7-Day Rainforest & Ocean Itinerary from SJO to Copa de Árbol
Your Perfect Week in Costa Rica: Jungle, Beaches & Pure Escape
Jump To:
- Day 1: Arrival in San José & Transfer to the Osa Peninsula
- Day 2: Arrive at Copa de Árbol
- Day 3: Explore Corcovado National Park
- Day 4: Snorkeling Adventure at Caño Island
- Day 5: Kayak the Mangroves & Visit a Hidden Waterfall
- Day 6: Wildlife Watching, Birding & Pure Relaxation
- Day 7: Departure
- Why This Itinerary Works
- What to Pack
- FAQs
Planning a trip to Costa Rica and want more than just a resort stay? This 7-day itinerary takes you from San José to deep into the wild Osa Peninsula – home to some of the richest biodiversity on Earth – combining rainforest hikes, ocean adventures, and luxury at Copa De Árbol Beach & Rainforest Resort.
From landing at SJO to snorkeling Caño Island, here’s how to experience Costa Rica’s natural wonders in just one unforgettable week.
Did you know Costa Rica has both Pacific and Caribbean coastlines—meaning you can watch the sunrise on one beach and the sunset on another in the same trip?
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Day 1: Arrival in San José (SJO) & Transfer to the Osa Peninsula
Your Costa Rican adventure begins with your arrival in the capital city of San José. While the
city is buzzing with activity, your heart is set on the unspoiled jungle and ocean that await
you further south.
- Fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José.
- Overnight in Alajuela, or take a local flight to Drake Bay (recommended).
Pro tip:
Book your regional flight with Sansa Air to save time and enjoy incredible aerial views of the coastline and jungle.
Day 2: Arrive at Copa de Árbol & Unplug
Today, you officially step into a world far removed from the ordinary. After a scenic boat ride to the resort, the soundtrack of city life fades and is replaced by crashing waves and howler
monkeys in the trees.
- Take a short boat ride from Drake Bay to Copa de Árbol, nestled between the rainforest and
the Pacific Ocean. - Check into your private villa surrounded by wildlife, waves, and tranquility.
- Unwind with a welcome drink, dip in the ocean, and an easy walk along the beach trail.
- Dinner is fresh, local, and served open-air with ocean views.
Let the serenity sink in. You’ve officially arrived in paradise.
Day 3: Explore Corcovado National Park
If you’ve ever wondered what a true rainforest feels like. This is the day you find out. Prepare for awe-inspiring wildlife, thick jungle trails, and a deep immersion into nature’s
rhythm.
- Start the day with an early morning boat ride to Sirena Station in Corcovado.
- Hike through dense primary rainforest with a nature guide.
- Spot tapirs, monkeys, toucans, coatis, and maybe even a jaguar print!
- Return to Copa for a well-earned dinner and rest.
Today, you’ve walked through one of the most biodiverse places on Earth and your camera
roll will prove it.
Day 4: Snorkeling Adventure at Caño Island
- Take a half-day tour to Caño Island Biological Reserve, known for crystal-clear waters and
vibrant coral reefs. - Snorkel with sea turtles, reef sharks, rays, and tropical fish.
- Optional: add scuba diving for certified divers.
- Afternoon free for a hammock nap or jungle spa massage.
From jungle canopy to coral reefs, the richness of Costa Rica continues to amaze.
Day 5: Kayak the Mangroves & Visit a Hidden Waterfall
- Guided kayak tour through nearby mangroves is peaceful, surreal, and full of birdlife.
- After lunch, hike to a nearby rainforest waterfall for a dip in the cool jungle stream.
- Evening: watch the sunset with a tropical cocktail in hand.
It’s a day of stillness, serenity, and sublime scenery capped by a sunset you won’t soon forget.
Day 6: Wildlife Watching, Birding & Pure Relaxation
deeply. Today is about enjoying it all.
- Guided morning birdwatching or self-guided jungle walk.
- Spa treatment or beach time in the afternoon.
- Optional night walk to see nocturnal creatures like tree frogs and kinkajous.
- End with a candlelit dinner and stargazing from your cabina deck.
It’s your last full day and one best spent soaking in every last sight, sound, and scent of the
rainforest.
