Family trips to Costa Rica are at an all time high. There are tours and activities geared specifically toward families popping up in many areas of the country. The tour companies are realizing that kids need hands on activities to stay interested and they have learned to combine the needs of kids and adults for activities the whole family will enjoy.
Safety measures are taken seriously by all ICT certified companies. Look for the ICT logo before going on any adventure tours. Some companies also offer incentives for families with young children such as bilingual guides that can ride the zip line alongside your child. Some hotels offer family discounts, onsite playgrounds, portable cribs, and kid menus. Costa Rica is one of the happiest countries on Earth. That promise is increasingly applying to families with children, the hardest group to please.
Arenal Volcano is a suggested kid friendly area. Mild class 2 white water rafting and river tubing adventures are available. The Safari Float at Cano Negro is a favorite for bird watchers. Hot springs range in temperature so each family member can find one they like.
Manuel Antonio has the gentlest waves. Stay near the kids, though, because there are no lifeguards on most Costa Rican beaches and the currents can be strong even in calm looking water. Sandcastle building and searching for sloths, frogs, and iguanas are great ways to pass the day on this white sand beach. It’s a nice area for beginner surf lessons.
For a cooler alternative, head up into the mountains of Monteverde. This cloud forest is home to the Children’s Eternal Rainforest and a nice serpentarium. Night tours through the jungle’s hanging bridges allow you and your little ones to meet nocturnal creatures.
Tortuguero is known for turtle tours. Depending on the time of year, you may see giant turtles nesting or babies hatching and running toward the water. The mangroves you go through by boat to arrive in Tortuguero are picturesque. Keep an eye out for monkeys, manatees, and caimans.
By Kerry La
