Family Costa Rica

Arrive in the bustling city of San José, where you are met and transferred to your hotel, a colonial hacienda set on a coffee plantation.

Drive to a 1,200-acre nature reserve set in a neon-green rainforest at the edge of Braulio Carrillo National Park. On arrival, ascend into the trees for a thrilling zipline ride, surrounded by 360-degree views of the landscape, and the sounds of howler monkeys and tropical birds. Your family may opt for an alternate excursion through the rainforest canopy on an aerial tram, viewing its lush scenery and wildlife up close in the treetops. Visit the butterfly garden and the frog pond, then embark on a boat ride to your lodge in Tortuguero. Once settled in, begin a fun, all-ages photography contest led by your naturalist guide, roaming the grounds of your resort to capture winning images of flora and fauna. Tonight, gather for a welcome dinner at your lodge.

Rise early for a guided birding walk that may reveal great green macaws, before you Ride Like a Local, embarking on a cruise down the lazy tropical rivers that define Tortuguero National Park, one of the largest rainforests in Central America. Its abundant fauna includes capuchin monkeys, river otters and poison dart frogs. Later, explore the village of San Francisco. If time permits, you may also visit a neighborhood school and join local children for a game of soccer.

Head north by boat to Caño Palma for an exciting kayak adventure in the richest biological ecosystem in Costa Rica, paddling alongside an expert local guide to Tortuguero National Park. You may opt for a motorized boat excursion instead, or wander the beach where thousands of Atlantic green sea turtles return to nest each year. After lunch back at the lodge, prepare Costa Rican specialties with a local chef on a fun Chef ’s Table experience. The remainder of your day is at leisure. This evening, take an optional night walk, and later join your naturalist guide for a relaxing Scenic Sundowner, setting the mood for dinner on site.

If you wish, rise early for a walk through nature on the trails near your lodge. After breakfast, fly to La Fortuna. Upon arrival, travel to Finca Burio (Burio Farm) and meet the owner, Don Juan. Join him on an excursion through the fields of his plantation, where tropical birds take flight and you learn about the tropical produce he grows. Also learn how sugar cane is processed at the trapiche (sugar mill). Sit down for an organic lunch, freshly prepared at the farm. Afterward, visit the town of La Fortuna, before checking in to your hotel at the base of towering Arenal Volcano. Then, soak in one of five free-flowing pools set in a natural river gorge at Eco Termales Hot Spring. Cool off after your dip with smoothies and cocktails made with fresh local ingredients. Marvel at the views of the famed volcano, with its near-perfect cone that soars 5,357 feet above sea level.

Rise early for a birdwatching and sloth discovery walk. After breakfast, explore the surrounding rainforest on an unforgettable Arenal Hanging Bridges experience. See the lush treetops from nearly two miles of bridges designed to blend with the natural environment. As you walk, observe the diversity of flora and fauna, set against the ever-imposing views of Arenal. Return to your hotel, and tonight, gather for a special farewell dinner. Then, find out the results of the photography contest, as your naturalist guide hands out awards to the winners.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departing flight.