Costa Rica Family Journey: From Rainforest to Coast
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Costa Rica Family Journey: From Rainforest to Coast" for an unforgettable adventure through the lush landscapes of Costa Rica. This tour offers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation, ideal for families seeking both adventure and cultural immersion. Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the jungle canopy and explore the vibrant nightlife of the cloud forest with a naturalist guide. Engage in a hands-on cooking class to master Costa Rican cuisine and unwind in natural mud baths and volcanic hot springs. Discover the wonders of Rincón de la Vieja National Park on horseback and enjoy a guided wildlife hike. Conclude your journey with a serene beach retreat at Playa Potrero, where you can relax by the ocean or explore the local marine life. With private transport and comfortable accommodations, this small group tour ensures a memorable and enriching experience for all ages. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: San José
Location: San José
Accommodation: Hotel Radisson San Jose
Accommodation Name: Hotel Radisson San Jose
Welcome to San José–your arrival transfer to the hotel is included. Check in and get excited to meet your fellow travelers during a welcome meeting this evening where all families can bond before the Journey ahead.
Additional Information: Costa Rica has one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world and is a top destination for nature lovers. As such, there is a lot of rain, regardless of the season, allowing for its lush green rain forests and cloud forest, in which flora and fauna thrive. Please come prepared for the possibility of wet weather and variations in temperature.
ACTIVITY: The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
TRANSPORT: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Day 2: San José/Monteverde
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation: El Establo Hotel
Accommodation Name: El Establo Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning, travel up into the misty cloud forests of Monteverde, where we’ll visit a working farm and coffee cooperative for an earth-to-table lunch, followed by a property tour. Learn the secrets of Costa Rican cuisine and test your cooking skills at an afternoon class, then attend a coffee-making demonstration. Enjoy some free time to get settled in our hotel. This evening, follow a naturalist into the forest to seek out the fascinating nocturnal creatures that spring to life after the sun goes down, from red-eyed tree frogs to spiny porcupines.
Additional Information: The town of Monteverde is fairly small with shopping and some great restaurants, but most of the upgraded accommodations in this area are located outside of the main town centre - to take better advantage of the natural beauty and stunning landscapes of the area. Taxis are readily available to take you into town and back and can cost approx. $10USD each way.
Accommodations tend to be a bit more simple here, with fewer amenities. Its important to remember that the cloud forest sits at a higher elevation and offers a cooler but humid climate - which is why hotels in this area do not have A/C. It can also feel damp in rooms which is unavoidable in such a climate.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a visit to Life Monteverde, a coffee cooperative made up of 12 local families, dedicated to educating Costa Rica and the world about sustainable farming and conservation. Your visit here directly benefits Life Monteverde's educational programs, which provide free access to local school groups, and training for Costa Ricans. Walk through the plantations of various tropical plants including bananas and pineapples, and learn about coffee growing and production, as well as various sustainable agriculture techniques like converting animal waste to fuel. Also make sure to taste the delicious coffee before you go!
ACTIVITY: Upon arrival, enjoy a brief introduction before having lunch made with fresh ingredients from their organic farm. Afterwards, tour the working coffee farm and meet some of the farm animals that help support this organic land. Then, get hands-on with a traditional Costa Rican cooking class followed by a coffee-making demonstration.
ACTIVITY: Join a naturalist guide for a 1.5-2 hour tour in the cloud forest after dark. Learn more about the habits of the area's nocturnal wildlife including mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians, and keep your eyes and ears open on this slow-paced walk. You never know what you might see – it depends on the day and your luck!
Day 3: Monteverde
Location: Monteverde
Accommodation: El Establo Hotel
Accommodation Name: El Establo Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit the Monteverde Institute, a research and educational organization supported by National Geographic. Hear about reforestation projects spearheaded by the institute, then roll up your sleeves and lend a hand in the tree nursery. The rest of the day is free for poolside relaxation or optional excursions in the clouds, including zip-lining, hiking in the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, or a walk through the forest canopy across hanging bridges.
FREE TIME: MORNING Get up early to check out some of the optional activities on offer around Monteverde.
ACTIVITY: The Monteverde Institute is a base for National Geographic-funded explorers and researchers studying the famed canopy of the Monteverde Cloud Forest. A researcher will present the various projects National Geographic has sponsored including new discoveries, insect and bird studies, and the reforestation of tropical regions. Then, play an active role in this project by visiting the National Geographic-sponsored research plot and getting your hands dirty by either planting trees to restore habitat or assisting in tree care in the nurseries.
