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Family-Friendly Costa Rica Adventure: A 14-Day Nature and Luxury Itinerary

Viewed by 235 travelers

Day 1: Arrive in San José

San José, Costa Rica

12:00PM

Arrival at San José Airport

Upon arrival, you'll be greeted and start your adventure, driving to your family-friendly hotel in the city.
4x4 rental pickup at the airport.
USD 100, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at La Criollita

Enjoy traditional Costa Rican food in a cozy atmosphere that accommodates families.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit to Parque La Sabana

Relax in this large city park, perfect for a family stroll and outdoor playtime.
Short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Silvestre

Indulge in a culinary experience with kid-friendly options in this family-friendly upscale restaurant.
Drive back to the restaurant.
USD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San José

Day 2: Journey to Arenal

Arenal, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Start your day with a nutritious breakfast suitable for families.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Arenal Volcano National Park

Drive to Arenal, enjoying the scenic route, with scheduled stops if needed for the family.
4x4 rental vehicle.
USD 150, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Soda La Parada

Enjoy a casual and affordable meal at this beloved local spot with great traditional dishes.
Drive to nearby La Fortuna.
USD 40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Arenal Volcano National Park Hike

Explore a family-friendly trail in the park using your back carrier for the little ones, enjoying the incredible views and wildlife.
Drive to the national park entrance.
USD 15 per person, 3 hours

5:30PM

Relax at Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

Unwind in the natural hot springs suitable for families, allowing kids to play in the warm waters.
Drive to the resort.
USD 100, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at La Fortuna Waterfall Restaurant

Dine with family-friendly options and views of the stunning waterfall.
Short drive to the restaurant.
USD 70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Arenal

Day 3: Adventure in Arenal

Arenal, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast with options that cater to both adults and children.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit to La Fortuna Waterfall

Take a short hike, using back carriers as you venture to the waterfall, where kids can splash and play.
Drive to the trailhead.
USD 15 per person, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Arenal Mundo Aventura

Enjoy a meal with stunning views and kid-friendly options at the adventure park.
Drive to the adventure park.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Hanging Bridges Tour

Explore nature on this exciting and child-friendly hanging bridges tour where the kids can see wildlife from above.
Short drive to the tour center.
USD 35 per person, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at the Hotel or Pool Time

Enjoy some downtime at the hotel’s pool where kids can swim and play.
Return to hotel.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Restaurante Don Rufino

Savor local flavors while also finding options for the little ones in a family-friendly environment.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Arenal

Day 4: Transfer to Monteverde

Monteverde, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to Monteverde while ensuring the kids are well-fed and happy.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Monteverde

Enjoy a scenic drive to Monteverde, with chances to stop for views and snacks for the kids along the way.
4x4 rental vehicle.
USD 100, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Green Restaurant

Dine at an eco-friendly restaurant known for its local ingredients and kid's menu.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Explore this beautiful reserve on an easy trail suitable for the whole family, with ample time for wildlife spotting.
Drive to the reserve.
USD 25 per person, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Tree House Restaurant

Experience dining in a unique treehouse setting with a kid-friendly menu that the whole family will enjoy.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Monteverde

Day 5: Discover Monteverde

Monteverde, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Have breakfast with options perfect for families, ensuring everyone is set for the day.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hanging Bridges Tour

Embark on a family-friendly hanging bridges adventure, using your back carrier for your toddler while enjoying the sights together.
Drive to the tour site.
USD 35 per person, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Stella's Bakery

Relax at this bakery known for fresh pastries and hearty meal options that cater to corn snacks for kids.
Drive to the bakery.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Sensoria Land of Senses

Visit this family-friendly eco-adventure park filled with activities and experiences designed for all ages.
Drive to the park.
USD 25 per person, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Monteverde Rainbow Garden

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in a garden setting featuring fresh local produce, perfect for the little ones.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Monteverde

Day 6: Beach Fun in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Start your day with a family-style breakfast suitable for all ages.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Manuel Antonio

Take a scenic drive to Manuel Antonio, giving your children stretch breaks along the way.
4x4 rental vehicle.
USD 100, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at El Avión

Dine with family-friendly options in a unique setting based around a converted airplane.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore the park via easy trails suitable for families, using your back carrier for the youngest while spotting wildlife.
Short drive to the park entrance.
USD 16 per person, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurante Rana Roja

Savor fresh seafood and local cuisine at a friendly restaurant catering to families.
Drive back to the restaurant.
USD 70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Day 7: Beaches and Activities in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before a fun day at the beach.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Catamaran Sunset Tour

Set sail on a family-friendly catamaran for snorkeling and dolphin watching with snacks on board.
Drive to the docking area.
USD 90 per person, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch on Board

Enjoy a delicious meal prepared on board during your excursion.
Included in the tour cost.
Included with tour., 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at Hotel or Beach Time

Spend your evening unwind at the hotel or relax on a nearby beach with the kids.
Return to hotel or beach.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Preserve at Los Altos

Dine on gourmet dishes with a stunning ocean view, where kids' menus are available.
Drive back to the restaurant.
USD 120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Day 8: Adventure to Osa Peninsula

Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast before hitting the road.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Osa Peninsula

