15-Day Family-Friendly Costa Rica Tour

An unforgettable family self-drive expedition in Costa Rica full of scenic routes, from tropical coastlines to lush rainforests. Explore wildlife-rich parks, relax on pristine beaches, and discover the vibrant culture together on this enriching journey.

15 Day Costa Rica Itinerary

Day 1: San José & Central Valley

Arrive in Costa Rica, where a private transfer takes you to Hotel Presidente in San José for a relaxing evening in preparation for the next day.

Day 2: Tortuguero & the Caribbean Coast

Embark on a shared coach transfer to Tortuguero National Park, enjoying a scenic journey through primary forests and a canoe transfer to Mawamba Lodge, followed by a jungle hike or a visit to Tortuguero Village.

Day 3: Tortuguero & the Caribbean Coast

Explore Tortuguero further with guided small-group trips, including a boat trip through the flooded forest to spot wildlife like caimans, water birds, monkeys, iguanas, and macaws.

Day 4: Tortuguero & the Caribbean Coast

Take a free day at the Tortuguero Lodge, offering opportunities to relax by the pool or partake in optional canal tours.

Day 5: Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui

Travel with your group to Guapiles, where you'll collect a rental car with the guide's assistance before heading to Sarapiqui for a stay at Tirimbina Lodge.

Day 6: Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui

Experience an adrenaline-filled morning of rafting along the Rio Sarapiqui, followed by a leisurely afternoon for optional activities like chocolate or coffee tours or nature trail hikes.

Day 7: Arenal Volcano

Drive from Sarapiqui to Arenal Volcano, staying at Arenal Springs Hotel and exploring the surrounding area.

Day 8: Arenal Volcano

Enjoy one of Costa Rica's most thrilling zip-line and canopy tours, with the afternoon at leisure for further exploration.

Day 9: Arenal Volcano

Spend a day at leisure, offering the option to relax by the hotel pool, go kayaking on Lake Arenal, zip-line, white-water raft, or visit Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge and Rio Celeste waterfalls.

Day 10: Rio Perdido

Leave Arenal for Rio Perdido in Guanacaste, with the choice of a scenic route or a visit to the Río Celeste waterfall before settling in at Rio Perdido.

Day 11: Rio Perdido

Enjoy free time at Rio Perdido, relaxing in Costa Rica's only thermal river, or engaging in optional activities like zip-lining, river tubing, or mountain biking.

Day 12: Playa Potrero

Descend to the Guanacaste plains, driving to Playa Potrero for a beachfront stay at Bahia Del Sol.

Day 13: Playa Potrero

Experience a leisure day at the beach, with the option to stroll along the shore, relax by the pool, or swim in the calm waters.

Day 14: Playa Potrero

Another day of relaxation at the beach hotel, with the opportunity to visit the spa if desired.

Day 15: International return flight

Drive back to San José for your international flight home, completing the journey with a scenic 4.5-hour drive

15 Day Costa Rica Itinerary Highlights

Tortuguero National Park: Explore an ecological treasure trove with a maze of canals and rivers, offering a unique wildlife experience.

Arenal Volcano: Discover the activity hub with hanging bridges, rainforest walks, and lake kayaking amid spectacular landscapes.

Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui: Experience the thrill of white-water rafting, adding an adrenaline-filled adventure to your journey.

Rio Perdido: Relax in the therapeutic thermal river, providing a serene and rejuvenating contrast to your adventurous exploration.

Other places to visit

Arenal Hanging Bridges

Feel the heartbeat of the rainforest as you stroll through the Arenal Hanging Bridges. Suspended in the treetops, these bridges offer a mesmerizing perspective of the flora and fauna below. It's a symphony of exotic birds, vibrant butterflies, and the rustling of leaves – an immersive nature experience that'll leave you breathless.

Arenal Rainforest Sky Tram and Trek

Elevate your spirit and your senses as you soar above the Arenal Rainforest on the Sky Tram. Then, gear up for a trek through the heart of this emerald paradise. Be prepared for jaw-dropping vistas of the volcano, hidden waterfalls, and the thrill of discovering the secrets concealed within the lush greenery.

Termales Hot Springs

Indulge in the ultimate relaxation at Termales Hot Springs, where thermal pools cradle you in warmth amid the cool jungle air. Surrender to the soothing embrace of natural mineral waters, surrounded by the serenity of the rainforest. It's not just a soak – it's a rejuvenating escape into bliss.

Peñas Blancas River

For an adrenaline rush, navigate the Peñas Blancas River on a thrilling rafting adventure. Rushing through lush canyons and tropical landscapes, this journey is a dance with the river's pulse. It's not just a ride – it's a wild, untamed embrace of nature's raw energy.

Caño Island

Dive into the marine wonderland of Canho Island, a tropical paradise where the turquoise waters cradle vibrant coral reefs. Snorkel alongside kaleidoscopic fish, and if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of graceful sea turtles gliding through the waves. It's an aquatic escapade that'll make your heart skip a beat.

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