Costa Rica Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts in Costa Rica

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A quiet stretch of Costa Rica's Caribbean coast

Costa Rica from Coast to Coast - 13 Days

Travel from the Caribbean coast to the Pacific coast, enjoying outdoor adventures along the way, on this exciting 13-day itinerary across Costa Rica. Spend a day sightseeing in San José before heading on to Tortuguero National Park for a boat tour and a nighttime nature hike. Continue to Arenal for volcano hikes, hot springs, and a visit to a wildlife rehabilitation center, then zipline through the cloud forest in Monteverde and end the trip in Manuel Antonio National Park.

Overnight in luxury accommodation in the Osa Peninsula (photo courtesy of Lapa Rios Lodge)

Wildlife Luxury Adventure in Arenal, Monteverde & the Osa Peninsula - 12 Days

Enjoy the best of Costa Rica on this adventurous 12-day itinerary featuring excursions with private guides and overnight stays in luxury hotels. Begin with a few days of birdwatching, snorkeling, and hiking on the Osa Peninsula, then transfer to La Fortuna, your base for exploring the Arenal area. Trek around Arenal Volcano and relax in hot springs before continuing to Monteverde for a coffee tour and an unforgettable trip through the cloud forest on horseback.

Looking down at Carrillo Beach near Sámara, Costa Rica

Explore Costa Rica's Volcanoes & Pacific Coast - 12 Days

This 12-day adventure around Costa Rica's spectacular natural landscapes leads you to volcanoes, national parks, and Pacific beaches. You'll start the trip in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, where you'll soak in hot springs and ride horses, then you'll continue to Arenal for wildlife spotting and volcano hikes. Swing through the trees on a zip-line in Monteverde, watch sea turtles nesting on the beach in Tamarindo, and kayak or snorkel through clear turquoise waters off the coast of Sámara.

Vibrantly hued toucans on a tree branch in Costa Rica's jungle

Highlights of Costa Rica: Tortuguero, Arenal, Monteverde & Manuel Antonio - 12 Days

From the depths of the sea to the jungle treetops, this exciting 12-day itinerary takes you to Costa Rica's top highlights for outdoor adventures and wildlife viewing. Spot vibrantly colored frogs and monkeys on a guided nature walk, boat along the canals of Tortuguero National Park, hike around Arenal Volcano, and dip in natural hot springs nearby. Then zip-line through the trees in the cloud forest and snorkel in Manuel Antonio National Park—all of this and more await you on this outdoorsy journey.

An iguana in the wild in Tortuguero National Park

Explore Wetlands & Caribbean Beaches - 8 Days

Sea turtles, stingrays, iguanas, sharks, toucans, and sloths are a few examples of the wildlife you're likely to see on this outdoorsy eight-day itinerary around Costa Rica's wetlands and beaches. You'll start with a boat tour and a guided night hike in Tortuguero National Park, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, then move on to Puerto Viejo and Cahuita national parks. You'll visit a jaguar rehabilitation center, snorkel around a coral reef, and ride horses on the beach before the trip is over.

Explore Costa Rica's Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Beaches: Manuel Antonio - 8 Days

Discover Costa Rica's natural wonders on this eight-day adventure around the country's volcanoes, hot springs, cloud forests, coral reefs, and beaches. Spot sloths in the wild and soak in hot springs in Arenal before continuing to Monteverde for a cloud forest hike, a guided nature walk, and a visit to a coffee farm. Finally, you'll boat, snorkel, hike, and swim in the pristine wilderness of Manuel Antonio National Park.

View of Rincón de La Vieja Volcano in Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Active Adventure on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast - 11 Days

Enjoy waterfall hikes, horseback riding, a sunset sail, and snorkeling with tropical fish on this active 11-day trip around Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. You'll begin the journey in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, where you'll soak in natural hot springs and ride horses. Continue to Arenal for a few days of rainforest adventures, including a visit to a sloth habitat, then head to the Gulf of Papagayo for a jungle cruise. Finish the itinerary with snorkeling, swimming, and hiking around coastal Sámara.

