Costa Rica family tour - 5 unique itineraries

Costa Rica, with its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and pristine beaches, is a paradise for families seeking adventure and nature exploration. Planning a family tour of this Central American gem can be a challenging task, given the abundance of activities and destinations to choose from. To help you make the most of your trip, here are 5 unique itineraries crafted by our local travel experts for your Costa Rica family tour. 

How to plan a family tour of Costa Rica

Ready to plan your family tour of Costa Rica? Begin by crafting a budget, securing flights and accommodations, curating an array of family-friendly activities, and ensuring all travel essentials and health precautions are meticulously organised. 

As you journey through Costa Rica's rich tapestry of landscapes and attractions, always prioritize safety and effective communication for a truly remarkable experience.

For the easiest experience, consider hiring a trusted company to do your planning and booking for you. Our tailor-made trip service makes travelling easy, Our trips are created by local travel experts and are easily customised by you to suit your family’s interests. 

Best Family Activities in Costa Rica

Before diving into our itineraries, let's explore some of the best family activities Costa Rica has to offer. These activities are sure to create lasting memories for your loved ones:

Walk Across Arenal Hanging Bridges

For a thrilling family bonding experience, venture into the heart of the Arenal rainforest. Suspended high above the forest floor, the Arenal Hanging Bridges offer an unparalleled perspective of the lush canopy and its vibrant inhabitants. Kids and adults alike will marvel at the diverse wildlife and breathtaking views along this suspended trail.

Explore Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its white-faced capuchin monkeys and stunning beaches, is a must-visit destination for families. Hike the park's well-maintained trails, keeping an eye out for sloths, iguanas, and colourful birds. After your nature walk, enjoy a relaxing Day at the park's pristine beaches, perfect for swimming and picnicking.

Go on a Boat Tour

Costa Rica's coastline is teeming with marine life, making boat tours an ideal family adventure. Hop on a boat tour in regions like Tortuguero or the Gulf of Papagayo, where you can spot dolphins, sea turtles, and even humpback whales (seasonal). The whole family can bond over the excitement of wildlife encounters in their natural habitat.

Visit Animal Rescue Centers

Educate and inspire your kids by visiting one of Costa Rica's animal rescue centers. Places like the Sloth Sanctuary and the Jaguar Rescue Center provide a chance to get up close and personal with rescued wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, and big cats. These visits promote conservation awareness and allow your family to support vital conservation efforts.

Hike to the Waterfalls

Costa Rica boasts numerous stunning waterfalls set within lush landscapes. Take your family on a hike to destinations like La Fortuna Waterfall or Nauyaca Waterfalls. The hike itself is an adventure, and the reward is a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pools beneath the cascading waters.

Try Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking

Exploring the underwater world of Costa Rica is a thrilling experience for families. Head to the Pacific coast for snorkelling adventures, where colourful fish and coral reefs await. Alternatively, embark on a sea kayaking expedition in areas like Drake Bay or the Golfo Dulce, providing an opportunity to paddle alongside dolphins and sea turtles.

Family tour #1: A self-drive Caribbean adventure

Embark on a 10-day family road trip along Costa Rica's enchanting Caribbean coast in your rental car. Explore Boca Pacuare, a nesting site for turtles, immerse in the vibrant culture of Cahuita, and unwind on the sandy shores of Puerto Viejo. Your journey concludes in Turrialba, home to a significant archaeological monument.

Itinerary overview 

Explore Costa Rica's diverse landscapes in a 10-day adventure. On this trip you will drive through lush valleys,  and navigate the Costa Rican Amazonia by boat. There are plenty of opportunities to encounter wildlife on this trip. Relax on Caribbean beaches, visit conservation projects, and explore volcanoes and historical sites before departing from San Jose. Read more.

Day 1

• Welcome to Costa Rica!
• Drive to Horquetas
• Pick up your rental car at the airport
• Drive to Sarapiquí

Day 2

• Boat trip on the Costa Rican Amazonia
• Travel to the river port and take a boat to Boca Pacuare
• Explore the canals and the lodge
• Learn about the complex Eco-system

Day 3

• Exploring Barra De Pacuare
• Floating trip on the canals to see wildlife
• Visit the sea turtle conservation project (seasonal)

Day 4

• Return by boat through the canals to your car
• Head to the South Caribbean
• Visit an iguana conservation project
• Enjoy the Caribbean,beaches

Day 5

• Hike in the marine and coastal refuge
• Board a boat to search for dolphins
• Observe three species of dolphins

Day 6

• Visit the Jaguar Rescue Center for injured and orphaned animals
• See a variety of animals, including monkeys and sloths
• Learn about wildlife conservation

Day 7

• Drive back to the valleys
• Visit Guayabo National Monument (optional)
• Arrive in Turrialba

Day 8

• The Wildlife Refuge The Marta
• Explore the protected area and its biodiversity
• Visit historical coffee plantation ruins

Day 9

• Drive to San José
• Visit Volcán Irazú, the highest volcano in Costa Rica
• Explore the volcano and its craters

Day 10

• Drop off your rental car at the airport
• Depart from San Jose

Eager to embark on this Costa Rica family tour? Secure your booking now.

