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Ultimate 11-Day Adventure in San Jose, Costa Rica and Beyond

Ultimate 11-Day Adventure in San Jose, Costa Rica and Beyond Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

City Introduction and Culinary Delights

Morning
Begin your San Jose adventure with a delightful breakfast at El Patio del Balmoral, a charming spot in the heart of the city. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the San Jose Central Market (Mercado Central), immersing yourself in the local culture and enjoying the variety of fresh produce and local bites.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Soda Tapia, a popular local eatery known for its authentic Costa Rican cuisine. Post-lunch, visit the National Theater (Teatro Nacional), a historic and architectural gem that offers guided tours to learn about its rich history.
Evening
Experience the vibrant nightlife of San Jose with a dinner at La Casona del Cerdo San José Centro, where you can savor delicious pork dishes. Afterward, take a walk around the lively Morazan Park and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Bedtime
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San Jose Central Market (Mercado Central)

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Nature, Sloths, and Arenal Volcano

Morning
Start your day with a visit to the San Jose Walking Nature Tour with Sloths, Birds, and Trees, where you'll have the opportunity to spot these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. After the tour, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Restaurante La Divina Comida.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon at the majestic Arenal Volcano National Park, exploring the trails and taking in the breathtaking views of the volcano. For lunch, indulge in a meal with a view at Park Cafe, known for its gourmet cuisine and serene ambiance.
Evening
Unwind and relax at the Arenal Volcano, Hot Springs, & Zip Lining w/ Meals, where you can soak in the natural hot springs and enjoy a thrilling zip-lining adventure. Dinner will be served at the hot springs, allowing you to dine under the stars.
Bedtime
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San Jose Walking Nature Tour with Sloths, Birds, and Trees

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Arenal Volcano National Park

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Coffee, Waterfalls, and Poas Volcano

Morning
Embark on a journey to the From San José Poas Volcano and Coffee Farm, where you'll witness the impressive crater of Poas Volcano and learn about the coffee-making process at the Doka Estate. Enjoy a cup of freshly brewed coffee and a light breakfast at the estate.
Afternoon
After the volcano, visit the La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a nature park with stunning waterfalls and a variety of wildlife. Have lunch at La Terrasse Cuisine & Lounge, offering a menu that complements the natural beauty surrounding the gardens.
Evening
Return to San Jose and spend a relaxing evening at Café Mundo San Pedro Montes de Oca, known for its international cuisine and eclectic ambiance. Enjoy a leisurely dinner and reflect on the day's adventures.
Bedtime
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Cultural Immersion and Evening Delights

Morning
Immerse yourself in the history and art of Costa Rica with a visit to the Jade Museum (Museo del Jade) and the Costa Rican Art Museum (Museo de Arte Costarricense). For breakfast, try the unique dishes at Al Mercat Gastrobar.
Afternoon
Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch at Restaurante Nuestra Tierra, and then take a guided tour of the National Museum (Museo Nacional) to gain insights into the country's past and present.
Evening
For a memorable evening, join the San José Nighttime Food Culture Tour with Cocktail Class. Explore the city's culinary scene, learn to make local cocktails, and savor a variety of dishes at different eateries. It's a perfect way to cap off the day.
Bedtime
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Jade Museum (Museo del Jade)

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Costa Rican Art Museum (Museo de Arte Costarricense)

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Day of Relaxation and Exploration

Morning
Enjoy a slow morning with breakfast at Restaurante Silvestre, known for its tranquil setting and fresh, organic menu. Afterward, take a peaceful walk in the Lankester Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanico Lankester), admiring the diverse collection of orchids and other tropical plants.
Afternoon
Have a leisurely lunch at Restaurante La Luz, which offers a menu focused on local, sustainable ingredients. Spend the rest of the afternoon at the Rescate Animal Zooave, where you can observe and learn about Costa Rica's wildlife conservation efforts.
Evening
Dine at Machu Picchu Restaurante Peruano y Pisco Bar, where you can enjoy a fusion of Peruvian and Costa Rican flavors. After dinner, take a casual stroll in the Plaza de la Cultura, soaking in the evening ambiance of the city.
Bedtime
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Day Trip to Cartago and Irazu Volcano

