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Family-Friendly Adventure in Rugged Costa Rica: A 14-Day Itinerary

Viewed by 179 travelers

Day 1: Arrive in La Fortuna

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

12:00PM

Arrival at San José Airport

After clearing customs, pick up your 4x4 and begin your journey towards La Fortuna, nestled at the base of the Arenal Volcano.
Drive to La Fortuna.
USD 100, 3 hours

3:00PM

Check-in at Tabacón Thermal Resort

Settle into this luxury resort known for its amazing thermal springs for families.
Drive to the resort.
USD 450, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at the Resort

Enjoy dinner at Tabacón, where the whole family can find cuisine favorites.
On-site dining.
USD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in La Fortuna

Day 2: Adventure in Arenal

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tabacón

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before your adventure!
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Arenal Volcano Hiking Tour (Family-Friendly)

Embark on an easy hike around the base of the Arenal Volcano, perfect for small children, where you'll learn about local wildlife.
Drive to the trailhead.
USD 25 per person, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Don Rufino

Savor a locally inspired dish while taking a break from the heat.
Drive to Don Rufino.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall

Take a short drive to La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can enjoy the views and even take a splash in the natural pool.
Drive to the waterfall.
USD 15 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Return to Tabacón for Dinner

Rejuvenate yourself and the kids with a relaxing dinner at the resort.
Drive back to the resort.
USD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in La Fortuna

Day 3: Transfer to Monteverde

Monteverde, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tabacón

Fuel up before heading to the scenic cloud forest.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Monteverde

Leave behind Arenal's lush landscape to drive up into the cloud forest of Monteverde, taking off-road trails to enjoy the views.
Self-drive via scenic routes.
Gas approx. USD 50, 3.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Green Restaurant

Savor fresh, organic dishes in an eco-friendly restaurant as you arrive in Monteverde.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 80, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Take a family-friendly guided nature walk to see fascinating wildlife in its natural habitat.
Drive to the reserve.
USD 25 per person, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Camino Verde

Wind down with a cozy dinner at this family-friendly venue serving excellent local and international dishes.
Short drive from the reserve.
USD 70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Monteverde

Day 4: Explore Monteverde

Monteverde, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast while overlooking stunning cloud forest scenery.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hanging Bridges Tour

Experience a short, guided hanging bridges tour suitable for young children, with opportunities to see unique wildlife.
Drive to the hanging bridges site.
USD 60 per person, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch in Nature

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the beautiful landscapes at the bridges area.
Pack before leaving your accommodation.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit an Organic Farm

Learn about sustainable farming practices with the family on a tour of a local organic farm.
Drive to the farm.
USD 25 per person, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Tree House Restaurant

Dine in a treehouse setting, with children's menu options at one of Monteverde's most family-friendly venues.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Monteverde

Day 5: Adventures in Osa Peninsula

Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast in Monteverde before heading to the Osa Peninsula.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Osa Peninsula

Leave Monteverde early to drive through more rugged landscapes towards Osa Peninsula, known for its rugged beauty.
Self-drive via scenic off-road routes.
Gas approx. USD 60, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at El Jardin

Stop at a local eatery in the Peninsula for authentic Costa Rican flavors.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 50, 1 hour

3:30PM

Check-in at Lapa Rios Lodge

Arrive at your eco-lodge where luxury meets nature, providing activities for families.
Drive to the lodge.
USD 500, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Relax at the Lodge

Once settled, explore the lodge grounds with your family, spotting wildlife and soaking in nature.
On-site activities.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at the Lodge

Enjoy another impressive culinary experience crafted from local ingredients at your lodge.
On-site dining.
USD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Osa Peninsula

Day 6: Adventure and Wildlife in Osa Peninsula

Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lapa Rios Lodge

Fuel up with organic breakfast before heading into the rainforest.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Guided Family-Friendly Wildlife Tour

Explore the rainforest with a guide who can engage the kids with interesting stories about wildlife.
Organized by the lodge.
USD 80 per person, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Lodge

Return to the lodge for a wholesome lunch made from fresh ingredients.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Beach Time or Tide Pool Exploration

Spend the afternoon at local beaches or tide pools perfect for little explorers.
Short drive or short hike down to the beach.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner back at the Lodge

Wind down your day with another delicious dinner at the lodge, sharing all the amazing sights you've seen.
On-site dining.
USD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Osa Peninsula

Day 7: Travel to Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Lapa Rios Lodge

Enjoy breakfast amidst nature one last time.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Manuel Antonio

Journey from Osa Peninsula to Manuel Antonio, keeping a lookout for wildlife along the way.
Self-drive via scenic routes.
Gas approx. USD 50, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at El Avión

Stop for lunch at a restaurant built around a plane, perfect for families with a great view.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 80, 1 hour

1:30PM

Check-in at Hotel Costa Verde

This family-friendly hotel offers amenities perfect for relaxing after your travels.
Drive to the hotel.
USD 200, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Visit Manuel Antonio National Park

Explore accessible trails ideal for families, including incredible beaches and wildlife watching.
Drive to the park entrance.
USD 16 per person, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at La Cantina

