Costa Rica Family Vacation
A tropical playground for the whole family
Cruise through volcanoes, rainforests, rivers and beaches on this 6-night adventure in Costa Rica! With the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure, Costa Rica is the ultimate tropical escape for the whole family.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 1 night in San Jose at the Radisson San Jose, or similar
- Transfer from San Jose to the Sarapiqui Rainforest
- Sarapiqui River Floating Safari Tour
- 1 night in the Sarapiqui Rainforest at the Sarapiquis Rainforest Lodge, or similar
- Transfer from the Sarapiqui Rainforest to the Arenal Volcano area
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Volcano Lodge & Springs, or similar
- Evening visit to Baldi Hot Springs
- Half-day Ecoglide Canopy Adventures Park Tour (Zip Line)
- Half-day Natura Park Tour
- Transfer from the Arenal Volcano area to the Central Pacific area
- 2 nights in the Central Pacific area at the Fiesta Resort Puntarenas, or similar
- Breakfast daily, 1 lunch & 3 dinners
Great Ways to Explore
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Look on in amazement as you visit Costa Rica’s highest active volcano, Irazu. On a clear day, you can see the Pacific and Caribbean oceans.
- Float down Sarapiqui River and enjoy the rich biodiversity found in this rainforest region. Watch out for the rare Green Macaw!
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Kids can unleash their inner thrill seekers on a zip line tour through Arenal's tropical rainforest.
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Relax on the beach while kids play in the warm waters on Costa Rica's beautiful central Pacific coast.
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Enjoy guided tours that combine the right amount of activity and fun for the whole family.
Costa Rica is a tropical playground for families, providing endless opportunities for adventure. Spend six nights traveling from volcano to beach while you learn about nature, conservation, and sustainability in this Central American country.
Kick off your vacation with a visit to the Sarapiqui rainforest in the Heredia province and enjoy a boat tour on the river. Known for its rich biodiversity, learn about Sarapiqui's wildlife from a trained expert.
Your next destination is Arenal Volcano, a must-see for any traveler to Costa Rica. Positioned within the country's fertile northern lowlands, the Arenal Volcano area offers a wealth of outdoor activities like zip-lining and canopy walks. Kids can glide through the rainforest by zip line and see incredible flora and fauna up close at an ecological park.
End your tropical tour on the central Pacific coast at a family friendly resort in Puntarenas. Spend your days lounging on the beach or take an additional day trip to Tortuga Island. This Costa Rica trip will be one your family talks about forever!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 1 night in San Jose at the Radisson San Jose, or similar
- Transfer from San Jose to the Sarapiqui Rainforest
- Sarapiqui River Floating Safari Tour
- 1 night in the Sarapiqui Rainforest at the Sarapiquis Rainforest Lodge, or similar
- Transfer from the Sarapiqui Rainforest to the Arenal Volcano area
- 2 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Volcano Lodge & Springs, or similar
- Evening visit to Baldi Hot Springs
- Half-day Ecoglide Canopy Adventures Park Tour (Zip Line)
- Half-day Natura Park Tour
- Transfer from the Arenal Volcano area to the Central Pacific area
- 2 nights in the Central Pacific area at the Fiesta Resort Puntarenas, or similar
- Breakfast daily, 1 lunch & 3 dinners
-
Look on in amazement as you visit Costa Rica’s highest active volcano, Irazu. On a clear day, you can see the Pacific and Caribbean oceans.
- Float down Sarapiqui River and enjoy the rich biodiversity found in this rainforest region. Watch out for the rare Green Macaw!
-
Kids can unleash their inner thrill seekers on a zip line tour through Arenal's tropical rainforest.
-
Relax on the beach while kids play in the warm waters on Costa Rica's beautiful central Pacific coast.
-
Enjoy guided tours that combine the right amount of activity and fun for the whole family.
Costa Rica is a tropical playground for families, providing endless opportunities for adventure. Spend six nights traveling from volcano to beach while you learn about nature, conservation, and sustainability in this Central American country.
Kick off your vacation with a visit to the Sarapiqui rainforest in the Heredia province and enjoy a boat tour on the river. Known for its rich biodiversity, learn about Sarapiqui's wildlife from a trained expert.