Go for a swim with view of the Costa Rican rainforest

Wildlife Luxury Adventure in Arenal, Monteverde & the Osa Peninsula - 11 Days

Discover the spectacular landscapes of Costa Rica on this luxurious 11-day trip. You'll explore the great outdoors by day and sleep in luxury lodgings at night, traveling first to the Osa Peninsula to do some world-class snorkeling in the Isla del Caño Biological Reserve. Then hike around Arenal Volcano, soak in natural hot springs, and enjoy a gourmet dinner in a beautiful natural setting. Finish the itinerary with a nighttime nature walk and zip-lining in the Monteverde cloud forest.

Agua Ardiente Pool Bar (courtesy of Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa)

Wildlife Luxury Adventure in Arenal, Monteverde & the Osa Peninsula - 10 Days

Explore Costa Rica's landscapes and wildlife habitats by day—and sleep in luxury hotels at night—on this 10-day itinerary around the country. Travel to the Osa Peninsula to hike around Corcovado National Park and snorkel the Isla del Caño Biological Reserve. Then move onto the Arenal region for waterfall hikes and hot spring relaxation. You'll finish up in Monteverde with a nighttime nature walk and a day of zip-lining through the cloud forest.

Family Fun on Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast - 11 Days

Featuring a mix of wildlife experiences and outdoor adventures, this 11-day exploration of Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast is fun for the whole family. Hike to the top of Costa Rica's highest volcano, spot colorful spiders on a nighttime rainforest hike, and boat around national parks as you explore the country's Caribbean coast. You'll also have the chance to visit a jaguar rehabilitation center, see monkeys in the wild on a kayaking excursion, and ride horses along the beach—fun for the kids and kids at heart!

Active Costa Rica: Río Pacuare Rafting, Arenal & Manuel Antonio- 8 Days

From whitewater rafting to waterfall rappelling, this active eight-day itinerary around Costa Rica is filled with adventure! After a day of sightseeing in San José, you'll embark on two days of rafting down Class III-IV rapids on the Río Pacuare. Continue to Arenal for volcano hikes and a zip-lining excursion through the rainforest. You'll finish up in Manuel Antonio National Park, where you'll spot crocodiles, snorkel with tropical fish, and sail along the coast at sunset.

Take a cooking class focused on traditional Costa Rican cuisine

Discover Costa Rica's Cultural & Natural Highlights - 8 Days

Delve into Costa Rica's fascinating traditions and magnificent landscapes on this eight-day tour that blends culture and nature. Highlights along the journey include a cooking class with a Costa Rican chef, tours of two local farms to learn about agriculture and rural life, and a visit to an indigenous community, where you'll have the chance to purchase handicrafts. You'll also go horseback riding to La Fortuna Waterfall, enjoy a jungle cruise in Palo Verde National Park, and sail on the Gulf of Papagayo at sunset.

A mineral-rich river crossing near Tenorio National Park

Road Trip to Costa Rica's Pacific Coast - 14 Days

Hit the road for this 14-day self-drive adventure around Costa Rica's highlights! You'll pick up a rental car in Liberia and head to Rincón de la Vieja for hiking and hot springs, then drive to Arenal, where you'll visit a chocolate farm and spot sloths in the wild. The road trip takes you to Monteverde next for zip-lining in the cloud forest, then to Tamarindo and Sámara for snorkeling excursions and the chance to observe sea turtles nesting. The journey ends with a free evening in the capital city of San José.

Sunset view from a luxury hotel in Costa Rica

Luxury Trip to Costa Rica's Beaches, Cloud Forests & Volcanoes - 14 Days

Explore Costa Rica's beautiful natural landscapes—and treat yourself to luxury hotel stays—on this two-week adventure around the country. The itinerary takes you to two national parks, Corcovado and Manuel Antonio, for hiking, snorkeling, and boating excursions. You'll also spot wildlife on a night tour, visit a coffee farm, zip-line through the jungle in the Monteverde cloud forest, and hike to Arenal Volcano, enjoying a dip in natural hot springs nearby to finish the trip.

