Costa Rica Family Holiday Multi-Activity Adventure

From £2695

Trip Details

Adventure at your pace

An unbeatable experience, crammed with adventure and brimming with wildlife encounters. Whilst there is plenty of adventure from ziplining to whitewater rafting we can tailor excursions to best suit ages and abilities

From Tortuguero on the Caribbean to Manuel Antonio on the Pacific – we’ve designed a unique action packed experience, balancing wildlife and adventure, exploring tropical rainforests on foot or on horseback; zipping through rainforest canopy and rafting along the way. We get close up with sloth, monkeys and turtles and sea kayak on the pacific coast – getting opportunities to whale watch in season . This is a great adventure and ideal for families with children age 9 and above. If you have younger children, we can tailor a trip (without any rafting) to suit.

The order of the trip will change from SEPT , OCT , NOV – see itinerary for details

Trip Highlights

something for everyone

  • Explore the wildlife day and night in one of the most biologically intense place on earth
  • Raft the white waters of the natural, beautiful Sarapiqui river
  • Ride high above the canopy with volcano views
  • Rappel deep into hidden canyons.
  • Explore the wild Pacific Coast and see Whales.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in San Jose

Arrive in San Jose at Juan Santamaría International airport where you will be met for your private transfer to your hotel.

Day 2

Tortuguero – Tortuguero National Park

Early this morning you will take a land & boat transfer to Tortuguero.   We will stop for a Costa Rican style breakfast at Río Danta Restaurant in Guápiles, where we also might get the chance to see some sloths in the surround trees, and will arrive in Tortuguero around lunch time. This afternoon: depart by boat from the Lodge to a nearby private trail, adjacent to the Tortuguero National park, where you will enjoy a guided walk into the tropical rainforest on a safe & comfortable walking trail. On the way back to the lodge, we will stop at the village and invite you to join a walking tour of the Tortuguero town with your guide, tour around and continue walking by the beach back to the Lodge.

Day 3

Tortuguero National Park

This morning you can enjoy of a boat trip on the canals before breakfast. This tour introduces you to the rich rainforest and its great array of wildlife. The early morning hours offer a great opportunity to witness the awakening in the forest.  Enjoy a visit to the Mawamba Park which offers some many free attractions like a butterfly garden, frogs and iguana’s gardens. In the afternoon, embark on a canal boat tour for more opportunities to spot abundant wildlife.

 

Optional Tours at additional cost 

Tortuguero is one of the most important sea turtle nesting sites in the western hemisphere. Four of the seven world sea turtle species come to Tortuguero to lay their eggs including giant Leatherbacks. Nesting and hatching seasons vary depending on the species.

Experiencing the jungles sights and sounds at night gives you a spectacularly different perspective on your surroundings as we take a hike to expose nature’s night time secrets with an expert guide, quiet voices! and a degree of patience.

Day 4

Siquirres – Sarapiqui

Take the two-hour boat & shuttle transfer to Siquirres. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant where we will meet our driver for a transfer to Sarapiqui. La Selva Lodge in Sarapiquí is a renowned rainforest research station, home to diverse wildlife like toucans, monkeys, and frogs, supporting vital ecological studies and sustainable conservation efforts.

Day 5

Spend the day White Water Rafting or Floating on Rio Sarapiqui

Take a dose of adventure this morning on the half-day Sarapiqui river white water rafting (class II-III). Enjoy lunch after the tour. The Sarapiquí River is known as the scenic river of Costa Rica’s tropical rain forest, with 35 Kilometres through forest reserves, stunning views and full of enjoyment for all. This tour leaves at the Hacienda Facilities and runs 13 Km. Very safe with several accesses throughout the tour and constant communication with the base; it can be run year round. Minimum age: 9 years old

Optional Tours

There are different levels of rafting trip for adrenaline seeking teens to more gentle tubing and floating experiences for little ones – we would be pleased to discuss options for you.

