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

Visit Manuel Antonio National Park's beach on your 6 days in 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

Spider monkeys spotted in Nicoya Peninsula.
Keep an eye out for the almost-extinct population of spider monkeys when in Nicoya Peninsula.
  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

Plaza de la Cultura, a good place to visit when spending 6 days in Costa Ri
The national theatre of Costa Rica, known as the Plaza de la Cultura, is a must-visit when in San Jose.
A jaguar kept in the Jaguar Rescue Centre of Costa Rica.
The Jaguar Rescue Centre in Limon provience has been home to about 6000 rescued, temporarily-ill, or orphaned animals.
  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

Fumes coming out of the Paos Volcano.
Hike to the crater rim of Paos Volcano to witness fumes coming straight out of the crater.
  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

Dolphins swimming in the Costa Rican waters.
The best time for dolphin-watching in Costa Rica are the months of August and December.
  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.

More information:
How many days to spend in Costa Rica
4 days in Costa Rica
5 days in Costa Rica
7 days in Costa Rica
10 days in Costa Rica
14 days in Costa Rica

Plan a trip to Costa RicaWe offer different tour types. You can also chat with a local travel specialist if you want a customized tour to Costa Rica.
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