A Family Foray to Costa Rica
An exciting family trip through Costa Rica's cloud forests, volcanoes and beautiful beaches
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
Itinerary highlights
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Explore the Cloud Forest and spot the local wildlife on a canopy tour
- See the incredible landscapes around Arenal Volcano
- Relax on the beaches of Manuel Antonio and go kayaking for a unique perspective of this coastal retreat
What's included
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Expert naturalist guides
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Private tour options in the Cloud Forests, Arenal and Manuel Antonio
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Luxury accommodation throughout
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Meet and greet airport service
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Especially designed for families
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Full support from your Travel Concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
Explore three of Costa Rica’s most eponymous destinations: cloud forests, volcanoes and beautifully dramatic palm-fringed beaches. This trip has been carefully designed for ease of travel, with complete comfort and convenience provided for your family throughout.
Start high above the trees in the cloud forests on a canopy tour or a nature trail to seek out the magnificent wildlife of this region. Your next step on this family adventure is to journey to see the epic heights of the Arenal volcano and enjoy a host of different activities for all the family to experience together, from visits to hot thermal springs to white water rafting.
Your vacation will finish in the coastal retreat of Manuel Antonio, where the whole family can enjoy a close up view of the most diverse wildlife in the whole of Costa Rica. The white sand beach and menu of water-based activities – scuba, snorkelling, sailing, kayaking and dolphin tours – are certain to keep the younger ones entertained.
Example trip itinerary
Cloud Forests
Transfer
Meet and greet at San Jose airport
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in the Cloud Forests
Accommodation in Cloud Forests
The Central Cloud Forests
Overview
Nestled in the mountains next to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, this handsome Austrian chalet-style hotel is a well-established property with a traditional feel. Views here are stunning, and the hotel strongly promotes sustainability and history.
The hotel is family run and has been in operation since 1985. Yet recent refurbishments have meant that the accommodation at Belmar has all the modern amenities you would expect from a 21st-century hotel. The rooms are tastefully decorated with hardwood fittings, and have floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies to maximise the magnificent views of the Nicoya Peninsula.
The newest suites are located in a separate building 100 metres from the lobby – great for those looking for some extra privacy.
Service here is excellent and the restaurant serves a great breakfast buffet and delicious evening meals. Enjoy cocktails and traditional Tico appetisers during the ever-popular Happy Hour.
Just south-west of the Arenal Volcano area along the Tilaran mountain range and just under a three hour (145 kilometres) from San Jose lies the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Home to over 100 species of mammals, 120 reptilian and amphibian species, 400 species of bird, and over 420 different types of orchid, this is life at its most concentrated, delicate and prolific.
The Monteverde joins onto another cloud forest in the area, named the Santa Elena Reserve. With six ecological zones Monteverde is one of the few remaining habitats that support all six species of the cat family – jaguars, ocelots, pumas, oncillas, margays, and jaguarundis – as well as the endangered three-wattled bellbird and resplendent quetzal. There are over eight miles (13 km) of trails to explore this reserve. The Santa Elena, which is the first community administered reserve in the country, has also been a very supportive habitat to the Spider Monkey which you can spot, plus on a clear day you can see the Arenal Volcano from its observation tower.
→ Find out moreThe Central Cloud Forests
Overview
Located in the heart of Monteverde on the doorstep of the world-famous Cloud Forests, Senda Monteverde Hotel is a luxurious eco-hotel ideal for adventurous travellers. The perfect setting for seeking peace and quiet on the doorstep of one of Costa Rica’s most rewarding locations, the hotel truly embraces the notion of operating in harmony with its delicate natural surroundings.
Presenting a fantastic balance of luxury and sustainability, anchored by an attractive contemporary design and surrounded by beautiful gardens, the hotel’s 24 rooms and suites provide wonderful retreats. The guest rooms are set in inviting mountain bungalows, some positioned on hilltops and enjoying breathtaking views, while others boast windows into the surrounding forest. Spacious and airy, the bungalows also benefit from open-air terraces for languid evenings absorbing the pristine surroundings.
Relaxation and indulgence come effortlessly at Senda Monteverde, the perfect antidote to a busy day exploring the nearby parks and reserves. Enjoy fine dining in the form of the on-site El Sapo Restaurant, serving up delicious local fare and signature international favourites, while the El Sapo Bar & Lounge is an inviting space in which to plan your next day in the Cloud Forests over a craft beer or two. The hotel also offers a rewarding open-studio space, showcasing everything from nature talks to yoga classes, and all complemented by awe-inspiring views.
