BLOGTravel
January 16, 2024

Costa Rica in Nine Days

Do you want to explore the rainforest, hike a volcano, see a sloth, and relax at one of the best beaches in the world all in 9 days? 

If the answer is yes, then you should check out our Explore Costa Rica trip. Here’s a little taste of what you’ll get.

blog-costa-rica-9-days-manuel-antonio-national-park-beach
The beautiful beaches in Manuel Antonio National Park!

Arrival

Fly into the capital of Costa Rica, San Jose, and take a bus ride down to Manuel Antonio. On the way, you’ll get your first cultural experience of the trip at a pit stop on the crocodile river right by a soda.

If watching crocs in the river isn't your thing, the term 'soda' should have sparked your interest. In Costa Rica, a soda is an open air restaurant that sells home-cooked meals.

It is quite the cultural experience. 

While in Costa Rica, you’ll experience why it’s one of the most biodiverse and eco-friendly countries in the world. The people of Costa Rica work with the environment to make it a magical place.

Manuel Antonio

Once in Manuel Antonio, you’ll get to spend some time at the national park. 

It may be one of the most biodiverse national parks on the planet. There is a good chance you will see sloths, titi monkeys, Howler monkeys, Capuchin monkeys, iguanas, all sorts of birds...even deer.

The best part? You get access to the best beach in Costa Rica and one of the best beaches in the world, Manuel Antonio beach.

blog-costa-rica-9-days-capuchin-monkey
Capuchin monkey just lounging around.

In Manuel Antonio, there’s some great places to eat and get some tasty coffee. My suggestions are Cafe Milagro, Emilio’s Cafe, Sancho's & El Angel. Also, check out El Avion for a few pictures. The restaurant is built around an old CIA plane and there is even a bar right inside the plane!

During the your days here, you’ll get the chance to surf, jet ski, parasail, paddle board or even go water repealing...choose anything you’d like to do, it is your vacation after all.

blog-costa-rica-9-days-horseback-riding
You can even go horseback riding with your group...at your own risk :P

After spending your days on the beaches and walking parks and spending your nights salsaing, you’ll head up to Rancho Margot located in Arenal, Costa Rica. Trust me, this place is something else.

Arenal & Rancho Margot

Rancho Margot is a self-sustaining eco-lodge that sits on a ranch right in the middle of a cloud rainforest. 

Woah, overload, I know, but it’s THAT special.

Here you’ll get the chance to learn more about the Costa Rican environment, organic food, and possibly even learn a bit about yourself.

blog-costa-rica-9-days-rancho-margot-morning-view
Rainforest - Check, Coffee - Check

The mornings can be spent doing yoga or hiking, followed by my personal favorite meal of the day, breakfast. During the days at Rancho Margot, you will kayak, zip line and hike around Volcano Arenal. This volcano is has been dormant since December 2010...so don’t worry, you are safe!

Cap off your days at the ranch either chilling at the pool or having a tropical drink at the bar with the incredible staff of Rancho Margot. Either one you choose, you’ll have a blast because you’ll be kicking it with some rad, like-minded individuals.

blog-costa-rica-9-days-arenal-volcano-view
How can you complain with these views?

This 9-day trip around Costa Rica truly gives you everything you could want. A little beach time, the rainforest, hiking, adventures, some good drinks and bomb food. 

Come join U30X this winter and get a trip of a lifetime in the top spot to visit in Central America!

AUTHORS
MORE POSTS
What To Do In Japan | My Japan Small-Group Trip Recap
Discover what to do in Japan with my small-group trip recap. Explore unique experiences and hidden gems that made my journey unforgettable!
Travel Tips from Plus‑Size Adventurers: How to Travel Comfortably and Confidently at Any Size
Discover essential travel tips from plus-size adventurers. Fly comfy, explore boldly, and claim your space on your next journey. Read more on our blog!
Osaka City Guide: Under30Experiences Japan Trip Report
Explore our Osaka City Guide for essential tips, top attractions, and unique experiences to make your trip unforgettable. Dive into the heart of Japan!
The Traveler’s Guide to Flushing Toilet Paper Around the World
Planning to travel? Check out the Traveler’s Guide to Flushing Toilet Paper around the world and avoid embarrassing situations during your trips!
Travel Deals
HIGHLIGHT DEALS
Save up to 30% on select destinations worldwide.
SECURE YOUR SPOT
Make friends. See the world.
EXPLORE ALL TRIPS
The Millennial Travel Guidebook
Matt Wilson's Millennial Travel Guidebook" cover showcasing colorful travel graphics and a contemporary layout.

FOLLOW THE ADVENTURE

Follow Us on Instagram
Follow Us on Facebook
Follow Us on TikTok
Follow Us on X