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Family Holidays in Costa Rica

From its lush rainforests to its pristine beaches, family holidays in Costa Rica offer an array of activities and experiences that will delight everybody.

Famous for its rainforest, endless sandy beaches and a bewildering range of wildlife including howler monkeys, tree frogs, nesting turtles and colourful toucans, it’s no wonder that Costa Rica is one of our very favourite family holiday destinations. Experience exotic wildlife at Tortuguero National Park, embark on family-friendly rafting adventures on Rio Sarapiqui, explore canopy biodiversity via hanging bridges, discover chocolate making and cooking in Monteverde, and unwind on the tranquil sands of Playa Samara, a hidden surfer's haven. Costa Rica is the perfect destination for a family holiday.

Highlights of Costa Rica

Rafting is an impeccable highlight of Costa Rica. Experience the rush of the rapids blended with the stunning natural surroundings to create an unforgettable adventure. Navigating through pristine rivers and vibrant landscapes, the experience not only offers an adrenaline-pumping journey but also grants a unique perspective of the country's untamed beauty, making it a must-do activity for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

What to do in Costa Rica

Walk along the hanging bridges

Explore the captivating synergy of hanging bridges and waterfalls in La Fortuna. Traverse these suspended pathways that weave through the lush canopy, granting you a unique perspective of the vibrant ecosystem. Along the way, encounter the enchanting spectacle of waterfalls cascading down rocky formations where you can pause to bask in the natural beauty and witness the power of this natural beauty.

Spot Costa Rica's wildlife

The country's lush rainforests, diverse ecosystems and protected national parks provide a thriving habitat for a staggering array of wildlife. Whether it's witnessing colourful toucans soaring through the canopy, encountering playful monkeys swinging from the trees or marvelling at the elusive jaguars and resplendent quetzals, Costa Rica offers a front row seat to nature's wonders. 

Learn More

Hit the beach at the surfer's paradise of Playa Samara.

This idyllic coastal haven in Costa Rica offers not only pristine shores but also gentle waves making it perfect for kids and novice swimmers. Families can relish in sun-soaked days building sandcastles, splashing in the calm waters or trying out thrilling water sports like surfing and kayaking.

More Information About Costa Rica

While many Costa Ricans in tourist areas speak English, having some basic Spanish phrases can be helpful and enhance your experience. Learning a few key phrases can also be a fun activity for the family.

Five activities you'll enjoy on a family holiday in Costa Rica

A family holiday in Costa Rica promises unforgettable adventures for all ages.


Hanging bridges treetop tour

One fantastic activity to enjoy on a family holiday in Costa Rica is the hanging bridges treetop tour in Arenal National Park. Walking along suspended bridges provides a unique bird's eye perspective of the lush cloud forest canopy where you'll discover a world teeming with biodiversity and unlock its secrets as a family.


Cooking course

To delve deeper into the heart of Costa Rican culture, consider taking a family cooking course. This culinary journey includes visiting a family owned wildlife sanctuary where you'll receive a warm welcome and a cooking lesson from a local expert, learning about the country's cuisine and traditions. The experience culminates with a delicious lunch, making it a perfect bonding opportunity for the family.


Rafting

For an adrenaline packed day on your family holiday in Costa Rica, embark on a white water rafting adventure on the Sarapiqui River. Surrounded by the spectacular rainforest and its wildlife, you'll navigate thrilling rapids together creating lasting memories and relishing in the excitement of the journey.


Wildlife watching

Costa Rica's abundant wildlife offers fantastic opportunities for family wildlife spotting. Marvel at turtles nesting on pristine beaches, spot colourful birds, intriguing insects and the distinctive calls of howler monkeys. Don't forget to keep an eye out for the slow and steady movements of sloths. Consider going on a whale watching cruise for a chance to witness these magnificent marine creatures up close.


Surfing

For a more laid-back but exhilarating family holiday experience, take surf lessons at Playa Samara. Picture yourselves riding the waves on white sandy beaches shaded by towering palm trees and enjoying the sun and surf as a family.

For a more laid-back but exhilarating family holiday experience, take surf lessons at Playa Samara. Picture yourselves riding the waves on white sandy beaches shaded by towering palm trees, enjoying the sun and surf as a family.

Worldwide Adventure Holidays

We offer over 360 active adventures in 100 countries worldwide. Best known for our pioneering itineraries and challenging trips with an 'edge', we also offer a range of easier guided and self-guided walking, cycling, family and wildlife journeys throughout the world. Based in Keswick in the Lake District, we are passionate about creating unique travel experiences for our customers.

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40 years of operating; fully bonded and your money 100% protected.

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Active

From leisurely walking and cycling to push-your-limits expeditions.

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Worldwide

400 Guided Group and Self-Guided adventures in 100 countries.

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100% carbon absorption. Caring for the environment and local communities.

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