→ Find out moreThe Central Cloud Forests
Overview
Discover Costa Rica’s delicate cloud forest at the rustic Villa Blanca.
The 34 cosy traditional casitas arranged over the 75-acre private Los Angeles Biological Sanctuary and Reserve are each wonderfully secluded and command immediate vistas and access to the forest. Typically Costa Rican in style, they are decorated with natural stone, dark woods, bamboo and dotted with native art pieces, corner fireplaces and the odd rocking chair or two. The deluxe casitas are definitely worth paying that little bit extra for and the honeymoon suite has it’s own private Jacuzzi.
Owned by an ex-president of Costa Rica, Villa Blanca is also highly renowned for its communal ethos and village-like layout, including its own organic food garden, dairy, and greenhouses; the produce of which is served in the hotel’s restaurant and café. Staff are particularly proud of this and eager to look after guests as well as inform you about the hotel’s conservation projects.
Only over an hour’s drive from San Jose airport, Villa Blanca has a peaceful and familial feel. Forest trails start from the hotel’s gardens as well as there being many private expedition programmes to choose from. There is a well-appointed spa where you could treat yourself to a massage or maybe take a yoga class.
→ Find out more
Two days exploring the Cloud Forest
Enjoy the natural evergreen environment of the misty Cloud Forests. If you wish we can arrange privately guided activities to fill your time here. Perhaps take a guided walk along the nature trails, enjoy a canopy tour, horse ride through the misty forests or take some time to practice some yoga.
Arenal
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Arenal
Accommodation in Arenal
Arenal
Highlights
- 103 rooms and suites
- Two restaurants
- Four bars
- Swimming pool
- Spa
- Communal thermal springs
- Gym
Overview
Tabacon is a beautiful and serene luxury hotel, located at the foot of the majestic Arenal Volcano. It is set within 900 acres of lush, tropical grounds through which Costa’s Rica’s largest network of hot springs flows.
This rainforest retreat is tucked away on a winding road that climbs up from the small village of La Fortuna. There are 103 rooms and suites that look out over the rainforest and gardens. Decor is contemporary and elegant and feature artwork and furnishings from Costa Rican artists.
The River Tabacon feeds into waterfalls and warm pools lined with soft, black sand and guests staying at Tabacon will enjoy full use of the thermal mineral springs. The water is heated by the volcano and the temperature in the pools ranges between 72 and 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Head upstream and you’ll find the Shangri-La Gardens, an adult-only hideaway with six pools, cocoon-shaped cabanas and bar. The open-air spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments, made all the more relaxing by the idyllic surroundings and sounds of the rainforest.
There are two restaurants offering a mix of Costa Rican and international cuisine, as well as four bars.
→ Find out moreArenal
Highlights
- 50 spacious bungalows and villas with private terraces and Jacuzzis
- Take your stay one step further with the serene Rainforest Pool Villa
- Enjoy Latin American and Spanish drinks at the Nostalgia Wine Bar
- Embark on experiences such as white-water rafting on the Sarapiqui River
- Cleanse your soul with a treatment at the clifftop spa
Overview
Nayara Gardens, the original property in the hilltop trio that also consists of Nayara Springs and Nayara Tented Camp, is a fitting choice for those looking for a private getaway in Arenal. Situated in the green valleys at the foot of the spectacular Arenal Volcano are Nayara Gardens’ 50 spacious and private casitas (bungalows) and villas.
Large screened windows open up allowing for plenty of natural light. The decor is a call to the wildlife of Costa Rica with lashings of tropical orange and the greens of encroaching foliage, along with dark wood furniture. Boasting expansive garden decks, the casitas are further adorned with hammocks or Jacuzzis where you can unwind to the melodies of the rainforest, making this property an ideal hideaway for those after a romantic retreat.
For the utmost luxury, enjoy a stay in the uniquely designed Rainforest Pool Villa. Here light drips in from almost every angle due to the villa’s octagonal layout, and the lush rainforest seems within touching distance from the wraparound balcony. Relax in the cooling waters of your own private plunge pool as you gaze out across to the Arenal Volcano.
