Costa Rica Adventure Family Holiday

Overview

Explore diverse ecosystems on a tropical adventure for all the family

Costa Rica is a natural paradise, with volcanoes, rainforest, waterfalls, wildlife and beaches. See them all on this Costa Rica family trip, which starts by travelling into the steaming jungle and exploring the Tortuguero waterways by boat, in search of monkeys, toucans and other colourful birds. We visit the Sloth Sanctuary and meet some of the residents, stars of their own Animal Planet TV show, and enjoy a night walk in the rainforest, try white-water rafting (optional) and splash in thermal pools at a waterpark near Arenal Volcano. There’s beach time too as we head to both Cahuita on the Caribbean coast and Manuel Antonio on the Pacific, where jungle cascades to white sand beaches.

Highlights

Explore one of the world’s great wildlife-watching destinations with other families
Navigate the Tortuguero waterways in search of monkeys, caiman and more
Play and relax on both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts
Cruise down the river at the Sloth Sanctuary
Feel the rainforest come alive on a night walk in the Tirimbina Biological Reserve
Stay in jungle lodges and hotels, most with swimming pools

Key Information

Accommodation: 14 Classic nights (12 hotel, 2 lodge)
Travel by minibus, boat and on foot
Group normally 4 to 16, plus local leader

Included

All breakfasts, three lunches and three dinners
All accommodation
All transport and listed activities
Tour leader throughout
Arrival and departure transfers

Not included

Travel insurance
Single accommodation (available on request)
Visas or vaccinations