Morning
Take a day trip to the nearby city of Cartago. Begin with a visit to the Orosi River Valley (El Valle del Rio Orosi), where you can admire the picturesque landscape and visit the historic Orosi Church. Have breakfast at a local cafe in the valley.
Afternoon
Explore the Irazu Volcano Crater Hike and Cartago Trip, witnessing the impressive crater of the Irazu Volcano and learning about the region's history. Enjoy a hearty lunch at Restaurante El Jardín de Lolita in Cartago before returning to San Jose.
Evening
Back in the city, dine at La Esquina de Buenos Aires, a restaurant known for its Argentine cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. After dinner, you can enjoy a tango show or simply relax with a glass of wine.
Bedtime
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Orosi River Valley (El Valle del Rio Orosi)

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Manuel Antonio National Park Excursion

Morning
Catch an early breakfast at Restaurante El Novillo Alegre, known for its delicious steaks and hearty meals. Then, depart for the San José Manuel Antonio National Park Day Trip, where you'll spend the day exploring the stunning beaches, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife of this renowned national park.
Afternoon
Enjoy a picnic lunch provided as part of the tour within the park. Afterward, take a guided hike to discover the park's hidden gems, including secluded coves and panoramic viewpoints.
Evening
Return to San Jose in the evening and unwind with a sumptuous dinner at Restaurante Grano de Oro, a fine dining establishment celebrated for its exquisite cuisine and elegant ambiance.
Bedtime
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San José Manuel Antonio National Park Day Trip

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A Day of Adventure and Zip Lining

Morning
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Restaurante Tin Jo Escazú, known for its Asian fusion cuisine. After breakfast, head to the Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park for a morning of exploring the lush rainforest and crossing high-elevation suspension bridges.
Afternoon
For lunch, enjoy the beautiful setting and farm-to-table dishes at Lankester Botanical Garden (Jardin Botanico Lankester) [29137]. Afterward, get your adrenaline pumping with the From San Jose Monteverde Hanging Bridges & Santa Elena Tour, which includes zip lining through the cloud forest.
Evening
Return to San Jose and relax with a dinner at La Casona del Cerdo San José Centro, where you can savor the flavors of Costa Rican cuisine in a historic setting.
Bedtime
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Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park

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Tortuga Island and Beach Day

Morning
Begin your day with a breakfast at El Patio del Balmoral, and then head out for the San José Tortuga Island Tour with Lunch & Hotel Transfer. Enjoy a full day of sun, sand, and sea on the pristine beaches of Tortuga Island, with activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and beach games.
Afternoon
A delicious lunch will be served on the island, and you can spend the rest of the afternoon basking in the tropical paradise. Return to San Jose in the late afternoon, and for dinner, try the innovative dishes at La Divina Comida.
Evening
After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the San Jose Central Market (Mercado Central), where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and perhaps pick up some souvenirs or local treats.
Bedtime
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San José Tortuga Island Tour with Lunch & Hotel Transfer

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San Jose Central Market (Mercado Central)

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Waterfalls, Canopy, and Santa Elena

Morning
Enjoy a breakfast at La Esquina de Buenos Aires before heading out to the Day Tour to Poas Volcano, Café Doka and La Paz Waterfalls. Witness the majestic Poas Volcano, visit the renowned Café Doka, and immerse yourself in the beauty of La Paz Waterfalls.
Afternoon
Have a delightful lunch at Restaurante Silvestre, and then continue your day with the From San Jose Monteverde Hanging Bridges & Santa Elena Tour. Walk through the cloud forest, cross hanging bridges, and explore the charming town of Santa Elena.
Evening
Dine at Restaurante La Luz, where you can enjoy a meal in a serene and elegant setting, reflecting on the natural wonders you experienced throughout the day.
Bedtime
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Final Day of City Highlights and Farewell Dinner

Morning
Begin your last day with a visit to the Sarchi, a town known for its vibrant oxcart tradition. Explore the workshops and pick up some unique souvenirs. For breakfast, enjoy the offerings at Park Cafe, a perfect start to your day.
Afternoon
Spend your afternoon at the Braulio Carrillo National Park, a rainforest paradise just outside the city. Take a guided tour to learn about the diverse flora and fauna. For lunch, stop at Rescate Animal Zooave [29380], where you can dine surrounded by rescued wildlife.
Evening
Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner at La Terrasse Cuisine & Lounge, reminiscing about your adventures in San Jose and Costa Rica. After dinner, take a walk in the La Sabana Park to enjoy the city lights and reflect on your journey.
Bedtime
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Sarchi

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