14 days In Costa Rica - 5 itineraries

Costa Rica is a land of pristine landscapes and endless adventure. Our carefully curated Costa Rica itineraries for 14 days offer a thrilling mix of nature and exploration. From jungles to beaches, each day reveals a new chapter in your journey through one of the world’s most diverse destinations.

Itinerary #1: Costa Rica Eco Adventure

Costa Rica may be small, but its compact jungles, tropical beaches, and wildlife-rich national parks make it a perfect destination for a true eco-adventure.

Your journey begins with your arrival in San José. On day two, take a domestic flight to Puerto Jiménez and transfer to Lapa Rios Ecolodge. For the next few days, you'll immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Osa Peninsula, with three days of eco-excursions organized by the lodge.

On day six, visit the communities of Los Bajos del Toro Amarillo to explore local life. Day seven begins with an early bird-watching tour along the lodge trails. On day eight, enjoy a scenic horseback ride through the countryside of Bajos del Toro, interacting with locals and soaking in the views. On day nine, transfer to your next destination.

Day ten brings you to Manuel Antonio National Park. On day eleven, embark on a sea kayaking adventure from the pier in Quepos, exploring hidden coves and watching seabirds.

On day twelve, enjoy a catamaran cruise from the Quepos pier. Day thirteen takes you back to San José, and on day fourteen, depart Costa Rica, wrapping up your eco-adventure. Read more.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this Costa Rica itinerary for 14 days.

Day 1

• Arrival in San Jose.
• Overnight in San Jose.

Day 2

• Flight to Puerto Jimenez.
• Overnight in Lapa Rios Ecolodge.

Day 3

• Lapa Rios Lodge excursions.
• Overnight in Lapa Rios Ecolodge.

Day 4

• Lapa Rios Lodge excursions.
• Overnight in Lapa Rios Ecolodge.

Day 5

• Lapa Rios Lodge excursions.
• Overnight in Lapa Rios Ecolodge.

Day 6

• The Los Bajos Cultural Experience.
• Overnight in Bajos Del Toro.

Day 7

• Daytime bird watching and horseback riding.
• Overnight in Bajos Del Toro.

Day 8

• Horseback riding.
• Overnight in Bajos Del Toro.

Day 9

• Transfer to Manuel Antonio.
• Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day 10

• Manuel Antonio National Park tour.
• Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day 11

• Kayaking and snorkeling in the ocean.
• Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day 12

• Catamaran Adventure Tour.
• Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day 13

• Drive Back To San Jose.
• Overnight in San Jose.

Day 14

• Departure from San Jose.

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now.

Itinerary #2: A Dream of Costa Rica

This 14-day adventure through Costa Rica is the perfect way to experience the country's highlights. From the towering Arenal Volcano and the misty Monteverde Cloud Forest to the pristine coastlines, you’ll wrap up your journey with a visit to the Poás Volcano before heading home.

Your trip begins in San José, where your driver will take you to your hotel. The next morning, you’ll set out early for Braulio Carrillo National Park. From there, a riverboat ride will bring you to Tortuguero National Park, often called Costa Rica's Amazon.

On day three, you'll spend time exploring Tortuguero's intricate canal system, home to a rich variety of wildlife. The following day, you’ll leave the Caribbean coast and travel to La Fortuna, at the foot of the Arenal Volcano. Day five includes a visit to La Fortuna Waterfall and a hike around the volcano’s base.

On day six, enjoy a scenic journey from La Fortuna to Monteverde, crossing Lake Arenal by boat. The next day, you’ll explore the famous Hanging Bridges.

Day eight takes you to the coast and the beautiful Gulf of Papagayo. The following day, you'll sail into the Pacific for a sunset cruise. On day ten, saddle up for a relaxing horseback ride along the beach, followed by a full day of leisure on day eleven.

You’ll return to San José on day twelve. On the thirteenth day, visit Doka Coffee Estate, tour Poás Volcano National Park, and stop at a nearby waterfall.

On the final day, a transfer will take you to San José International Airport, bringing your Costa Rican adventure to a close. Read more.

Rough Guides tip: Our content manager has personally traveled to Costa Rica and offers insights on what to consider when planning your trip. Rely on firsthand experience to make the most of your adventure.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this Costa Rica itinerary for 14 days.

Day 1

• Arrival in San Jose.
• Overnight in San Jose.

Day 2

• From San Jose to Tortuguero by river boat.
• Overnight in Tortuguero.

