Costa Rica · Route map
Volcanoes, Rainforests and Pacific Beaches
This classic route loops from the highlands to the coast, giving your family the perfect mix of volcanic adventure and calm, wildlife-rich beaches.
- 1
La Fortuna
3 nights
Volcano views, hanging bridges and natural hot springs.
- 2
Manuel Antonio
3 nights
Sloths in the canopy and quiet family-friendly coves.
- ✦2 stops · 6 nights
A sample from our journal — written by Waypora, kept as inspiration
Use this as a starting pointThe day-by-day
Welcome to Costa Rica
Arrive into San José
Flight · Morning · San José
Pick up 4WD hire car
Car hire · Morning · San José Airport
Pick up a reliable mid-size 4WD for the journey.
Request a Wi-Fi hotspot device from the rental agency for easy navigation.
Self-drive San José to La Fortuna
Self-drive · Afternoon · La Fortuna
Drive takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.
Overnight in La Fortuna
Accommodation · Evening · La Fortuna
Stay at a lodge with its own thermal pools so the kids can splash anytime.
Hanging Bridges and Hot Springs
Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges walk
Excursion · Morning · Arenal
A self-guided 2-mile walk through the rainforest canopy.
Book the earliest slot at 6:00 AM to spot monkeys before the crowds arrive.
Soak in EcoTermales Hot Springs
Excursion · Afternoon · La Fortuna
Natural thermal pools tucked away in a quiet forest setting.
This family-owned spot limits entry numbers, ensuring a peaceful experience away from the mega-resorts.
Overnight in La Fortuna
Accommodation · Evening · La Fortuna
Waterfalls and Sloth Spotting
Swim at La Fortuna Waterfall
Excursion · Morning · La Fortuna
Descend 500 steps to swim in the pool of this dramatic cascade.
Wear water shoes to safely navigate the slippery, rocky pool at the bottom.
Bogarin Trail sloth search
Excursion · Afternoon · La Fortuna
A flat, easy trail through reforested land.
Hire a local guide at the entrance; their scoping eyes are essential for spotting sleeping sloths.
Overnight in La Fortuna
Accommodation · Evening · La Fortuna
Drive to the Pacific Coast
Self-drive La Fortuna to Manuel Antonio
Self-drive · Morning · Manuel Antonio
Drive takes approximately 4.5 hours down the coast.
Stop at the Tarcoles River bridge to safely look down at the massive crocodiles below.
Relax at Playa Espadilla
At leisure · Afternoon · Manuel Antonio
Grab a fresh coconut from a beach vendor and let the kids play in the gentle surf.
Overnight in Manuel Antonio
Accommodation · Evening · Manuel Antonio
Choose a hotel on the hill with sunset ocean views and frequent monkey visitors.
National Park Wildlife Safari
Guided walk in Manuel Antonio Park
Excursion · Morning · Manuel Antonio
Look for crabs, iguanas, coatis, and monkeys in the jungle.
Pack your swimwear to enjoy the pristine beaches located inside the park boundaries.
Afternoon poolside at leisure
At leisure · Afternoon · Manuel Antonio
Overnight in Manuel Antonio
Accommodation · Evening · Manuel Antonio
Mangroves and Hidden Beaches
Damas Island mangrove kayak tour
Excursion · Morning · Damas Island
Paddle through calm, shaded forest canals.
Opt for the open double kayaks so younger kids can ride with an adult.
Beach walk to Playa Biesanz
Excursion · Afternoon · Manuel Antonio
A short forest trail leads to a calm, protected bay.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard right on the sand at this famously calm locals' beach.
Overnight in Manuel Antonio
Accommodation · Evening · Manuel Antonio
Homeward Bound
Self-drive Manuel Antonio to San José
Self-drive · Morning · San José Airport
Drive back to the central valley takes about 2.5 hours.
Drop off hire car
Car hire · Afternoon · San José Airport
Allow extra time for return queues, especially during peak travel periods.
Depart from San José
Flight · Afternoon · San José
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