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Top Lodges in Costa Rica for Families

Top Lodges in Costa Rica for Families

by | Jul 19, 2020 | Costa Rica, Family Vacation

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Planning a family vacation to Costa Rica but are not sure yet where to stay? We hear you and have compiled a list of the best family hotels in Costa Rica. Costa Rica is a wonderful place for families to experience a mountain of exciting activities.

Families find in Costa Rica an adventure paradise set in the most beautiful natural and safe environment. Costa Ricans (“Ticos”) are also very family-friendly so it’s no surprise Costa Rica hosts some of the top lodges for families in Latin America.

The country is also one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. There are five active volcanos in this small country. Some of the best hiking, bird-watching, and horseback riding in the world can be found here. Costa Rica provides the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, culture, fine cuisine, and wildlife. 

Here is our List of the Best Family Hotels in Costa Rica:

See below for a map

Best Family Rainforest Hotels & Mountain Lodges in Costa Rica

1. Xandari Resort & Spa **** – Central Valley

Hotel pools for families

Pool area – perfect for families – at Xandari Resort & Spa

 

We are starting off our list of best family hotels in Costa Rica with the Xandari Resort & Spa. Art and architecture are highlights of the Xandari experience in Costa Rica. 24 spacious villas nestled on a 40-acre plantation are surrounded by lush gardens, with terraces facing spectacular views of Costa Rica’s majestic Central Valley day and night. Each is a unique design, with tropical colors and contemporary design.

A private forest reserve with rivers, five natural waterfalls, and 2.5 miles of trails offers excellent hiking, birding, and communion with nature. Three pools, each with a unique view of coffee plantations, provide added incentive for a morning swim. A wide range of natural treatments is offered in private palapas at the Spa Village. Each is featuring a hot-tub overlooking forest and valleys at 3,900 ft.

Prima Plus Villa: Guests can enjoy an abundance of space and an idyllic garden in these villas. Each of the villas is a special treasure on its own. Two 68 m² villas on the East Hill offer a magnificent panorama view of the Central Valley. They feature a sleeping alcove with a King-size bed plus a sofa bed in the main area. The other two villas on the West Hill are 55 m² in size. Each villa features an impressive, colorful ambiance blended with a creative design. These villas offer two double beds and a sofa bed.

2. Arenal Springs Resort **** – La Fortuna

hotel hot springs and volcano on family hotels of Costa Rica

 

Arenal Springs is a hotel that will make you feel home. Built on a slope of a soft hill with lovely views of the Arenal Volcano, this eco-friendly and contemporary hotel welcomes its guests with open arms in a friendly atmosphere. In the awesome pool with natural hot springs and a swim-up bar, you can treat yourself to your favorite drink after a day of touring the surroundings. There is a large variety of flowers and fruit trees for birds to feed on, so birders and people who love nature will truly love this. At least 131 species have been spotted and recorded on the hotel’s own grounds; most of them can be seen regularly. Natria Spa is a real treat, a brilliant way to relax while surrounded by a mystic volcanic ambiance. The hotel is a tropical Eden with amazing well-kept grounds and indulging volcano views and provides maximum comfort on an environmentally friendly basis.

3. Volcano Lodge, Hotel & Thermal Experience ***(*) – La Fortuna

best family hotels in costa rica

Volcano Lodge – pool area with Arenal volcano in background

 

Lush tropical gardens, the sound of crashing waterfalls, and striking views of Costa Rica’s famed Arenal Volcano leave guests feeling as though they’ve been transported into the midst of a hidden rainforest jungle; and yet, all of the comforts and amenities of a well-tended resort keep the entire gang happy and contented.

The thermal hot springs are an exclusive amenity just for hotel guests. As you soak in the mineral-rich thermal waters, you’ll relax amidst crashing waterfalls, lush tropical botanic gardens, and very few people. Or how about a “volcanic relaxation massage” at the resort’s Volcano Spa?.

Every guest room in the resort enjoys the seclusion of a private terrace with full or partial views of Arenal Volcano looming majestically above, the botanic gardens, or both. The breakfast is hearty and has a lot of options, including the typical Gallo Pinto (rice and black beans, served with plantains) and delicious coffee. The Surá Bar & Bistro has a daily 2-for-1 happy hour..

