Discover the incredible biodiversity of Costa Rica – and the culture shaped by the tropical wilderness – with your loved ones, on a trip that’s tailored for families. Pick produce and make dinner with a local family during an agricultural homestay, look for three-toed sloths in the thickets of the Manuel Antonio National Park and walk through the canopy of Monteverde’s cloud forest on a suspended bridge. Take a break from active adventure by soaking in springs heated by Arenal Volcano and lying beneath swaying palms on pristine beaches while the kids play nearby. This adventure takes you into the wild heart of a country many visit but few truly know.
Wildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Home-stay
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, Santa Rosa De Pocosol
San Jose, Santa Rosa De Pocosol, Arenal, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Manuel Antonio National Park
This tour of Costa Rica will guide you through the natural wonders and breathtaking sights of this tropical gem! Begin your journey in San Jose, the famous capital, which is surrounded by evergreen mountains and valleys with plenty of cultural attractions. From there you will visit Tortuguero National Park, the nesting grounds of green sea turtles with its breathtaking beaches and fantastic opportunities to spot wild animals and birds. Next, you will drive to Arenal, situated in the midst of an unspoiled setting where looming volcanoes and teeming rainforest await. Climb the Arenal Volcano and keep an eye out for some of the most famous bird and animal life in the country! Continue your tour to Monteverde which you will reach by boat. Explore the Cloud Forest and take one step closer to nature in this legendary destination! Your next stop will be in Tamarindo, one of the most famous beach and surf towns in Costa Rica. This is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture and cultivate your adventurous spirit. Head back to San Jose for your final destination on this tour of Costa Rica before you travel home!
Rainforest and jungle visits
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Eco Lodge, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
San Jose, Tortuguero National Pa
San Jose, Tortuguero National Park, Tamarindo Beach, Arenal Volcano, Tamarindo, Tortuguero, Arenal, Monteverde
Embark on a leisurely journey through Costa Rica's most iconic national parks: Tortuguero and Manuel Antonio national parks. This privacy-focused trip allows ample time for exploration while ensuring you don't miss out on the natural wonders each destination offers.
Begin in Tortuguero, a remote paradise dubbed the "Amazon of Costa Rica." Here, immerse yourself in lush rainforests, winding waterways, and pristine beaches. Witness the nesting of endangered sea turtles, a rare spectacle found in few places around the globe.
Next, head to Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its breathtaking beaches and abundant wildlife. Explore the trails of park, where monkeys swing through trees and colorful birds soar overhead. Relax on tranquil coves or venture into azure waters for a refreshing swim.
Throughout your journey, enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience filled with privacy, tranquility, and the beauty of Costa Rica's national parks.
Trekking and HikingVolcanoes
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
1-79 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Manuel Antonio National Park, To
Manuel Antonio National Park, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano, San Jose, Tortuguero, Arenal, Manuel Antonio
We originally looked at booking the longer Costa Rica Family Adventure as we thought the Family Escape (at 7 nights) may be too much of a whirlwind. However, we liked the fact that there were less distances to travel (as the Family Escape does not include a visit to the Caribbean coast), and that there were more activities included, plus, on enquiry, we found out that on the dates we wished to travel the families booked onto this trip had children of similar ages to our own (16 and 12). We are so pleased we went for this option! From being met at the airport by our wonderful guide, Eduardo, and driver, Cesar, to being waved off as we boarded our transfer on the last day, we enjoyed every minute of our holiday!
Costa Rica is an incredible country and this trip gives you a sense of its diverstiy - from the volcanic landscape around Arenal, to the Cloud Forest at Monteverde, and the tropical beaches of Carillo. The mix of activities is great - from the high adrenaline rafting and zip wire course at Monteverde, to fascinating nature walks and wildlife spotting. The itinery is quite pacy - there are activities most days, however, you get at least 2 nights at each hotel (apart from in San Jose) so you do get chance to unpack a little and enjoy some downtime.
