I recently visited Costa Rica for the first time with Jetsetter & Visit Costa Rica where we explored The Papagayo Peninsula & La Fortuna area. The Papagayo Peninsula is located on the north Pacific coast, which was formed by volcanic activity. This is consists of 15 miles of coastline and 31 beautiful beaches. La Fortuna district is located in the north-western part by the Arenal Volcano and has amazing hot spring resorts for tourists to visit. So here’s the perfect 1 week Costa Rica itinerary through Papagayo Peninsula and La Fortuna.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR TRIP:

• Mid-December to April (Dry Season). I visited end of November and had pretty decent weather with occasional rain showers.
• Language: Spanish but many locals speak English
• Tap water is safe to drink
• Costa Rica accepts US bills, their local currency is Colones
• Rent a car

DAY 1 & 2 – PAPAGAYO PENINSULA

WHERE TO STAY: Four Seasons Resort Papagayo Peninsula is a modern eco-luxury resort with 4 swimming pools, 2 beaches, golf courts, gym, and a business center. The rooms are large with rattan decor, bamboo furnishing, and a balcony. The food & drinks at the property are amazing! With 4 restaurants and a sushi bar at the Tico’s Lounge.

THINGS TO DO:

• Enjoy the resort’s amenities: kayak, paddleboard, snorkel, hiking, etc.
• Catamaran Sailing with Marina Charters
• Relax on the beach
• Spa treatments at the resort

DAY 3 – DRIVE TO LA FORTUNA

La Fortuna takes over 3 hours by car from the Papagayo Peninsula. Highly recommend leaving before noon to arrive at the resort to relax and enjoy the hot springs.

WHERE TO STAY: The Springs Resort & Spa offers the best views of the Arenal Volcano right from your bedroom! Every room offers panoramic views of the Arenal Valley. The luxury resort has free WiFi throughout the property, 18 hot spring pools, a spa, and a fitness center. The resort has a total of 4 restaurants.

Other great options include: Tabacon Hot Springs & Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa

DAY 4 & 5 – LA FORTUNA

THINGS TO DO:

• Ziplining at Sky Adventures
• Visit Tabacon Hot Springs or Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa. Tickets may be purchased for day experiences.
• La Fortuna Waterfall
• Mistico Park: Horseback riding & Hanging Bridges
• Lunch at Don Rufino Restaurant. The food is amazing!
• Explore the town of La Fortuna

Sky Adventures

La Fortuna Waterfall

Hanging Bridges

DAY 6 & 7 – SAN JOSE

San Jose is the capital of Costa Rica and is about 4-hour drive from La Fortuna area. Unfortunately, I did not spend any time in San Jose but I highly recommend spending a few nights here exploring the city.

THINGS TO DO:

• Explore the National Museum
• Walk Central Avenue, San Jose’s downtown with many bars, restaurants, and museums
• Dine at Tiquicia. Best views of San Jose
• Central Market for some local food and souvenir shopping

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I was invited to Costa Rica with Jetsetter & Visit Costa Rica.As always, all honest opinions are my own.