Costa Rica 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Costa Rican Adventure: Rainforests & Volcanoes

Visa Requirements: Most nationalities can enter Costa Rica visa-free for up to 90 days. Check with your local embassy for specific requirements based on your citizenship.

Currency: The official currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC), but US dollars are widely accepted.

Transportation: Public buses are affordable and reliable, connecting major cities and towns. For more flexibility, consider renting a car, especially if exploring remote areas.

Things to Know:

  • Rainy season: May to November. Pack accordingly!
  • Spanish: While English is spoken in tourist areas, learning basic Spanish phrases will enhance your experience.
  • Safety: Costa Rica is generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Day 1: San Jose & Poás Volcano National Park

  • Morning: Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San Jose. Take a taxi or Uber to your hotel in the city center.
  • Afternoon: Explore downtown San Jose, visiting the National Theatre, Gold Museum, and Central Market.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional “soda” for authentic Costa Rican cuisine.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Museo Nacional de Costa Rica (National Museum)
  • Take a walking tour of the historic Barrio Amón neighborhood
  • Explore the vibrant nightlife scene in Avenida Escazú

Transportation:

  • To/from airport: Taxi, Uber, private shuttle
  • Within San Jose: Public buses, taxis, Uber

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Adventure Inn Hotel, Hostel Pangea
  • Mid-range: Grano de Oro Hotel, Park Inn by Radisson San José, Costa Rica
  • Luxury: The President Hotel, Real InterContinental Costa Rica

Day 2: Poás Volcano & Doka Estate Coffee Plantation

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Poás Volcano National Park. Hike around the crater rim and enjoy panoramic views (weather permitting).
  • Afternoon: Visit Doka Estate Coffee Plantation for a tour and tasting of Costa Rican coffee. Learn about the bean-to-cup process.
  • Evening: Return to San Jose and relax at your hotel or explore more of the city’s offerings.

Transportation:

  • Day trip: Private tour, rental car, public bus (limited options)

Accommodation: Same as Day 1

Day 3: La Paz Waterfall Gardens & Departure

  • Morning: Head to La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a breathtaking nature park with five stunning waterfalls. Hike through rainforest trails and encounter diverse wildlife.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at the park restaurant before departing for Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) for your flight home.

Transportation:

  • Private tour, taxi, Uber

Things to do (optional):

  • Visit the hummingbird garden at La Paz Waterfall Gardens
  • Take a guided night walk in the rainforest
  • Relax at The Springs Resort & Spa near La Fortuna

Additional Notes:

  • This itinerary can be customized based on your interests and budget.
  • Consider extending your stay to explore other regions of Costa Rica, such as the beaches of Guanacaste or the Osa Peninsula.
  • For adventure seekers, add activities like zip-lining, whitewater rafting, surfing, or hiking in national parks.

Enjoy your Costa Rican adventure!