Day 3

• Tortuguero Canals - full day.
• Overnight in Tortuguero.

Day 4

• From Tortuguero to La Fortuna.
• Overnight in La Fortuna.

Day 5

• La Fortuna Waterfall and Arenal Volcano National Park.
• Overnight in La Fortuna.

Day 6

• From La Fortuna to Monteverde.
• Overnight in Monteverde.

Day 7

• Hanging Bridges tour.
• Overnight in Monteverde.

Day 8

• From Monteverde to Gulf Papagayo.
• Overnight in Gulf Papagayo.

Day 9 

• Sunset sailing and snorkeling.
• Overnight in Gulf Papagayo.

Day 10

• Horseback riding on the beach.
• Overnight in Gulf Papagayo.

Day 11

• A day at leisure.
• Overnight in Gulf Papagayo.

Day 12

• From the Gulf of Papagayo to Alajuela.
• Overnight in Alajuela.

Day 13

• Poas Volcano, coffee tour and waterfall.
• Overnight in Alajuela.

Day 14

• Departure from San Jose.

Interested? Don't miss the opportunity to book this trip now.

Itinerary #3: Costa Rica: Coast to Coast

Costa Rica is a land of paradise beaches, winding waterways, and magical rainforests. This two-week journey takes you from the calm Caribbean Sea to the surfer’s paradise of the Pacific coast.

Your adventure kicks off with your arrival in San José. On day two, dive into a full day of excursions, starting with a guided tour and breakfast at Doka Coffee Plantation, followed by a visit to Poás Volcano National Park and a stop at La Paz Waterfall Gardens.

Day three offers some free time in San José before you head to Tortuguero on day four, passing through Braulio Carrillo National Park. In the days that follow, you’ll take a boat trip to Evergreen Lodge, enjoy a relaxing evening at Tabacón Hot Springs with dinner, and hike through Arenal Volcano National Park.

On day nine, an overnight tour of the Bat Jungle lets you discover the fascinating world of Costa Rica’s bat species. The next day, explore Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve with a naturalist guide, followed by a tour of El Trapiche on day eleven.

On day twelve, you’ll head to your next destination: Tamarindo Beach. On day thirteen, set sail on an open morning sailing excursion, with time for snorkeling and marine life spotting.

Finally, on day fourteen, your Costa Rican adventure wraps up as you head back to San José for your departure. Read more.

Short on time? Explore our 5-day itinerary in Costa Rica.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this Costa Rica itinerary for 14 days.

Day 1

• Arrival in San Jose.
• Overnight in San Jose.

Day 2

• Doka Coffee Plantation, Poas Volcano, and La Paz tour.
• Overnight in San Jose.

Day 3

• Free day in San Jose.
• Overnight in San Jose.

Day 4

• On to Tortuguero National Park.
• Overnight in Tortuguero.

Day 5

• Evergreen Lodge morning boat tour.
• Overnight in Tortuguero.

Day 6

• Tabacon Hotsprings with dinner.
• Overnight in Arenal.

Day 7

• Hiking in Arenal Volcanoes National Park.
• Overnight in Arenal.

Day 8

• Sky Tram and sky walk in Arenal Park.
• Overnight in Arenal.

Day 9 

• Bat Jungle night tour.
• Overnight in Monteverde.

Day 10

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve tour.
• Overnight in Monteverde.

Day 11

• Guided tour in Trapiche.
• Overnight in Gulf Monteverde.

Day 12

• On to Tamarindo.
• Overnight in Tamarindo.

Day 13

• Morning tour on an open sailing ship.
• Overnight in Tamarindo.

Day 14

• Transfer and departure from San Jose.

Looking for a new experience? Book your trip now.

Don't have that much time? Our 7-day and 10-day Costa Rica itineraries may be more suitable for you.

Itinerary #4: Coastal Paradise and Rainforest Exploration

This 14-day journey offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. From the pristine beaches of Manuel Antonio to the wild rainforests of Corcovado, you’ll explore Costa Rica’s coastal paradises and lush wilderness.

Your adventure begins in San José, where you’ll spend the first two days soaking up the city’s vibrant culture. On day three, head to Manuel Antonio National Park, where guided hikes through the rainforest await you on day four.

On day five, take a flight to Puerto Jiménez and transfer to Corcovado National Park. Day six will be spent trekking through the rainforest, encountering rare wildlife along the way.

