Costa Rica Highlights Family Getaway

Designed to hit the highlights everyone wants to experience while touring Costa Rica, this 10-day family getaway gives you a balance of self-discovery and must-do planned adventures in all three of the country’s top vacation destinations. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be taken to an adventure hotel at the foot of Arenal Volcano, complete with onsite hot springs. While there, you’ll be given a choice of two rainforest river tours, white water rafting or a jungle safari. Then you’ll travel to the unique cloud forest area of Monteverde high up in the mountains. Here, each of you can choose whether to hike over 8 hanging bridges to see the tree canopy or go barreling down 16 ziplines, including one that is a mile long! Next stop, the beach at Manuel Antonio, known for pristine white sand beaches and a ton of jungle wildlife. Perfect fun for everyone in your family!

Overview | Itinerary | Destinations | Hotels | Tours | Inclusions & Rates
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OVERVIEW

Number of nights: 9 (customizable)

Per person price from *$1,799 pp 

$100 Low Lifelong Deposit, No Charge Rescheduling**

Designed to hit the highlights everyone wants to experience while touring Costa Rica, this 10-day family getaway gives you a balance of self-discovery and must-do planned adventures in all three of the country’s top vacation destinations. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll be taken to an adventure hotel at the foot of Arenal Volcano, complete with onsite hot springs. While there, you’ll be given a choice of two rainforest river tours, white water rafting or a jungle safari. Then you’ll travel to the unique cloud forest area of Monteverde high up in the mountains. Here, each of you can choose whether to hike over 8 hanging bridges to see the tree canopy or go barreling down 16ziplines, including one that is a mile long! Next stop, the beach at Manuel Antonio, known for pristine white sand beaches and a ton of jungle wildlife. Perfect fun for everyone in your family!

One of our representatives will be there to greet you when you fly into the San Jose International Airport (SJO). A private transfer will take you to Arenal Springs Resort and Spa, located just outside of La Fortuna at the foot of the famous Arenal Volcano. Arenal Springs not only has onsite hot springs included in your stay, but also amazing volcano views, kids and adults swimming pools, fitness room, spa, restaurants, bar, yoga platform, and all within a lush tropical garden landscape. Your spacious Juniors Suite comes complete with a/c, minibar, cable TV, and a gorgeous bathroom with a small tropical garden and rainfall showerhead. The resort offers guests three restaurants to choose from with local and international offerings, Italian, and even sushi. You’ll find a swim-up bar at one of the many unique pools, ideal for relaxing after a day of exploring. After waking up in these beautiful surroundings and enjoying your complimentary breakfast, you’ll have a free day to try out all the hotel’s various hot springs, swimming pools, and beautiful surroundings. Welcome to Costa Rica! 

The following day you’ll have a choice to go on a guided Safari Float exploring the Penas Blancas River to observe jungle wildlife OR go whitewater rafting down the Rio Balsa. For the safari adventure, you’ll be picked up and driven about a half hour to meet your guide, then board an inflatable rafting boat and leisurely cruise down the shaded river. Don’t worry, you won’t have to paddle! Your knowledgeable nature guide will point out and identify visible wildlife all along the banks, in the river, up in the tree branches, and flying overhead. There’s a lot to see! For the faster-paced whitewater rafting trip, you’ll be taken to the Rio Balsa, about a half hour away, to meet your guides, put on safety equipment, and learn the ropes. Then you’ll be off on an exciting 2-hour adventure shooting Class ll and lll rapids the whole way down river! Each tour provides lunch afterward and takes approximately a half day, including transportation.

After three days at Arenal Volcano, you’ll enjoy traveling first by land, then by boat over scenic Lake Arenal, then again by land up into the mountainous Monteverde terrain. You’ll stay at El Establo Mountain Hotel perched on a steep hillside facing west with spectacular sunset views. The hotel’s amenities include shuttle service to the restaurants and onsite recreational areas such as the tennis court, basketball court, gym, pool, and amazing giant tree to climb. The high altitude of Monteverde and its unique cloud forest environment can make it too chilly to enjoy the pool and a/c is not needed. Your room here will be the Deluxe, a spacious basic lodge design with large picture windows, elevated ceilings, a private patio, mini fridge, and coffee maker. Wifi can be accessed in some of the common areas. Two restaurants are on the property, one casual and one for fine dining, often requiring reservations. A complimentary buffet breakfast is served daily. Onsite Spa services are available.

