Family Costa Rica Magic Itinerary

Travel to Costa Rica’s vivacious capital, San Jose, situated in the heart of the Central Valley. Join a guided tour of several memorable city sites, including the National Museum, and then head to out visit a local coffee plantation, sugar cane mill and butterfly farm.

Voyage down the fertile waterways of Tortuguero National Park. Appreciate the flamboyance of nature as seen in the eye-catching flora and fauna who call this region home – keep an eye out for the park’s many turtle species including green, giant leatherback and hawksbill. Delight in the comforts of the riverbank lodge or wile away a few hours by the pool.

After departing the national park by boat, travel onwards to Sarapiqui, nestled on the banks of the Puerto Viejo River. Enjoy the lush, tropical surrounds of this idyllic location, perhaps choosing to get involved with one of many activities on offer. Go river rafting, hiking or take an optional trip to the Rainforest Alliance Banana Project.

Be awed by the sight of Arenal Volcano soaring defiantly over the fertile plains below. In free time, pay a visit to one of many thermal pools and waterfalls near to the volcano, or take a walk through steaming lava fields. At night, keep an eye on the horizon in the hope of seeing some volcano pyrotechnics.

Try to spot windsurfers on Arenal Lake while en route to mountainous Monteverde. Enjoy some respite from the heat of the lower plains while exploring the region’s iconic cloudforests, perhaps taking an optional canopy walk or zip-lining excursion, or simply kick back and appreciate the serenity.

Follow the Pan-American Highway south, through mangroves and plantations to the Costa Rican coast. Lap up the spoils of this unique setting, where lush rainforests sprawl gently down to meet the ocean. Try to spot the quirky white-faced capuchin monkeys peering down from the treetops or soak up some rays on the beach.

Embark on a walk through the Carara Biological Reserve trying to spot the rare scarlet macaw. Pass through the agricultural townships of Orotina and Atenas while covering the final leg of the journey to San Jose. Before departure, be sure to indulge in a final Costa Rican meal and perhaps hit the markets to collect some last-minute mementos.