Itinerary

Show All

Day 1: Adventure starts in San José
Begin your adventure in San José, the culture-rich capital of Costa Rica. A complimentary transfer from the airport to the hotel is available. Check in and take it easy, there’s plenty of excitement on this trip, so today’s all about relaxing and easing ourselves into the adventure. Around 7.30pm, say hola to your tour leader and fellow travellers during a short briefing and a group dinner together. Our main briefing takes place tomorrow morning due to the late arrival of some flights today. Want to explore San Jose further? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative. Accommodation: Country Inn & Suites (or similar)
Day 2: Morning visit to La Paz Waterfall Gardens; relax by the hotel pool
This morning your tour leader will host the main welcome briefing when we gather as a group to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead. Afterwards we have a short drive to La Paz Waterfall Gardens. Located within the transitional forest between the Central Valley and Northern Lowlands, the gardens host a wide variety of plants and bird life among stunning scenery. A short walk along a rainforest trail brings us to a great viewpoint, where we can watch the cascading falls. Entrance to the gardens includes a visit to the petting zoo, frog exhibit, aviary and butterfly observatory. Monkeys, sloths and toucans also inhabit this area, providing a great introduction to the incredible diversity of Costa Rica. The afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the hotel pool. Accommodation: Country Inn & Suites (or similar)
Day 3: To Tortuguero National Park
We depart early this morning, travelling to Tortuguero National Park in the Caribbean Lowlands of northeast Costa Rica. Accessible only by boat or light aircraft, this vast network of waterways, canals and swamps is remarkably tranquil and devoid of noise pollution. On reaching the pier, we board a small motorboat for the journey to our lodge (up to 1hr 30min) which is on a small strip of land between the Caribbean Sea and the main lagoon. Please note the transfer from San José to Tortuguero is not private for Exodus clients. Our afternoon is spent in Tortuguero village, where it’s possible to visit the Sea Turtle Museum (a donation will be requested at the entrance). Tortuguero is probably most famous as a nesting site for the endangered green turtle, which can be seen coming ashore to lay eggs from late July to October (as part of an optional excursion). Hawksbill, loggerhead, and giant leatherback turtles also nest in this region, and from late August through to November, baby turtles hatch and make their way to the ocean. Accommodation: Pachira Lodge or Evergreen Lodge (or similar)
Day 4: Boat tour of waterways in Tortuguero National Park
After a hearty breakfast, we discover the extraordinary flora and fauna of Tortuguero on a boat trip, passing serenely along the waterways. At this time of day, wildlife is usually at its most active and with the help of our expert guide we are likely to encounter monkeys, caiman, iguanas, butterflies and many of the 300-plus bird species recorded here. The lodge is a tranquil spot to relax this afternoon. Alternatively, join a second boat trip, visit the beach or follow a short walking trail through the forest. Accommodation: Pachira Lodge or Evergreen Lodge (or similar)
Day 5: To Cahuita on the Caribbean coast; relax on the beach
We leave Tortuguero the same way we arrived: taking a small boat. Our bus will be at the pier waiting to drive us to the Cahuita region on the Caribbean coast. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and have the rest of the afternoon to enjoy the pool, beach or discover our new surroundings. Caribbean culture thrives in this part of Costa Rica and is reflected in the music, food and laid-back lifestyle. The white sand beach is fringed by tall palms, behind which is the dense, wet tropical forest of Cahuita National Park. Accommodation: Atlantida Lodge (or similar)
Day 6: Visit the Sloth Sanctuary; discover Cahuita National Park
After breakfast, we drive to Aviarios del Caribe, the Sloth Sanctuary, subject of the Animal Planet TV show Meet the Sloths. This rescue and rehabilitation centre conducts sloth research and works tirelessly to return them to their natural habitat. You'll learn all about these fascinating animals on a two-hour tour, where you'll take a boat along the river to see sloths, monkeys, butterflies and birds. This afternoon, we return to Cahuita and visit the national park, following a coastal trail through the rainforest. The park has 2,711 acres (1,097ha) of land and 600 acres (245ha) of coral reef, which forms the largest reef system in Costa Rica. Accommodation: Atlantida Lodge (or similar)
Day 7: To Sarapiqui; night walk in Tirimbina Biological Reserve
We depart for Sarapiqui, one of the main banana producing regions in Costa Rica, although coffee, cardamon, cacao, corn and fruits are also grown here. It’s also gathering a reputation as a great spot for adventure seekers with plenty of optional activities to keep you entertained. In the evening, we take a night walk through Tirimbina Biological Reserve for a different perspective on the many rainforest residents. Accommodation: El Bambu Hotel (or similar)
Day 8: Free day in Sarapiqui
There are various optional excursions to try today: join a chocolate tour in Tirimbina Biological Reserve, take a safari floating trip down the Sarapiqui River, have a go at white-water rafting on Grade II and III rapids, or join a canopy tour and zip-line through the forest. Alternatively, there are several nature walks through beautiful surroundings. Accommodation: El Bambu Hotel (or similar)
Day 9: To La Fortuna near Arenal Volcano; free afternoon for optional activities
We transfer to the area around Arenal Volcano. Following a massive eruption in 1968, Arenal was the most active volcano in Costa Rica until 2010 when it entered a resting phase. Aside from the volcano, there are thermal waters, waterfalls and Lake Arenal to discover. The rest of the day is free to explore, either at your own pace or on one of the optional excursions available. You could take the Sky Walk (canopy walk) or Sky Trek adventure (which has an optional zip-wire through the canopy) or enjoy the hotel pool. Accommodation: Eco Arenal (or similar)
Day 10: Guided nature walk in Arenal National Park; visit thermal springs
This morning, we have a guided nature walk through Arenal Volcano National Park. The park has a great system of trails passing through secondary forest and near lava fields created by eruptions. In the late afternoon, we visit Baldi Hot Springs as a group to enjoy a hot thermal bath from the volcanic spring water – a refreshing end to the day. Please note, on weekends or Mondays we visit alternative hot springs called Ecotermales. Accommodation: Eco Arenal (or similar)
Day 11: To the Pacific coast
We travel southeast along the coast, following the Pan-Am Highway to Dominical, passing African oil palm and teak plantations on the way. Our hotel is on the coast near Dominical, around 50 minutes south of Manuel Antonio. The hotel is set in lush gardens overlooking the river and just a 20-minute walk to the beach. We spend the next three nights here. Depending on our arrival, we should have time to visit the beach or splash in the hotel pool. Accommodation: Villas Rio Mar in Dominical (or similar)
Day 12: Explore the beautiful trails and beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park
Today we drive to Manuel Antonio National Park, home to a vast marine reserve plus 1,700 acres (690ha) of mangrove swamp, primary and secondary rainforest. The forest vegetation stretches as far as the high-tide line and provides a stunning backdrop to the expansive sandy beaches, forested islands and dramatic rocky headlands. We have a guided nature walk today, which should include some very close wildlife encounters. White-faced capuchin monkeys play and are frequently sighted on the beaches, while noisy howler monkeys are usually heard moving through the trees and calling to each other before they are seen. The endangered titi monkey (squirrel monkey) are fewer in number but can sometimes be spotted in this area. Iguanas, agouti, and two- and three-toed sloths are also commonly sighted here. Better yet, the Manuel Antonio beaches are among the most beautiful in the country. In the afternoon, we return to our hotel. Accommodation: Villas Rio Mar in Dominical (or similar)
Day 13: Free day to relax, enjoy the beach or optional activities
Today has been left free for you to relax – make the most of the hotel pool, visit the beach or explore the area. There are a few optional activities available, such as a whale and dolphin-watching boat trip (from mid-July to October and mid-December to March) or a snorkelling tour. Accommodation: Villas Rio Mar in Dominical (or similar)
Day 14: To San José; relax by the hotel swimming pool or explore
Today we return to San José (approximately three-four hours plus rest stops and lunch). If you wish to travel into the downtown area by taxi, you will have time to see the modern capital and pick up souvenirs. Alternatively, relax by the hotel pool. Accommodation: Country Inn and Suites (or similar)
Day 15: End San José
The trip comes to an end today after breakfast and it's time to bid Costa Rica and the rest of the group goodbye. Transfers to San José airport are available to all clients today. But if you don’t want the adventure to end, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay and enjoy more time in Costa Rica.