Family tour #2: Costa Rica Express Animals & Beaches

Commence your 10-day family adventure at Arenal Volcano, known for its waterfalls, hot springs, and hanging bridges. Then, venture to Monteverde's unique cloud forest for thrilling canopy activities and wildlife encounters. Conclude your trip with beachfront relaxation in Manuel Antonio.

Itinerary overview 

This 10-day Costa Rica itinerary includes arrival at SJO International Airport, and relaxation in hot springs. From there, you will visit natural attractions like La Fortuna Waterfall and Arenal Volcano National Park. 

From Day 5 on you have the chance to see the sights of Monteverde with canopy tours and wildlife viewing. The trip concludes with a catamaran tour before departing from San Jose Airport. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival at SJO International Airport
• Transfer to La Fortuna
• Evening relaxation in Hot Springs

Day 2

• Visit La Fortuna Waterfall
• Traditional lunch by the river
• Explore Arenal Volcano National Park

Day 3

• Explore the rainforest canopy on hanging bridges
• Enjoy natural hot springs
• Experience hydro-massage and relaxation

Day 4

• Travel from La Fortuna to Monteverde
• Cross Arenal Lake by boat
• Enjoy scenic views
• Explore Monteverde in the afternoon

Day 5

• Morning canopy tour with panoramic views
• Coffee and chocolate tour
• Learn about coffee production
• Explore Santa Elena town

Day 6

• Night visit to Monteverde Reserve
• Witness nocturnal animals and biodiversity
• Guided tour with flashlights provided

Day 7

• Transfer to Manuel Antonio
• Stop for sightseeing and snacks
• Optional visit to Manuel Antonio National Park
• Free afternoon at the beach

Day 8

• Visit Manuel Antonio National Park
• Guided nature walk
• Spot wildlife including sloths and monkeys
• Enjoy the beach and park trails

Day 9

• Afternoon catamaran tour on the Pacific Ocean
• Enjoy sunset views
• Snorkel and spot marine wildlife

Day 10

• Goodbye Costa Rica!
• Transfer to San Jose Airport

Ready to set off on this voyage? Confirm your booking.

Family tour #3: Tropical Costa Rica

Embark on a week long family adventure to explore volcanoes, unwind in soothing hot springs, leisurely cruise along scenic waterways, and embark on wildlife quests in lush tropical lowland forests. Costa Rica's rich and diverse ecosystem offers a myriad of natural wonders that will captivate the entire family.

Itinerary overview 

This itinerary includes arrival at San Jose's Juan Santamaría International Airport, followed by a journey to Tortuguero with wildlife exploration. From there you’ll visit tTabacon Hot Springs, and go canopy zip-lining in Manuel Antonio. 

Your family will not forget a guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park. The trip concludes with a transfer to San Jose Airport for departure. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival at San Jose's Juan Santamaría International Airport

Day 2

• Departure from San José to Tortuguero via Braulio Carrillo National Park
• Breakfast in Guápiles
• Boat ride to Tortuguero National Park
• Visit Tortuguero village and Conservation Corporation's visitor centre

Day 3

• Early morning boat outing through Tortuguero's canals
• Wildlife spotting and bird watching

Day 4

• Visit Tabacon Hot Springs
• Relaxing soak in natural thermal springs
• Enjoy various temperature pools and waterfalls
• Dinner at Tabacon Resort

Day 5

• Canopy Titi Tour in Manuel Antonio
• Zip-lining through the forest canopy

Day 6

• Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour
• Guided hike through the park's trails
• Wildlife and natural specimen sightings
• Beach visit within the park

Day 7

• Transfer from Manuel Antonio to San José airport
• Approximate 3-hour drive back to San Jose
• Departure for onward flight from San Jose Airport

Take this trip without the hassle of planning and book.

Family tour #4: Costa Rica Beaches & Volcanoes

Embark on a family getaway to Arenal, where you'll discover volcanoes, enchanting waterfalls, and captivating wildlife reserves. Whether you prefer leisurely hikes or exciting river rafting, there's something for everyone. 