Famous for its volcanic hot springs, flowing waterfalls, and tropical rainforests, La Fortuna is abundant in flora and fauna, making each eco-adventure tour as interesting as it is fun. Whether it’s zip-lining, fast above the forest canopy, crossing the jungle treetops on a hanging bridge, swimming at the base of the majestic La Fortuna Waterfall, or horseback riding through the rainforest, there is a little something for every nature enthusiast. White water rafting, waterfall rappelling, canyoneering, are all on the menu too. At TropiQ Trips, we can organize any or all of the mentioned activities for you upfront!

Otherwise, the staff at the front desk is very helpful in organizing your activities and tours. A free shuttle into La Fortuna is provided several times a day.

Can you see why this resort is a must on our list of best family hotels in Costa Rica?

4. Monteverde Lodge & Gardens ***(*) – Monteverde

hotel restaurant on family tour in Costa Rica

Hotel restaurant

 

The 25-room lodge is located on a generous property in the heart of the cloud forest. Its location is very convenient for visiting downtown Santa Elena and also to the nearby ecological sanctuary. It is a very quiet place perfect for hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, and a great base for exploring the Monteverde and Santa Elena reserves.

This lodge was built to be ecologically friendly: the lights are dim, the water is mainly heated by solar panels on the hotel roof, and there are no TVs or radios – but who needs these anyway with the cloud forest at one’s fingertips? The lodge has a very nice bar with a laid-back atmosphere where you can enjoy your favorite cocktail in the evening. And if you are a keen observer, you will certainly enjoy identifying the many birds and animals that visit the lodge gardens. The heated pool or the spa is nice for a refreshing swim or relaxing treatment after a day full of action. And from the viewpoint, you can enjoy nice views of the surroundings.

Forest View Downstairs: These pleasant accommodations have a nice table and two chairs near the window to look at the cloud forest and animals. They are equipped with either two double beds or one King-size bed and two of them are wheelchair accessible. If you are the nature-lover-observing type you may get to see monkeys on the trees right outside your window! The view is so beautiful that you could comfortably spend a couple of hours sitting by the window just relaxing.

5. Senda Monteverde **** – Monteverde

Bungalow of best family hotel in Costa Rica

Senda Monteverde – stand-alone bungalow suite

 

Senda Monteverde Hotel in Monteverde, Costa Rica, is the cozy mountain lodge you’ve been searching for on our list of best family hotels in Costa Rica. From the hotel, enjoy easy access to every Monteverde adventure you can think of. Not to mention complimentary hiking access to the neighboring Aguti Wildlife Reserve, all year round. Here, families can explore the cloud forest on several walking trails.

The luxury boutique hotel is hidden and private but within walking distance to Monteverde town. On purpose, the hotel abstained from TVs, so you can completely focus on enjoying nature. Nature conservation is a big issue, sustainability is practiced wherever possible.

The Senda Suite is the most private and spacious suite category. As its own stand-alone bungalow at 1321sq.ft, it’s perfect for families. It can accommodate up to 4 adults and 2 children and disposes of 2 bedrooms & 2 full bathrooms. Senda Suites have a spacious, open-air terrace with seating. From here you can enjoy a spectacular view of the Gulf of Nicoya.

In Monteverde, family vacations become adventures of a lifetime. Ziplining was invented here – so there’s no shortage of cloud forest thrills or wildlife encounters to be had. Adventure awaits!

Other activities for the whole family provided by the hotel include:

  • Paper-making class, 7 Wonders of Wander, & a back-of-house sustainability tour
  • The in-house guide makes hiking kid-friendly
  • Tour planning service — activities the easy way
  • Small-sized rubber boots & walking sticks for young hikers
  • Hot cocoa & marshmallows by the fire pit
  • Board games
  • Cooking classes for young chefs

6. Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge *** – San Gerardo de Dota

view from room of family hotel in Costa Rica

View from Superior Bungalow at Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge

 

Our list of best family hotels in Costa Rica continues: Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge is a home away from home. This environmentally friendly lodge with only 12 rooms offers plenty to do for kids and adults alike.

