16-Day Costa Rica Family Tour

Itinerary

• DAY 1 Juan Santamaría International Airport
  

  An English-speaking guide will drive you from Juan Santamaría International Airport to the town of Alajuela, which serves as a hub for exploring the lush Central Valley, rich with coffee plantations and vibrant wildlife. Key sites within Alajuela include the Juan Santamaría Museum, dedicated to the national hero, and the central cathedral that adds to the city’s historical ambiance. Its proximity to the Poás Volcano National Park allows for easy day trips to one of the world’s largest accessible volcanic craters.

  • Activity:Arrival.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Accommodation:Hotel Bougainvillea or similar.
• DAY 2 Caño Blanco
  

  Early in the morning, The hotel bus will take you from San José to Caño Blanco to board a boat to Tortuguero National Park. This prime nesting site for sea turtles boasts diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, mangroves, swamps, and beaches. The park’s biodiverse habitats support an impressive array of wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and numerous bird species. Tortuguero’s commitment to conservation makes it a critical area for research and education, offering visitors insight into wildlife protection and environmental sustainability.

  • Activity:Exploring.
  • Transport:Car. Boat.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
  • Accommodation:Pachira Lodge or similar.
• DAY 3 Caño Blanco
  

  Today you have a free day to enjoy the surroundings at your leisure. Caño Blanco is an essential gateway for adventurers looking to delve into the rich ecosystems of the northern Caribbean coast. Visitors can board river safaris navigating the serene canals to observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitats and the dense, tropical flora. These networked waterways are home to jaguars, monkeys, and numerous bird species.

  • Activity:Relaxing.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch. Dinner.
  • Accommodation:Pachira Lodge or similar.
• DAY 4 Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
  

  After breakfast, take the boat once again and head back to Caño Blanco, where the bus will be waiting to take you to Guácimo. Here, your transportation of choice will be waiting to take you to the Puerto Viejo de Talamanca. This laid-back town is known for its cultural diversity, blending Caribbean, Bribrí indigenous, and expatriate influences. It’s also a culinary hotspot, offering a mix of traditional Costa Rican dishes and international cuisine influenced by its diverse community.

  • Activity:Transfer.
  • Transport:Car. Boat.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
  • Accommodation:Cariblue Beach & Jungle Resort or similar.
• DAY 5 Cahuita National Park
  

  Embark on a memorable adventure as you spend the day snorkeling and walking amidst the natural wonders of Cahuita National Park. Dive into the crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful marine life, exploring vibrant coral reefs and hidden treasures beneath the surface. Afterward, take strolls along scenic trails, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and the soothing sounds of nature. With ample time to unwind, relax, and enjoy the pristine beaches, immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of this coastal paradise.

  • Activity:Snorkeling. Walking.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
  • Accommodation:Cariblue Beach & Jungle Resort or similar.
• DAY 6 Sarapiqui
  

  Transition from the Caribbean coast to Sarapiqui’s lowlands, passing quaint villages adorned with local fruit vendors along the way. Immerse yourself in the pioneering spirit of sustainable tourism at La Quinta, a family-founded eco-lodge nestled within Costa Rica’s vibrant landscape since 1993. Born from the transformation of an orange farm’s operations center, La Quinta harmoniously blends its history with eco-conscious innovation, boasting rooms remodeled from adjacent houses, a reforestation initiative, and 20 acres of diverse ecosystems.

  • Activity:Transfer. Relaxing.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:La Quinta Sarapiqui Lodge or similar.
• DAY 7 La Fortuna
  

  Prepare for an adrenaline-filled morning as you navigate the thrilling white water rapids of Class II and Class III at the Sarapiquí River. Afterward, journey to the charming village of La Fortuna, nestled in the shadow of the majestic Arenal Volcano. Enjoy an array of activities, from relaxing hot springs to exhilarating whitewater rafting, rappelling, hiking, and canopy tours. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit La Fortuna Waterfall or Arenal Lake, easily accessible from the welcoming town or nearby lodges.

  • Activity:Transfer. Sightseeing.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Volcano Lodge or similar.
• DAY 8 Maleku Indigenous People
  

  Today, immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Maleku indigenous people as you participate in the Tafa Urijíf project. Be warmly welcomed into their community and join in their daily thankfulness ceremony, a cherished tradition passed down through generations. Learn about their ancient medicinal plants, traditional arts, and archery practice. Delight in a traditional lunch, sharing in the flavors of their cuisine.

