naibob asked 8 years ago
Hi, I am visiting CR for the first time in October with my 11 year old son. We are both well travelled although new to Central America. We know it is the rainy season so maybe not ideal for first trip however we are escaping the European autumn and maximising a 2 week school holiday. We have 11 nights from arrive al to departure at San Jose. I am happy to drive and want to try and get a decent all round overview of what CR has to offer. Initial thoughts were a few days around Arenal followed by a similar duration around Manuel Antonio and then maybe a few days chilling at a nice beach resort. Looking to be adventurous where possible and looking forward to hiking and kayaking. Just wondered if, with the weather in mind, any readers here had an outline itinerary that may work for us. Thanks in advance! Ian
Jenn and Matt Staff answered 8 years ago
Hi Ian,
La Fortuna and Manuel Antonio are good choices for a first time visitor to give them a taste of the country. We actually recommend both in our Top 10 Costa Rica Itineraries book. The weather will definitely be a factor in October so you might want to build in an extra day or two in each place. That way, in case you get rained out for a particular activity you could do it the next day (tour operators are pretty flexible this time of year). Hiking is good around both places and a mangrove kayak tour in Manuel Antonio is really fun (let us know if you need a recommendation for a tour operator, we know a good one). Also, just an idea, but since you have two weeks, you’d have plenty of time to include a stay on the Caribbean side too. The weather is much better there in October and Puerto Viejo and Cahuita’s beaches are beautiful. Hope this gets you started. Have a nice trip!