Day 6

Transfer to Arenal Volcano Lava Trail or Rappelling Adventure

Embark on a scenic guided hike through Arenal Volcano’s lava trails and lush rainforest, where you’ll explore the incredible biodiversity of the area and learn about the volcano’s fascinating history and geological features. After your adventure, unwind with an afternoon visit to natural hot springs, where you can soak in the therapeutic waters surrounded by tropical beauty. A delicious lunch is included, making this the perfect mix of exploration and relaxation.

We can substitute this for either of the following:

Optional Tour

This morning you will take a private transfer to La Fortuna. In the afternoon, prepare to get wet and experience adrenaline at maximum with the Canyoning & Waterfall Rappelling Adventure.

Canyoning & Waterfall Rappelling: Your trip begins with a 30-minute 4×4 drive into the tropical rainforest outside the town of La Fortuna, in the shadow of the Arenal Volcano. Then, we will trek through the forest on mystic trails that lead to some of the most spectacular waterfalls in Costa Rica, a place very few people get to experience. Along the way we will have the chance to discover the secrets that lie hidden deep within the canyon. From the first waterfall we will rappel down from the top into the beautiful and pristine canyon below.

We have 5 rappels, 4 of which are alongside or right in waterfalls, and one dry rock face. Then a short trek out of the canyon on a magical trail, jump back in the 4×4 vehicles and head back to the base camp

Optional Tours

If you fancy something a little more tranquil and like chocolate! Our rainforest chocolate tour will introduce to every aspect of chocolate production from beans to bar. In addition to the natural elements we’ll explore the history and origins of chocolate and, of course, get to sample some along the way.

Day 7

Mistico Hanging Bridges or Sky Trek

Tucked into the lush folds of Costa Rica’s rainforest, the Mistico Hanging Bridges offer a journey through one of the most biologically rich ecosystems on Earth. As you follow winding trails and cross a series of high suspension bridges, the forest opens up to reveal hidden layers of life—howler monkeys echo in the distance, vibrantly colored toucans dart through the canopy, and tiny frogs sing from the underbrush. This thoughtfully designed trail system allows you to explore both the forest floor and its towering treetops, providing an unmatched perspective of the jungle’s intricate workings. Guided or self-paced, the experience feels like stepping into a living, breathing expedition—wild yet accessible. With the ever-present Arenal Volcano watching over, Mistico isn’t just a walk through the forest—it’s a quiet adventure through time, where every step reveals the raw, untamed magic that first lured naturalists and explorers into the heart of the tropics.

Optional Tours

One of the most popular past times in the UK at present is paddle boarding but where bette r to do it than on beautiful Lake Arenal in the shadow of its conical volcano. Suitable for adults and children alike this eco-friendly way of exploring the lake and its array of flora and fauna could be an alternative to the Sky Trek adventure or added in the afternoon (at additional cost)

Take a flight over the canopy of the rainforest on the Sky Tram & Sky Trek adventure. Sky Tram & Sky Trek: This tour will take you to the nearby Arenal Rainforest Reserve, where you will be able to appreciate a natural environment. The tour includes the ascent by cable car to the top of the Arenal Reserve, where you can see beautiful landscapes of the forest, lake and the volcano. On the way back you can choose to return on the tram or take the Sky Trek which is a secure system of trails and zip lines that offers visitors the opportunity to observe and appreciate the nature from different vantage points.

Optional Tours

One of the most popular past times in the UK at present is paddle boarding but where better to do it than on beautiful Lake Arenal in the shadow of its conical volcano. Suitable for adults and children alike this eco-friendly way of exploring the lake and its array of flora and fauna could be an alternative to the Sky Trek adventure or added in the afternoon (at additional cost)

Day 8

Transfer to pacific Coast Manuel Antonio

Prepare to enjoy the sun of the Central pacific, this morning you head to beautiful beach of Manuel Antonio.

