Costa Rica Family Adventure

Fly from London (regional connections available) to San José direct with British Airways. Transfer to San José Park Inn for 2 nights. (N)

In the morning, visit Poas volcano and its spectacular turquoise crater lake or the Irazú volcano and its viewpoint. Afternoon at leisure. (B)

Drive to Arenal to admire the perfect shape of the Arenal volcano. Stay 2 nights at Arenal Paraiso Hotel, set in extensive gardens fringed by the forest and with views of the volcano from the terrace. (B)

This morning, visit the Sky Adventure Park for a bird’s-eye view of the rainforest, Arenal volcano and lake. Ride a slow-paced gondola accompanied by a naturalist guide to spot colourful birds before zip-lining above the canopy. Finish your day with a relaxing soak in the Tabacon natural hot springs and pools. (B, D)

In the morning, take a shared boat across Lake Arenal and enjoy spectacular views of the lake and its surroundings. Continue to Monteverde for 2 nights at the Trapp Family Lodge. In the afternoon visit butterfly & hummingbird gardens and explore the treetop canopy from hanging bridges. (B)

Morning tour of the Monteverde cloud forest reserve, a habitat of rare flora and fauna. Take a walk along trails surrounded by hanging vines and flowering orchids while keeping a look out for wildlife, including the elusive quetzal. Afternoon at leisure. (B)

Drive to Manuel Antonio (approximately 5 hours). Stay 4 nights at Si Como No, featuring panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the jungle (Superior room). The hotel name, which means ‘yes why not’ in Spanish, is a reflection of the easy-going charm of the place. (B)

Wake up to the calls of hundreds of birds and white-faced monkeys. Days are at leisure or take optional excursions such as rainforest walks, boat tours in search of dolphins, a visit to a nearby butterfly and nature refuge or world-class sport fishing. (B)

Transfer by road to San José airport for an overnight flight to London with British Airways. (B)