See our itineraries below, or read a roundup of the Best 5-day Trip Ideas for Costa Rica.
Costa Rica Travel Insights
Costa Rica Adventure: Whitewater Rafting & Surfing - 5 Days
Make your trip to Costa Rica one to remember! From a whitewater rafting adventure along miles of tropical scenery on the Pacuare River to an excursion to one of the country's top surf spots, this short and sweet itinerary is jam-packed with thrilling aquatic experiences.
Osa Peninsula Luxury Jungle Adventure - 5 Days
The Osa Peninsula is located in one of the most remote areas of Costa Rica and is home to windswept beaches, virgin rainforest, and exotic wildlife. Over five days you'll alternate between a pampered holiday lifestyle, rugged jungle treks, and scuba-diving/beach adventures. It's the best way to enjoy this gem of biodiversity tucked away in the great tropical paradise that is Costa Rica.
Explore Guanacaste From Liberia - 5 Days
This five-day beach getaway takes you to the heart of Guanacaste Province, in northwestern Costa Rica. You'll have plenty of time to relax and soak up the unique landscapes and beaches of the region, with just the right amount of adventure thrown in.
Monteverde Cloud Forest - 5 Days
Costa Rica's mountainous Monteverde region is a traveler favorite, topping lists for its distinct cloud forest ecosystem, abundant wildlife, and options for hiking and zip-lining. Perfect for a quick getaway, the five-day version of this itinerary will take you to both Monteverde and Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserves, along with two nights in vibrant San José.
Rafting & Romance in the Jungle - 5 Days
This 5-day itinerary is ideal for adventure-loving couples. Starting and ending in San José, you'll brave the rapids of the scenic RÃo Pacuare on a guided whitewater excursion, zip line and hike the coastal jungle, and enjoy downtime together in a luxury eco-lodge. With plenty of free time to choose your own activities, it's bound to be a trip you'll always remember.
San José and Manuel Antonio - 5 Days
This quick getaway will let you experience the many sides of Costa Rica in just five days. After enjoying an evening in San José, you'll head to Manuel Antonio, a national park boasting some of Costa Rica's most famous white sand beaches and coastal jungles. Hike, kayak, and snorkel until your heart's content before heading home.
5 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itineraries
With less than a week, it's possible to experience many of Costa Rica's star attractions. You can visit misty cloud forests, go whale watching on the Pacific, view wildlife in remote corners of the country, or hike around a volcano—just choose the adventure that suits you best. Let this diverse collection of 5-day itineraries inspire you to do just that.
Arenal Expedition - 5 Days
This immersive nature expedition packs a lot of outdoor adventure in a short timeframe. In just five days you'll experience the greatest hits of Arenal Volcano National Park, including swimming in a waterfall lagoon, hiking above misty cloud forests, and soaking in hot springs. You'll also enjoy some metropolitan excitement as you spend an evening exploring Costa Rica's capital, San José.
Best Time of Year to Visit Costa Rica
Costa Rica's dry season (December to April) is considered the best time of year to visit, with most travelers arriving for reliable sunshine and prime beach days. Yet insiders know the rainy "green" season (May to November) can be just as rewarding: think quieter trails, better availability at standout lodges, and landscapes at their most vivid (and wildlife at their most active). Besides, rain typically arrives in short afternoon bursts, leaving mornings wide open for outdoor adventure.
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists
Olman Romero
I was born in Turrialba, a region rich in history and natural beauty, home to the Guayabo National Monument, the most important pre-Hispanic archaeological site in the country, as well as the...
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Elena Mora
"I was born in Costa Rica and grew up on my family's sugar and coffee plantation farm in the mountains of Turrialba. From an early age, I learned from my family to deeply cherish and respect our...
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Bryan Leon
Growing up in a coffee plantation area near San Jose, Costa Rica's vibrant capital, I was fortunate to have parents who instilled in me a deep love and appreciation for nature. As a certified...
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Yuliana Valverde
For over a decade, my passion for creating unforgettable trips in Costa Rica shines a deep understanding of the country's diverse attractions and activities, as well as a genuine commitment to...
read more...Trip Reviews for Costa Rica
Good experience
Costa Rica
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May 2 - May 9, 2026
Thank you so much for your kind words! 😊
It was truly a pleasure helping you plan your Costa Rica adventure, and I’m very happy to hear you had a great experience.
Thank you again for trusting me with your vacation, and I hope Costa Rica left you with amazing memories. Pura Vida!
Kimkim put a wonderful family trip together!
Costa Rica
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Apr 22 - Apr 30, 2026
Hello Helen,
Thank you so much for your kind words! It was truly a pleasure helping you and your family plan your Costa Rica adventure. I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed the destinations, activities, and resort stays, and that Costa Rica created such wonderful memories for your family.
It means a lot to know this was your second trip with Kimkim, and we are incredibly grateful for your trust and support. I would be delighted to assist you again in the future and help you discover even more of the beauty and hidden gems that Costa Rica has to offer.
Pura Vida!
Yuliana
Our First Visit to Costa Rica is Nothing but PURA VIDA
Costa Rica
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Apr 21 - Apr 30, 2026
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m happy to hear your trip to Costa Rica was such a memorable experience for you and your family. 🙌
It sounds like you truly got a taste of everything—from the unique vibes of Arenal, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio to the adventure of zip lining and spotting wildlife, I know you wanted to see sloths and glad you got to see 20!!!! 🦥
I really appreciate your continued trust in kimkim, and I’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to Kate as well.
Pura vida, and we’d love to help you plan your next adventure whenever you’re ready! 🤙