Day 4: Monteverde/Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park
Location: Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park
Accommodation: Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin
Accommodation Name: Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we travel into Rincón de la Vieja National Park, an otherworldly land of smoking volcanoes, bubbling mud pots, and thermal hot springs—all shrouded in thick tangles of rainforest. Channel your inner Tarzan as you swing across zip lines strung through the forest canopy; then visit thermal hot springs and mud baths, where playing in the mud isn’t just allowed, it’s encouraged.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Fly through the trees over a narrow river canyon while navigating zip lines, natural rock climbing walls, Tarzan swings, rappelling and hanging bridges.
ACTIVITY: Visit natural hot springs which give rise to very hot mountain streams; sulfuric ponds filled with bubbling mud. Dare to step in and get muddy. Soak in the hot, therapeutic waters and feel invigorated and alive.
FREE TIME: EVENING Take the evening to relax or opt to visit the local butterfly gardens.
Day 5: Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park
Location: Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park
Accommodation: Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin
Accommodation Name: Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Rise early for a full day of adventure in the national park. Saddle up for a horseback-riding excursion, get introduced to the park’s creatures on a naturalist-guided wildlife hike, and swim beneath the soaring canyons and tumbling waterfalls of the Río Negro. There is also the option to stay back at our hacienda and relax by the pool.
FREE TIME: EVENING After the days' activities, enjoy some free time to wander around or lay by the pool.
ACTIVITY: Saddle up to ride from our family hacienda on a beautiful path until we reach the entrance of the Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Set off on foot and hike 5km (3 miles) into the park in order to get to the waterfall. Keep your eyes peeled for iguanas, white-faced howler or spider monkeys, armadillos, and many types of tropical birds. Spot La Cangreja Waterfall flowing down 130 feet from the rocks above. Relax with a picnic lunch as our naturalist guide explains how the volcano's minerals create this unearthly blue pool at the bottom of the waterfall. After lunch take a dip in the clear blue water if you wish before heading back.
Day 6: Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park/Playa Potrero Area
Location: Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Playa Potrero
Accommodation: Hotel Bahia del Sol
Accommodation Name: Hotel Bahia del Sol
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey toward the Pacific Ocean to Playa Potrero on the Gold Coast of Costa Rica. The afternoon is free to play in the sand and water; or opt to set sail across the bay and around the Catalina Islands.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Spend the afternoon at leisure in this quaint beach town, or opt to go sailing.
Day 7: Playa Potrero Area
Location: Playa Potrero
Accommodation: Hotel Bahia del Sol
Accommodation Name: Hotel Bahia del Sol
Meals Included: Breakfast
The day is free to do as much or as little as you like. Relax at the pool or on the beach in this tropical paradise. Opt to join a yoga class, or take a long walk along the beach.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY There's plenty of exploring to do here, opt for a yoga class or choose to play at the beach or pool all day.
Day 8: Playa Potrero Area/San José
Location: Palo Verde National Park, San José
Accommodation Name: Hotel Radisson San Jose
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Leave the beach behind for our return trip to the capital. Stop en route for a jungle boat cruise through Palo Verde National Park. The river is a wildlife-lover’s paradise: crocodiles glide beneath the water’s surface, monkeys swing through the surrounding treetops, and numerous winged wonders wade and fly at the river’s edge—including ospreys, wood storks, and roseate spoonbills. Continue to San José and celebrate our adventure at a farewell dinner.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a boat ride, travelling along the Tempisque River to discover Palo Verde National Park. Learn about the park and the creatures that call this region home from our local guide on board. Keep a keen eye out as the guide helps spot wildlife in the water, trees, and sky.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 9: San José
Location: San José
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels (8 nts) -
Meals
8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners -
G for Good Moment
Experience the Cafe Monteverde in Monteverde.
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Family Journeys Moment
Attend a Monteverde Institute Lecture & Reforestation Project in Monteverde.
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Arrival Transfer
An arrival transfer is included.
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Naturalist Guided Cloud Forest Night Walk
Join a naturalist for a guided night walk in the cloud forest.
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Canyon Canopy Tour
Participate in a canyon canopy tour in Rincón de la Vieja National Park.
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Rio Negro Hot Springs and Volcanic Mud Bath
Visit the Rio Negro Hot Springs and enjoy a volcanic mud bath.
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Horseback Riding and Guided Hike
Enjoy horseback riding and a guided hike in Rincón de la Vieja National Park.
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Palo Verde National Park Guided Boat Tour
Take a guided boat tour in Palo Verde National Park.
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Transport
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is provided.
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping and gratuities are not included.
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International Travel
International travel is not included.
Meals Included
8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
Transport
Private vehicle, boat, horse, walking
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays in hotels for 8 nights, including Hotel Radisson San Jose, El Establo Hotel, Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin, and Hotel Bahia del Sol, offering a mix of modern amenities and local charm.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Odd number adult travellers in your family will be paired in twin accommodation with another adult traveller of the same sex for the duration of the trip. ...more ...less
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling and we encourage you to experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. It's important to remember, that food may be different from what you are used to at home and that some things may not be available in other countries.
