Uvita
3 days
How to get from Manuel Antonio to Uvita
- Take a public bus heading south along the coastal highway (1.5 hours; $5). Alternatively, a taxi or shuttle costs $50-$60.
Best hotels to stay in Uvita
- Flutterby House: Eco-friendly hostel with treehouse-style accommodations. Book here.
- Vista Celestial: Boutique luxury with incredible ocean views. Book here.
- Hotel Marino Lodge: Budget-friendly option with a central location. Book here.
What to do in Uvita
- Visit Marino Ballena National Park for its iconic whale-tail sandbar and snorkeling ($6 entry).
- Go on a whale-watching tour (seasonal; $75).
- Swim in the refreshing Uvita Waterfall ($2 entry).
- Explore the nearby beaches like Playa Hermosa for surfing and relaxation (Free).
- Take a horseback ride to Nauyaca Waterfalls, one of Costa Rica’s most stunning cascades ($80).
Where to eat in Uvita
- Sibu Café: Known for its coffee and healthy menu options ($$); Google Rating: 4.7.
- La Fogata: A local favorite for pizza and seafood ($$); Google Rating: 4.6.
- Indómitos Café: Great vegan and vegetarian options ($); Google Rating: 4.8.
Modes of transport in Uvita
- Public buses connect nearby towns.
- Rental bikes and taxis are useful for getting around locally.
Uvita digital nomad rating:
3.5/5.
Pros: Peaceful environment and reliable internet.
Cons: Few coworking spaces and a more rural setting.
Extend your trip
Extend your two week Costa Rica travel itinerary by joining it to the Two Week Nicaragua Travel Itinerary. Travel from Uvita to San Juan del Sur by bus and shuttle (10–12 hours, $40–60 USD), crossing the border at Peñas Blancas. This route brings you to Nicaragua’s stunning Pacific coast, where you can begin your Two Week Nicaragua Travel Itinerary, completing the itinerary in reverse.
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