Costa Rica Family Vacation

Costa Rica may not be far away, but it feels like a world apart with its vibrant wildlife and welcoming culture. It invites your family to trade screens for sunsets and rediscover the joy of shared adventure as you ride beneath volcano views, spot jungle wildlife, and laugh together under a canopy of green, creating moments that will live on in family stories for years to come.

Start - End: San José - San José

Total trip: 6 days

Average group size: 12 people

Level: 2

from NZD 6,799/pp including taxes and fees

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Experience Pura Vida on a Costa Rica family vacation as you explore lush green jungles, white sand beaches, and an incredible array of wildlife.

As one of the world’s greatest destinations for family travel, Costa Rica invites you to discover the natural beauty and welcoming culture of Latin America’s eco-tourism gem. The whole family will enjoy swimming crystalline bays, hiking in cloud forests, and zip lining tropical forest canopy.

Explore the Tárcoles River on a guided crocodile tour, cruising mangrove waterways as you safely spot crocodiles and colorful birds. Horseback ride through forests and pastures to reach postcard-perfect views of the iconic Arenal Volcano. Peek into the dense vegetation of Arenal National Park to catch a glimpse of screeching toucans, endangered poison dart frogs, and curious spider monkeys.

The perfect balance of adventure and relaxation awaits you, whether you’re exploring a jungle, walking along a white sand beach, or reflecting on the memories you’re making with your family.

Unique Wildlife

Spot toucans, sloths, and tree frogs in the wild. Catch a glimpse of Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity.

Trip Highlights

Hiking

La Paz Waterfall Gardens

Embark on a family-friendly hike through the misty cloud forest of La Paz Waterfall Gardens, where vibrant toucans flit overhead and the refreshing spray from cascading waterfalls invites you to pause and savor the magic.

Rafting

Río Sarapiquí

Raft together down the sparkling Río Sarapiquí, where the whole family cheers through gentle rapids, splashes in warm sunlit waters, and feels the thrill of the rainforest rushing by at every turn.

Plus...

Hermosa Beach

Stroll together along the golden sands of Playa Hermosa, where gentle waves lap at your feet, and the warm sun and ocean breeze make every moment feel like a carefree paradise.

Plus...

Horseback Riding

We’ll saddle up and ride through the rolling hills around Arenal Volcano, weaving past cattle and vibrant forests, stopping at a hidden lagoon crater and pausing to take in breathtaking views of the volcano, Arenal Lake, and the lush landscape all around.

Plus...

Outrigger Canoe Adventure

Hop into sleek outrigger canoes at Playa Agujas, where the whole family paddles together past towering cliffs, spotting frigate birds and pelicans soaring above, as the sparkling coastal waters carry you on a breezy, sunlit adventure.

Plus...

Zip Lining Rainforest Canopy

Soar together across the rainforest canopy on a thrilling zip line adventure, gliding over rivers and valleys, pausing at platforms to take in sweeping views of the mountains and ocean, where every ride feels like pure adventure.

Day by day trip

Each day you’ll uncover Costa Rica’s wild beauty, from rainforest canopies to volcanic springs and sun-kissed shores.

Click the map below to explore.

Day 1

Arrive, Hike through La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Organic Farm Tour

Welcome to Costa Rica! This morning, we’ll meet your guide over breakfast for a fun trip orientation. Our adventure kicks off with an easy hike through a beautiful tropical rainforest, ending with lunch at the scenic La Paz Waterfall Gardens.

Afterward, the whole family will enjoy a hands-on learning experience at Arenal Vida Campesina Organic Farm. We’ll discover how traditional Costa Rican farming works and learn about growing coffee. To top it off, we’ll enjoy a delicious, locally sourced dinner together, giving everyone a true taste of Costa Rica!
Accommodation: Volcano Lodge & Springs, La Fortuna
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 2

Whitewater Rafting, Hike to La Fortuna Waterfall

After a hearty breakfast, we'll meet our river guide and take a short drive to the Sarapiqui River, where a fun whitewater rafting adventure awaits! This thrilling experience is perfect for all ages, combining excitement and gentle rapids on a beautiful tropical river.

After our time on the river, we’ll stop for a delicious lunch before heading out on an afternoon hike to the stunning Fortuna River waterfall. Located within Arenal Volcano National Park, this waterfall cascades through a lush, 210-acre biological reserve filled with tropical forest. Formed by ancient lava from Cerro Chato volcano, the 70-meter-high waterfall offers a perfect spot for families to cool off with a swim in the crystal-clear natural pools.

We’ll return to the lodge with plenty of time to relax in the soothing hot springs before gathering for dinner.
Accommodation: Volcano Lodge & Springs, La Fortuna
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: 0.6 miles (1 kilometer), 1 hour
Elevation Gain/Loss: 216 feet (65 meters) ascent, 216 feet (65 meters) descent

Day 3

Horseback Riding & Arenal Hike

Kick off the day with an optional early morning bird walk through the surrounding forest, where you and the kids might spot colorful tanagers, parrots, toucans, honeycreepers, and Oropendolas. After breakfast back at the hotel, we’ll take a short drive to the Arenal Conservation Area for our next adventure – horseback riding! We'll saddle up and ride through the scenic hills of Arenal Volcano, passing cattle fields and lush forests. Along the way, we’ll visit a lagoon crater and take in stunning views of Arenal Volcano, the surrounding forests, and Arenal Lake. Afterward, we’ll stop for a tasty lunch at a local restaurant.

