Latin Routes director and co-founder Jess Dennison returned to Costa Rica twenty years after first exploring the country as a carefree backpacker. This time, she travelled with her young family and another family who have children the same age – for an unforgettable adventure that balanced rainforest exploration, beach relaxation and just the right amount of grown-up fun. Let's explore Our Routes in Costa Rica - A Family Adventure.
Finding our rhythm in the rainforest
One of the joys of Costa Rica is how easy it is to travel around by road. With no internal flights needed, each destination flowed smoothly into the next, with scenic drives of just a few hours. The kids loved these journeys – we packed scrapbooks, instant cameras and stickers so they could record their travels as we went.
Our adventure began in Arenal, where the spectacular Nayara Tented Camp set the tone. Nestled in the jungle, the luxury tents were perfect for families, complete with a king bed, space for the kids, air conditioning and private plunge pools. The service and food were incredible, and the sounds of the rainforest were the best kind of wake-up call.
Adventures that brought us together
From Arenal, we travelled to Rio Celeste, a tranquil spot deep in the rainforest. Here, the kids were in their element – walking nature trails, spotting wildlife and splashing in the large hotel pool as well as the turquoise-blue river. Tubing down the Rio Celeste was the highlight of the trip. It was just our two families and the guides, floating along beneath the trees while howler monkeys called overhead. The kids giggled the whole way, and it felt like the purest family joy imaginable.
Monteverde brought a change of scenery and a different kind of adventure. The hanging bridges through the cloud forest were a huge hit with the children, who loved spotting the flora and fauna amongst the mist. Then it was the adults’ turn – ziplining through the canopy on sixteen lines and a giant swing that made us feel like backpackers again. Costa Rica gives families space to explore together, but also time for parents to rediscover their own sense of adventure.
Ending with sun, sea and slow days
Our final stop was Conchal Beach on the Guanacaste coast, a beautiful stretch of sand where we could unwind after days of rainforest activity. Staying at the Westin Resort was the perfect finish – the kids enjoyed the beach and the resort’s kids’ club, while we enjoyed a little downtime of our own. Each hotel on our route offered thoughtful touches for families, from bracelet-making in Monteverde to painting workshops with local artists at Nayara.
Food was another highlight – I loved the traditional gallo pinto breakfasts with rice, beans, eggs and plantain, while the kids were always happy with the international menus that catered to every taste.
Tips for travelling with young children
If you’re considering Costa Rica with young children, I’d recommend breaking the journey to make the long flight more manageable. We added a two-night stopover in Toronto, which turned one long journey into two shorter, more enjoyable ones, with the added bonus of an incredible city tour.
We also took scrap books and instant print cameras for the kids to document their trip and each destination- this was a great way for them to pass the time on some of the longer journeys, and a wonderful keepsake that they can look back on and show their friends.
Costa Rica is one of the most family-friendly countries in Latin America – safe, welcoming, English-speaking and full of well-run excursions. Everywhere we stayed felt genuinely focused on families, with excellent standards in hotels, restaurants and activities.
In our opinion
Costa Rica is a destination that proves family adventures can be relaxing too. Whether tubing down jungle rivers, spotting sloths in the treetops, or watching the sunset on the beach, there’s something for everyone. For us, it was thrilling, beautiful and full of precious memories – the kind of trip that reminds you what travel is all about. If you enjoyed Our Routes in Costa Rica - A Family Adventure check out this recommended holiday
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Costa Rica for families?
Costa Rica is a year-round destination, but the dry season from December to April is ideal for family travel. During these months, you’ll enjoy sunny days and calm seas, perfect for wildlife spotting, zip-lining, and beach activities. The green season (May to November) brings fewer crowds and lush scenery, though some rain can be expected in the afternoons
Is Costa Rica safe for families?
Yes, Costa Rica is considered one of the safest countries in Latin America. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and family tourism is well established. It’s still wise to take standard precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and using reputable transport providers.
How long should a family holiday in Costa Rica be?
We recommend at least 10 to 14 days to make the most of Costa Rica’s varied landscapes, from cloud forests and volcanoes to Pacific and Caribbean beaches. This allows time for adventure, relaxation, and travel between regions.
What activities can families enjoy together?
Costa Rica is an adventure playground for all ages. Popular family activities include wildlife cruises, canopy zip-lining, volcano hikes, chocolate and coffee tours, and surf lessons. Many lodges and resorts offer nature trails, swimming pools, and child-friendly excursions.
Are the drives between destinations long?
Some journeys can take several hours due to the country’s mountainous terrain. However, the scenery is spectacular, and we recommend private transfers to make the experience more comfortable and flexible for families.
Is the food suitable for children?
Yes, Costa Rican cuisine is mild and fresh. Typical dishes include rice, beans, grilled meats, and tropical fruits. Many hotels cater to children with familiar options, and dietary needs can usually be accommodated.
Can we see wildlife easily?
Absolutely. Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth. Families can spot sloths, monkeys, toucans, and tree frogs in national parks and reserves. A guided tour is highly recommended for the best wildlife encounters.
What should we pack for a family adventure?
Light, breathable clothing is essential, along with waterproofs for rainforest areas. Comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, sun protection, and reusable water bottles are also important. A pair of binoculars is great for wildlife watching.