Your first full day in Monteverde can be spent exploring your hotel grounds and relaxing, or you might like to take a taxi into the nearby mountain hamlet of Santa Elena, with its rich history, museums, restaurants, shops, and three privately funded cloud forest reserves, all open to the public. The next day you’ll again be given a choice of adventure tours which are both located in the same place, so the family doesn’t have to split up to go on different excursions. Transportation will be provided to Aventuras Park where you can either go hiking over 8 amazing Hanging Bridges OR on an awesome Zipline adventure. For the Hanging Bridges tour, you’ll meet your naturalist guide who will lead you along the giant forest floor and up into the tree canopy hiking over sturdy suspension bridges for a bird’s eye view of the cloud forest. For the Zipline tour, your guides will go over the safety rules while you suit up then demonstrate how to use the equipment once you’ve hiked to your first platform. You’ll start off on shorter cables and, as your confidence builds, work up to longer, faster rides until you are soaring over the spectacular mountain scenery on an amazing mile long cable! Your guides will greet you at each of the platforms and help you take off again for a total of 16 different zipline cables. 

After 3 nights at Monteverde, you’ll head over to Manuel Antonio beach located on the Pacific side of Costa Rica. You’ll be staying at the Los Altos Resort in one of the Rain Forest Condo Suites, perfect for families, featuring separate living areas just like at home. Your One Bedroom Suite includes a living room with satellite TV & DVD collection, a full kitchen, dining room, breakfast bar, minibar, master bedroom, bathroom, and balcony. Wifi is available in some of the common areas. The hotel’s amenities include an infinity pool, gym, restaurant, and bar, as well as a private beach area accessible through onsite hiking trails or by the resort’s complimentary beach shuttle service. While staying at Los Altos, you might like to try out their spa services or even take a private cooking lesson right in your room to learn how to prepare traditional Costa Rican dishes!

You’ll spend 3 nights in Manuel Antonio with no scheduled activities, so you can relax and enjoy your beach resort as well as visit the small colorful hillside village nestled in the jungle strung along the coast. Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica’s most visited wildlife reserve, has comfortable hiking trails through the forest and over boardwalks that will take you into the mangrove swamp and along two pristine white sand beaches. Within the park live a variety of jungle wildlife including sloths, monkeys, and iguanas to name just a few. Guided tours are available.

The Costa Rica Highlights Family Getaway is custom tailored to provide fun for every member of your family as well as a unique nature immersion experience for an affordable price in one of the world’s most beautiful tropical countries. 

Overview | Itinerary | Destinations | Hotels | Tours | Inclusions & Rates
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ITINERARY

Day 1: From San Jose International Airport to Arenal Volcano near La Fortuna

One of our agents will meet you at the airport and provide transportation to Arenal Springs Resort and Spa located just outside the town of La Fortuna at the base of Arenal Volcano. 
Arenal Springs Resort and Spa

Day 2: Free Day at La Fortuna  (B)

A great day to unwind and explore all the fun things to do at your resort including the hot springs, swimming pools, yoga platform, and many nature pavilions, or venture on your own to visit the nearby town of La Fortuna.
Arenal Springs Resort and Spa

Day 3: CHOICE: Safari Float OR Rio Balsa Rafting (B, L)

Safari Float: You’ll be transported on scenic back roads for approximately 30 minutes before arriving at Rio Penas Blancas where you’ll board inflatable rafts for a leisurely guided river tour to observe an abundance of wildlife in a remote area. Lunch is included.