Travel to the remote beauty of the Osa Peninsula, planning for kid-friendly stops along the way.
4x4 rental vehicle.
USD 150, 6 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at El Jardin

Dine at a restaurant known for its welcoming atmosphere and local flavors.
Drive to restaurant.
USD 50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Check-in at Lapa Rios Lodge

Settle into your family-friendly eco-lodge nestled in the rainforest.
Drive to the lodge.
USD 500, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at the Lodge

Indulge in a farm-to-table dinner where meals incorporate fresh local produce, suitable for kids.
On-site dining.
USD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Osa Peninsula

Day 9: Explore the Wonders of Osa Peninsula

Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lapa Rios Lodge

Wake up to a delicious breakfast in your eco-lodge, catered for families.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Family-Friendly Wildlife Tour

Embark on a guided rainforest hike, utilizing back carriers for the younger children, to spot the fascinating wildlife.
Arrange through the lodge.
USD 80 per person, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Lodge

Relax with a fresh lunch crafted from local produce while enjoying the lodge's beautiful surroundings.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Beach Time at Lapa Rios' Private Beach

Spend the afternoon on the private beach where kids can dig in the sand while parents relax.
Self-guided activity.
Free, 4 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Lodge

Enjoy another delightful and locally-inspired dinner at your lodge surrounded by nature.
On-site dining.
USD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Osa Peninsula

Day 10: Travel to Tortuguero

Tortuguero, Costa Rica

7:30AM

Breakfast at Lapa Rios Lodge

Enjoy breakfast in the jungle as you prepare for your journey.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to La Pavona Dock

Take a scenic drive through rural landscapes toward your boat transfer point.
4x4 rental vehicle.
USD 100, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Pavona

Grab a bite at this laid-back stop before heading to Tortuguero.
Drive to La Pavona Restaurant.
USD 40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Boat Transfer to Tortuguero

Take a fun boat ride through the canals, watching for wildlife along the way.
Boat ride.
USD 60 per person, 1 hour

3:00PM

Check-in at Pachira Lodge

Settle into your eco-lodge, ready for a nature-filled adventure.
On-site lodging.
USD 200, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at the Lodge

Dine on buffet meals at the lodge, accommodating children's tastes.
On-site dining.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Tortuguero

Day 11: Explore Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Pachira Lodge

Start your day with a hearty breakfast in preparation for an exciting day ahead.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Guided Canoe Tour

Paddle through the canals, spotting wildlife from your canoe, ensuring the kids have life jackets for safety.
Arrange through the lodge.
USD 60 per person, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Lodge

Enjoy a buffet-style meal featuring local flavors and children's options.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

1:00PM

Tortuguero Village Tour

Explore this charming village, learning about local culture and conservation efforts.
Short boat ride to the village.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Evening Turtle Tour

If in season, join a guided tour to observe nesting turtles on the beach, making it a magical experience for the little ones.
Organized by the lodge.
USD 50 per person, 3 hours
Find Hotels in Tortuguero

Day 12: Travel to Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

7:30AM

Breakfast at Pachira Lodge

Enjoy your last breakfast at this lovely eco-lodge, fueling up for the trip.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Boat Transfer back to La Pavona

Take a scenic boat ride back to the dock before heading to Puerto Viejo, with lots of wildlife viewing opportunities.
Boat ride.
USD 60 per person, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Puerto Viejo

Travel to the laid-back beaches of Puerto Viejo, allowing breaks for the kids as needed.
4x4 rental vehicle.
USD 100, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Soda Tapia

Relish delicious Caribbean cuisine at this casual and welcoming eatery with options for everyone.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Check-in at Hotel Banana Azul

Settle into this beachfront family hotel providing a tranquil environment for your kids.
Drive to hotel.
USD 150, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at La Pecora Nera

Treat yourself to an Italian meal at a local favorite, ensuring the kids will find familiar dishes as well.
Short drive to restaurant.
USD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Puerto Viejo

Day 13: Relax and Enjoy Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Banana Azul

Relax with breakfast featuring fresh fruit and delightful local flavors, just steps from the beach.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Beach Day at Playa Cocles

Enjoy the sun and sand at this family-friendly beach, where the kids can play freely in the safe waters.
Short drive or walk to the beach.
Free, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Point

Enjoy fresh seafood and Caribbean dishes that cater to families at a beachside eatery.
Drive or walk from the beach.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Cacao Tour

Learn about chocolate production at a local cacao farm, an engaging experience for both kids and adults.
Arrange through the hotel.
USD 50 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Koki Beach

Enjoy a beachfront dinner with delicious local dishes while watching the beautiful sunset.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Puerto Viejo

Day 14: Return to San José

San José, Costa Rica

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Banana Azul

Savor your last breakfast on the beach before a memorable journey home.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to San José

Journey back to the capital for your departure, with planned breaks for the kids.
4x4 rental vehicle.
USD 100, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Restaurante Nuestra Tierra

Enjoy a traditional farewell meal featuring Costa Rican flavors suitable for families before your flight.
Drive to restaurant.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Transfer to San José Airport

Complete your journey by heading to the airport for your departure, filled with wonderful memories.
Drive to the airport.
USD 30, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in San José
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