5 days in Costa Rica: Top 4 Itinerary Recommendations

Day 1	Start your trip in San Jose, exploring iconic landmarks such as the Central Market
Day 2	Catamaran tour to Tortuga Island
Day 3	Enjoy the hot springs around Arenal Volcano National Park
Day 4	Raft and zipline your way around Arenal Volcano National Park
Day 5	Return to San Jose

If you are visiting Costa Rica for the first time but do not have weeks to spend in the country, this 5-day adventure Costa Rica trip itinerary is for you. Arrive in the vibrant capital of San Jose and immerse yourself in the city's rich culture, exploring iconic landmarks like the Central Market and National Theatre. Next, journey to the Pacific Coast and board a luxury catamaran for a day trip to the stunning Tortuga Island, where you can swim, snorkel, and bask in the beauty of the white-sand beaches and crystalline waters. You will then head inland to the Arenal Volcano region and relax in the natural hot springs that dot the landscape. Soak in the soothing, mineral-rich waters as you gaze up at the majestic volcano. Continue your adventure in Arenal Volcano National Park, soaring through the treetops on a thrilling zipline course and navigating the Class II-III rapids of the Sarapiqui River on an adrenaline-fueled rafting excursion. After your action-packed adventure, return to San Jose, completing this 5-day journey. 

Day 1	Arrival and free time in San Jose
Day 2	Guided hike to Arenal Volcano National Park followed by a relaxing hot spring bath
Day 3	Travel the Arenal Lake to reach and explore Monteverde Cloud Forest
Day 4	Hike in Monteverde to spot wildlife such as quetzal, trogon, and bell-bird
Day 5	Departure in San Jose

If you want to spend 5 days in Costa Rica exploring its volcanic formations and staggering biodiversity. Fly down to San Jose, then head north to the Arenal Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Hike through the lush Arenal Volcano National Park, watching for wildlife as you get up close to the volcano. Relax in the natural hot springs before crossing beautiful Lake Arenal to reach the Monteverde Cloud Forest. This unique ecosystem is home to a mind-boggling array of plant and animal species — over 100 mammal, 400 bird, and 1,200 insect species have been identified here. Hike the 12-km trail through the cloud forest, with the chance to spot the iconic quetzal, trogon, and bellbird.

This 5-day Costa Rica itinerary offers a perfect blend of Caribbean culture, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests. Begin your journey by heading straight to Puerto Viejo de Talamanca on the Caribbean coast. Spend your first full day exploring the town's Afro-Caribbean culture, relaxing on beautiful beaches like Playa Cocles or Punta Uva, and perhaps trying some local cuisine. On the third day of your trip, visit nearby Cahuita National Park, where you can snorkel in coral reefs teeming with marine life and hike through coastal rainforest trails. The next day, travel inland to Braulio Carrillo National Park for a unique aerial tram tour through the rainforest canopy, offering breathtaking views and the chance to spot diverse wildlife. Conclude your trip with a return to San Jose for your departure, having experienced both the Caribbean charm and the inland rainforest wonders of Costa Rica.

Day 1	Arrive in San Jose and visit the National Museum
Day 2	Explore the pristine beaches and laid-back vibe of Puerto Viejo
Day 3	Visit Cahuita National Park for snorkeling and hiking
Day 4	Travel to Braulio Carrillo National Park for a rainforest aerial tram tour
Day 5	Bid farewell to San Jose

This unique 5-day itinerary focuses on Costa Rica's volcanic wonders and coffee highlands with a dash of adventure. Start in San Jose with a visit to the National Museum to learn about the country's history and geology. Head to Poás Volcano National Park next to witness its impressive crater lake, followed by a tour of a nearby coffee plantation to learn about Costa Rica's famous export. On the third day, visit Irazu Volcano, the country's highest active volcano, and explore the historic city of Cartago. On day four of your Costa Rica trip, complete your volcano trifecta with a visit to Turrialba Volcano, then embark on an exhilarating white-water rafting adventure on the Pacuare River. Return to San Jose on the final day, having experienced Costa Rica's geological marvels, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.

There’s no place quite like Costa Rica, and even with just 5 days, it is possible to get a perfect introduction to all this beautiful country has to offer. Whether you choose to focus on the rainforests and wildlife, the beaches and islands, or the adventure activities, these 5-day itineraries provide an excellent starting point to plan a trip to Costa Rica.

Want to build your 5-day Costa Rica vacation package from scratch? Contact one of our travel experts by filling out our customized Costa Rica trip form. For more information, go through our Costa Rica travel guide.

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