Costa Rica Family Highlights

Our Costa Rica Family Highlights vacation package brings you to the most popular family destinations in the country. Explore the Arenal Volcano region and float down the Penas Blancas River. Discover the secrets of Monteverde Cloud Forest. Hike and swim on the wild rainforest beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park.


$15,585

TOTAL (4 passengers)

See more pricing details

*Surcharges apply for travel over the December/January holiday period, Easter week, and the week surrounding President's Day. Reductions may apply for May-November travel. International airfare not included.

*Price valid until: October 31, 2027.

$17,995

TOTAL (5 passengers)

See more pricing details

*Surcharges apply for travel over the December/January holiday period, Easter week, and the week surrounding President's Day. Reductions may apply for May-November travel. International airfare not included.

*Price valid until: October 31, 2027.

$19,625

TOTAL (6 passengers)

See more pricing details

*Surcharges apply for travel over the December/January holiday period, Easter week, and the week surrounding President's Day. Reductions may apply for May-November travel. International airfare not included.

*Price valid until: October 31, 2027.

9 days

8 nights

Trip Overview:

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Transfer to Tabacon Thermal Resort (Arenal Volcano)

Upon your morning or afternoon arrival in San Jose, meet your driver for a private transfer by ground approximately 3 hours to the Arenal Volcano area. Arrive at the Tabacón Thermal Resort.

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa is a beloved boutique retreat renowned for its spectacular network of natural, volcano-fed hot springs surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. Guests can enjoy refined dining at Aves Restaurant or more casual fare at Tucanes, located within the hot springs complex. For a quieter, adults-only escape, the Shangri-La Gardens welcome guests ages 18 and older with secluded thermal pools, a private bar, and a peaceful atmosphere. With accommodations ranging from family-friendly rooms to adults-only suites, Tabacón offers a memorable blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and luxury in the heart of Arenal.

Day 2


Peñas Blancas Safari Float

Discover the beauty of Costa Rica’s rainforest on a peaceful wildlife float along the Peñas Blancas River. As your expert naturalist guide navigates the gentle waters, sit back and take in the lush tropical scenery while keeping an eye out for monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and colorful tropical birds along the riverbanks. With no paddling required, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to photograph wildlife and enjoy the sights and sounds of the rainforest. After your river journey, visit a local family farm for a glimpse into traditional Costa Rican life and a delicious homemade snack. Overnight at Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa.

Day 3


La Fortuna Waterfall Tour with Farm Visit

Discover one of Arenal’s most beautiful natural attractions on a visit to the spectacular La Fortuna Waterfall, which plunges nearly 230 feet into a lush tropical canyon. Descend approximately 530 steps through the rainforest to reach the base of the falls, where you can admire the cascading water and enjoy a refreshing swim in the designated swimming area. Afterward, continue to La Finquita Farm & Restaurant for a delicious lunch in a relaxed countryside setting. Surrounded by the region’s natural beauty, the farm offers a glimpse into Costa Rica’s agricultural traditions and rural way of life. Overnight at Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa.

Day 4


Boat transfer to Monteverde Lodge

This morning, travel from Arenal to Monteverde by boat and ground transfer, enjoying a scenic journey through Costa Rica’s beautiful countryside. Begin with a drive to the Arenal Dam, where you’ll board a comfortable pontoon boat for a 45-minute crossing of Lake Arenal, surrounded by lush hillsides and views of the volcano. Upon reaching Río Chiquito, continue by road for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours into the misty highlands of the Monteverde Cloud Forest region.

Travel times may be longer during the rainy season.

Arrive at Monteverde Lodge, a charming boutique retreat surrounded by lush gardens and a private cloud forest reserve. The lodge’s 31 inviting rooms feature stylish interiors and private terraces or balconies that bring you closer to the surrounding nature. Enjoy creative cuisine at El Jardín Restaurant, including thoughtfully prepared plant-based options, or unwind with a tropical drink beside the free-form swimming pool. With its peaceful setting and convenient location within walking distance of Monteverde town, the lodge offers an ideal base for exploring this remarkable region.

Day 5

Monteverde Aerial Tram, Zip-line, & Hanging Bridges (with lunch):

Begin your adventure aboard the TreeTram, a scenic aerial gondola that ascends through the cloud forest to an elevation of 5,700 feet, offering spectacular views of Monteverde’s lush landscape. From here, experience the thrill of soaring above the treetops on seven exhilarating ziplines, ranging from 460 to 2,460 feet in length and spanning a combined 1.9 miles. Afterward, explore the cloud forest at your own pace along a 1.7-mile network of trails and six hanging bridges, some reaching heights of up to 164 feet above the forest floor. Along the way, take in the remarkable beauty and biodiversity of this unique ecosystem from a different perspective. Overnight at Monteverde Lodge.

