How to Plan Your 3 Days Costa Rica Tour: Arenal Volcano-Monteverde-Manuel Antonio From San Jose

Costa Rica is a paradise for nature and adventure lovers. The Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, and Manuel Antonio National Park are three of the most stunning destinations in the country. If you want to explore this beautiful country in a short time, this 3 days tour is perfect for you. Here’s how you can plan your tour.

Day 1: San Jose – Arenal Volcano National Park

The tour starts with a pickup from your hotel in San Jose. You’ll then ride through the stunning countryside of Costa Rica to reach Arenal Volcano National Park. The park is located in the northern part of the country, and it is home to a very active stratovolcano that last erupted in 2010. The volcano is surrounded by lush forests, natural hot springs, and stunning waterfalls.

Once you reach Arenal Volcano National Park, you will take a guided hike on the trails that surround the volcano. The hike is moderate, and you’ll have plenty of time to stop and admire the stunning natural scenery. The guide will provide you with insights on the geology, flora, and fauna of the park. Keep an eye out for monkeys, toucans, and sloths!

After your hike, you will visit the Tabacon hot springs, where you can relax in the thermal pools and enjoy a delicious dinner at the on-site restaurant. Tabacon is one of the most famous hot springs in Costa Rica, and it is surrounded by stunning gardens that enhance the natural beauty of the area.

Day 2: Tortuguero National Park – Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

On the second day of the tour, you will head to Tortuguero National Park, one of the most biologically diverse areas in Costa Rica. The park is located on the Caribbean coast, and it is home to a wide variety of animals, including sea turtles, monkeys, and crocodiles.

You’ll explore the canals and rivers of the park on a guided boat tour, where you can spot many of the animals that inhabit the area. After your boat tour, you’ll enjoy a delicious Costa Rican breakfast before heading to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.

Monteverde is a protected area in the central part of the country, famous for its misty forests and rich biodiversity. You’ll take a guided hike in the reserve, where you can spot a wide variety of flora and fauna, including over 400 bird species! The guide will provide you with interesting information about the natural history of the area, and you may even spot a quetzal, one of the most beautiful birds in the world!

After your hike, you’ll enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch before heading to your hotel in Monteverde. The accommodation is included in the tour, and you can relax in the peaceful surroundings of the reserve.

Day 3: Manuel Antonio National Park – San Jose

On the last day of the tour, you will visit Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most visited parks in Costa Rica. The park is located on the Pacific coast, and it is famous for its stunning beaches and abundant wildlife.

You’ll take a guided hike on the trails of the park, where you can spot sloths, monkeys, and many bird species. You’ll also have the opportunity to relax on the beautiful beaches of the park and swim in the warm waters of the Pacific Ocean.

After your visit to Manuel Antonio National Park, you will have lunch in a local restaurant before heading back to San Jose. The tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel.

Booking Your Tour

This tour is perfect for those who want to explore Costa Rica’s natural wonders in a short time. The tour includes round-trip transportation from San Jose, two nights’ accommodation, all meals, and private guided tours of the three national parks. You can book the tour here: book the tour here.

Conclusion

Costa Rica is a beautiful country full of natural wonders, and this tour is the perfect way to explore some of its most stunning destinations. The Arenal Volcano, Tortuguero National Park, and Manuel Antonio National Park are all unique and offer a different type of natural scenery. Book this tour, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Costa Rica!

An Insider’s Guide to San Jose: Unveiling Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences

San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica, is often overlooked by tourists in favour of the picturesque beaches and national parks. However, those who take the time to explore this bustling city will find a treasure trove of hidden gems, a vibrant food culture, and a rich history. In this insider’s guide, we’ll reveal some unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences that will make your visit to San Jose truly memorable.

Uncovering Hidden Gems – A Local’s Perspective

While the National Museum and Jade Museum are popular attractions, San Jose has some lesser-known spots that only locals know about. For instance, the Eiffel Palace, located in the heart of downtown San Jose, is an architectural marvel built in 1920. The building’s exterior is adorned with intricate sculptures and the interiors boast of elegant art-deco design. If you’re interested in contemporary art, the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design (MCAD) should be on your list. This gallery hosts impressive exhibits by artists from Costa Rica and around the world.

Foodie Heaven: Indulging in Local Cuisine

Costa Rican cuisine is a tantalising blend of fresh seafood, plantains, rice, and beans. For a true taste of this cuisine, head to Soda Tapia, a local joint that serves traditional dishes like casado and gallo pinto. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the local delicacy, “sopa negra,” a black bean soup served with a boiled egg and Costa Rican cheese. For a finer dining experience, make reservations at Grano de Oro, a converted Victorian mansion that serves some of the best fusion cuisine in town.

Immersing in Culture – Traditions and Festivals

San Jose is a city that wears its culture on its sleeve. You’ll find that music, dance, and art are integral parts of its identity. Be part of the fervour and join the locals in celebrating festivals like the Fiesta de los Diablitos or the Costa Rican Independence Day. Another way to immerse yourself in the culture is to attend a performance at the National Theatre. This architectural marvel opened in 1897 and showcases both local and international performers.

Discovering History – Fascinating Stories

San Jose has a rich history, and some of the most interesting stories are hidden in plain sight. For example, the Central Market, built-in 1880, is a hub of activity and an architectural masterpiece. A little-known fact is that the market was originally built as a space for public executions. Another fascinating spot is the Teatro Popular Melico Salazar, built-in 1928, which hosted famous performers like Cantinflas and Carmen Miranda.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences – Making Memories

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, rent a bike and head out to the nearby Orosi Valley, famous for its hot springs and stunning views. For an adrenalin rush, book a zipline tour of the canopy forests outside the city or go white-water rafting down the rapids of the Pacuare river. For a more relaxed experience, plan a coffee plantation tour and learn about the history and production of Costa Rican coffee.

In conclusion, San Jose is a city with hidden gems and a unique culture that is worth exploring. With this insider’s guide, we hope to have given you a glimpse into some of the off-the-beaten-path experiences that will make your trip unforgettable. So, pack your bags, hit the road and get ready to make some unforgettable memories in San Jose.