5 min read

Costa Rica Week 3: Cloud Forests, Kayaking & Pacific Bliss

Your final week in Costa Rica takes you from Monteverde’s misty cloud forests to the golden beaches of Sámara. Kayak to a tropical island, zipline through the canopy, spot wildlife on night walks, and end your adventure with Pacific sunsets and laid-back coastal vibes.
Chasing waves under a Costa Rican sunset — where every surf session ends with magic on the horizon 🌊🌅 #SurfCostaRica #PuraVida
Photo by Christian Holzinger / Unsplash

Your final week in Costa Rica is a grand finale of misty mountaintops, swaying palms, and vibrant sunsets over the Pacific. From the cool cloud forests of Monteverde to the golden beaches of Sámara, this leg of the journey blends adventure and relaxation — the perfect ending to your 21-day escape.

Palm-fringed perfection in Costa Rica — where the jungle meets the sea and every wave feels like paradise 🌴🌊 #CostaRicaBeaches #PuraVida

Day 15: Journey to Monteverde’s Cloud Forests

Leaving the volcanic landscapes behind, you’ll travel into the heart of Costa Rica’s highlands. Monteverde is famed for its dense cloud forests, where mist drapes the treetops and biodiversity thrives.

Walk among the clouds in Costa Rica’s Monteverde — where suspension bridges reveal a whole new world above the rainforest canopy 🌿🌤 #Monteverde #CostaRicaAdventures

Spend the afternoon exploring Santa Elena’s charming cafés and artisan shops or take a gentle walk to a nearby lookout for your first glimpse of the rolling green canopy.

Affiliate Tip: Book your Monteverde transfer in advance via Welcome Pickups or compare options on TripAdvisor to find the best-rated routes.


Day 16: Hanging Bridges & Canopy Adventures

Wake up early to experience the magic of Monteverde’s hanging bridges. Suspended above the forest floor, these bridges offer a bird’s-eye view of orchids, ferns, and maybe even a glimpse of a resplendent quetzal.

Crossing into the wild — Costa Rica’s hanging bridges bring you face-to-face with curious rainforest locals 🐒🌿 #CostaRicaWildlife #RainforestAdventures

For thrill-seekers, ziplining here is legendary — long, high-speed runs through the mist with panoramic views. Prefer something quieter? Opt for a guided nature walk to learn about the area’s unique microclimate.

Soaring through the treetops — ziplining in Costa Rica turns the rainforest into your personal adventure playground 🌿⚡ #ZiplineCostaRica #PuraVidaAdventures

Affiliate Tip: Reserve your canopy or guided bridge tour via Viator or GetYourGuide to secure your preferred time slot.


Day 17: Wildlife & Night Walks

Monteverde comes alive after dark. Spend your morning birdwatching or visiting the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens, then join a guided night walk. With an expert guide and flashlight in hand, you might spot tree frogs, kinkajous, tarantulas, and other nocturnal creatures.

Night falls in Costa Rica’s rainforest — and the jungle’s most mysterious residents come out to play 🕷🌿 #CostaRicaWildlife #RainforestNights"

Day 18: Kayaking & Beach Time in Sámara

Head down from the mountains to Sámara, a laid-back beach town known for its gentle waves and palm-fringed shore. In the afternoon, paddle out on a guided kayak tour to Isla Chora, where clear waters are perfect for snorkeling.

Dive into a kaleidoscope of color — snorkeling Costa Rica’s warm waters brings you face-to-fin with tropical marine life 🐠🌊 #SnorkelCostaRica #UnderwaterParadise

Back on shore, stroll the beach at sunset — a nightly ritual in Sámara.


Day 19: Surf, Swim & Relax

Spend the day exactly how you want. Take a beginner surf lesson, swim in the calm bay, or simply relax under the palms with a book. Sámara’s main street offers plenty of casual eateries and smoothie bars for lazy lunches.

Island vibes and palm-lined shores — the perfect launchpad for a Costa Rican outrigger canoe adventure 🌴🚣‍♂️ #CostaRicaBeaches #PuraVida"

Day 20: Coastal Exploration

Venture out for a day trip along the Nicoya Peninsula. Options include horseback riding on secluded beaches, visiting hidden coves, or joining a dolphin-watching tour. Keep your camera ready — the wildlife and scenery here are unforgettable.

Howler monkey highway — catching a ride through the treetops, Costa Rica style 🐒🌿 #CostaRicaWildlife #PuraVida"

Day 21: Return to San José

After breakfast, make your way back to San José for your final night in Costa Rica. Use the evening to pick up last-minute souvenirs, enjoy a farewell dinner, and toast to the adventures you’ve had.


Here’s the gear that’s perfect for Week 3 — tested, practical, and adventure-ready. These are affiliate links that help support the blog at no extra cost to you.

Water Shoes
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Insect Repellent Wipes
Phone Lanyard + Waterproof Case
Action Camera (Hands-Free Filming)
Dry Bag
UPF-Rated Sun Shirt
Lightweight Hiking Shoes
Compact Binoculars
Electrolyte Drink Mixes


Ready to Plan Your Own Adventure?

We’ve made it easy by rounding up the same trusted tools we use to book flights, stays, insurance, and activities. Whether you're chasing waterfalls in Costa Rica or relaxing on the beach, these resources have you covered.

Plan Your Trip with Our Trusted Travel Tools

✈️ Compare Flights

Kiwi.com
Trip.com
Traveloka

🏨 Book Budget Stays

Hostelworld Embedded JavaScript
Agoda

🛏️ Book Hotels & Unique Stays

Booking.com

🛡️ Protect Your Trip

Klook (Travel Insurance & eSIM)

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VisitorsCoverage

🚙 Find Rentals

Economybookings

🎟️ Explore Activities

Viator
GetYourGuide

Go City

🚐 Arrange Transfers

Welcome Pickups

🗺️ Plan Your Route

Tripadvisor


Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links. If you book or buy through them, we may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for supporting the blog — it keeps the adventures coming!

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