  • Activity:Crafting. Relaxing.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast. Lunch.
  • Accommodation:Volcano Lodge or similar.
• DAY 9 Learning to make chocolate
  

  Delve into the fascinating history and significance of cacao since pre-Columbian times, discovering its use as a valuable currency. Participate in the artisanal chocolate-making process, getting hands-on experience in crafting your own delicious treats (and indulging in them!). Marvel at the majestic volcano views while engaging in a paddleboarding experience on the tranquil lake, combining exercise with scenic beauty. This day is filled with history, culture, culinary delights, and outdoor adventure!

  • Activity:Cooking. Paddleboarding. Sightseeing.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Volcano Lodge or similar.
• DAY 10 Cocles Beach
  

  Experience the allure of the Costa Rican Caribbean culture at the Poco a Poco resort, perfectly situated in front of Cocles Beach’s golden sands and surrounded by lush tropical forests. The resort features comfortable rooms, bungalows, and villas; two freshwater pools, a Jacuzzi, and the Surya Wellness SPA for ultimate relaxation. Guests can enjoy meals at the Jungle restaurant and cocktails at the Congo Wetbar. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, this resort offers a perfect blend of both for a memorable Costa Rican vacation.

  • Activity:Cruising. Relaxing.
  • Transport:Car. Boat.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco or similar.
• DAY 11 Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
  

  Situated on the mountain ranges of the Tilarán Province, Monteverde is home to iconic species like the resplendent quetzal, the three-wattled bellbird, and the elusive jaguar. Delight in the mesmerizing sight of dozens of vibrant butterflies at the Butterfly Garden, witnessing their fascinating stages of development up close. The reserve is an important site for scientific research and environmental education. Many biologists and students come to Monteverde to study its diverse ecosystems and the species that inhabit them.

  • Activity:Hiking. Wildlife Watching.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco or similar.
• DAY 12 Selvatura Park
  

  Prepare for an exhilarating adventure in the lush landscapes of Monteverde. Traverse the treetops along the thrilling hanging bridges, offering panoramic views of the verdant forest canopy and glimpses of elusive wildlife below. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you soar through the sky on an exciting zipline tour, and discover the charm of Costa Rica’s iconic sloths at the Sloth Sanctuary. Unleash your inner adventurer and create unforgettable memories at the heart of nature’s playground!

  • Activity:Zip Lining. Hiking.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco or similar.
• DAY 13 Montezuma
  

  Descend to Puntarenas and board the ferry crossing the Gulf of Nicoya to the peninsula, then proceed to Montezuma. Discover Nya Hotel, a serene oasis nestled in Montezuma’s vibrant landscapes. Visitors and locals converge in a hub of hospitality surrounded by chic tropical gardens teeming with wildlife. The area is renowned for its cascading waterfalls, where visitors can enjoy refreshing swims in natural pools.

  • Activity:Transfer.
  • Transport:Car. Ferry.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:NYA Hotel or similar.
• DAY 14 Montezuma
  

  Today you have a free day to enjoy the surroundings at your leisure. The town serves as a gateway to exploring the biodiverse Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, Costa Rica’s first protected area, which provides excellent hiking opportunities and wildlife viewing. This small, serene community attracts a mix of backpackers, yoga enthusiasts, and eco-tourists. With a variety of local eateries serving fresh seafood and international cuisine, along with charming accommodations, Montezuma offers a peaceful yet adventurous escape.

  • Activity:Relaxing.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:NYA Hotel or similar.
• DAY 15 Montezuma
  

  Today you get another free day at your leisure! Nestled at the southeastern tip of Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, Montezuma is a quaint and eclectic beach town known for its bohemian vibe and stunning natural beauty. Montezuma’s beaches, such as Playa Montezuma, are perfect for sunbathing, beachcombing, and tide pooling, while more secluded spots like Playa de los Artistas offer tranquil retreats.

  • Activity:Relaxing.
  • Meal:Breakfast.
  • Accommodation:NYA Hotel or similar.
• DAY 16 Juan Santamaría International Airport
  

  This is the last day of your stay at Hotel Grano de Oro. After breakfast, your departure from the lodge is scheduled in mid-morning private transportation to Juan Santamaría International Airport.

  • Activity:Departure.
  • Transport:Car.
  • Meal:Breakfast.