San José, Arenal/La Fortuna & Gulf of Papagayo: Best Itinerary Ideas

How many days do you need in San José, Arenal/La Fortuna & Gulf of Papagayo?

• Most travelers spend 7-9 days in San José, Arenal/La Fortuna, and Gulf of Papagayo combined
• Visiting San José, Arenal/La Fortuna, and Gulf of Papagayo in 6 days is possible, but will feel rushed
• With 10 or more days, most travelers choose to add more stops to their trip
• The most common extensions are Monteverde, Tortuguero, and Tamarindo

How Many Days to Spend in Arenal

Recommended Itineraries for San José, Arenal/La Fortuna & Gulf of Papagayo

Recommended Itinerary for 1 Week

On this seven-day food-themed itinerary, you'll explore food stalls at San José's Mercado Central, learn how to make traditional dishes during a hands-on cooking class, and participate in chocolate making—one of Costa Rica's most important exports. You'll also experience the country's incredible natural surroundings with jungles, beaches, and plenty of relaxation. Read more

Recommended Itinerary for 8 Days

Experience Costa Rica's cuisine on this eight-day itinerary that will have you visiting food stalls at San José's Mercado Central, trying your hand at traditional recipes in a cooking class, and sampling coffee at a plantation. You'll also have time to relax and experience the jungles and beaches the country is known for. Read more

Extended Itineraries

9-Day Itinerary Including Monteverde

This nine-day self-drive adventure covers three of Costa Rica's most distinct, exotic, and naturally beautiful regions: Arenal Volcano National Park, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, and the Guanacaste Province's Pacific coast. Set off from the capital of San José to explore the lush jungles and imposing volcanoes of Arenal, then make your way to the cloud forests of Monteverde for ziplining and wildlife spotting. Head for the coast to end your trip on the spectacular beaches of the Guanacaste Province, where you can surf, snorkel, and go dolphin-watching on a sunset catamaran cruise. Read more

10-Day Itinerary Including Tortuguero

This 10-day adventure allows you to experience Costa Rica from both coasts. Visit San José, check out Tortuguero National Park, marvel at Arenal Volcano, and lounge on the remote beaches of Guanacaste. Enjoy plenty of activities along the way: watch sea turtles hatch on a Caribbean beach, sample locally produced chocolate, or take a surf lesson in the Pacific. Read more

2-Week Itinerary Including Monteverde & Tortuguero

Experience the country from both coasts on this two-week trip. You'll visit San José, Tortuguero National Park, the towering Arenal Volcano, Monteverde's cloud forest, and the remote beaches of Guanacaste. There will be plenty of activities to choose from along the way: watch sea turtles hatch on a Caribbean beach, sample locally produced chocolate, and take a surf lesson in the glittering Pacific. Read more

How to travel between San José, Arenal/La Fortuna & Gulf of Papagayo

How to get from Arenal/La Fortuna to Gulf of Papagayo
When heading from Arenal/La Fortuna to the Gulf of Papagayo, the 108-mile (173 km) trip will take you almost directly west to the coast. These two locations are connected by some of the most direct routes in the country. Read more

How to get from San José to Arenal/La Fortuna
In about an hour, visitors from San José can be amid the volcanic splendor of Arenal/La Fortuna. The most direct mode of transportation is a domestic flight to Arenal Airport. A few carriers operate these daily flights, so you can fly out of San José International or Tobias Bolanos Airport. Most people come to this area for its famous volcano, of course, but this guide will give you insight into other highlights and activities. Read more