The next two days, days seven and eight, are dedicated to exploring the Osa Peninsula - a remote paradise known for its untouched beauty.

On day nine, travel to the bohemian beach town of Montezuma. Day ten brings the thrill of abseiling down a waterfall and exploring the town’s lush surroundings.

Next, head to Arenal on day eleven. Hike around the Arenal Volcano and relax in its famous natural hot springs. Day twelve is packed with zip-lining adventures, visits to waterfalls, and breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape.

On day thirteen, wind down on the serene beaches of the Nicoya Peninsula. Your final day, day fourteen, will be spent indulging in yoga, surfing, or simply soaking up the peaceful vibe of the coast before heading back to San José for your departure. Read more.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this Costa Rica itinerary for 14 days.

Day 1

• Arrival in San Jose.
• Overnight in San Jose.

Day 2

• City tour of San Jose.
• Overnight in San Jose.

Day 3

• Transfer to Manuel Antonio.
• Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day 4

• Manuel Antonio National Park tour.
• Overnight in Manuel Antonio.

Day 5

• Flight to Puerto Jimenez.
• Overnight in Puerto Jimenez.

Day 6

• Corcovado National Park tour.
• Overnight in Puerto Jimenez.

Day 7

• Tour of the Osa Peninsula and a day of rest.
• Overnight in Osa.

Day 8

• A day at leisure.
• Overnight in Osa.

Day 9

• Departure to Montezuma.
• Overnight in Montezuma.

Day 10

• A day at leisure.
• Overnight in Montezuma.

Day 11

• To the Arenal volcano and hot springs.
• Overnight in Arenal.

Day 12

• Ziplane adventures and waterfalls.
• Overnight in Arenal.

Day 13

• A day at leisure in Nicoya.
• Overnight in Nicoya.

Day 14

• Transfer and departure from San Jose.

Interested? Don't miss the opportunity to book this trip now.

Itinerary #5: Adventure and Wildlife Expedition in Costa Rica

From rafting down the Sarapiquí River to exploring the winding canals of Tortuguero National Park, this 14-day itinerary is packed with adventure. Whether you crave thrills, nature, or culture, Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes will keep you captivated.

Start your journey in San José, where you’ll spend the first two days. On days three and four, head to Tortuguero National Park. Navigate its intricate canals, spotting turtles, caimans, and a variety of bird species as you explore this unique wildlife haven.

Next, on days five and six, continue to the Sarapiquí region. Then, on days seven and eight, make your way to the Caribbean coast. Immerse yourself in Afro-Caribbean culture, relax on the stunning beaches, and soak up the vibrant music and atmosphere.

Days nine and ten take you to La Fortuna, where you’ll find a range of exciting adventures. On days eleven and twelve, explore the mystical Monteverde Cloud Forest. Your final adventure, on day thirteen, brings you to the Papagayo Peninsula, where you can dive into water sports like kayaking, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. 

On day fourteen, return to San José for your departure, wrapping up your action-packed Costa Rican journey.

Itinerary overview

Check the overview of this Costa Rica itinerary for 14 days.

Day 1

• Arrival in San Jose.
• Overnight in San Jose.

Day 2

• City Tour of San Jose.
• Overnight in San Jose.

Day 3

• Transfer to Tortuguero National Park.
• Overnight in Tortuguero.

Day 4

• Tour of the canals of Tortuguero National Park.
• Overnight in Tortuguero.

Day 5

• Transfer to Sarapiqui Region.
• Overnight in Puerto Viejo.

Day 6

• Rafting on the Sarapiqui River and hiking in the woods.
• Overnight in Puerto Viejo.

Day 7

• Transfer to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.
• Overnight in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.

Day 8

• A day at Leisure.
• Overnight in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.

Day 9

• Departure to La Fortuna.
• Overnight in La Fortuna.

Day 10

• Excursion to La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano.
• Overnight in La Fortuna.

Day 11

• Transfer to Monteverde.
• Overnight in Monteverde.

Day 12

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Tour.
• Overnight in Monteverde.

Day 13

• A rest day on the Papagayo Peninsula.
• Overnight in Papagayo Peninsula.

Day 14

• Transfer and Departure from San Jose.

Looking for a new experience? Book your trip now.

Just starting to plan your trip? Find out how many days are best to spend in Costa Rica depending on your goals.

For even more inspiration, check out The Rough Guide to Costa Rica. You can also browse our customized Costa Rica itineraries or chat with our local Costa Rica experts.