Travel in Costa Rica on a budget! Hit two of Costa Rica's famed features — volcanoes and beaches — on this exciting trip that isn't too hard on the wallet. Get the adrenaline pumping in La Fortuna, then wind down with some hardcore relaxation on the beach in Montezuma.

  • Trip style: Affordable tour geared at 18 to 30–ish. Control costs by picking your own activities and meals.
  • Service level: Basic.
  • Travel highlights: San Jose, Arenal Vocano, La Fortuna, Montezuma.

Travel Itinerary for Budget Tour of Arenal

budget travel map Costa Rica
  • Day 1 Arrive San Jose. Arrive in San Jose at any time.
  • Day 2-3 La Fortuna. La Fortuna sits at the foot of still-active Arenal Volcano. Take an optional night hike around its base and listen to the sounds of the monkeys and the distant rumbling of the Volcano. Other activities include white water rafting, horseback riding, waterfall rappelling/abseiling, a tour of the Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge, or relaxing in magma-heated hot springs.
  • Day 4-6 Montezuma. Travel to the Nicoya Peninsula, with plenty of time for rest and relaxation in the laid back ex-hippie hangout of Montezuma. Check out Cabo Blanco National Park to spot some wildlife, hike to the nearby waterfall for a dip in the local swimming hole or — simply lounge on the beach. Adrenaline junkies can take their pick of activities as well surfing, ziplining, or scuba diving are all options. On the other hand, if relaxation is what you seek, opt for a yoga class or take a leisurely hike to search for orchids.
  • Day 7 San Jose. Return to San Jose for a final night on the town.
  • Day 8 Depart San Jose.

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Trip summary/CRBC

  • Price: US$525 (approx)
  • StartFinish: ex San Jose
  • What's Included: Pacific beaches of Nicoya Peninsula.
  • Group Size Notes: Max 15, Avg 10
  • Group Leader: Tour leader throughout.
  • Meals Included: No meals included.
  • Transport: Local bus, Ferry, Taxi.
  • Accommodation: Simple hotels/guest houses (may be multi-share) (7 nts).
  • Meal Budget: Allow USD225 for meals not included. For additional expenses, see Trip Details.
  • My Own Room: Not available on this tour
  • Recommendation: Want to see the Caribbean? Add 3-day Tortuguero Extension.
Arenal view

The Arenal Volcano area is scenic and charming. It is more spring-like and I can understand why so many ex-pats have chosen this area to retire.

Arenal has a lovely lake and around the lake there are homes, services, and in some places ranches.

You'll note the windmills throughout the area.

manuel_aerial_319

Manuel Antonio National Park is Costa Rica's smallest national park but one of its most spectacular parks. Visitor will find everything from jungle, wildlife to incredible beaches.

Manuel Antonio is near a town called Quepos, a charming former fishing village.