When you aren’t indulging yourself in the luxuries of your casita, head down to any of the four restaurants in order to savour rich Costa Rican flavours. Nayara Gardens also hosts a plethora of experiences which you can embark on with a private guide. Whip across the top of the rainforest canopy on a zipline or rappel down the side of one of Arenal’s waterfalls.
Alternatively, make your way to the property’s spa for a massage, coffee scrub or a volcanic mud bath. Perched atop a cliff and overlooking the forest, it’s the ideal place to unwind and rejuvenate.
→ Find out moreArenal
Overview
With outstanding views of the Arenal Volcano, natural hot springs, five unique dining experiences, and a full-service Spa, The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal is set on a 165-acre property. It’s the perfect getaway for families and adventurers, with a water slide, putt-putt course, river tubing, horse riding and rock climbing on offer. The rooms, suites and villas are spacious and inviting, with great views of the volcano or valley.
→ Find out more
Three days exploring Arenal
This beautiful and diverse region holds an abundance of incredible experiences for all to enjoy, from adrenalin adventure activities to more relaxed, leisurely walks and days at hot springs.
Transfer
Private transfer to La Fortuna airstrip
Flight
Flight to Quepos
Manuel Antonio
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Manuel Antonio
Accommodation in Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio
Highlights
- Two pools
- Two restaurants and a bar
- Spa
- Butterfly garden
- Guided night walks in wildlife refuge
- Canopy zip line
- Horseback riding & mountain biking
- Birdwatching & Mangrove tours
- Surfing school, sailing, kayaking and diving
Overview
Make yourself at home and relax on one of the hotel’s lush jungle terraces, enjoy the views out over the beautiful gardens towards the sea and Manuel Antonio National Park.
Design meets comfort in the 58 rooms which have been purposefully set against the contours of the jungle hillside, giving the impression that they are seamlessly connected to the surrounding tropical forests. Truly Costa Rican in style, fun and family-friendly, Si Como No’s extensive facilities and reliable service makes it one of the best equipped and relaxed barefoot luxury hotels in Manuel Antonio. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and it’s worth getting a room in the newer part of the hotel or perhaps even a deluxe one which have great views of the Pacific Ocean.
Colourful, tropical interiors, stained glass windows and lots of natural wood illustrate the very Tico character of the hotel. There is also a well-appointed spa offering massages and beauty treatments, two restaurants, a butterfly garden, wildlife centre and even a 45-seater cinema.
The hotel’s location near the smallest yet second most popular national park in the country with 4000 hectares of rainforest and 136,000 acres of marine reserve means a plentiful choice of local activities and adventure expeditions.
→ Find out moreManuel Antonio
Overview
Perched on the Punta Quepos promontory, this luxury eco-hotel is just a short walk from the beach, and a 15-minute drive from Manuel Antonio National Park. Surrounded by 12 acres of lush rainforest, the hotel is surrounded by a wide variety of nature trails which take you close to the region’s stunning wildlife and lead to clifftop views.
The resort’s 129 spacious rooms and suites blend a relaxed tropical style with contemporary comfort, and some include private balconies. The décor and grand style of the hotel is more European than Costa Rican with conquistador and Hispanic influences. High ceilings, heavy and ornate wood furniture with a touch of faded glamour does hold a certain homage to the colonial past. The rooms are well-appointed with the modern amenities, although if you are after a spacious, light room with a good view of the ocean or gardens then anything above the category of premium plus is recommended.
Whether you’re craving seafood, Mediterranean specialities or heaty local dishes, you’ll find it at the resort’s three ocean-view eateries. From casual light meals, to private dining, there are a range of options. And at the end of the day, spend some time recounting tales of your Costa Rican adventures at one of the four bars.
While away the hours at the swimming pools, on the tennis courts, or on go exploring through the rainforest. There is also a selection of adventure sports to choose from, like zip lining, white water rafting, horse riding, kayaking and jet skiing. Then treat yourself to beauty treatments or relaxation therapies at the spa.
→ Find out moreManuel Antonio
Overview
Sitting in 11 acres of its own private nature reserve and bookended by the stunning Playa Espadilla and Playitas beach, Arenas del Mar is a superb hotel for enjoying the delights of Manuel Antonio National Park which is within walking distance.
The rooms, of which there are 38, are all well equipped with private balconies looking out onto the Pacific Ocean and surrounding coastal islands. As a leader in the trend of sustainable hotels in this country, Arenas del Mar prides itself on its eco-conscious practices and ethos and the service is both friendly and efficient.