Situated in picturesque San Gerardo de Dota, Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge is a sustainable eco-lodge that provides adventure for guests while respecting the surrounding nature. The lodge offers several unique experiences, including a beautiful art gallery for indigenous art and handicrafts. It is as educational as it is beautiful.

Families can’t miss a visit to the lodge’s playground. Kids love visiting the open-air play space, complete with swings, monkey bars, a large trampoline, and climbing tires. The reception also keeps a collection of indoor toys for guests to use during their stay.

When you’re ready to grab a bite to eat, do it at Le Tapir, the resort’s on-site restaurant. Breakfast is included with your stay. The restaurant’s glass architecture provides the perfect spot to search for hummingbirds as you eat.

The Superior Bungalow is the best-suited room category for families. It is equipped with ecological ethanol chimneys and offers two bedrooms with a Queen-size bed each. One of the two bathrooms features a combined jacuzzi-shower. Both of the 4-Person Superior Bungalows are located close to the reception. From the private terrace, you can enjoy beautiful views.

Tours offered at this lodge include:

  • Bird Watching
  • Canopy Tours / Zip Line
  • Family Friendly Tours
  • Hiking
  • Horseback Riding
  • National Park / Reserve Tours
  • Night Hikes
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Yoga

 

MAP

OF THE BEST FAMILY HOTELS IN COSTA RICA

Best Family Beach Hotels in Costa Rica

7. Hotel Bosque del Mar ***(*) – Playa Hermosa

Hotel in rainforest

Suites at Hotel Bosque del Mar

 

This boutique beach hotel located directly at the beach of Playa Hermosa achieves perfect harmony between elegance and ecology. The hotel is designed in a contemporary style and offers its guests a gourmet kitchen as well as exclusive suites with maximum comfort. Sustainable instalments including solar cells and a water treatment unit help to create a unique blend of modernity and nature. Romantic evenings by the swimming pool or watching the unforgettable sunset over the ocean are among the many highlights this boutique hotel has to offer.

A large overflow pool and a well-groomed tropical garden complex create a wonderful environment for rest and relaxation. Located on the second floor of the main building, the bar Nya features a large terrace with a fantastic view of the ocean. A small spa offering massages nicely rounds off the countless facilities in this hotel.

The hotels Garden View and Ocean Front suites are best suited for small families. The comfortable and spacious suites offer either one or two queen-size beds in the bedroom and a sofa bed in the comfortable living room. All suites are a few steps away from the restaurant, the beach, and the swimming pool.

The hotel offers a great selection of tours and activities in the Guanacaste area. Nature-loving families will enjoy a visit to Rincon de la Vieja National Park. At over 34,000 acres, Rincón de la Vieja has room for two volcanoes, 32 rivers and streams, and an incredible variety of flora and fauna. Art lovers will want to check out Guaitil, famous for its pottery. Other options include catamaran tours or adventure activities such as diving or zipline tours.

Bosque del Mar is a unique beach hotel at Playa Hermosa and a perfect retreat for families who cherish exclusivity and nature.

8. Olas Verdes Boutique Hotel ***(*) – Nosara

Olas verdes hotel on family tour

Pool area at Olas Verdes

 

Nestled on the edge of a conservation easement in the unassuming town of Nosara, all that separates you from the surf is a trail through the lush forest. Ceiba trees and native plants seamlessly blend the amenities of Olas Verdes boutique Hotel Costa Rica with the allure of the adjacent wildlife refuge. Grab a surfboard and discover all that the happiest nation in the world has to offer. Experience culture, sanctuary, and pura vida.

Olas Verdes Hotel is proud to partner with Safari Surf School, which has been providing outstanding surf experiences since 1998. Safari provides fun, easy-going lessons with security and confidence delivered by highly qualified professional staff. Safari also runs special programs for kids and women only.

You will be staying in one of the 2-Bedroom Beach Apartments, which are two Luxury Suites next to each other and sharing the building access (levels one and two, no connecting door). That means each Beach Apartment has 2 living rooms, 2 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms. Each bedroom has a queen-size bed and a single bed, closet, desk, safe box, large ceiling fan, and air conditioning. The total area is approximately 1,050 sq. feet.

