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Suggested Itineraries

A Relaxed 10-Day Beach and Rainforest Itinerary

Two bases, three travel days and plenty of time to do nothing. This route pairs Arenal’s forest and hot springs with a calm Guanacaste beach.

Updated: October 30, 2026. Schedules, prices and conditions change; always confirm on the booking page.

Forest bird perched near Arenal, Alajuela
Forest bird perched near Arenal, Alajuela · Photo: WildPhotography.com
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The shape of the trip

DaysBasePace
1San José or Alajuela (near SJO)Arrive and rest
2–5La Fortuna / ArenalOne outing a day at most
6–9Sámara or Playas del CocoBeach, one boat trip
10Fly home from Liberia (LIR)Short transfer

Days 2–5: La Fortuna

Transfer from the Central Valley takes roughly three hours. Pick a hotel with a thermal pool or garden so your “off” days still feel special. Choose one guided walk and one hot-springs session; leave the rest open.

La FortunaViator

Arenal Hanging Bridges, Guided Walk, Hot Springs Optional

Hanging bridges with an optional hot-springs add-on. Moderate

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La FortunaViator

Coffee and Chocolate Tour in La Fortuna

Coffee and chocolate farm visit. Easy

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Days 6–9: the Guanacaste coast

The drive from La Fortuna to the northern Pacific is roughly three and a half to four hours. In the dry season, mornings are usually best for swimming before the wind picks up.

GuanacasteAgoda

Compare stays in Playas del Coco

Playas del Coco listings.

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Is this right for you?

This plan suits travellers who can manage moderate walks and a few long car rides. If road travel is hard for you, consider a domestic flight or cut the trip to a single base.