San José in 8 Days for Friends - Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Waterfall
In Collaboration with Greenway Nature Tours. Updated on February 13, 2026.
8 days / 7 nights visiting San José, Arenal/La Fortuna and Tamarindo. Package includes high-quality hotels as listed in the agenda, the included meals stated in the activity data, professional guides for listed tours, entrance fees where indicated, deluxe transfers between destinations and the specific tours described in the agenda items.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Greenway Nature Tours, inspired by the tour Amazing Costa Rica Expedition 8D/7N Vacation Package. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Waterfall
- Baldi Hot Springs with included buffet lunch
- Custom adventure day in La Fortuna (multiple options)
- Tamarindo Beach free time and optional ocean activities
- Door-to-door transfers and airport pickup/drop-off
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in San José. Airport pickup, brief orientation and transfer to central San José hotel. Afternoon and evening at leisure.
Arrival: Airport pickup and welcome
Meet-and-greet at Juan Santamaría International Airport. Representative provides itinerary packet, answers questions and arranges transfer to your San José hotel.
Tips from local experts:
- Have your passport and flight details ready for the meet-and-greet to speed up pickup.
- Carry a small daypack with valuables and essentials — your main luggage is moved separately on the transfer vehicle.
- Local pickup windows vary with flight arrival; confirm your flight number with the operator if your arrival time changes.
Transfer to Park Inn / Hotel Aurola area and check-in
Transfer from the airport to your San José hotel and time at leisure to rest after travel. Evening free to explore San José independently.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect 20–40 minutes travel time from the airport to central San José depending on traffic.
- If you need local currency, there are ATMs and currency exchange services at the airport and central San José.
- Keep your vouchers and the hotel's contact number in your phone in case the driver needs directions.
Day 2
Private Arenal day: La Fortuna Waterfall visit followed by Baldi Hot Springs with included buffet lunch. Afternoon transfer to Fortuna area hotel.
Transfer San José to La Fortuna (Arenal area)
Morning transfer from San José area to La Fortuna / Arenal region. Scenic rural and mountain driving; arrival in La Fortuna before midday.
Tips from local experts:
- Roads to La Fortuna include winding mountain sections—bring motion-sickness remedies if needed.
- Carry a light rain layer; weather can change quickly near Arenal even on dry-season days.
- Plan to have your camera accessible for roadside viewpoints of Arenal along the route.
La Fortuna Waterfall (Catarata La Fortuna)
Visit La Fortuna Waterfall. Short hike down to the base; time to enjoy the viewpoint and swim where allowed.
Tips from local experts:
- The trail to the waterfall involves stairs; wear sturdy shoes and allow time for the descent/ascent.
- Bring swimwear, towel and waterproof bag; secure lockers are available near the attraction at many operators.
- There is usually a small entrance fee at the site and basic snack options nearby—carry some local cash in small bills.
Baldi Hot Springs — buffet lunch & thermal pools
Arrive at Baldi Hot Springs for buffet lunch followed by time relaxing in the thermal pools. Towels and lockers are included per the itinerary. Stay until approximately 16:00.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a swimsuit and change of clothes; Baldi provides towels and lockers as noted but bring a small lock for personal preference.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen and rinse off before entering thermal pools; avoid long exposure in very hot pools if you have health conditions.
- Plan to keep electronics protected—use waterproof pouches or leave non-waterproof gear in lockers.
Transfer to Magic Mountain Hotel — La Fortuna
Short transfer from Baldi Hot Springs to your overnight hotel in Fortuna. Evening at leisure; dinner on your own.
Tips from local experts:
- Check-in time at most Fortuna hotels is mid-afternoon; confirm exact time with the representative if you arrive early.
- Many restaurants in La Fortuna accept cards, but smaller cafes may prefer cash—carry some colones for small purchases.
- If you plan an evening walk, bring a light jacket—mountain evenings can be cooler than the coast.
Day 3
Free-style day in Arenal / La Fortuna. Choose one included adventure from the provided list; morning or full-day options available depending on selection.
Custom adventure day in La Fortuna (choose one included option)
Select one adventure from the itinerary choices (examples: Cano Negro boat tour, safari boat, horseback riding, canopy/zip line, mountain biking, Arenal Volcano hike, Arenal Reserve & hanging bridges, Lake Arenal kayaking, Venado Caves, Sky Tram & nature walk). The exact timing depends on the chosen activity; lunch included for full-day choices.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your chosen activity with the operator at least 24 hours before to secure the correct meeting time and equipment.
- For active options (canopy, hiking, caves), wear closed-toe shoes and bring insect repellent and a reusable water bottle.
- If you select boat- or water-based options, bring a quick-dry outfit and dry-bag for electronics.
Evening: return to Magic Mountain Hotel
Return to hotel after your chosen activity. Evening at leisure; overnight in Fortuna.
Tips from local experts:
- If your activity returns late, carry a light snack and water—some restaurants close early in smaller towns.
- Check with the front desk for local restaurant recommendations that suit groups and lively evenings.
- Confirm next-day pickup times if you have an early transfer scheduled.
Day 4
Breakfast and transfer from Arenal/La Fortuna to Tamarindo on the Pacific coast. Arrive mid-afternoon and check in to Tamarindo Diria Hotel; evening free.
Breakfast and hotel check-out
Breakfast at hotel followed by check-out and boarding for the transfer to Tamarindo.
Tips from local experts:
- Have breakfast at the hotel to ensure an early departure; confirm checkout time with reception.
