Arenal Volcano National Park is an experience of a lifetime. Arenal Volcano is an active volcano surrounded by lush rainforest and home to numerous hot springs. Enjoy the day hiking, zip-lining, or relaxing in the natural hot springs.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve is a must-do nature experience. Walk through the treetops on the hanging bridges, observe exotic flora and fauna, and experience the thrill of the zip-line. For the adventurous families, night tours are available to experience the nocturnal animals.
Spend the day relaxing and soaking up the sun at Playa Manuel Antonio, the central beach of Manuel Antonio National Park. For families looking for more adventure, there is a range of activities like kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and surfing. The park is home to monkeys, sloths, and other wildlife.
Experience the unique environment of Tortuguero National Park, known for its incredible variety of species of flora, fauna and one of the most important nesting sites of green turtles, hawksbill turtles, loggerhead turtles in the Caribbean coast, enjoy a wild and magical boat tour through small canals, rivers all over surrounded by the densest rainforest.
The Diamante Eco-Adventure Park is perfect for families seeking an adrenaline rush. The park offers the longest zip-line in Central America with ocean and mountain views, a Superman zip-line, a 100 foot-tall freefall, and a hanging bridges walkway. In addition, animal lovers will enjoy visiting the botanical gardens and animal sanctuary.
It's best to hire a car or take private transportation to travel around Costa Rica. The roads can be challenging at times, and driving can be time-consuming, so hiring a driver or taking local flights, transportation service is a good way to save time and reduce stress. Expect to spend around $300 to $500 on transportation costs for the whole trip.
If you have extra time, consider visits to the Osa Peninsula, the Corcovado National Park, or the Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Alternatively, reduce the itinerary to three days and focus only on Arenal Volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, and Manuel Antonio National Park.
The Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) is located 12 miles northwest of San Jose, Costa Rica's capital city. Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (LIR) is located in Liberia, northwest Costa Rica, and is the best airport to fly into if your destination is Guanacaste Province, instead of the Central Pacific coast where we suggest starting.