After lunch, we’ll head out for an afternoon hike on the slopes of Arenal Volcano. This scenic 3-mile walk winds through the 1968 lava fields, with wide-open views across Arenal Lake and up to the iconic cone itself. Your guides bring the landscape to life, sharing stories of fire, forest, and renewal. It’s an engaging, up-close way for the whole family to experience Arenal together. After a full day of adventure, you’ll return to the lodge to unwind in the hot springs before gathering for dinner.
Accommodation: Volcano Lodge & Springs, La Fortuna
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: 2 hours

Day 4

Crocodile Tour & Playa Hermosa

Get ready for a fun-filled morning as we head out on a guided crocodile tour along the Tárcoles River. Cruising through mangroves and winding waterways, you’ll learn about this unique ecosystem and the wildlife that thrives here. With expert local guides leading the way, the whole family can safely spot crocodiles of all sizes, along with colorful river birds and other wildlife along the banks.

In the afternoon, we’ll head to Hermosa Beach on the Pacific Coast, stopping for lunch along the way. Afterward, we’ll check into Fuego del Sol Beachfront Hotel, our home for the next two nights, nestled between tropical forests and ocean waves. For dinner tonight, you’re free to choose your own adventure – ask your guide for some great family-friendly restaurant recommendations!
Accommodation: Fuego del Sol, Playa Hermosa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5

Hike the El Encanto, Zip Lining & Outrigger Canoe Adventures

This morning, we’ll set off on a fun hike through a private reserve, following a river trail that leads us to waterfalls and plenty of spots for the whole family to take a refreshing swim! The trail is full of wildlife, and our adventure takes us to the top of El Encanto Waterfall, which cascades 180 feet (55 meters) down into the rainforest canyon below.

Next up is an exciting zip line tour where we’ll soar above the rainforest canopies, rivers, and valleys. With over 1.2 miles (2,000 meters) of zip line and eight platforms, we’ll enjoy amazing views of the mountains and ocean that the kids will love!

After a hearty lunch, it’s time for more fun on the coast as we hop into Outrigger Canoes at Playa Agujas. These canoes are faster and easier to paddle than kayaks, and we’ll glide past stunning cliffs filled with frigate birds and pelicans. Back on the beach, you can choose to snorkel in the calm waters or relax and keep an eye out for monkeys and birds.

After a day full of excitement, we’ll return to the hotel just in time to enjoy a sunset dinner together.
Accommodation: Fuego del Sol, Playa Hermosa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Hiking: 2 hours

Day 6

Depart for home

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll take a two-hour drive to the San Jose airport, where you’ll either catch your flight home or continue your exciting Costa Rica adventure!
Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast

This trip includes:

5 nights’ accommodation
6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
You’re supported from start to finish by our highly experienced guides and leaders
Industry leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
All activities outlined in the itinerary
Delicious and nutritious snacks to keep you fueled
All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
Transportation in our air-conditioned vans - safe, clean, modern, and comfortable!
Your queries answered by our knowledgeable Customer Care Team - only a call, chat, or email away
You’re “trip ready” with our Customer Care Team’s calls prior to your trip
“My Account” - your own online space with everything required for your adventure

Photos From the Costa Rica Family Vacation

FAQs

From where you will meet your guides, to the accommodations you'll stay. Read through our FAQs for the lowdown on how to prepare for your Costa Rica adventure.

Where does the trip start?

On the first day of the trip we’ll meet you at Hotel Parque Del Lago at 8am. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in San Jose, though you must make your own way to Hotel Parque Del Lago at the pre-designated time.

Please come prepared with light clothing, an extra layer, trail shoes/or boots, and your daypack ready for your first day.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at either the Juan Santamaría International Airport in time for flights below or anywhere in Central San Jose around 2:30pm.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in San Jose at least the day before your trip starts. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from San Jose after 4pm. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

What are the accommodations we stay at on this trip?

We have selected the accommodation on your trip for the stunning settings, unique character and adventuresome feel – it’s not designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in Costa Rica. We prefer to stay in unique and comfortable hotels, with history and balance between infrastructure and nature.

Sitting pretty at the base of Arenal Volcano, Volcano Lodge boosts swimming pools, hot springs and panoramic views. An amazing place to stay near to the most active and spectacular volcano of Costa Rica.

Then relax and unwind at Fuego del Sol Hotel, offering tranquil views of Playa Hermosa, waking up every morning to the sound of the waves, with the warmth and colors of the sun at dawn.

While there are laundry facilities at all locations, they may not be convenient or there may only be one machine to service your entire group. We recommend bringing enough clothing to only have to do laundry a one time during your trip. The best time will be during your stay in Fuego del sol.

How much luggage can I bring on this trip?

You are allowed one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and can be anything from a duffle bag to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase. You'll also want a good quality backpack sized 25-30 liters (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days.

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full

By paying in full, we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply. Read more here.

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Why Travel With Us

Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading average 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience.

Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. All you need to do is show up!

Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted partners and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides.

Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.