Height and weight restrictions apply. Inquire for details before booking.

Day 6

Transfer to Los Altos Resort & Spa (Manuel Antonio)

Today, meet your driver for private transfer by ground approximately 3.5 hours to the Manuel Antonio / Quepos area on the Central Pacific Coast. Arrive at Los Altos Nature & Beach Resort.

Set on 21 acres of lush tropical hillside, Los Altos Resort offers spacious, residential-style accommodations with beautiful jungle and ocean views. The resort’s multi-bedroom suites are ideal for families and groups, while its townhouses and villas offer inviting retreats for couples and adults. Guests can enjoy refined dining at Karolas Restaurant & Bar, casual bites by the pool, or fresh smoothies, coffee, pastries, and light fare at The Heights Café. A complimentary daily shuttle to Manuel Antonio Beach makes it easy to explore the area, while activities such as yoga, cooking classes, and guided hikes offer additional ways to enjoy your stay. Combining the space and comforts of a private residence with the amenities of an upscale resort, Los Altos is an excellent home base for experiencing Manuel Antonio.

Day 7

Private Manuel Antonio Park Hike

Explore Manuel Antonio National Park, one of Costa Rica’s most beloved natural treasures, where pristine white sand beaches meet lush tropical rainforest. Accompanied by an expert naturalist guide, follow scenic forest trails in search of the park’s remarkable wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and colorful tropical birds. Home to more than 100 species of mammals and 180 species of birds, the park offers wonderful opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. After your guided walk, enjoy time relaxing or swimming at one of the park’s beautiful beaches. Overnight at Los Altos Resort.

We recommend bringing a swimsuit and towel to enjoy the beach after your tour.

Day 8

Manuel Antonio Free Day

Relax by the pool, unwind at the spa, or explore the area! Add taxi services, restaurant reservations, and local tours with the help of the hotel concierge.  Overnight Los Altos Beach Nature & Beach Resort.

Day 9

Depart San Jose, Costa Rica

This morning you will transfer by ground approximately 3 hours to the international airport in San Jose for your afternoon or evening departure.

Pricing is valid through the date listed for each itinerary (all pricing is subject to change until booked and confirmed). Holiday season supplements apply for Christmas, New Year’s, Presidents Day, and Easter travel dates. Green season specials and/or lower rates may apply for May to November travel dates.

All itineraries are land only and international airfare is quoted separately. Itinerary adjustments may be necessary depending on your international flight schedule. For example, a late arrival will usually require a night near the airport in San Jose.

Please call one of our experts at 800-827-9046 to discuss your travel details.


Book this vacation

Our custom vacation packages include accommodations, in-country transportation, and day tours to make your vacation hassle-free. Due to high demand, we are not offering individual day tours at this time. All vacation packages require a 7-day minimum.

Compare Similar Vacations

  • Family Safari

    Family Safari

    This exciting Costa Rica family vacation is perfect for travelers who love wildlife, nature, and adventure. Journey through lush rainforests and scenic landscapes while spotting monkeys, sloths, tropical birds, and other incredible wildlife along the way. With family-friendly activities, immersive nature experiences, and comfortable accommodations, this itinerary offers the perfect blend of exploration, relaxation, and…

    Price

    $10050 TOTAL per family of 4 in 1 room
    $14100 TOTAL per family of 5 in 2 rooms
    $15630 TOTAL per family of 6 in 2 rooms

    Duration

    9 days | 8 nights
  • Arenal Adventure Week Luxury

    Arenal Adventure Week Luxury

    Arenal is the adventure capital of Costa Rica! With so much to see and experience at this one destination, you could spend a week there. And, this is it! Enjoy The Springs Resort & Spa with Arenal Volcano in view and hot springs right on the property. From there, every adventure can be had! Experience…

    Price

    $16880 TOTAL for 4 passengers sharing 1 Vista Grande Double Queen Room
    $17995 TOTAL for 5 passengers sharing 1 Vista Grande Double Queen Room
    $19250 TOTAL for 6 passengers sharing 1 Vista Grande Double Queen Room

    Destinations Visited

    Duration

    8 days | 7 nights
  • Sloths & Treehouses

    Sloths & Treehouses

    Discover the magic of Costa Rica on this unforgettable journey designed for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The Sloths & Treehouses vacation takes you from the lush rainforest surrounding the iconic Arenal Volcano to the peaceful mountains of Santa Juana, where you’ll stay in charming treehouse-style accommodations surrounded by breathtaking views. Along the way,…

    Price

    $3290 per person, double occupancy

    Duration

    9 days | 8 nights