Some meals are included in the trip price, while others are not, to allow flexibility and choice to you and your family. For non-included meals our CEOs will still make arrangements for the group to eat together, which allows you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and approximate budget (per person) for meals not included.
Throughout this trip, breakfast is included daily (ranging from continental to buffet depending on the trip). Drinking water is available throughout (don't forget your refillable water bottle as you will have access to either filtered water from hotels or as made available by the CEO). Healthy, local snacks will also be available.
Note that any special meal requirements or dietary restrictions need to be specified at time of booking.
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Mode of Transport
Travel conveniently between destinations using a private vehicle, with additional transport options including boat rides, horseback riding, and walking tours to explore the diverse landscapes of Costa Rica.
Minimum Age
Minimum age of 7 years for this trip.
Important Notes
1. All parents/guardians are required to supervise their children at all times throughout the tour and may not leave their child under the supervision of the CEO, local guides, drivers, etc. Children are not to be left unattended.
Please note that on all Family Adventures one adult can only accompany up to two minors. If you have over two minors planning on travelling then a second adult will be required to attend.
2. PROOF OF DEPARTURE
Costa Rica will not be allowing anyone to enter the country without proof of a departure ticket (bus, airplane, boat, etc.). If you are travelling through a few countries in Central America, you will need to show proof of your itinerary and a departure ticket from your last destination. Please print the itinerary and voucher and bring it with you.
3. WEATHER
Be prepared for rain and lower temperatures during the winter season (June-November), especially in Costa Rica's central valley.
4. FAMILY INSURANCE
Options for family travel insurance are available. Please enquire with your Family Trip Specialist for more information.
5. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
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Group Leader
All National Geographic Family Journeys with G Adventures group trips are accompanied by two of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense; you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. ...more ...less
About Accommodation
Rooming is based on double occupancy (2 passengers / 2 beds per room); all other room configurations are on request and cannot be guaranteed. We will try to accommodate triples/quad requests whenever possible and it's important to note that rooming configuration can change from city to city and 2 single beds are the standard configuration in a room.
Please remember that hotel/lodge standards can be different from what you are used to in your home country, which is part of the appeal of adventure travel.
Hotels vary greatly throughout Central America and even within Costa Rica depending on the location. We do our best to pick comfortable accommodations, but in popular locations options can be limited and we sometimes use various different hotel depending on seasonality. It also is important to remember that hot water shortages and power outages can be fairly common, even in upgraded hotels. We appreciate your patience and understanding that these occurrences are outside of our control.
Please also note that Monteverde is a fairly small centre with shopping and some great restaurants, but most of the upgraded accommodations are located outside of the main town/city centre - to take better advantage of the natural beauty of these area. Taxis are readily available.
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What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labelled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase, sports bag, or backpack. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. Porters may not always be available, so be prepared to carry your own bags. ...more ...less
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of activities are included in the Costa Rica Family Journey?
The tour includes a variety of activities such as a zip line tour through the jungle canopy, a naturalist-guided night walk in the cloud forest, a cooking class to learn Costa Rican dishes, a visit to thermal hot springs and volcanic mud baths, horseback riding, and a guided hike in Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Additionally, there is a guided boat tour in Palo Verde National Park. ...more ...less
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Are there any educational components included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes educational components such as a visit to the Monteverde Institute where participants can learn about reforestation projects and participate in tree planting or nursery care. There is also a visit to Life Monteverde, a coffee cooperative, where you can learn about sustainable farming and conservation. ...more ...less
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What is the accommodation like during the tour?
Accommodation during the tour consists of hotels for 8 nights. The hotels vary in style and amenities, with some located outside of main town centers to take advantage of natural beauty. In Monteverde, accommodations are simpler and do not have air conditioning due to the cooler, humid climate. ...more ...less
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What transportation is used during the tour?
Transportation during the tour includes private vehicles, boats, horses, and walking. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is provided.
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Is there a minimum age requirement for this tour?
Yes, the minimum age requirement for this tour is 7 years.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners. Meals are designed to allow flexibility and choice, with some meals included and others allowing for personal exploration of local cuisine.
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What should I pack for the Costa Rica Family Journey?
It is advised to pack lightly, with one soft compact suitcase, sports bag, or backpack, and a daypack for everyday items. Be prepared for rain and varying temperatures, especially in the central valley during the winter season. A refillable water bottle is also recommended as drinking water is available throughout the trip.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Costa Rica Family Journey: From Rainforest to Coast
9 Days Starting and ending in San José, Costa Rica
Visiting: San José, Monteverde, Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Playa Potrero, Palo Verde National Park ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
25169
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 20
Age range:
7-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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