Your next destination is Arenal Volcano, a must-see for any traveler to Costa Rica. Positioned within the country's fertile northern lowlands, the Arenal Volcano area offers a wealth of outdoor activities like zip-lining and canopy walks. Kids can glide through the rainforest by zip line and see incredible flora and fauna up close at an ecological park.
End your tropical tour on the central Pacific coast at a family friendly resort in Puntarenas. Spend your days lounging on the beach or take an additional day trip to Tortuga Island. This Costa Rica trip will be one your family talks about forever!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to San Jose!
Arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) where you will meet a Swiss Travel representative. You'll be provided with all the necessary documentation, itinerary and main contact information. Transfer to San Jose where you'll spend your first night in Costa Rica.
Transfer to San Jose hotel
Experience elegant luxury at the stylish Radisson San Jose, located less than 4 km from the city's bustling downtown area. Upon arrival, check-in with the friendly reception team, then admire the hotel's trendy decor as you walk to your room. Open your door to free WiFi, flat screen TV, air-conditioning, bottled water, a refrigerator, and much more. Feel secluded in your cozy room that boasts blackout curtains, large comfy beds, and gourmet Costa Rican coffee. Unpack your suitcase and head to the outdoor pool! Lounge in the hot sun with a refreshing drink in-hand or jump in and make a splash. Work all your stresses away in the fitness center, then return to your room and freshen up in your sparkling upscale bathroom.
When you work up an appetite, indulge in delicious cuisine at either of the hotel's two on-site restaurants: Acuarelas Restaurant or Cafe Tropical. After dinner, dance the night away at buzzing Bar Jobo, the hotel's lively lounge that offers live music and handcrafted cocktails. Take a walk through the lush garden, then take in the pleasant breeze from the outdoor patio.
Experience luxurious comfort in the heart of San Jose at this contemporary, convenient hotel. Walk into the lobby and be greeted by bright colors, stylish decor, and a friendly reception team. Open the door to your room and find large, comfortable beds, free WiFi, plasma TVs, and tons of other modern amenities. Feeling a bit hungry? Raid the minibar, call room service, or grab a bite to eat at the elegant on-site restaurant, RBG Bar & Grill.
Unpack your swimsuit and head to the outdoor pool! Jump in and make a splash, then lounge in the warm sun with a refreshing drink in-hand. Work all your stresses away at the gym, or explore the area. At the Park Inn by Radisson San Jose, you'll always feel the perfect balance of entertained and relaxed.
Escape to this relaxing retreat in the heart of downtown San Jose! You'll forget you're staying in a bustling city, as the only things you'll feel at this hotel are peace and serenity. Just 20 minutes from the Juan Santamaria International Airport, this convenient hotel is surrounded by lush parks, nightlife, cultural attractions, restaurants, and more. Enjoy sweeping views of Paseo Las Damas Avenue, one of the most historic spots in San Jose!
Check-in with the hotel's friendly reception team, then make your way up to your spacious room. Open the door to contemporary decor, complimentary WiFi, air conditioning, a refrigerator, a microwave, LED TV, and much more. Realize you forgot something? Not to worry. Head down to the 24-hour convenience and souvenir shop! While you're down there, grab a cup of coffee, offered free all day and night. Work all your stresses away at the modern fitness center, then return to your room and freshen up in your sparkling upscale bathroom. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at the 24-hour Magnolia Restaurant, and save room for a complimentary breakfast buffet in the morning! Need a ride to the airport? You're in luck! Ask the helpful staff about the hotel's free airport shuttle.
Day 2. San Jose - Sarapiqui
During the mid-morning hours, you'll embark on a journey from San Jose to the captivating Sarapiqui Rainforest region, your destination for the next night's stay.
The Sarapiqui region presents a plethora of enchanting prospects for hiking amid the verdant expanse of its mountainous primary rainforest. Within Sarapiqui, both National Parks and Private reserves meticulously uphold the ancient woodlands, offering well-maintained trails that allow indigenous wildlife to roam freely
Later in the day, an exciting activity awaits as you participate in a Sarapiqui River Floating Safari Tour.