The hotels all offer something different: Los Lagos at La Fortuna is set in lush tropical gardens with its own resident crocodile and butterfly and insect houses. Plus, it has its own hot springs complete with water slides which our children loved. The Country Lodge at Monteverde is a little more basic, but charming, whilst the Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows are super stylish with spacious rooms and a stunning pool area.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge, Resort
Age Range
9-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, La Fortuna, Monteverde
San Jose, La Fortuna, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Carrillo Beach
I spent 13 days in Costa Rica and did a self-drive everywhere from Liberia to San Jose while hitting places such as Rincon, Arenal, Monteverde, Samara Beach, and Dominical to name a few and I was able to do pretty much everything I wanted to do in Costa Rica thanks to Alex's brilliant trip planning! On top of that, the hotels that were booked for me were all top notch and there were plenty of opportunities to have lunch and dinner no matter where I stayed. If you plan to stay in Costa Rica anytime soon, I highly recommend having Alex to plan your trip with you!
VolcanoesTrekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Eco Lodge, Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
12-65 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biologic
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Samara Beach, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Tenorio, Guanacaste, Bijagua, Rio Celeste, Monteverde, Playa Carrillo, Carrillo Beach, Liberia City
Great all around trip. The guide (Jeff) was organized, attentive and fun to be around. Briefings each day were informative and useful. The food was excellent, camp sites were good. The rafting was very exhilarating. The equipment was in good condition and they were prepared for mishaps. We had bike chain break but they had spare bike readily available. You could push yourself as hard or as easy as you felt comfortable.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Camping, Lodge
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, Pacuare River, Esquipu
San Jose, Pacuare River, Esquipulas, Naranjillo, Pacific Coast
Immerse yourself in the essence of Costa Rica on this exciting 9-day journey that will take you to explore the natural beauty and majesty in the surrounding areas of four of the country's most prominent volcanoes: the imposing Irazú Volcano in Cartago, the majestic Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna area, thee intriguing Rincón de la Vieja Volcano in Guanacaste, and the famous Poás Volcano.
Get ready to embark on this adventure as you enjoy the landscapes full of biodiversity that only Costa Rica can offer.
In this volcano adventure trip, you will have the opportunity to visit some destinations with different volcano landscapes and hikes within the national parks.
Trekking and HikingVolcanoes
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
5-79 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
San Jose, Arenal Volcano, Rincon
San Jose, Arenal Volcano, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Poas Volcano, Irazú Volcano, Arenal, La Paz Waterfall, Juan Santamaria
Embark on a captivating journey through Costa Rica's diverse landscapes and vibrant culture with this meticulously crafted itinerary. Begin your adventure with a private transfer from Juan Santamaria International Airport to your hotel in San Jose, where you'll receive a warm welcome and an introduction to the country's rich heritage. Explore Costa Rica's cosmopolitan capital, San Jose, home to bustling streets, iconic landmarks, and a myriad of gastronomic delights.
Next, venture into the misty cloud forests of Monteverde, where exhilarating horseback riding tours and guided walks through the renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve await. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty and abundant wildlife of this verdant region.
Continue your journey to Manuel Antonio, a paradise of unspoiled beaches and lush rainforests. Spend your days snorkeling, hiking, or simply basking in the sun-kissed tranquility of this coastal haven. With a variety of optional tours available, including mangrove boat tours, horseback riding adventures, and guided walks through national parks, there's something for every adventurer to enjoy.
As your unforgettable Costa Rican odyssey draws to a close, bid farewell to this enchanting country and its warm-hearted people with a private transfer back to Juan Santamaria International Airport for your departure.
Prepare to be captivated by the beauty, biodiversity, and boundless adventure that await you in Costa Rica.
AdventureTrekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
1-79 yrs
Operated in
english, spanish
Destinations
San Jose, Manuel Antonio Nationa
San Jose, Manuel Antonio National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio
This is an absolutely incredible tour -- our guide Jason was both very informative and very helpful. He explained the history of the Arenal volcano to us, we took a short hike a small part of the way up the mountain, and then went back down to look at wildlife in the rainforest. We saw spider monkeys, which Jason said are a pretty rare sight, and then a red curacao just walked out onto the trail in front of us! It was an incredible feeling to just be seeing all these animals spontaneously on a nature hike.
Speaking of hikes, it is important to be aware that this tour is somewhat physically demanding. There are no extreme parts, just some strenuous walking over very uneven ground, but I think the tour description could do a better job of emphasizing the challenge. At the same time, the tour is extremely convenient in terms of picking you up and dropping you off at your desired location, whether a hotel, hot springs, or somewhere else. Overall, I strongly recommend the Arenal Volcano trip to anyone who is into volcanoes and wildlife and plans to visit the Arenal area.
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
If you’re looking for a Central American thrill, take on an eight-day active adventure through one of the world's greenest countries. Dive into Costa Rica’s wilderness and cascade down the rapids of Pacuare River in a raft, hike misty jungle trails in the Monteverde Cloud Forest and cycle along the coastline of Puerto Viejo. With plenty of free time to customise your adventure depending on your interests, you might opt to surf the Caribbean waves in palm-fringed beach towns or go stand up paddleboarding on Lake Arenal. Costa Rica is the perfect place for wildlife lovers (how many sloths can you spot?), active adventurers and those seeking a natural paradise.
Active and outdoorAdventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, Monteverde, La Fortuna
San Jose, Monteverde, La Fortuna, Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Get off the beaten track on this two-week family holiday in Costa Rica, exploring all the best highlights and hidden secrets. Starting in subtropical San Jose, you'll explore Tortuguero National Park – home to 13 of Costa Rica’s 16 endangered mammals and the nesting ground of the green turtle. Spend some time in biodiverse Sarapiqui and maybe take on a few fun, active adventures with the kids. Stay in La Fortuna under the mighty gaze of Arenal Volcano and soak in your onsite hot springs before heading to the cloud forest in Monteverde. Learn how to cook authentic local Costa Rican food in Dominical with three generations of locals and then take a day trip to the popular Manuel Antonio National Park. After a huge adventure full of natural wonders and wildlife, meet the Indigenous community along the Terraba River and learn about their matriarchal society before ending it all back in San Jose.
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, Dominical, Manuel Anto
San Jose, Dominical, Manuel Antonio, Tortuguero, Sarapiqui, La Fortuna, Monteverde
Great trip. Full on pace, would have to skip activities to slow down! A cultural and nature trip. Guatemala was my favourite country; the Mayan history and culture. The archeological site at Copan adds to the diversity of experiences on this trip. As well the more recent history of regime change in Nicaragua. The Spanish colonial architecture was highlighted at all destinations, quaint hotels. Nature’s beauty and wild life was showcased throughout. Overall, a diversity of experiences filled the two weeks!
Active and outdoorWildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Villa
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
San Jose, Antigua, Suchitoto, Co
San Jose, Antigua, Suchitoto, Copan, Guatemala City, Panajachel, Monteverde, Granada, Lake Nicaragua, Leon, Cerro Negro
Get the chance to travel deep inside the earth surface in this 4-hour guided exploration of the Venado Caves. Follow the underground trails that will lead you through grottos and chambers. Explore the world of darkness and otherworldly beauty.
With flashlights illuminating your way and all the gear required for exploration, enter into this labyrinth of ancient underground rivers and sea beds. Visit unique rock formations with names like the Birthing Canal, the Papaya, the Coral, and the Altar.
See stalactites and stalagmites jutting out of the ground or hanging overhead. Encounter the creatures that live in darkness, including colonies of bats as well as frogs and river crabs.
Enjoy a buffet of fresh fruits after the tour comes to an end. Be prepared to get wet and dirty inside the cave in order to see this underground world. Relish this unique Costa Rican experience.
Caves
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
