Costa Rica Adventure Family Holiday

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

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.

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.