End the day with a casual dinner featuring local favorites within the park area.
Short drive from the park.
USD 70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Day 8: Relax and Explore Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Costa Verde

Start your day right with breakfast with ocean views.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Beach Day at Playa Espadilla

Spend the morning at this family-friendly beach with shallow waters, perfect for the kids.
Drive to the beach.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Kalú Restaurant

Dine at a charming beachfront restaurant with a fun atmosphere and great food.
Short walk from the beach.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

More Beach Time or Kayaking

Opt for more relaxing beach time or rent a kayak for some fun on the water.
Beachfront rental services.
Variable - approx. USD 30, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at El Avión (Again)

Revisit this unique restaurant for another relaxed family dinner after a fun day at the beach.
Drive back to the restaurant.
USD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Manuel Antonio

Day 9: Travel to Tortuguero

Tortuguero, Costa Rica

6:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Costa Verde

Enjoy breakfast before a busy day of travel.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

7:30AM

Drive to La Pavona

Scenic drive to La Pavona, the launch point for your voyage into Tortuguero.
Self-drive through rural roads.
Gas approx. USD 50, 4 hours

11:30AM

Lunch in La Pavona

Grab a quick lunch at a local restaurant before your boat trip to Tortuguero.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Boat Transfer to Tortuguero

Take an exhilarating boat ride through the canals to reach Tortuguero, an exciting adventure in itself.
Boat ride included with transfer.
USD 60 per person, 1 hour

2:30PM

Check-in at Tortuga Lodge

Settle in at your eco-friendly lodge surrounded by breathtaking views and wildlife.
On-site lodging.
USD 200, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at the Lodge

Enjoy a casual dinner at the lodge restaurant with local flavors.
On-site dining.
USD 50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Tortuguero

Day 10: Explore Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Tortuga Lodge

Refuel with breakfast after a night in the tropical atmosphere.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Guided Canal Tour

Paddle through the picturesque canals to spot wildlife with a family-focused guide.
Arrange through the lodge.
USD 60 per person, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tortuga Lodge

Return for a hearty lunch following your adventures on the canals.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Tortuguero Village

Spend the afternoon exploring the quaint village and learning about local culture.
Short boat ride to the village.
Free / Light snacks, 2 hours

4:00PM

Evening Turtle Tour

If in season, join a guided tour to see turtles nesting on the beach.
Organized by the lodge.
USD 50 per person, 3 hours
Find Hotels in Tortuguero

Day 11: Transfer to Cahuita

Cahuita, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at Tortuga Lodge

Start your day with breakfast before your journey.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:00AM

Boat Transfer Back to La Pavona

Take the boat back to La Pavona to collect your vehicle and start your drive to Cahuita.
Boat ride included in transfer.
USD 60 per person, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Cahuita

Journey along the coast to your next destination in Cahuita, home of beautiful beaches.
Self-drive via scenic routes.
Gas approx. USD 50, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Casita de Miel

Dine on local Caribbean cuisine at this charming eatery frequented by locals.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Check-in at Hotel La Costa de Papito

Settle into this family-friendly hotel with a laid-back atmosphere by the beach.
Drive to your hotel.
USD 120, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Hotel

Relax with dinner at your hotel, featuring tropical flavors and beachfront views.
On-site dining.
USD 70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Cahuita

Day 12: Explore Cahuita National Park

Cahuita, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast in a vibrant, tropical setting.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Cahuita National Park Hike

Take a family-friendly hike through this national park with opportunities to see monkeys, sloths, and unique flora.
Drive to the park entrance.
USD 5 per person, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Miss Edith's

Taste local Caribbean dishes at this well-known restaurant in Cahuita.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Beach Time at Cahuita

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun on Cahuita's beautiful beaches.
Walk to the nearby beach.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at La Pecora Nera

Enjoy a delicious Italian meal at this popular restaurant in Cahuita.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Cahuita

Day 13: Travel to Puerto Viejo

Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel La Costa de Papito

Enjoy breakfast before heading to your final destination.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Puerto Viejo

A short drive to your final stop featuring beautiful Caribbean beaches.
Self-drive on scenic coastal roads.
Gas approx. USD 20, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Check-in at Hotel Banana Azul

Settle into this beachfront hotel known for its family-friendly atmosphere.
Drive to hotel.
USD 150, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Soda Tapia

Enjoy lunch at this local favorite offering traditional Caribbean fare.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Beach Day at Playa Cocles

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, perfect for families.
Drive to the beach.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Koki Beach

Savor fresh seafood and local specialties while enjoying the sunset.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Puerto Viejo

Day 14: Return to San José

San José, Costa Rica

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Banana Azul

Enjoy breakfast one last time on the beach.
On-site dining.
Included with stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to San José

Bid farewell to the Caribbean coast as you travel back to San José.
Self-drive via scenic coastal roads.
Gas approx. USD 50, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Restaurante Nuestra Tierra

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

2:00PM

Transfer to San José Airport

Enjoy your final ride as you head to the airport for your departure.
Drive to the airport.
USD 30, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in San José
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