costa rica: the big three
In planning our trip to Costa Rica, I kept bumping into three key areas, which are on many first timers’ lists. They are:
Arenal Volcano / La Fortuna (town)
Monteverde Cloud Forest
Manuel Antonio National Park / Quepos (town)
In this post, I’m going to share a bit about each of these, who they are really “for” and some less crowded alternatives to consider when planning your trip!
I would recommend a minimum of 4 nights in each spots, especially with kids. The drives between each spot are long and subject to weather, traffic and mud.
Bottom line: one week is not enough time for all three of these spots!
1: ARENAL VOLCANO / LA FORTUNA
About: La Fortuna is a busy town at the foot of the Arenal Volcano. This area boasts gorgeous volcano views, natural hot springs, and beautiful rainforest exploration opportunities.
Where is it: about a 3.5 hour drive from San Jose and 2.5-4 hours for Liberia.
Who is it for: If you’re looking for hiking, ziplining, wildlife, hanging bridges, dramatic waterfalls, plus cacao and coffee farm tours, this is a GREAT stop.
Alternatives to consider: If you like the sound of La Fortuna but want some less crowded options, check out:
Bijagua / Rio Celeste
Bajos del Toro
Who is NOT for: Beach bums or anyone that just wants to sit at the pool and relax.
2: MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST
About: Beautiful, other worldly high altitude cloud forest. In La Fortuna, you’re probably going to be on the ground / hills looking up at the volcano. At Monteverde, you’re literally in the clouds!
Where is it: About 3-4 hours from San Jose and 2.5-3 from Liberia. 3 hours from La Fortuna.
Who is it for: The wildlife and jungle obsessed, particularly for anyone that loves birds Some overlap with La Fortuna in activities here - ziplining, hiking, wildlife spotting, jungle night tours and coffee farms. No natural hot springs.
Alternatives to consider: Some less crowded options to consider with a similar vibe:
San Gerardo de Dota
Los Angeles Cloud Forest (near San Ramon)
Bajos del Toro
Who is NOT for: Again, if you want to see the beach or sit at the pool and drink cold beverages, may not be the best fit for you!
3: MANUEL ANTONIO NATIONAL PARK / QUEPOS
About: The busy town of Quepos is on the Pacific side of Costa Rica. The entrance to Manuel Antonio National Park is nearby. The area includes beautiful beaches, fresh seafood widely available and incredible wildlife in and nearby the park. You’re going to hear monkeys at night!
Where is it: 3 hours from San Jose and 4-5 hours from Liberia on highways. 4-5 hours from La Fortuna and Monteverde on more rural roads
Who is it for: Beach & nature lovers
Alternatives to consider:
Corcovado National Park
Marino Ballena National Park / Uvita
Who is NOT for: If you’re looking for “off the beaten trek” spots, this is NOT for you. Quepos is a busy town and Manuel Antonio is extremely popular. Try one of the alternatives instead.