Costa Rica Family Adventure
11 days/10 nights
With its warm waters under a bright tropical sun, Costa Rica is the perfect location for a family adventure!
The biodiversity, majestic waters and uninhabited landscapes makes Costa Rica a playground for people of all ages. You will have the chance to explore some the country’s best spots and will always be greeted by friendly locals and curious animals. It is an adventure like no other!
SUMMARY
DAY 1: Fri, Dec 21 ::: Arrive San Jose, Transfer to Arenal
DAY 2: Sat, Dec 22 ::: Hike Arenal Volcano National Park
Day 3: Sun, Dec 23 ::: Arenal to Monteverde
DAY 4: Mon, Dec 24 ::: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Nature Walk
DAY 5: Tue, Dec 25 ::: Monteverde to Playa Panama, Guanacaste
DAYs 6-9: Wed-Sat, Dec 26-29 ::: Playa Panama, Guanacaste Free Days
Day 10: Sun, Dec 30 ::: Playa Panama to San José
Day 11: Mon, Dec 31 ::: San Jose Departure
DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1
Arrival in San Jose
Arrival at the Juan Santamaria International Airport in San José. After passing through immigration you will be met by a member of the National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR) who will give you a sticker that will facilitate you clearing customs. As you exit meet a transport representative for the approximately 3 hour transfer.
Arenal Volcano National Park
Arenal Volcano is located on the north plains of Costa Rica in the province of Alajuela. Besides the activity of lava rocks and occasional eruptions over the last 40 years, the area is surrounded by lush rainforest and second growth that cover the old lava flows. There is abundant wildlife in the area, and many bird species like toucans, toucans, motmots, jacamars, tanagers, honeycreepers and hummingbirds.
While Arenal Volcano continues to be the main attraction in this region, in recent years many optional activities have been developed which visitors can enjoy during their visit. Recommended activities in Arenal: canopies and hanging bridges, rafting class II & III, canyoning, birding, caving, nature hikes, lava hikes, horseback riding, waterfalls, butterfly gardens, thermal springs, organic farms and more.
Day 2
Hike Arenal Volcano National Park
This morning with your guide, you will hike near the Arenal Volcano. On your hike you will have an opportunity to see a variety of rainforest wildlife and view the volcano from a safe vantage point while your guide explains its fascinating history. After the tour enjoy a delicious lunch in the area.
In the afternoon visit the Arenal Hanging Bridges, entrance fee included. This is a complex of suspended bridges and trails through a beautiful rainforest. As you walk through, you may encounter a variety of the wildlife, including toucans, motmots, trogons, poison dart frogs, howling monkeys, spider monkeys and white-faced capuchin monkeys. These bridges allow for the observation of flora and fauna from the ground level to the top of the trees. This is one of the best methods of learning about the complexity and beauty of the rainforests of Arenal. (Tours offered on shared small-group basis)
DAY 3
Arenal to Monteverde
Arenal to Monteverde Lake Crossing, including pick-up at your hotel and transfer to the lake, boat ride across Lake Arenal, connecting with a land transfer to your hotel in Monteverde.
Monteverde Cloud Forest
One of the world’s premiere destinations for naturalists, Monteverde Cloud Forest, is located at nearly five thousand feet elevation in the Tilaran Range of northwest Costa Rica. A cloud forest is an especially beautiful and rare type of rainforest created by frequent mists from low-lying clouds and characterized by massive trees covered by thick “carpets” of small plants know as epiphytes. Much of the resident wildlife is unique to these habitats.
Day 4
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Nature Walk
Enjoy a relaxed morning on your own. In the early afternoon you will visit the world-famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Hike the reserve on well-groomed trails with your expert naturalist guide. It is very possible to see the resplendent Quetzal, along with many other unique species. As a prime example of cloud forest ecosystems, Monteverde has been intensely studied by scientists and is the site for pioneering research on the effects of climate change on tropical ecosystems. (Tours offered on shared small-group basis)
Day 5
Monteverde to Playa Panama, Guanacaste
Private transfer from Monteverde to your hotel in Playa Panama, Guanacaste. Approximately 2.5 hour transfer.
Days 6-8
Playa Panama, Guanacaste
Days at your leisure to relax at the hotel´s swimming pool or local beach, or partake in additional activities in the area (at additional cost).
DAY 9
Playa Panama to San José
Private transfer from your hotel in Playa Panama, to your hotel in San José. Approximately 4.5 hour transfer.
DAY 10
Depart San Jose
Pick-up at your hotel for departure transfer to the San Jose International Airport. Check in 3 hours prior to the scheduled flight time.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Facing Arenal Volcano, Arenal Manoa Hotel has gardens, volcano view rooms and an adjacent farm open to guests. Set in verdant plains 4 miles west of La Fortuna, Arenal Manoa rooms feature panoramic views of nearby Arenal Volcano. Bordered by a small river, this attractive country hotel is set among lush manicured grounds and pastoral scenery including an adjacent dairy farm available for guest visits. Many area tours can be arranged at the hotel.
Senda Monteverde Hotel is located in the beautiful town of Monteverde in Costa Rica. The hotel offers 24 guest rooms and suites with open-air porches overlooking the lush gardens or ocean. Guests can explore the mystical Cloud Forest, learn about the local Quaker culture as well as walk through the area‘s famous Farmer‘s Market. The hotel also offers luxury amenities, gorgeous local artworks and playful nooks to relax in.
Nestled in Golfo de Papagayo, Playa Panama serves as Casa Conde Del Mars front yard. Vacationers at the Hotel Casa Conde del Mar can kick back and relax on the beach under an umbrella, take a refreshing dip in the impressive waterfall-fed outdoor pool, or enjoy a revitalizing beachfront massage and manicure at one of the hotels outdoor spa-treatment areas. Active travelers can revel in the abundant snorkeling and fishing in the nearby waters, trek along the rustic hiking trails or saddle up with a bit of horseback riding.
Located three blocks from Paseo Colon, the city’s main avenue, and walking distance of downtown, the Park Inn is a perfect spot for an overnight stay. Sample local and international cuisine at RBG Bar & Grill, and enjoy a dip in the shimmering outdoor pool. Its comfortable accommodations feature free wireless Internet access, a mini bar and a coffee maker. The orthopedic mattress and plasma TV create a relaxing environment for your evening.
Included:
Hotel accommodations as detailed
Meals as indicated
Ground transportation as detailed
English speaking professional guide
All entrances fees and taxes, unless otherwise noted
All tours as detailed
Not Include:
International Airfare
Meals not detailed in itinerary
Early check-in
Alcoholic drinks
Gratuities
Any other personnel expenses