There are few places in Costa Rica that are not well suited to families. Visit a wildlife rescue center, get to know Manuel Antonio National Park, cross suspension bridges in the Monteverde Could Forest, and explore the canals of Tortuguero National Park.
With careful planning, driving times between regions can be broken up with fun nature excursions to keep the kids entertained.
Get startedby describing your ideal trip, and we will connect you to a local specialist that will help you plan out the details.
Costa Rica Travel Insights
Why Costa Rica is Great for Families
For parents toying with the idea of an international vacation, this Latin American nation is chock-full of family experiences that will leave a lasting impression for years to come. Below, we’ve compiled five reasons why you should put Costa Rica at the top of your family's travel list.
Family-Friendly Arenal and Manuel Antonio National Park- 9 Days
Fun for the whole family, this itinerary covers two of Costa Rica's most famous areas. Arenal and Manuel Antonio are some of the best representations of Costa Rica; Arenal area features one of the most famous volcanos in the country, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, while Manuel Antonio National Park is renown for its white sandy beaches and vast diversity of tropical plants and wildlife.
Volcano & Pacific Beach Family Adventure - 6 Days
With cascading waterfalls, idyllic beaches, and smoking volcanoes, Costa Rica is an ideal destination for families. This exciting 6-day itinerary takes you to some of the country's major highlights. Hike around the towering Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, then go for a swim in Oropendola Waterfall. Then move on to the surf village of Tamarindo, where you'll learn to ride the waves during a private lesson. Finish the trip with a whitewater rafting adventure or a safari float before heading back to Liberia, where the journey comes to an end.
Coast to Coast Family Adventure - 11 Days
Experience the best Costa Rica has to offer on this family-friendly 11-day adventure. You'll watch sea turtles on the Caribbean beaches of Tortuguero National Park, hike around Arenal Volcano, zip-line through the cloud forest of Monteverde, and finally relax on the remote, Pacific beaches of Guanacaste. Along the way, you'll make your own hot chocolate and coffee from bean to cup, spot monkeys in the wild, swim under a waterfall—and maybe even catch a wave.
Family Fun on the Caribbean Side - 7 Days
With your kids in tow, get out and explore Costa Rica's capital city before making your way through the lush lowlands toward the Caribbean Coast in this adventure tour. From nature treks to river rafting to pristine beaches, this week-long itinerary is created for families who want to experience Costa Rica's splendid scenery, wildlife, and distinctly laid-back culture.
6 Family-Friendly Activities in San José
Costa Rica abounds with wildlife and outdoor activities, setting the scene for an ideal family vacation. But you don't need to head straight to the beach—travelers flying into urban San José will find plenty to do with kids upon arrival. Interactive museums, local markets, and more are a great way to spend a day in the city.
Costa Rica Family Vacation: Volcanoes, Jungles, Beaches and Wildlife - 14 Days
This extensive itinerary will introduce you to all of Costa Rica's iconic experiences. Activities range from thrilling jungle adventures to relaxing trips to the beach, making this tour a great option for any traveler.
Volcano & Pacific Beach Family Adventure - 7 Days
Experience a range of Costa Rica's top natural highlights on this family-oriented 7-day adventure. Beginning in Liberia, you'll explore Rincón de la Vieja National Park, home to a towering volcano of the same name. Next, you'll base yourself in the surf town of Tamarindo, a great jumping-off point for visiting the sun-kissed beaches and unspoiled rainforests of the Nicoya Peninsula. There are plenty of kid-friendly activities along the way, including waterfall hikes, kayak excursions, surf lessons, and whitewater rafting.
Best Time of Year to Visit Costa Rica
For access to all the country has to offer, visit during the dry season that runs from December through April—winter is the most popular time, with great weather and sizable crowds. The rainy (or"green") season is great for travelers heading to the perennially sunny Caribbean coast—or to Monteverde, which will likely be wet no matter when you visit.
How it works
Step 1
Tell us what kind of trip you want
Step 2
Chat with a local travel specialist
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists
Holden Ketchum
I have lived in Costa Rica for eight years and made it my home. My role is to help travelers connect to the activities and experiences that will bring them the most joy and provide lasting...
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Olman Romero
I was born in Turrialba, it is a region famous for hosting the Guayabo Archeological Monument, which is the oldest and most important pre-hispanic archeological site in the country. Turrialba is...
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Yuliana Valverde
For over a decade, my passion for creating unforgettable trips in Costa Rica shines a deep understanding of the country's diverse attractions and activities, as well as a genuine commitment to...
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Elena Mora
"I was born in Costa Rica and grew up on my family's sugar and coffee plantation farm in the mountains of Turrialba. From an early age, I learned from my family to deeply cherish and respect our...
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Trip Reviews for Costa Rica
Thank you to Holden and Team kimkim for a great trip to Costa Rica
Costa Rica
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Apr 15 - Apr 20, 2025
Holden was so responsive and helpful. He and the kimkim team got creative when I decided at the last minute to add a stop and I so appreciated their willingness to make things work. Holden found us beautiful hotels, great local guides. We had such a wonderful time. Thank you!
Costa Rica April 2025
Costa Rica
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Apr 10 - Apr 18, 2025
Dear David,
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful experience!
I’m delighted to hear that your trip to Costa Rica was everything you had hoped for.
I truly appreciate your detailed feedback — it will undoubtedly be helpful to future travelers.
I would be honored to assist you in planning a second adventure through my beautiful homeland.
Best regards,
Bryan León
Pura Vida Trip!
Costa Rica
|
Mar 29 - Apr 6, 2025