Costa Rica from Coast to Coast - 14 Days

Hiking in the jungle, soaking in hot springs, snorkeling with tropical fish, horseback riding to waterfalls—these are just a few outdoor adventures that await travelers on this thrilling 14-day itinerary around Costa Rica. After a day in San José, you'll head to the Caribbean coast and spend a few days exploring Tortuguero National Park. Discover the natural wonders of Arenal and Monteverde before finishing up the adventure on the Pacific coast at Manuel Antonio National Park.

Kids love snorkeling around Costa Rica's friendly (and stunning) beaches

Family Adventure in Arenal & the Nicoya Peninsula - 10 Days

From zip-lining through the jungle canopy to snorkeling with tropical fish, outdoor adventures await you and your family on this thrilling 10-day trip around Costa Rica. You'll start with a few days in the Arenal region, hiking around volcanoes and waterfalls, before heading to the Monteverde Cloud Forest for zip-lining and wildlife spotting. Then finish the adventure with several days on the Nicoya Peninsula, where you'll snorkel, visit a scarlet macaw refuge, and enjoy a family-oriented boat safari.

Look out for curious capuchin monkeys as you hike around Manuel Antonio National Park

Costa Rica's Natural Wonders - 10 Days

Get a taste of Costa Rica's famous biodiversity on this active 10-day adventure through some of the country's most remarkable natural landscapes. Spend a day getting to know San José before heading to the slopes of Arenal Volcano for sloth spotting, nature hikes, and hot spring soaks. Continue to Monteverde to trek through its biodiverse cloud forest, then turn south toward Manuel Antonio National Park to end your journey with a catamaran cruise along the Pacific coast.

Costa Rica Cycling Adventure - 7 Days

Cycle from coast to coast on this epic adventure tour that will take you from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean. See authentic Costa Rica as you bike past villages, farms, banana plantations, and sugar cane fields on your way toward the west coast. Stop to explore jungle rivers, mountains, an active volcano, and a famous coffee-growing region, then celebrate the end of the trip on the beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park.

Enjoy the vistas from your luxury hotel in the Osa Peninsula (photo courtesy of Lapa Rios Lodge)

Wildlife Luxury Adventure in Arenal & the Osa Peninsula - 7 Days

Get off the beaten path on this weeklong luxury adventure around Costa Rica's beautiful landscapes. After a day exploring the capital city, you'll travel to the Osa Peninsula for a sunset bird-watching tour around Drake Bay. Explore Corcovado National Park on a guided hike, then look for whales and dolphins in the wild on a boat tour. You'll sleep in luxury hotels throughout the week and finish the trip in the Arenal region with a visit to a sloth habitat and a wildlife rehabilitation center.

Cross the Hanging Bridge in Monteverde Cloud Forest

Costa Rica's Natural Wonders: Volcanoes, Hot Springs, Cloud Forests & Beaches - 7 Days

See Costa Rica's outdoor highlights on this weeklong adventure around the country's volcanoes, hot springs, cloud forests, wildlife habitats, and beaches. After exploring Arenal Volcano and its surroundings for a few days, you'll move on to Monteverde to sip locally-produced coffee and trek through the cloud forest. Then finish the week in Manuel Antonio National Park for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

The 3 Best San José Airport Hotels

Costa Rica's capital city has much to offer, from culture to nightlife. But if you have an early flight to catch, you may prefer to stay near San José's airport. Also located near the Pan American Highway, car rental agencies, and a train station where you can catch a ride into the city's downtown, these hotels are excellent options for an overnight stay at the start or end of your trip.

Teach the little ones to surf in Tamarindo

Family Trip to Costa Rica's Mountains, Volcanoes & the Gulf of Papagayo - 10 Days

Surf lessons, whitewater rafting, river tubing, and nighttime jungle hikes are on the agenda for this active 10-day trip around Costa Rica. Designed with families in mind, this itinerary features a wide range of exciting outdoor activities to entertain travelers of all ages. Frolic in the mud at the Río Negro Hot Springs, brave the rapids of the Río Balsa, learn to catch a wave in Tamarindo, and cruise around the Gulf of Papagayo at sunset—it's all part of the fun on this family-friendly adventure!

