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What to Do if You Only Have a Week
Planning a week in Costa Rica? Exciting! Creating an itinerary? A little overwhelming.
Between lush rainforests, active volcanoes, wildlife-filled national parks, and stunning Pacific beaches, there are endless things to do in Costa Rica. The challenge isn’t finding activities, it’s deciding what’s worth your time.
If you only have a week, the key is focusing on the experiences that truly capture the magic of the country.
Let's dive in to five unforgettable things to do in Costa Rica that should absolutely make your bucket list.
Best Time to Visit Costa Rica
First things first, you're probably wondering: What’s the best time to visit Costa Rica?
Tbh, Costa Rica is a year-round destination!
- December – April: Dry season with sunny skies and ideal beach weather
- May – November: Lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and excellent wildlife viewing
The best time to visit Costa Rica truly depends on whether you prioritize sunshine or vibrant rainforest scenery.
1. Swim Beneath La Fortuna Waterfall
If you’re searching for the most iconic things to do in Costa Rica, start with La Fortuna Waterfall.
Hidden in the rainforest near the town of La Fortuna, this stunning 230-foot waterfall crashes into a bright turquoise pool surrounded by dense tropical jungle.
Getting there requires a scenic staircase hike down through the forest but the reward is worth every step.
Once you arrive, you can:
- Swim in the cool waterfall pool
- Relax along the riverbank
- Take in the misty jungle views
For many Travelers, this becomes one of the most memorable stops on their Costa Rica tour.
2. Hike Near Arenal Volcano
Few landscapes define Costa Rica like Arenal Volcano.
Towering over the rainforest near La Fortuna, this perfectly shaped volcano is surrounded by some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the country. Trails wind through ancient lava fields, tropical forests, and panoramic viewpoints where the volcano dominates the skyline.
Wildlife sightings are common here too. While hiking, you might spot:
- Howler monkeys in the treetops
- Colorful toucans perched in the canopy
- Bright blue morpho butterflies fluttering through the jungle
For outdoor lovers, hiking near Arenal is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica.
4. Soak in Natural Hot Springs
After a day of hiking and exploring, there’s nothing better than soaking in Costa Rica’s famous hot springs.
Thanks to geothermal activity from nearby Arenal Volcano, mineral-rich hot water flows through the region, creating warm natural pools tucked into the rainforest.
Many eco-resorts have designed beautiful open-air hot spring spas surrounded by tropical plants and jungle sounds.
As the sun sets and the forest comes alive with nighttime wildlife, soaking in these warm waters becomes one of the most relaxing things to do in Costa Rica.
3. Spot Wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park
One of the most magical parts of visiting Costa Rica is seeing wildlife in its natural habitat.
That’s exactly what makes Manuel Antonio National Park such a must-visit destination.
Despite being one of the smallest national parks in the country, it’s also one of the most biodiverse. Walking the jungle trails with a guide dramatically increases your chances of spotting animals like:
- White-faced capuchin monkeys
- Slow-moving sloths
- Iguanas sunbathing on the trails
- Bright tropical birds overhead
The trails eventually lead to white sand beaches framed by rainforest, creating one of the most beautiful landscapes in the country.
Wildlife encounters here are often a highlight of any Costa Rica tour.
5. Go Sea Kayaking Along the Pacific Coast
Costa Rica’s coastline offers a completely different kind of adventure.
Sea kayaking along the Pacific coast allows travelers to explore hidden beaches, rocky coves, and crystal-clear waters from a unique perspective. Paddling along the shoreline often reveals vibrant marine life, seabirds soaring overhead, and even the occasional dolphin gliding through the waves.
The combination of ocean views, warm tropical air, and peaceful paddling makes sea kayaking one of the most rewarding ways to experience Costa Rica’s coastal ecosystems.
Tip: Hire a Local Guide
One of the best ways to experience Costa Rica is with the help of a knowledgeable local Guide.
A Guide doesn’t just handle logistics, they help unlock deeper experiences.
With a local expert, you’ll gain:
- Easier wildlife spotting
- Insight into Costa Rican culture and traditions
- Access to authentic experiences travelers often miss
- Transportation and planning handled for you
For many Travelers, joining a small group Costa Rica tour makes the experience far more seamless and enriching.
Join our upcoming trip to Costa Rica
Ready to Explore?
If you’re thinking about exploring this lush rainforest tour, we'd love to invite you on our next adventure to Costa Rica is led by a local who has been leading groups for over 15 years.
If Costa Rica has been sitting on your bucket list, this is your chance to experience it alongside a small group of curious travelers while wandering amongst volcanoes, rainforests, and wildlife-rich national parks.
Your next adventure is waiting. ✈️