Rio Balsa Rafting: You’ll be driven to the Rio Balsa, 30 minutes away, where you’ll meet your guides, gear up, and go whitewater rafting, navigating Class ll and lll rapids for about 2 hours downriver. Lunch is included. Weight restrictions may apply.
Arenal Springs Resort and Spa

Day 4: Arenal Volcano to Monteverde (B)

Today you’ll travel a short distance by land to board a pontoon boat at beautiful Lake Arenal for a scenic lake crossing before resuming land transport up to El Establo Mountain Hotel located in Monteverde.
El Establo Mountain Hotel

Day 5: Free Day to play at Monteverde (B)

An unscheduled day to relax at your hillside hotel or take a taxi into the quaint town of Santa Elena to discover its local charm, private cloud forest parks, exhibitions, museums, and restaurants.
El Establo Mountain Hotel

Day 6: CHOICE: Aventuras Canopy Hanging Bridges OR Zipline (B)

You’ll be driven over to Aventuras Park where both tours begin. There, you’ll be met by a guide or guides who will lead you through whichever tour option you have chosen. Long pants and closed shoes are recommended for both activities.
El Establo Mountain Hotel

Day 7: Monteverde to Manuel Antonio (B)

You’ll be transported down the mountains and over to the coastal village of Manuel Antonio where you will stay in a modern beach condo at the Los Altos Resort.
Los Altos Resort

Day 8: Free Day at Manuel Antonio (B)

Today and tomorrow are unscheduled to give you and your family a chance to spend time together enjoying the beaches. You might like to visit Manuel Antonio National Park on your own as it is the country’s most popular park with easy walking trails and lots of wildlife.
Los Altos Resort

Day 9: Free Day at Manuel Antonio (B)

Another unscheduled day to spend on your own exploring the area or hanging out at your comfortable condo’s private beach or infinity pool. If you would like to add another family activity, we can easily customize your itinerary.
Los Altos Resort

Day 10: Manuel Antonio back to San Jose International Airport (B)

Today you’ll pack up your wonderful memories and go by private transport from your Los Altos Resort to the airport, scheduled to meet the requirements of your flight schedule. 

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DESTINATIONS

LA FORTUNA & ARENAL VOLCANO

The vibrant streets of the small town of La Fortuna are filled with an almost festival atmosphere as people find their way from one exciting adventure to another. Located at the base of the iconic Arenal Volcano surrounded by lush rainforest, it is often called the Adventure Capital of Central America and is indeed one of Costa Rica’s top three destinations. Here you will find beautiful rivers, some with whitewater, warm volcanic hot springs, mild temperatures, rural landscapes, scenic roads, and the beautiful Arenal Lake, like a Swiss jewel. The perfect playground for outdoor activities such as river rafting, nature safaris, canyoning, ziplining, ATV and horseback riding adventures. Birdwatching can be quite a hit too! A variety of restaurants, souvenir stands, ice cream, and coffee shops line the downtown open plaza where sometimes live music can be playing. View this destination...

Some animals that live in Arenal… (actual images may have been taken in other locations)

MONTEVERDE CLOUD FOREST

The cozy mountaintop region of Monteverde, at an elevation of close to 5000 feet, creates a sense of mystery cloaked in a cool mist most of the time. The convergence of wind patterns coming from both the Atlantic and the Pacific cause the unusual cloud forest conditions that veil the huge old growth forests. In this unique habitat, you’ll find one of the highest concentrations of orchid species in the world, along with rare, higher elevation tropical birdlife. In the center of the region, the tiny town of Santa Elena can be found, with its interesting history settled by Quakers who ultimately saved the area from being clearcut and developed into cattle ranches. Surrounding the town are at least 3 privately funded protected cloud forests you can visit, completed with interesting guided tours if you prefer. And at this altitude, you’ll enjoy some of the best ziplining views in Costa Rica! One of the top three vacation destinations in Costa Rica. View this destination…

Some animals that live in Monteverde… (actual images may have been taken in other locations)