11 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Outdoor adventure, wildlife viewing, and relaxing beach time await families on these exciting 11-day itineraries around Costa Rica! Travelers with younger children might opt for a trip featuring sunset sailing, farm tours, and easy walks through the rainforest, while those with older kids may prefer an itinerary with zip-lining and snorkeling around a coral reef. Whether you spend your time around Arenal Volcano and the Monteverde Cloud Forest or venture further to the beaches of Sámara and Palo Verde National Park, these trips offer fun for the whole family.

Family Trip to Costa Rica's Volcanoes, Waterfalls & Coral Reefs - 11 Days

Featuring outdoor adventures and abundant opportunities to spot monkeys, sloths, and toucans in the wild, this family-friendly 11-day trip around Costa Rica is fun for all ages. Start by hiking to waterfalls and soaking in hot springs in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, then continue to the Gulf of Papagayo to snorkel around a coral reef and tour a coffee farm. Visit a scarlet macaw refuge before wrapping up the trip with a day of hiking and wildlife viewing in the Werner Sauter Biological Reserve.

A little boy feeds a cow on a Costa Rican farm tour

Family Adventure in Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & the Ocean - 11 Days

See the best of Costa Rica on this family-oriented itinerary featuring a mix of outdoor adventures, wildlife viewing, and hands-on experiences. After a hike through a sloth habitat, kids can try whitewater rafting and learn how to milk a cow while visiting a local farm. Continue to the Monteverde Cloud Forest for jungle hikes, zip-lining, and horseback riding. The trip ends in Tamarindo with surf lessons, a snorkeling excursion, a lively cruise down a jungle river, and the chance to witness sea turtles nesting.

Family Trip to Costa Rica's Mountains, Volcanoes & the Gulf of Papagayo - 11 Days

Learn to surf, go whitewater rafting, and spot sloths in the wild on this action-packed 11-day trip around Costa Rica. Created for families, the itinerary is full of outdoor adventures. Start with zip-lining and a dip in hot springs in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, then brave the river rapids in Arenal before moving on to coastal Tamarindo for surf lessons and beach time. Wrap up the itinerary on the beautiful Gulf of Papagayo, where you'll enjoy a sunset cruise and a mangrove boat tour.

Exploring wetlands on a boat tour with the little ones

Family Adventure in Costa Rica: Wetlands, Volcanoes & Caribbean Beaches - 11 Days

Look for monkeys in the trees, go whitewater rafting, and swim in waterfall pools on this exciting 11-day adventure perfect for families. You'll start the trip in colorful San José, then explore the rainforest of Tortuguero National Park. Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and the volcanoes, hot springs, and rushing rivers of Arenal. Along the way, you'll go on a safari-style boat ride, visit a jaguar rescue center, and learn how chocolate is made at a cocoa bean farm.

Boys trekking in the jungle to waterfalls

Family Trip to Costa Rica's Volcanoes, Waterfalls & Coral Reefs - 10 Days

From crocodile spotting to frolicking in volcanic mud, this family-oriented 10-day trip features thrilling adventures for kids and adults alike. Start by hiking to waterfalls and spotting wildlife in Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Then move on to the Gulf of Papagayo, where you and the kids will witness sea turtles nesting, snorkel around a coral reef, and visit a working coffee farm. Get up close with vibrantly colored birds at a scarlet macaw refuge, then finish the trip with a day of hiking in the Werner Sauter Biological Reserve.

Run and play with the kids on Costa Rica's beaches

10 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

From natural landscapes to wildlife experiences and adventure sports, Costa Rica has much to offer families. Travelers with younger children might opt for a 10-day itinerary with easy guided hikes and visits to wildlife refuges. And those with older kids may choose a trip plan that features zip-lining, whitewater rafting, and surf lessons. Whether you focus your time around Arenal Volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest, base yourself in the surf town of Tamarindo, or go further off the beaten path on a trip to coastal Sámara, these family-friendly itineraries offer outdoor education and thrills for all ages.

