Backroads

Costa Rica’s rain forests claim five percent of the world’s biological diversity and are home to a rich array of species, from luminous blue morpho butterflies to moss-ridden sloths. Stroll beneath trees festooned with epiphytes and strangler figs and you’ll almost feel the jungle growing around you. It’s often easy to see (and hear!) impish white-faced monkeys, but you’ll appreciate the sharp eyes of our naturalist guides, who’ll help you spot the forest’s shyer inhabitants - perhaps a coatimundi, agouti or silky anteater.

Part of Costa Rica’s appeal is its slower pace. But the laid-back rhythm, combined with rugged terrain, can be challenging to appreciate when it means unexpected delays on your vacation. So let us take care of the details while you settle into "Tico time." We’ll whisk you seamlessly and comfortably around the country (in private land, sea and air craft), getting you to the best places at the best times. Avoid crowds, explore hard-to-reach locales - and learn the true meaning of pura vida.

You and your kids will love meeting our Costa Rican friends. At the workshop of Sarchí artist William Valverde, learn about country’s most famous craft, the hand-painted carreta (ox cart) and then create your own masterpiece. Let Marco share the secrets of Nuevo Latino cuisine and his passion for the organic food movement. Perhaps you’ll even join the locals for a game of fútbol. From naturalists to surf instructors, our knowledgeable and engaging regional contacts have stories you won’t want to miss.

Soak in a sanctuary of geothermal springs beneath spectacularly active Arenal Volcano. Feel the spray of the Sarapiqui during a fun-filled rafting trip on Class II and III rapids. Surrounded by a lush tropical garden, sip a batido (fruit milkshake) while dangling your feet in Harmony Hotel’s sparkling pool. And vamos a la playa - slip into the warm salty waters of the Pacific at a remote white-sand beach said to offer the best surfing around.

As on all Family Insider Trips, you and the youngsters have plenty of time to relax and explore in your own way. Go horseback riding or play Frisbee on pristine beaches. Try surfing or kayaking. Cool down under the cloud forest canopy. Enjoy a soothing spa treatment. Check out the handicrafts in La Fortuna’s shops. Or swing in a hammock under the shady palms. Just another day in paradise.