MANUEL ANTONIO BEACH

People flock to Manuel Antonio because of its unspoiled beauty set along the central Pacific coast, featuring white sand beaches and rocky coves. Dense jungle envelops the area where mountains come down to meet the sea. Within the jungle, an abundance of wildlife flourishes, often easily seen and definitely easy to hear. The small village nestles into the hillside with winding roads leading to fun restaurants, boutique resorts, surf shops, and specialty stores. On the beach, Manuel Antonio National Park attracts more people than any other national park in Costa Rica with its comfortable trails leading through a variety of shoreline habitats. The combination of pristine beaches, jungle, and wildlife makes it easy to see why Manuel Antonio is one of the country’s top three vacation destinations. View this destination…

Some animals that live in Manuel Antonio… (actual images may have been taken in other locations)

MAP

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HOTELS

Arenal Springs Resort and Spa

The Arenal Springs Resort and Spa is the ideal eco-resort for your family's stay in the Arenal Volcano area! Set in the shadow of the iconic Arenal Volcano, this 4-star resort offers something for every member of your family. Resort amenities include swimming pools for adults and kids, many hot springs areas surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens, a yoga deck and fitness room, several restaurants and a bar, spa services, and much more! But it's not just the amenities at Arenal Springs that make it so popular... The customer service is outstanding! Your family will truly learn the meaning of "pura vida' at this amazing authentic Costa Rican eco-resort! View this hotel...

EL ESTABLO MOUNTAIN HOTEL

With a western exposure, El Establo features incredible sunset views from its hilltop location high up in the Monteverde mountains. The hotel itself is reminiscent of a country lodge. Timely shuttle service will assist with getting to and from the common areas including two onsite restaurants, basketball and tennis courts, pool, and spa. Hiking trails cut through the property and a giant tree invites you to climb up inside its trunk. Within the Deluxe rooms, you’ll find high ceilings, big windows, cable TV, mini fridge, private bath, and patio. You can connect to Wifi in some of El Establo’s common areas. Due to the typically cool mountain air, a/c is not needed or provided. Two restaurants are on the premises, one offering fine dining options where reservations are recommended. A generous breakfast buffet is included with your stay, but additional breakfast items can cost extra. The hotel is a short distance by caroutside of the small village of Santa Elena where you can find restaurants, private cloud forest parks open to the public, museums, galleries, and souvenir shopping. View this hotel... 

LOS ALTOS RESORT

Los Altos provides the perfect modern condo experience for traveling families visiting Manuel Antonio. Set on a private preserve with its own private beach, the location alone is stellar. Beautiful landscaping includes an infinity swimming pool and natural hiking trails to the beach where you’re likely to see some animal life along the way. The resort will also shuttle you down to its beach and back. Spacious condo living quarters keep families together in comfort. The One Bedroom Rain Forest Suite features a well-appointed living room, Wifi, satellite TV, CD and DVD players, equipped kitchen, bedroom, bath, and multiple patio areas. Open for all meals, the onsite Karolas Restaurant not only provides a beautiful setting overlooking the Pacific for your complimentary breakfast, it offers cooking classes too! Plus, private dinners can be prepared and served right in your suite. You’ll find modern equipment in the fitness center and for an extra splurge, you can enjoy the many rejuvenating wellness services at the Orchidea Spa. Outside the hotel, it’s an easy walk to explore the local area’s shops and restaurants. View this hotel... 

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TOURS

CHOICE: SAFARI FLOAT OR RIO BALSA RAFTING

Safari Float: After a scenic drive through rural countryside, you’ll arrive at the Penas Blancas River and board a large inflatable river raft. Safety instructions and equipment will be provided and you’ll be on your way! Your bilingual guide will do the paddling, stopping to show you various species of resident wildlife as you leisurely explore the beautiful river. You’ll likely see caimans in the river, lots of birdlife, turtles, and often monkeys. In addition, your guide will point out and identify other interesting forms of animal and plant life visible on the day of your visit. Lunch will be provided

Rio Balsa Rafting: Also a scenic 30-minute ride, you’ll arrive at the Rio Balsa where your whitewater rafting guides will provide safety lessons and equipment before helping you climb into inflatable rafts. Each raft will be led by a guide as you quickly learn to navigate the exciting Class ll and lll rapids! After a continuous run downriver for about 2 hours, you’ll exit the river, have lunch, and return back to your hotel. View this tour... 