Take the kids to splash around the Catalina Islands of Costa Rica

Active Family Adventure in Costa Rica - 10 Days

Offering an exciting mix of rainforest expeditions, wildlife encounters, and underwater adventures, this active 10-day trip around Costa Rica is popular with families. Explore the volcanoes and waterfalls of Arenal before heading off to the surf town of Tamarindo for a boat trip around an estuary and snorkeling with tropical fish offshore. After spotting sloths, monkeys, and exotic frogs in the wild, you'll learn about wildlife conservation at a scarlet macaw rehabilitation center in Sámara.

Snap pics of the Quespos wildlife during a boat tour in the Damas Island Mangrove forest and water canals

Costa Rica for Families: Outdoor Adventures & Wildlife - 10 Days

Discover Costa Rica's rushing waterfalls, colorful rainforests, and vibrant wildlife habitats on this 10-day tour that's perfect for families. After sightseeing in San José, you'll continue to Arenal to spot sloths in the wild and soak in natural hot springs. Then explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest and visit a wildlife rehabilitation center. Finish up the adventure in Manuel Antonio National Park, where you'll hike, snorkel, sail, and at the Damas Island Estuary, explore mangroves on a boat tour.

Join a guided horseback riding tour (photo courtesy of Nat Fernández)

Family Adventure in Costa Rica: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & the Ocean - 10 Days

Featuring thrilling outdoor activities, vibrant wildlife viewing, and hands-on experiences, this 10-day itinerary through Costa Rica is tailor-made for families. Kick off the trip with a hike through a sloth habitat and a visit to a local farm. Then move on to the Monteverde Cloud Forest for jungle hikes, zip-lining adventures, and horseback riding. Finish up in Tamarindo, where kids can learn to surf, witness sea turtles hatching their eggs, snorkel with tropical fish, and cruise down a jungle river.

Share in a Costa Rica sunset with the kids

Family Adventure in Costa Rica: Wetlands, Volcanoes & Caribbean Beaches - 10 Days

On this fun 10-day adventure created for families, you'll swim in waterfall pools, spot sloths in the trees, and sample homemade chocolate while learning how it's made. The itinerary takes you from the bustling streets of San José to the rainforest of Tortuguero National Park, then onward to the beautiful beaches of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca and the rivers, volcanoes, and hot springs of Arenal. Highlights include a safari-style boat ride, a nighttime jungle hike, and a visit to a jaguar rescue center.

Take the family for a sunset sailing outing

Costa Rica for Families: Outdoor Adventures & Wildlife - 11 Days

This family-oriented journey around Costa Rica leads you around the country's beautiful waterfalls, lush rainforests, and vibrant wildlife habitats. Do some cultural sightseeing in San José before moving on to Arenal to hike around a volcano, look for sloths in the wild, and go for a dip in hot springs. Learn how chocolate is made from bean to bar before exploring Monteverde Cloud Forest. The adventure culminates in Manuel Antonio National Park with a sailing and snorkeling trip.

A little girl feeds a blue and gold macaw

9 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Hike to volcanoes, snorkel with tropical fish, and zip-line through the rainforest on these 9-day adventures designed for families. Each trip plan offers a mix of outdoor activities and wildlife viewing. The most classic itineraries lead you from Arenal to Manuel Antonio National Park and the Monteverde Cloud Forest. Other excellent options take you off the beaten path to destinations like Tortuguero National Park, the Gulf of Papagayo, and Sámara for boat tours, kayaking in the mangrove, hiking through a sloth habitat, and other active pursuits that will challenge and inspire travelers of all ages.

Siblings paint themselves in mud from a Costa Rican hot spring

Costa Rica Family Trip: Volcanoes, Waterfalls & Coral Reefs - 9 Days

From the heights of smoking volcanoes to the depths of a coral reef, this exciting 9-day tour leads the whole family around Costa Rica's most spectacular natural attractions. While exploring Rincón de la Vieja National Park, the Gulf of Papagayo, and the beautiful beaches of Sámara, you'll have plenty of opportunities to hike in the rainforest, splash in waterfalls, soak in hot springs, spot monkeys in the wild, and snorkel with tropical fish.