Transfer to Sarapiqui Rainforest
Sarapiquis Rainforest Lodge is more than a hotel, it is a total experience. Built as a 15th-century Pre-Columbian village, it is unique in its kind. Guests will be swept away by its exquisite decor: antiques, garden fresh flowers, and an overall Hispanic Colonial and Indigenous atmosphere. The restaurant and its romantic terrace reveal sweeping views of the Sarapiqui River and the Rainforest below and the inviting Botos Waterfall and Pool, only footsteps away,
Featuring a year-long outdoor pool, sun terrace, and situated right in Sarapiqui, the La Quinta Sarapiqui offers comfortable lodging among amazing natural scenery. Guests can enjoy the sun terrace, the on-site restaurant, free parking, a gift shop, and the opportunity to try fun activities like fishing, canoeing, horseback riding, and more.
Rooms have views of the river or the garden, and include air conditioning and a ceiling fan, a desk, a safe, and private bathrooms as well as complimentary toiletries. Some rooms also include a sitting area. The Juan Santamaria International Airport is 32 miles away, and Alajuela is 31 miles away.
Sarapiqui River Floating Safari Tour
The Sarapiqui River has played an important role in the history of this region, and the lower section features calm waters that are the perfect conditions to enjoy a peaceful Safari Floating Tour. After arriving at the river, where the professional guides will provide you with a safety briefing, life vest fitting and a paddle. The tour takes place on an inflatable whitewater rafting boat; the river flows at a good enough speed to push you along and the paddles are mostly used to steer or to get across the river to see wildlife from a better vantage point.
Once in the river, just sit down, paddle quietly, enjoy the sights and the sounds of the rainforest, and experience its serenity through the Class I waters, with some splashes that maybe will get you wet a bit. During the two-hour river expedition, the guide will be sharing important information with you regarding the different species of animals and plants that inhabited the riverbanks; usually, it is possible to spot wildlife such as monkeys, Sloths, birds and Iguanas. The beautiful landscapes and the rich biodiversity will amaze you all the time!
Day 3. Sarapiqui - Arenal Volcano
Spend the morning in Sarapiqui enjoying the hotel's activities (extra cost). Surrounded by biological reserves, Sarapiqui is a haven for eco-tourism as well as family tourism. Enjoy tubing, guided walks, or horseback riding from your hotel.
In the afternoon, transfer to the Arenal Volcano area. If weather conditions are good, you will be able to see the greatest natural attraction in the country: Arenal Volcano.
Transfer to Arenal Volcano
Set at the foot of the Arenal Volcano, Volcano Lodge & Gardens offers comfortable accommodations in a lush tropical setting. Float away your stresses in the natural hot springs, then enjoy an adrenaline-packed adventure like white water rafting, hiking, ATV tours, ziplining and more. Easily book a tour from the hotel and explore the richness of this unspoiled region.
Rooms at Volcano Lodge feature a terrace, air conditioning, private bathroom, cable TV, and more. Wake up to the peaceful serenity of the Costa Rican countryside. Choose a relaxing deep massage at the Volcano Spa then enjoy a meal at Sura Bar & Bistro. Volcano Lodge is committed to sustainable tourism, so you can feel good about your stay.
Retreat to your cozy wood cabin at Lomas del Volcan Hotel, overlooking Arenal Volcano. Wake up to sights and sounds of the surrounding rainforest and explore the many hiking trails, thermal pools and nature tours. From this rustic lodge-style hotel, you will have all the comforts of a modern accommodation with the privacy of your own bungalow. Each of the wood cabins feature two decks, queen beds, WiFI, coffee makers and more. Cool off after a day of adventure at the swimming pool, relax in the jacuzzi, and enjoy local cuisine from the on-site restaurant.Â
Enjoy spectacular views of Arenal Volcano at the Hotel Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs. Surrounded by gardens, pastures and animals, you will feel one with nature while staying at this hotel. Take advantage of the spacious gardens for walking and meditation and see the daily operations of a typical Costa Rican farm.Â
Hotel features include a full-service spa, outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzi, fine dining restaurant, and more. Book one of several tours offered at the hotel including a visit to a nearby dairy farm, ziplining, hikes, canopy tours, and river rafting. Each of the rooms feature floor to ceiling windows and terraces for unparalleled views of the majestic volcano.Â
Evening visit to Baldi Hot Springs, with dinner
Visit Baldi Hot Springs, home to the world's largest hot springs. The family-oriented resort located at the foot of Arenal Volcano has a total of 25 thermal water pools filled by crystalline waterfalls set in the tropical rainforest. Children enjoy all the benefits of thermal waters with appropriate games designed for each age group while parents can sit back and relax.