Important Information

The trip destination

Accommodation: 14 Classic nights (12 hotel, 2 lodge)
Travel by minibus, boat and on foot
Group normally 4 to 16, plus local leader

Food

All breakfasts, three lunches and three dinners are included in the price of the tour, allowing you plenty of flexibility for non-included meals to be taken as a family or with the group. Costa Rican specialities include gallo pinto, a black bean and rice dish and a staple part of the local diet. Soups, stews and fresh fish are also common, and most hotels offer international menus. There is a lot of fresh fruit in the tropics – though the monkeys in the hotel gardens may well want to share your bananas! Vegetarian and vegan options are limited but food is plentiful and tasty – please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests.

Weather

Costa Rica is 10 degrees north of the equator and has a tropical climate. The average annual temperature is around 26C (79F) in the lowlands and 10C (50F) in the highest mountain regions. However, it’s essential you prepare for the time of year in which your departure takes place.

Dry season (December to April): This is the driest period of the year and can get incredibly hot; on the Pacific side, temperatures may exceed 37C (98F). If passing through areas of dry tropical forest it can be hot, dusty and dry. Prepare for some rain even during this time of year.

Rainy season (May to November): Expect daily downpours, although these are usually quite short and there is still plenty of sunshine. Typically, there are sunny conditions until approximately 1pm-2pm and then a build-up of cloud from around 3pm, resulting in late afternoon rain (most likely showers between 3pm-5pm). Usually, the sky clears by 6pm.

Is this trip for you?

This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page.

Though this trip has been designed for nine to 12-year-olds, it’s also suitable for 13 to 16-year-olds. Our Family trips are aimed at children in the primary age group, so if your child is in the secondary age group, they may find it a little easier. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.

Transport: This adventure aims to show you the best of Costa Rica using buses and boats. While the driving distances are not huge and most roads are good, some sections are of poor quality/potholed, which can result in slower driving times. The longest journey (approximately six hours) is to Tortuguero on Day 3. There is also a journey of approximately five hours on Day 11 when we travel from La Fortuna to Dominical. Other drives are around four hours. All drives are broken up with regular stops; when rest stops and meal breaks are taken into account, the total journey duration may be one-two hours longer. On some travel days, we depart early in the morning to optimise the time at our next destination.

Animals: There are some dangerous insects and snakes in the jungle, although incidents are extremely rare. The guide’s advice must always be followed – it is the responsibility of parents to ensure children listen to the guide and don’t stray from paths.

Walks: The trip involves some short, easy walks in tropical conditions. There are also several optional activities, including a zip-wire canopy tour, rafting and more. There will be a full safety briefing at the start of each (so no prior experience is needed to take part) and all necessary equipment will be provided. Some activities may be changed because of the weather.

Swimming: The sea has very strong rip currents in the Tortuguero and Cahuita regions and is not suitable for swimming from the beach.

Prices / Dates

By accepting our offer in writing, you/you confirm that our terms and conditions have both been read and understood and that cancellation fees may apply if the trip is cancelled.