Active Family Adventure in Costa Rica - 9 Days

Look for snakes in the jungle during a nighttime tour, whale-watch on a boat excursion, and spot slow-moving sloths in the trees on this kid-friendly 9-day adventure! The itinerary leads you through several of Costa Rica's most beautiful natural areas, including Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna Waterfall, the surf hub of Tamarindo, and the gorgeous beaches of Sámara. With swimming, snorkeling, hiking, wildlife viewing, and boating all on the agenda, this active tour has something for all ages.

Take the family to Costa Rica for fun on the beach (photo courtesy of Adrian Eriksson)

Costa Rica for Families: Outdoor Adventures & Wildlife - 9 Days

Designed for families and perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this 9-day adventure takes you to many of Costa Rica's most beautiful natural landscapes, including Arenal Volcano, the Monteverde Cloud Forest, and Manuel Antonio National Park. This action-packed trip also takes you off the beaten path to the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve—a haven for wildlife viewing—and the spectacular Isla del Caño Biological Reserve, where you'll dive or snorkel in a colorful underwater ecosystem.

Family Adventure in Costa Rica: Wetlands, Volcanoes & Caribbean Beaches - 9 Days

This family-friendly tour introduces travelers to a diverse range of Costa Rican landscapes, from white sand Caribbean beaches to smoking volcanoes and quiet estuaries teeming with wildlife. Base yourself in three different locations—Tortuguero National Park, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, and Arenal—as you explore wildlife habitats, soak in hot springs, and hike around volcanoes. You'll also visit a jaguar rehabilitation center, observe the jungle after dark during a guided night hike, and trek to waterfalls for a refreshing dip.

Take the kids to see the animals on a traditional farm in Costa Rica

Costa Rica Family Fun: Culture, Wildlife & Cloud Forests - 9 Days

This 9-day family-friendly Costa Rica adventure offers more than most traditional itineraries and includes a hands-on farm experience, cooking class, and horseback riding. Geared to travelers with children, the journey starts with sightseeing in San José, then moves on to Arenal, where you'll swim at the base of La Fortuna Waterfall and spend a day on a local farm. Finish up the trip in Monteverde, touring the cloud forest and the region's famed orchid gardens before soaring above the rainforest on the longest zip-line in Latin America.

Snorkel with kids off the Costa Rican coast

8 Days in Costa Rica - 5 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Spend eight days exploring Costa Rica's beaches, volcanoes, and cloud forests. These family-friendly itineraries offer both adventure and education. Divide your time between national parks, wildlife viewing excursions, and hikes to volcanoes and waterfalls, or opt for an itinerary that includes a full day of sightseeing historic San José. Families with smaller children might choose a trip with low-key outdoor activities, like a sunset catamaran cruise or a hike through a sloth habitat, while those with older kids may prefer an itinerary with zip-lining, snorkeling, and other adventure sports.

Splash and play with the kids at the base of a waterfall

Costa Rican Culture, Wildlife & Caribbean Beaches for Families - 8 Days

From the markets of San José to the rainforests alive with birds and frogs, the best of Costa Rica's culture and coastal landscapes await travelers on this 8-day trip. Ideal for families, you'll see historic San José and visit La Paz Waterfall Gardens. In Tortuguero, a region known for its vibrant wildlife—including resident sea turtles—you'll travel to the beaches of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. Finishing the adventure in Cahuita National Park, where you'll have the chance to snorkel with tropical fish and visit a nearby jaguar rescue center.

Family Journey to the Volcanoes, Waterfalls & Coral Reefs of Costa Rica - 8 Days

Explore the natural wonders of Costa Rica on this exciting 8-day journey around the country's volcanoes, waterfall pools, and top snorkeling spots. Spend the first part of the week hiking through the rainforest and soaking in hot springs in Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Then you'll spend a few days wildlife viewing and boating through mangroves around the Gulf of Papagayo. Finish this family-friendly adventure with a couple of days in coastal Sámara, where a kayak and snorkel tour introduces you to the pristine Isla Chora and the underwater world that surrounds the island.

