#1: Lots of variety

#1: Lots of variety

Costa Rica is a fairly small country, but with about 250 microclimates, Costa Rica will surprise you again and again. The versatility in this country is unparalleled. In a short time you will become acquainted with tropical rainforest, mangrove forest, volcanoes, tropical dry forest and cloud forest. And then we haven’t even mentioned the beautiful tropical beaches and waterfalls.

A trip through Costa Rica is therefore always very varied and that is a big plus, especially if you travel with children. Moreover, in all that nature there is also a lot to experience. You can go surfing, ziplining, rafting, horseback riding, hiking, swimming, SUP, cycling and much more.
Many of these activities are also suitable for younger kids. Children from 6 years old are allowed to go ziplining and from 8 years old they can go rafting. Older kids or teens may also enjoy lazing around every now and then. Then the beaches are of course ideal, but the hot springs in Arenal or Rincon de la Vieja are also highly recommended. With so much variety and offer, there is something for everyone.

#2: Contact with nature

In Costa Rica it is all about nature. They take good care of it too. No less than 25% of the entire country is protected nature reserve. Costa Rica is therefore recognized worldwide as a forerunner in the field of nature conservation. There are no fewer than 28 national parks and dozens of nature reserves and animal rescue centers that you can visit. Independently or with a guide.

During a holiday in Costa Rica you are therefore in constant contact with nature. The national parks in Costa Rica are of a nice size and therefore very nice to visit with children. The walking distances are also very doable for kids and it is never boring. You can spot many animals along the way, such as monkeys, toucans, anteaters, coatis and snakes.
When you head out with a guide you will undoubtedly spot even more wildlife than you would do yourself. You can also learn a lot about nature from them. The guides are usually very enthusiastic and proud of their beautiful country. It is therefore recommended to go out with a guide every now and then.

Tip from Edventure Travel collegue Linda:

Give your kids a camera and let them take their own photos along the way. Even children who normally can’t get away from their iPad become enthusiastic. My experience is that children also really enjoy a night tour. This way, you experience the jungle in the dark and most kids (and parents) love that!

#3: Short distances

Driving long and far with children is not always a success, but fortunately that is not necessary in Costa Rica. The travel distances between destinations are very manageable (between 1 and 4 hours) and there is plenty to see along the way. You can also make very nice stops. We always give our travelers tips about this.
Because every destination is unique and has a lot to offer, we also recommend that you always stay at least 2 nights. That also means that you can take it easy and not have to move every day.

#4: Unique lodging full of experiences

The range of accommodations is as versatile as nature. In Costa Rica you can stay in very unique places. Think of a tree house, school bus, homestay or camping in a 4×4 car with a roof tent. The accommodations are usually an experience in itself! Mostly because you can often do and learn a lot. You can spend a day at a local finca, assist with setting up game cameras or catch your own fish for lunch. Facilities such as a jungle slide, swimming pool and lagoons with canoes also provide plenty of entertainment.
What makes it so nice is that you can combine all these types of accommodations in one trip. That way it is never boring.

#5: Tasty and accessible food

The food in Costa Rica is quite simple but very tasty. Meals from local restaurants (Sodas) often consist of rice with beans, vegetables and chicken or fish. And you almost always get a delicious and fresh fruit juice with it. All this for an affordable price.
Besides the sodas you can find all kinds of restaurants. Chinese, Italian, American, Indian: you can get almost everything at some of the more touristy destinations. So even if you travel with children who do not eat easily, you have many options in Costa Rica.

#6: Direct flights

From the USA and Canada there are many flights available to either San Jose or Liberia, a city in the north of Costa Rica. This is ideal if you want to head for the beaches in Guanacaste right away.

Coming from Europe, there are direct flights from Amsterdam, Paris and Madrid. But you could also take flights with a short stopover, for example in Paris or Panama.

#7: Safe travel and a great healthcare system

Costa Rica is a nice, safe and child-friendly destination. The Costa Ricans are very kind and relaxed and you can move freely here. The healthcare system is also well organized here. There is both a public and private health care system that you can use if needed.
Hospitals can be found in the larger towns and in most villages you have a general practitioner and/or small clinic. Of course we assist our travelers in case of emergency or questions. Because we live in Costa Rica, we are never far away and always available.

Are you already getting excited for a family trip?

We are happy to help you put together your dream trip. View our kids’ trips below for inspiration.
Or request a tailor-made travel quote directly. That is free and without obligation.