The two restaurants at the hotel place a strong emphasis on fresh, wholesome and local food. The menus showcase gourmet Costa Rican cuisine and responsibly-caught seafood. There are also delicious vegetarian and vegan options available.
There are a number of tours and activities to choose from so you can really take advantage of all that the area has to offer (and it offers a lot) or simply relax on the hotel’s private beach, at the poolside or indulge in a spa treatment or two.
→ Find out more
Four days relaxing in Manuel Antonio
This is the country’s most popular coastal retreat for many a reason, namely its controlled development, marine reserves, national parks and white-sanded beaches. As a family you can enjoy both the secluded, relaxing side of this location as well as the menu of water activities - scuba, snorkelling, sailing, kayaking, dolphin tours - to keep the younger ones entertained, not to mention the ease of lots of amenities and convenience to the capital.
Transfer
Private transfer to San Jose airport
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
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A Family Foray to Costa Rica
How we work
Explore three of Costa Rica’s most eponymous destinations: cloud forests, volcanoes and beautifully dramatic palm-fringed beaches. This trip has been carefully designed for ease of travel, with complete comfort and convenience provided for your family throughout. Start high above the trees in the cloud forests on a canopy tour or a nature trail to seek out the magnificent wildlife of this region. Your next step on this family adventure is to journey to see the epic heights of the Arenal volcano and enjoy a host of different activities for all the family to experience together, from visits to hot thermal springs to white water rafting. Your vacation will finish in the coastal retreat of Manuel Antonio, where the whole family can enjoy a close up view of the most diverse wildlife in the whole of Costa Rica. The white sand beach and menu of water-based activities – scuba, snorkelling, sailing, kayaking and dolphin tours – are certain to keep the younger ones entertained. | Whats included?
|
Days 1-3 |
Cloud Forests |
|
Flights & transfers
Meet and greet at San Jose airport |
|
| Private transfer to your hotel in the Cloud Forests | |
|
Accommodation in Cloud Forests
•
Hotel Belmar - $$$$$
Nestled in the mountains next to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, this handsome Austrian...
•
Senda Monteverde Hotel - $$$$$
Located in the heart of Monteverde on the doorstep of the world-famous Cloud Forests, Senda...
•
Villa Blanca Cloud Forest Hotel - $$$$$
Discover Costa Rica’s delicate cloud forest at the rustic Villa Blanca.
The 34 cosy...
|
|
| Two days exploring the Cloud Forest Enjoy the natural evergreen environment of the misty Cloud Forests. If you wish we can arrange privately guided activities to fill your time here. Perhaps take a guided walk along the nature trails, enjoy a canopy tour, horse ride through the misty forests or take some time to practice some yoga. |
|
Days 3-6 |
Arenal |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Arenal |
|
|
Accommodation in Arenal
•
Tabacon - $$$$$
Tabacon is a beautiful and serene luxury hotel, located at the foot of the majestic Arenal...
•
Nayara Gardens - $$$$$
Voted one of South America’s most romantic hotels, the Nayara is a fitting choice for those...
•
The Springs Resort & Spa - $$$$$
With outstanding views of the Arenal Volcano, natural hot springs, five unique dining...
|
|
| Three days exploring Arenal This beautiful and diverse region holds an abundance of incredible experiences for all to enjoy, from adrenalin adventure activities to more relaxed, leisurely walks and days at hot springs. |
|
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to La Fortuna airstrip |
|
| Flight to Quepos | |
Days 6-10 |
Manuel Antonio |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Manuel Antonio |
|
|
Accommodation in Manuel Antonio
•
Si Como No - $$$$$
Tucked on a hillside along the Central Pacific coast you’ll discover Si Como No, a...
•
El Parador - $$$$$
Perched on the Punta Quepos promontory, this luxury eco-hotel is just a short walk from the...
•
Arenas del Mar - $$$$$
Sitting in 11 acres of its own private nature reserve and bookended by the stunning Playa...
|
|
| Four days relaxing in Manuel Antonio This is the country’s most popular coastal retreat for many a reason, namely its controlled development, marine reserves, national parks and white-sanded beaches. As a family you can enjoy both the secluded, relaxing side of this location as well as the menu of water activities - scuba, snorkelling, sailing, kayaking, dolphin tours - to keep the younger ones entertained, not to mention the ease of lots of amenities and convenience to the capital. |
|
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to San Jose airport |
