Costa Rica in 6 Days: 4 Recommended 6-day Itineraries to Costa Rica

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Costa Rica 6-day itinerary options
Whether you're seeking adventure in Sarapiquí, relaxation in Nosara, or a mix of both, these 6 days in Costa Rica will provide unforgettable memories. Below are 4 unique 6-day Costa Rica itinerary ideas tailored to different interests and travel styles.
Itinerary #1: Rainforest and Tropical Coast

Overview | Activity | |
Day 1 | Explore the streets of La Fortuna | City sightseeing |
Day 2 | Explore the hanging bridges in Arenal Volcano National Park | Nature exploration |
Day 3 | Drive past farmlands and forests as you head toward the Nicoya Peninsula | Outdoor exploration |
Day 4 | Sail to Tortuga Island and enjoy water sports | Water adventure |
Day 5 | Bid farewell to the Nicoya Peninsula and make your way toward San Jose | Transfer |
Day 6 | Depart from San Jose towards your next destination |
This Costa Rica 6-day itinerary plan is perfect for kids and adults alike. The kids will love being surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungles of Arenal Volcano National Park. When they finally tire of the exotic flora and fauna, enjoy a cooling dip beneath the cascade tiers of La Fortuna waterfall. Kids of all ages will beam on first seeing the tropical paradise that is the Nicoya Peninsula. Here, the family adventure continues as you explore the heavenly beaches, namely Tambor Beach. Cruise along the coastal waterways and Pochette Mangroves before landing on the pristine white sands of Tortuga Island. Head to San Jose to spend a final day exploring the city. See all 6-day Costa Rica tours.
Itinerary #2: Caribbean Coast and Cloud Forest Adventure


Overview | Activity | |
Day 1 | Arrive in San Jose and transfer to Puerto Viejo | |
Day 2 | Explore Cahuita National Park and snorkel in coral reefs | Nature exploration |
Day 3 | Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center and relax on Punta Uva beach | Outdoor exploration |
Day 4 | Travel to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve | Nature exploration |
Day 5 | Zip-line through the cloud forest canopy and night walk | Outdoor adventure |
Day 6 | Return to San Jose for departure |
Experience Costa Rica’s diverse beauty, from Puerto Viejo’s Caribbean charm to Monteverde’s cloud forests. Start by exploring Cahuita National Park’s coral reefs and wildlife-filled trails, visiting the Jaguar Rescue Center, and relaxing on the pristine shores of Punta Uva. Then, venture to Monteverde for a thrilling zip-line ride through the forest canopy and a guided night walk to spot nocturnal creatures. This journey blends relaxation and adventure, showcasing Costa Rica’s vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture, stunning ecosystems, and unique wildlife. Return to San Jose with unforgettable memories of both sunlit beaches and misty forests.
Get a personalized Costa Rica tour or tweak the exisiting itinerary above.
Itinerary #3: Volcanic Wonder and Wildlife

Overview | Activity | |
Day 1 | Tour San Jose, including sightseeing the National Museum | City sightseeing |
Day 2 | Travel to Poas Volcano National Park and La Paz Waterfall Gardens | Nature exploration |
Day 3 | Head to Arenal and relax in hot springs | Nature exploration |
Day 4 | Hike in Arenal Volcano National Park and take a chocolate tour | Hiking |
Day 5 | Transfer to Manuel Antonio National Park | Transfer |
Day 6 | Explore Manuel Antonio's beaches and wildlife before departing | Nature exploration |
This 6-day Costa Rican adventure reveals the country's vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. Begin in San Jose, touring the National Museum and immersing yourself in Costa Rica's history and art. Next, experience Poas Volcano’s smoky crater and walk through the lush La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where cascading falls and tropical wildlife enchant. Travel to Arenal, where you'll hike near the majestic volcano and unwind in soothing hot springs, then savor a hands-on chocolate-making experience. Conclude in Manuel Antonio National Park, where pristine beaches meet rich wildlife; spot monkeys, sloths, and iguanas as you relax by the turquoise shores. See all Costa Rica vacation packages.
Itinerary #4: Off-the-beaten Path in Costa Rica

Overview | Activity | |
Day 1 | Fly to Golfito and transfer to Osa Peninsula | |
Day 2 | Explore Corcovado National Park | National park exploration |
Day 3 | Boat tour and snorkeling at Caño Island Biological Reserve | Water adventure |
Day 4 | Travel to Uvita and visit Marino Ballena National Park | National park exploration |
Day 5 | Whale and dolphin watching tour | Wildlife exploration |
Day 6 | Return to San Jose for departure |
This off-the-beaten-path itinerary takes you to the southern Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Start your 6-day Costa Rica trip in the remote Osa Peninsula, exploring the incredibly biodiverse Corcovado National Park. Snorkel around Caño Island, then head to Uvita to visit Marino Ballena National Park, famous for its whale-tail-shaped beach. Finally, take a whale and dolphin watching tour (seasonal) before returning to San Jose.
Planning 6-day Itinerary of Costa Rica?
Whether you select one of the four itineraries listed above or make your own, remember to embrace the pura vida lifestyle and prepare for an unforgettable journey through one of Central America's most beautiful countries. You can join a 6-day Costa Rica tour if you'd like. Alternatively, contact our local travel experts to create a customized Costa Rica trip that meets your requirement. For more information, go through our Costa Rica travel guide.
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