Day 9

Manuel Antonio National Park

This morning take a moderate hike on the Manuel Antonio National Park; we take natural trails that head to secret beaches and panoramic views of the park. The Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the most famous in Costa Rica due to its wide variety of flora and fauna specimens. The park itself boasts 3 different trails that vary in grade from flat to very steep. A nature guide who is knowledgeable about everything you will see will accompany you. The trail you will take is flat and picturesque and loops through the park making your course approximately 2 miles long. Throughout the hike your guide will stop and explain the different nature specimens that can be observed, you can take photographs or just admire the view. One of the highlights of this Manuel Antonio tour is that the park is home to 3 of the 4 existing monkey species in Costa Rica. Throughout the hike you will be able to observe sloths, birds and reptiles as well as admire orchids, butterflies and tropical.

Day 10

Ocean Kayak

Be ready to get wet at the ocean Kayaking adventure.

You will kayak for approximately 2 ½ hours (roundtrip), during your journey you will paddle past islands and inlets where you can observe and admire numerous marine aviary species and their nesting grounds. Partway through your route you will stop at a beautiful hidden bay to rest and enjoy a refreshing snack and to do some snorkelling. Water visibility varies depending on the season. Kayaks are available in 1 passenger and 2-passenger format. Kids must be at least 8 years old to paddle alone. Sea kayaking is much easier than river kayaking in Costa Rica; this Manuel Antonio tour does not require previous experience. Enjoy lunch or dinner as part of the tour.

Day 11

Manuel Antonio

Time at leisure or Whale Watching in Season

Optional Tours at additional Cost

Whale Watching July through the end of October -is the best time to spot the majestic humpback whales, as the Southern Hemisphere Humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to the Marino Ballena National Park in Costa Rica to breed and raise their calves.

Surfing- whether you’re used to riding the surf or you just want to have a beginners lesson you won’t need a wetsuit in the warm Pacific waves

Day 12

Transfer to San Jose for your Flight Home- or stay longer!

Enjoy of the morning at your leisure. Take a private transfer to San José in the afternoon in time for your journey home.

Day 8-12

ALTERNATIVE SUGGESTION FOR SEPT OCT NOV

ALTERNATIVE SUGGESTION FOR MONTHS OF SEPT /OCT/ NOV

Day 8 – Transfer to Puerto Viejo
Travel from your previous destination to Puerto Viejo on Costa Rica’s laid-back Caribbean coast (approx. 5–6 hours). Arrive and check in at Hotel Almonds & Corals or similar. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 – Cahuita National Park Experience
Explore Cahuita National Park on a guided walk along its scenic coastal trail, known for rich wildlife and ocean views. Depending on sea conditions, optional snorkeling may be offered to view coral reefs and marine life. Return to your lodge to relax.
Accommodation: Hotel Almonds & Corals or similar
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 – Leisure at the Beach
Enjoy a free day to unwind on the Caribbean’s golden beaches or relax in your hotel’s tranquil setting. Optional local activities like bike rentals, chocolate tours, or kayaking may be arranged independently.
Accommodation: Hotel Almonds & Corals or similar
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 – Leisure at the Beach
Another day at your own pace—explore Puerto Viejo town, visit nearby beaches like Punta Uva or Playa Cocles, or simply enjoy the serenity of your lodge in the rainforest.
Accommodation: Hotel Almonds & Corals or similar

Expert Summary

Rafe Stone Director of Pioneer Expeditions

Probably the best destination I have ever encountered for a family trip. I travelled with my multi-generational family, including teens and in-laws. Activity and wildlife go hand in hand, as some of the richest flora and fauna are found in the most dramatic settings. You can marvel at a bromeliad in the cloud forest, or zipline through it — or better yet, do both!

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Pioneer Expeditions
Average rating:  
 1 reviews
 by Penny
Costa Rica

What can I say another amazing trip from Pioneer. From white water rafting into a remote rainforest retreat - to pushing boundaries with a 200 metre zip wire across the rainforest to a 5* beach retreat - the wildlife & fauna were amazing. The local guides and the UK staff are amazing- nothing is too much trouble - even a 22hour plane delay was handled perfectly- Definitely booking again

Thank-you very much Penny. We are delighted you had a great trip and would love to take you on another wildlife packed adventure

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