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sdsd AVAILABLE DATES	PRICE (1 ADULT)	PRICE (1 CHILDREN)	Single room supplement	TRAVEL STATUS
Sat, 04 Apr 2026 / Sat, 18 Apr 2026	NOK 45 015	NOK 33 765	Not available	Available
Sat, 11 Jul 2026 / Sat, 25 Jul 2026	NOK 44 345 NOK 42 060	NOK 33 255	Not available	Available
Wed, 22 Jul 2026 / Wed, 05 Aug 2026	NOK 44 345	NOK 33 255	Not available	Available
Sat, 25 Jul 2026 / Sat, 08 Aug 2026	NOK 46 630	NOK 33 255	Not available	Available
Wed, 29 Jul 2026 / Wed, 12 Aug 2026	NOK 44 345 NOK 37 760	NOK 33 255	Not available	Available
Sat, 01 Aug 2026 / Sat, 15 Aug 2026	NOK 45 015	NOK 33 765	Not available	Available
Wed, 05 Aug 2026 / Wed, 19 Aug 2026	NOK 45 015	NOK 33 765	Not available	Available
Sat, 15 Aug 2026 / Sat, 29 Aug 2026	NOK 45 015 NOK 38 295	NOK 33 765	Not available	Available
Wed, 19 Aug 2026 / Wed, 02 Sep 2026	NOK 45 015	NOK 33 765	Not available	Available
Sat, 27 Mar 2027 / Sat, 10 Apr 2027	NOK 47 035	NOK 35 270	Not available	Available
Sat, 10 Jul 2027 / Sat, 24 Jul 2027	NOK 45 690	NOK 34 265	Not available	Available
Wed, 14 Jul 2027 / Wed, 28 Jul 2027	NOK 45 690	NOK 34 265	Not available	Available
Sat, 17 Jul 2027 / Sat, 31 Jul 2027	NOK 45 690	NOK 34 265	Not available	Available
Sat, 24 Jul 2027 / Sat, 07 Aug 2027	NOK 45 690	NOK 34 265	Not available	Available
Wed, 28 Jul 2027 / Wed, 11 Aug 2027	NOK 45 690	NOK 34 265	Not available	Available
Sat, 31 Jul 2027 / Sat, 14 Aug 2027	NOK 45 690	NOK 34 265	Not available	Available
Wed, 04 Aug 2027 / Wed, 18 Aug 2027	NOK 45 690	NOK 34 265	Not available	Available
Sat, 07 Aug 2027 / Sat, 21 Aug 2027	NOK 45 690	NOK 34 265	Not available	Available
Sat, 14 Aug 2027 / Sat, 28 Aug 2027	NOK 45 690	NOK 34 265	Not available	Available
Sat, 18 Dec 2027 / Sat, 01 Jan 2028	NOK 50 395	NOK 37 800	Not available	Available

AVAILABLE DATES	PRICE (1 ADULT)	PRICE (1 CHILDREN)	SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT	TRAVEL STATUS
Sat, 04 Apr 2026 / Sat, 18 Apr 2026	NOK 45 015	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 11 Jul 2026 / Sat, 25 Jul 2026	NOK 44 345 NOK 42 060	On request	Not available	On request
Wed, 22 Jul 2026 / Wed, 05 Aug 2026	NOK 44 345	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 25 Jul 2026 / Sat, 08 Aug 2026	NOK 46 630	On request	Not available	On request
Wed, 29 Jul 2026 / Wed, 12 Aug 2026	NOK 44 345 NOK 37 760	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 01 Aug 2026 / Sat, 15 Aug 2026	NOK 45 015	On request	Not available	On request
Wed, 05 Aug 2026 / Wed, 19 Aug 2026	NOK 45 015	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 15 Aug 2026 / Sat, 29 Aug 2026	NOK 45 015 NOK 38 295	On request	Not available	On request
Wed, 19 Aug 2026 / Wed, 02 Sep 2026	NOK 45 015	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 27 Mar 2027 / Sat, 10 Apr 2027	NOK 47 035	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 10 Jul 2027 / Sat, 24 Jul 2027	NOK 45 690	On request	Not available	On request
Wed, 14 Jul 2027 / Wed, 28 Jul 2027	NOK 45 690	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 17 Jul 2027 / Sat, 31 Jul 2027	NOK 45 690	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 24 Jul 2027 / Sat, 07 Aug 2027	NOK 45 690	On request	Not available	On request
Wed, 28 Jul 2027 / Wed, 11 Aug 2027	NOK 45 690	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 31 Jul 2027 / Sat, 14 Aug 2027	NOK 45 690	On request	Not available	On request
Wed, 04 Aug 2027 / Wed, 18 Aug 2027	NOK 45 690	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 07 Aug 2027 / Sat, 21 Aug 2027	NOK 45 690	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 14 Aug 2027 / Sat, 28 Aug 2027	NOK 45 690	On request	Not available	On request
Sat, 18 Dec 2027 / Sat, 01 Jan 2028	NOK 50 395	On request	Not available	On request

We will get back to you with an offer on the requested trip / package within 48 hours. All offers are non-binding and are usually valid for 7 days. Please note that reserved services can be canceled within these 7 days and that price may change until a final order is received.

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Costa Rica Adventure Family Holiday

Overview

Itinerary

Photos

Important Information

Prices / Dates