Get your adrenaline pumping with Baldi's Xtreme water slides starting at the highest point of the pool resort. After you've soaked in the rejuvenating waters and had fun down the water slides, sit down to a delicious dinner at the resort's Italian restaurant.
Day 4. Arenal Volcano
Today you will embark on two tours in Arenal. In the morning, enjoy an exhilarating zip line tour through the rainforest. Then visit Natura Ecological Park and see Costa Rica's incredible wildlife up close.
Half-day Ecoglide Canopy Adventures Park Tour (Zip Line)
Zip through Arenal's rainforest as you get a bird's eye view of the volcano.Tthe Ecoglide Canopy Zip line tour offers high energy family fun with 15 zip line cables tested for safety. The tour also includes an enormous Tarzan Swing so you can test your children’s courage and soar like the jungle barbarian himself!
Half-day Natura Park Tour
At Natura Park, discover Costa Rica's astonishing variety of flora and fauna. With a specialized guide, tour this ecological park home to frogs, snakes, birds and more. Observe regenerating forests home to different types of migrant and resident animals, then see the frog garden with 30 species of diurnal and nocturnal frogs found in the tropical areas. At the serpentarium, view different species of poisonous and non-poisonous snakes waiting to show you their different colors and characteristics. End the nature tour at the turtle pond, where you'll see fresh water turtles like the large snapping turtles.
Day 5. Arenal Volcano - Central Pacific Coast
From Arenal, travel to the central Pacific coast capital of Puntarenas. This region of Costa Rica is home to both wet and dry tropical rainforests, sun-dappled sandy beaches and a variety of wildlife. With so much biodiversity packed into a small geographic area, it’s no wonder the coastal region is often thought of as Costa Rica in miniature.
Popular beach destinations like Jaco, Montezuma, and Santa Theresa are great places to ease into your coastal adventure. At night, head into Puntarenas City for a taste of coastal cuisine.
Transfer to Central Pacific
Check-in - Fiesta Resort Puntarenas
Escape to Costa Rican paradise at this all-inclusive beachfront resort! Immerse yourself in the laid-back culture of the tropics and enjoy the luxurious amenities of this fully loaded accommodation. Upon arrival, step out to the bright blue ocean, sparkling beaches, lush greenery, and a picturesque pool complex. Overlooking the Central Pacific Ocean and dark volcanic sands, this resort is the perfect base for day trips across the stunning country. Experience the best of both worlds: relax in a beachy heaven, while being only 50 minutes from San Jose!
As soon as you arrive, you'll feel the warm welcome of this one-of-a-kind resort. Check-in with the friendly reception team, take a bite of a warm welcome cookie, then head up to your spacious room. Open the door to crisp air-conditioning, WiFi access, cable TV, and much more. Unpack your swimsuit and head for the massive outdoor pool! Lounge in the warm sun with a drink-in hand or jump in and make a splash. Swim up to the bar, or order one from the comfort of a lounge chair. Burn off some extra energy in the state-of-the-art fitness center, or take a whack on the tennis court! Relax on the beach and gaze out at the bright blue water glistening in-front of you.Â
Grab a bite at El Pelicano Snack Bar or taste the sweetness of a fresh smoothie at El Tucan Fruit Bar. This resort has tons of all-inclusive dining and bar options - try them all! Be sure to attend a theme dinner at Calypso restaurant, which boasts sky-high cathedral ceilings and an exotic atmosphere. Also, spend an evening dining at Cana Brava, the resort's classy seafood restaurant, overlooking the ocean. What's better than delicious food, tasty drinks, and a beautiful oceanfront sunset?
Day 6. Central Pacific Coast
Today, enjoy the amenities and activities at your resort or consider taking a day trip to Tortuga Island. Embark on a catamaran and feel the sea breeze as you approach the island's pristine beach and swaying coconut palms. Spend the day kayaking, snorkeling or sunbathing in this exotic locale.
A Tip For Your Trip: Optional day trips (not included) can be booked at hotel's tour desk.
Day 7. Central Pacific Coast - San Jose
Your amazing Costa Rica family vacation ends today. You will be transferred to Juan Santamaria Int’l Airport (SJO) for your departure flight back home.
*Please note: When choosing your flights, please select one with a return flight that departs no earlier than mid-day, in order to accommodate the transfer time (apx. 1.5 hours) from Central Pacific to Juan Santamaria Int’l Airport (SJO).