Day 7: Departure (You’ll Be Back…)
Every journey must end, but the memories you’ve created here of untouched jungle, silent mornings, and warm ocean breezes will last long after your bags are packed.
- Early breakfast with the ocean in view.
- Boat + short flight back to San José (or overland transfer).
Pro tip:
Plan your return flight home for late afternoon or the next day to enjoy a relaxed exit.
As you leave, you won’t just be carrying souvenirs, but a shift in perspective, a calm in your
step, and a deep sense of connection to the wild side of Costa Rica.
Why This Itinerary Works
This journey is not about ticking boxes, it’s about experiencing Costa Rica’s heart and soul.
- Combines adventure, wildlife, and luxury in a balanced way.
- Minimal travel time after arrival.
- Includes iconic Costa Rica experiences without crowds.
- Begins and ends with ease for international flights.
What to Pack for This Trip
Come prepared and your trip will be stress-free. This quick list covers the essentials:
- Lightweight clothing + rain jacket
- Waterproof hiking shoes / sandals
- Reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent
- Dry bag + reusable water bottle
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Ready to Experience Costa Rica Like This?
Copa de Árbol Beach & Rainforest Resort is your home base for all this and more. You can follow our 7-day itinerary or shape your own adventure – there’s no wrong way to experience this unique place. Most guests arrive ready to explore, and leave feeling completely reset, carrying a few special stories they’ll be telling for years.
FAQs
Copa de Árbol Beach & Rainforest Resort is located on the Osa Peninsula, between Corcovado National Park and Caño Island Biological Reserve. The resort sits right on the beach near Drake Bay, offering direct access to both rainforest adventures and ocean activities. Guests typically arrive via a short flight from San José (SJO) to Drake Bay, followed by a scenic boat ride to the resort.
The Osa Peninsula is one of the most biologically diverse regions on Earth, home to 2.5% of the world’s species. Corcovado National Park offers rare wildlife sightings – including tapirs, monkeys, toucans, and even jaguars — along pristine rainforest trails. Visitors to Copa de Árbol can enjoy guided day trips to Sirena Station, one of the best spots in Costa Rica for wildlife photography and eco-adventure.
The 7-day itinerary blends luxury and adventure: rainforest hikes in Corcovado National Park, snorkeling at Caño Island, kayaking through mangroves, chasing hidden waterfalls, birdwatching, and unwinding at the beach or spa. Each day balances exploration with relaxation, giving travelers the full Costa Rican “Pura Vida” experience.
The fastest route from San José International Airport (SJO) is to book a regional flight to Drake Bay with Sansa Air. From there, Copa de Árbol staff will arrange a short, scenic boat transfer to the resort. Guests can also travel overland by car or private shuttle, but the flight option saves several hours and offers spectacular aerial views of Costa Rica’s coastline and rainforest.
Pack light, breathable clothing, a waterproof jacket, sturdy walking shoes or sandals, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, and a reusable water bottle. A dry bag and binoculars are also useful for tours and wildlife viewing. Don’t forget a camera – every day at Copa de Árbol brings new photo opportunities, from tropical birds to coral reefs.
Traveling from San José (SJO) to Drake Bay (the gateway to Copa de Árbol Beach & Rainforest Resort) typically takes about 45 minutes by air. The most convenient option is a domestic flight with Sansa Air, which departs from SJO and offers spectacular views of Costa Rica’s coastline.
Once you land in Drake Bay, a short boat ride along the coastline brings you directly to the resort. Overland travel is possible but can take up to 8 hours due to road conditions. For comfort and time savings, the flight-and-boat combination is highly recommended.
Copa de Árbol welcomes guests year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you’re after.
Dry Season (December–April): The most popular months, with plenty of sunshine, calm seas, and excellent snorkeling and hiking conditions.
Green Season (May–November): Expect lush rainforest scenery, fewer crowds, and more wildlife activity – especially in the mornings. Rain typically falls in the late afternoon, leaving most of the day clear for adventure. You can often find Green Season discounts for this time of year.
Andrea - Costa Rican Travel Guide
Andrea is a seasoned traveler and an expert on Costa Rica. She has spent a number of years travelling around Costa Rica and exploring it's natural wanders. Andrea is an avid birdwatcher and loves spending time outdoors hiking and taking photos of her favourite birds.
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