Hike, Snorkel & Sail Family Adventure - 8 Days

Trek to aquamarine waterfalls, snorkel with giant manta rays, and boat through pristine waters at sunset on this invigorating 8-day adventure around Costa Rica. Families will love exploring the country's spectacular landscapes on this itinerary that begins in Arenal with volcano hikes, dips in hot springs, and sloth spotting in the wild. The trip then moves on to the surf hub of Tamarindo for several days of kayaking through mangroves, snorkeling around the Catalina Islands, and observing dolphins, crocodiles, and monkeys in their natural habitat.

Hike with the family in the Costa Rican cloud forest

Family Trip to Costa Rica's Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Beaches - 8 Days

Explore the spectacular natural landscapes of Costa Rica with this lively eight-day itinerary that's perfect for families with younger children. Start in La Fortuna to spot sleeping sloths and visit a cacao farm, then hop across Lake Arenal for cloud forest hikes in Monteverde. End on the Pacific coast with beach time and watersports in Tamarindo—including a day trip to the Islas Catalinas for snorkeling and swimming.

1 Week in Costa Rica - 6 Family-Friendly Itinerary Ideas

Plan the perfect week in Costa Rica with these family-friendly itineraries. From volcanoes and hot springs to waterfalls and estuaries, each plan features a range of outdoor experiences. Focus your time around hiking and wildlife viewing in national parks, opt for an adventure centered around volcanoes and Pacific beaches, or choose a trip filled with active pursuits like sailing and snorkeling around the coral reef off the Catalina Islands. With hands-on activities like chocolate-making workshops and nighttime rainforest walks, these action-packed trips are a hit with kids and adults alike.

Take in unforgettable sunsets on the Gulf of Papagayo

Family Trip to Volcanoes, Waterfalls & Coral Reefs - 7 Days

Unforgettable outdoor experiences await on this colorful week-long journey around Costa Rica's beautiful landscapes. Spend the first part of the week exploring Rincón de la Vieja National Park, enjoying rainforest hikes and a dip in hot springs heated by a volcano. Then move on to the pristine Gulf of Papagayo for several days of boating through mangroves and snorkeling around a coral reef with tropical fish, manta rays, and sea turtles. Featuring a sunset catamaran cruise and several waterfall hikes, this family-friendly itinerary takes you to the best of Costa Rica's wilderness.

Hike, Snorkel & Sail Family Adventure - 7 Days

This active weeklong journey around Costa Rica is perfect for families and lovers of the great outdoors! You'll base yourself in Arenal for the first few days, going on nighttime wildlife hikes through the rainforest, balancing high above the trees on the famed Hanging Bridges, spotting sloths in their natural habitat, and soaking in natural hot springs. Continue to the surf town of Tamarindo, your home base, to explore a gorgeous coastal landscape. Snorkel around a coral reef, sail on a catamaran at sunset, and cruise past mangroves on an estuary boat tour—these are just a few of the highlights of this thrilling seven-day trip.

Family Tour of Wetlands & Caribbean Beaches - 7 Days

Idyllic beaches, quiet canals, jungle trails, and rushing waterfalls await on this outdoorsy seven-day itinerary around Costa Rica. Perfect for families, this action-packed trip takes you to historic San José and a pair of national parks for wildlife viewing, boating, and night hikes led by a naturalist guide. You'll also swim in a waterfall, see how chocolate is made, and learn how jaguars are rehabilitated at an animal rescue center.

Learn to surf in Manuel Antonio National Park

Outdoor Family Adventures in Costa Rica - 7 days

Snorkel with tropical fish, hike through the rainforest, and spot sloths hanging from the trees on this exciting week-long trip through the wilderness of Costa Rica. This itinerary leads you through three of the country's most beautiful destinations: Arenal, Monteverde, and Manuel Antonio National Park, for a variety of outdoor excursions and hands-on activities. This lively adventure is fun for the whole family, featuring boat rides, wildlife viewing hikes, and a chocolate-making workshop.

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