- Pack beach items in your daypack for easier access on arrival to Tamarindo.
- Leave wet or sandy items separated from luggage to avoid dampness during transfer.
Transfer La Fortuna to Tamarindo
Overland transfer to Tamarindo on the Pacific coast. Travel time depends on route and traffic; expect a main-day transfer with scenic coastal approach.
Tips from local experts:
- The transfer from La Fortuna to Tamarindo typically takes several hours—bring snacks and water for the road.
- Road conditions can vary; secure personal items and keep electronics in cushioned bags.
- If you prefer a restroom stop en route, notify the driver early so a safe stop can be arranged.
Tamarindo arrival and check-in at Tamarindo Diria Hotel
Arrive at Tamarindo Diria Hotel mid-afternoon. Time at leisure to enjoy the pool, beach and local dining options.
Tips from local experts:
- Tamarindo Diria is beachfront—request a room near the ocean if available for easy beach access at sunset.
- Tamarindo has many restaurants within walking distance; ask the front desk for group-friendly options.
- If you plan evening activities, carry a light jacket as coastal nights can be breezy.
Day 5
Free-style day in Tamarindo. Choose one included adventure from the provided coastal options or enjoy beach time and town exploration. Afternoon and evening at leisure.
Choose an included Tamarindo activity or relax at the beach
Available included adventure options: canopy (zip line), Tamarindo Estuary kayak, snorkeling/kayak tours, mangrove boat tour, horseback riding (beach or mountain), catamaran cruise (dolphin/whale watch & snorkeling), or sunset sail. Timing varies by selected option. Lunch and dinner not included.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve your chosen activity early in the morning to secure preferred time slots, especially for popular catamaran or estuary tours.
- For estuary/mangrove tours and snorkeling, bring reef-safe sunscreen and a towel; boats may have limited shade.
- Tamarindo shops and restaurants often accept cards, but smaller vendors prefer cash—carry some local currency for convenience.
Evening free in Tamarindo
Explore Tamarindo's dining and nightlife at your own pace. Many restaurants and bars are within walking distance of Diria Hotel.
Tips from local experts:
- If going out as a group, reserve a table for dinner in advance during high season to avoid waits.
- Carry ID if you plan to enter venues with age restrictions and consider using hotel safes for valuables.
- Tamarindo streets can be uneven at night—wear comfortable shoes and stay in well-lit areas.
Day 6
Full day to enjoy Tamarindo beach and town at leisure. Time for self-guided activities, beach time, shopping and optional local tours.
Beach and town day in Tamarindo
Free day to swim, surf, shop or relax. Operators and rental shops are available for surf lessons, boards and beach equipment.
Tips from local experts:
- Tamarindo is popular for beginner surf lessons—book a morning lesson when winds are usually calmer.
- Use beach umbrellas and reapply sunscreen frequently; bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated in the sun.
- If you rent surf or snorkel gear, inspect equipment first and agree on return times to avoid disputes.
Evening: overnight at Tamarindo Diria Hotel
Return to the hotel, relax by the pool or on the beach. Overnight at the Diria property.
Tips from local experts:
- If you plan a beach sunset, arrive early to secure a good spot and consider a beachfront dinner reservation.
- Ask the hotel about laundry services if you need fresh clothes for the transfer the next day.
- Confirm your next-day transfer pickup time with the front desk before bedtime.
Day 7
Morning at leisure in Tamarindo, check out by noon and transfer back to San José. Overnight at Aurola Holiday Inn in San José.
Morning at leisure and hotel check-out
Enjoy a final morning in Tamarindo. Check-out by the hotel’s stated time and prepare for the transfer to San José.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm checkout time with the hotel and store any late luggage at reception if needed for afternoon activities.
- Collect any souvenirs stored for you and double-check room for chargers and passports.
- Have your contact information for the transfer driver handy at the front desk for a smooth departure.
Transfer Tamarindo to San José
Overland transfer from Tamarindo back to San José. Arrive in the afternoon and check in at Aurola Holiday Inn (listed in agenda). Evening free.
Tips from local experts:
- The transfer typically takes several hours—expect breaks for restroom and stretch stops on the route.
- If you have an evening flight the next day, confirm airport transfer times with the front desk upon arrival in San José.
- Keep your passport, wallet and phone with you during the transfer rather than in checked luggage.
Check-in: Aurola Holiday Inn, San José
Check-in and overnight at Aurola Holiday Inn in San José. Evening at leisure to rest or explore the city center.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your room reservation name at the front desk and verify breakfast hours for the following morning.
- If you plan to explore downtown San José, ask for a map and safe walking routes from the hotel concierge.
- Store any large luggage securely at the hotel if you plan to head out for a short evening visit.
Day 8
Transfer to Juan Santamaría International Airport according to your flight schedule. End of services.
Hotel check-out and transfer to airport
Transfer from Aurola Holiday Inn (San José) to Juan Santamaría International Airport according to your flight schedule. Representative will arrange drop-off based on your departure time.
Tips from local experts:
- Confirm your outbound flight time and airport transfer pickup the evening before to avoid last-minute delays.
- Allow at least 2.5–3 hours for international departures when accounting for traffic and check-in procedures.
- Keep travel documents and boarding pass easily accessible for the driver and airport staff.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 8 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 5 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 14 |
| Total Places | 14 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Hotel, Attraction, Experience, Meal, Nightlife, Outdoor, Break |