Afterwards, venture to Costa Rica's Central Pacific region for sun, surf, and pristine beaches surrounded by lush forests filled with vibrant wildlife, creating an unforgettable experience for your family.

Itinerary overview

This itinerary includes arrival in San Jose, visiting Poás Volcano National Park and La Paz Waterfall Gardens on Day 2, followed by an adventure in Arenal Park on Day 3. 

Day 4 involves a transfer to Manuel Antonio, where you'll explore Manuel Antonio National Park on Day 5 and enjoy ocean kayaking and snorkelling on Day 6 before departing from San Jose Airport on Day 7. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival in San Jose
• Free time 

Day 2

• Visit Poás Volcano National Park
• Explore the impressive Poás Volcano crater
• Visit Botos Lagoon
• Continue to La Paz Waterfall Gardens
• Enjoy hummingbird observatory and butterfly garden
• Transfer to La Fortuna

Day 3

• Sky River Drift Arenal Park adventure
• Tubing tour through the rainforest
• Canopy cables, high fall, and river tubing

Day 4

• Transfer from Arenal to Manuel Antonio
• Relaxed morning at your Arenal hotel
• Transfer to Manuel Antonio

Day 5

• Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour 
• Guided hike through the park's trails
• Beach visit within the park
• Wildlife spotting, including sloths and monkeys

Day 6

• Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling 
• Transfer to Quepos dock
• Sea journey, paddling past islands and inlets
• Stop at a hidden bay for snorkeling
• Chance to spot marine life like sea turtles
• Return to base camp for a homemade meal

Day 7

• Transfer from Manuel Antonio to San José airport for departure

Craving this getaway? Don't hesitate – book it today.

Family tour #5: Costa Rica eco-adventure

Bring your family to Costa Rica and experience its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, diverse wildlife, and captivating national parks. Despite its small size, this country offers an incredible range of natural wonders, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable eco-adventure with your loved ones. 

Itinerary overview 

This itinerary begins with arrival in San Jose, followed by visits to Poás Volcano National Park and La Paz Waterfall Gardens on day 2. Day 3 involves a flight to Puerto Jiménez on the Osa Peninsula, and the following days include rainforest hikes, wildlife tours, beach visits, ocean kayaking, and a catamaran tour. 

You’ll then return to the Central Valley and conclude your trip with a  departure from Costa Rica on day 12. Read more.

Day 1

• Arrival in San Jose

Day 2

• Visit Poás Volcano National Park
• Explore the impressive Poás Volcano crater
• Visit Botos Lagoon
• Continue to La Paz Waterfall Gardens
• Enjoy a typical buffet lunch
• Hike the trails in lush tropical rainforest
• Educational animal exhibits

Day 3

• Flight to Puerto Jiménez
• Transfer to your hotel on the Osa Peninsula

Day 4

• Rainforest hike and night exploration
• Explore the heart of the rainforest
• Experienced local guides
• Night walk to discover nocturnal creatures

Day 5

• Early Nature Tour
• Morning truck tour for wildlife sightings
• Birdwatching and mammal sightings
• Continue rainforest exploration

Day 6

• Transfer to Manuel Antonio
• Optional visit to Manuel Antonio National Park
• Relax on the white sand beach
• Free afternoon to enjoy the beach and the hotel

Day 7

• Nature walk in Manuel Antonio National Park
• Guided nature walk in the famous national park
• Wildlife spotting including sloths and monkeys
• Beach visit and exploration

Day 8

• Iguana Tours Ocean Kayak & Snorkeling
• Open-seat kayaking and snorkeling adventure
• Explore the ocean coastline
• Snorkeling, swimming, and snacks

Day 9

• Ocean King Catamaran Adventures
• Afternoon catamaran tour with nature viewing
• Chance to see humpback whales and dolphins

Day 10

• Transfer back to the Central Valley
• Return to the Central Valley

Day 11

• Cloud Forest Adventure
• Explore a pristine creek and waterfalls
• Learn about the cloud forest ecosystem
• Participate in the Plant-a-tree experience
• Visit an organic farm

Day 12

• Departure from Costa Rica

Book your Costa Rica family tour today

Costa Rica is waiting for you, and our local experts are here to plan exceptional family adventures. Get in touch with us whenever you're ready to travel, and we'll create a personalised family itinerary that you can fine-tune until it aligns perfectly with your preferences. Don't forget to explore our existing Costa Rica itineraries for inspiration!