CHOICE: AVENTURAS CANOPY HANGING BRIDGES OR ZIPLINE

Canopy Hanging Bridges: Aventuras Park is a private reserve with knowledgeable bilingual guides who will take you hiking through the unique high-altitude forest habitat. Along the way, your guide will help you spot and identify the visible resident wildlife and show you amazing tiny orchids plus other interesting plant life. You’ll walk the forest floor and make your way up into the tree canopy where you will cross over 8 hanging bridges safely suspended over the tree canopy. It’s truly breathtaking to be so high above the ground! Towards the end, you can climb up inside a strangler tree using ropes and visit the hummingbird garden. The hike is approximately 2 kilometers long and takes a leisurely 2 hours.

Aventuras Zipline: Featuring a mile-long cable, this is one of the most exciting zipliningexperiences in Costa Rica! You’ll arrive at Aventuras Park, meet your guides, suit up and hike up to the first of many platforms. After demonstrating the technique, your guides will help you as you take off and land at each platform. You’ll start with shorter cables to get the hang of it, then the zips will gradually become longer and faster. You’ll be soaring over the beautiful tree canopy and landing in trees as well, surrounded by nature. You’ll also cross a suspension bridge and do a short rappel to reach some of the platforms. There are 16 ziplinesin total, some over 250 feet high and the longest a mile long, an amazing distance to fly like a bird looking down at all the spectacular scenery below. To top it off, you can do the longest cable Superman style with hands-free followed by a leap of faith on the Tarzan Swing. You’re sure to feel the adrenaline as you set new records for your own personal achievement. View this tour... 

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INCLUSIONS & RATES

Your Package Includes: (remember; you can customize any aspect!)

Award-Winning VIP Service

• Optimized logistics and detailed itinerary planned with you by an expert Costa Rica Travel Planner
• Professional support before, during, and after your trip
• 24/7 Travel assistance while in Costa Rica (forget your passport or favorite shirt at a hotel? flight plan change? lose a contact lens while swimming? – WE’RE LOCATED IN COSTA RICA AND ARE HERE FOR YOU!)
• The best guides for day tours and professional drivers for transfers
• Easy booking with only a $100 deposit and flexible payment plans
• VIP Airport Greeting

Hotels & Resorts (hotels can be substituted at an adjusted rate)

• 3 nights at Arenal Springs Resort and Spa (Junior Suite) – Breakfast daily
• 3 nights at El Establo Mountain Hotel (Deluxe Room) – Breakfast daily
• 3 nights at Los Altos Resort (One Bedroom Rain Forest Condo Suite - 2 or 3 bedroom suites are also available at an additional cost) – Breakfast daily

Tours, Activities & More (tours can be substituted at an adjusted rate)

• Complimentary Hot Springs at Arenal Springs Resort (when reserved as stated)  
• CHOICE: Safari Float OR Rio Balsa Rafting (upgrade to a private transfer is available ~ inquire for details)
• CHOICE: Aventuras Canopy Hanging Bridges OR Zipline (upgrade to a private transfer is available ~ inquire for details)

Transportation (a rental car or other transportation options can be substituted at an adjusted rate)

• Private transfer from San Jose International Airport to Arenal Volcano area
• Round trip (shared) transportation from listed tours (when reserved as stated)
• Land Boat Land Transfer from Arenal to Monteverde (upgrade to a private tour is available ~ inquire for details)  
• Shared transfer from Monteverde to Manuel Antonio (upgrade to a private tour is available ~ inquire for details)  
• Private transfer from Manuel Antonio to San Jose International Airport

Meals & Drinks (based on hotel and tour selections)

• 10 meals per person (when reserved as stated) 

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CAN YOU PICTURE YOURSELF GOING ON THIS AMAZING COSTA RICA VACATION? BOOK YOUR TRIP NOW BY CALLING TOLL-FREE AT 1-866-853-9426 EXT.1 OR USE THE FORM BELOW…