RAL

1. Is there enough to do in MA for 5 days?

2. Does anyone have a recommendation between Hotel Parador & La Mariposa?

3. If we are planning on going to Arenal & Monteverde for 3 days before MA, do I go to both, or just one and do something else you might recommend "on the way" to Quepos.

Thank you. By the way the postings on this website have been very helpful so far. Thanks for your help in advance.

tully

I had 5 days in MA & didn't want to leave, but to others that may be too much, it's really up to you. There is plenty to do though.

If you have just 3 days, I would do Arenal or Monteverde but not both.

greenfieldhunter

I spent 5 days in MA with my wife and we had a great time/did not want to leave.Other travelers might get bored.

Both of the hotels you mention have nice views and are well reguarded

oneicebox

Hotel Parador.
La mariposa is more like a huge upscale motel with ocean views.

poss

Icebox-- You stayed at Makanda, is that correct? Do you think Parador is better than Makanda? Did you eat dinners at Makanda? (We won't have a car.)

poss

Icebox-- I am so sorry. I asked this question before I noticed your response on the other posting. Thank you!

Iza

RAL, my suggestion would be to cut one day in MA and do 2 days at Arenal, 2 days at Monteverde and 4 days in MA. This would be a great itinerary. It would give you sufficient time to enjoy all 3 destinations in a relatively relaxed pace.