Week 1: Manuel Antonio
Day 1-3: Arrival and Exploration of Manuel Antonio
- Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José.
- Transfer to Manuel Antonio (about a 3-hour drive).
- Check into a beachfront hotel or eco-lodge in Manuel Antonio.
- Spend your first day relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park.
- Days 2 and 3: Explore Manuel Antonio National Park, hike the trails, and spot wildlife like sloths, monkeys, and colorful birds.
- Enjoy water activities such as snorkeling and sea kayaking.
- Savor fresh seafood and traditional Costa Rican cuisine in local restaurants.
Day 4-5: Adventure and Relaxation
- Try zip-lining or canopy tours in the lush rainforests.
- Take a day trip to the nearby Damas Island for a mangrove tour.
- Unwind at the spa or on the beaches.
- Visit the Quepos Fish Market for a taste of the daily catch.
Week 2: Santa Teresa
Day 6-8: Santa Teresa – Surfing and Beach Bliss
- Depart from Manuel Antonio to Santa Teresa (travel via a combination of car and ferry, or by a short flight).
- Settle into a beachfront bungalow or surf camp in Santa Teresa.
- Learn to surf with local instructors or improve your skills on world-class waves.
- Explore the charming town’s artisan shops and beachfront restaurants.
- Experience the vibrant sunsets Santa Teresa is famous for.
Day 9-10: Yoga and Nature
- Embrace the wellness culture of Santa Teresa by joining a yoga or meditation retreat.
- Take a hike or horseback ride to the nearby Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve.
- Unwind on the pristine, less-crowded beaches of Santa Teresa.
- Enjoy farm-to-table dining at local restaurants.
Week 3: Puerto Viejo
Day 11-13: Puerto Viejo – Caribbean Vibes
- Travel from Santa Teresa to Puerto Viejo (a full-day journey involving a ferry and drive or a short flight).
- Check in to a beachfront or jungle lodge in Puerto Viejo.
- Explore the beaches of Playa Cocles, Punta Uva, and Playa Chiquita.
- Visit the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge for nature hikes and wildlife viewing.
- Indulge in the Afro-Caribbean cuisine unique to this region.
- Experience the lively atmosphere of Puerto Viejo, with reggae music, street food, and local art.
Day 14: Departure
- Enjoy your final morning in Puerto Viejo.
- Depart for San José to catch your flight home or continue your journey.
This two-week adventure will take you through some of Costa Rica’s most enchanting and diverse regions. You’ll experience the lush rainforests and pristine beaches of Manuel Antonio, the laid-back surf culture of Santa Teresa, and the vibrant Caribbean vibes of Puerto Viejo. It’s an ideal itinerary for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration in the “Pura Vida” style.
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