9. Tango Mar Beachfront Boutique Hotels & Villas **** – Tambor

family hotel Costa Rica adventure

If you are looking for calmness, this is the place. Great location, beautiful views, and well-maintained grounds. There are plenty of things to see and do in the area. However, if you like it here, there are also lounge chairs and hammocks all around the resort where you can simply do nothing at all but wait for your drink. It’s really all up to you!

The exclusive, small boutique hotel Tango Mar is located on a 150-acre private beachfront reserve along the Nicoya Peninsula on the Pacific Coast. Due to its unique atmosphere with well-groomed gardens, exuberant jungle vegetation, and exotic birds and animals, you will encounter the perfect balance between nature and refinement. In the gourmet restaurant Cristóbal, you will be spoilt with local and international, carefully prepared dishes that will melt on your tongue while enjoying the marvelous ocean views.

In the spa and the beauty salon, you can enjoy relaxing, professional treatments. The rest of the day you can spend at the spring-fed swimming pool in the middle of the jungle gardens full of exotic plants and trees. The approx. 1-mile-long sand beach is an excellent option for some promenade around sunset. Over a coastal nature trail, you reach a nice waterfall, and in the hotel, a wide choice of tours and excursions is at your disposal.

How to get the Tango Mar:

Tango Mar is easily accessed by land or by air. If you are driving from the capital city of San Jose, a 2-hour drive will take you to the port of Puntarenas. Here you will board a ferry crossing the Gulf of Nicoya to the town of Paquera, taking about an hour. Once off the ferry in Paquera, a short 45-minute drive will get you to Tango Mar.

If you choose to arrive by air, a short 25-minute flight gets you from San Jose to the Tambor Airstrip, located less than 4 miles (6 kilometers) from the property.

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Tango Mar is an ideal place that is both luxurious and quiet for beach holidays in a beautiful, exotic environment and is, without a doubt, one of the best family hotels in Costa Rica.

10. Si Como No Resort & Wildlife Refuge **** – Manuel Antonio

View from hotel in Costa Rica

Beautiful view from hotel

 

Located along Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast, Si Como No is a uniquely special Manuel Antonio Resort and Wildlife Refuge that sits atop one of the most idyllic hillsides in Manuel Antonio. The resort’s lush jungle terraces and brilliantly vivid gardens overlook the sparkling ocean just above world-renown Manuel Antonio National Park. Its 58 rooms are literally contoured into the jungle hillside across the property’s ten acres.

Every day you will be greeted by toucans and hummingbirds buzzing by on their morning breakfast rounds. The staff is very friendly, hence, the name Si Como No (a fixed Spanish expression meaning: yes, of course, I’ll be glad to!). The property is extremely well-maintained and clean, and the grounds are simply stunning! There is even a movie lounge on the premises showing the latest movies.

The Deluxe Plus rooms are best suited for families. They are equipped with a king-size bed, a sitting area with a sofa bed, a spacious private bathroom, and there is no TV. Enjoy great views of the jungle coastline and the Pacific from your private balcony.

This is an eco-designed property, and the steps they are taking to reduce their carbon footprint are extraordinary and inspiring. The hotel’s profits go back to the community and are invested in education, perfectly matching the Costa Rican concept of Greentique Hotels.

An adult pool offers relaxation while your kids can enjoy the day at the children´s pool. At the bar, fabulous happy hour specials are served before your delicious dinner is prepared in one of the two restaurants. Go for a walk in the private wildlife refuge with the amphibian, or visit the butterfly garden and the crocodile lagoon.

Si Como No strikes the perfect balance of design and comforts the whole family will love. It connects you with the surrounding tropical forest of Manuel Antonio and the essence of the spirit of Costa Rica. A hotel that cannot be missed on our list of best family hotels in Costa Rica!

11. Laguna Lodge Tortuguero *** – Tortuguero

Aerial view of hotel in Costa Rica

Aerial view of Laguna Lodge in Tortuguero

 

We are finishing off our list of best family hotels in Costa Rica with the Laguna Lodge. Laguna is an eco-touristic lodge, located in Tortuguero in the northern Caribbean of Costa Rica. The lodge is built on a narrow strip of land, 650 feet wide, between Tortuguero´s main lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. 

The area has amazing rivers, lakes, and wetlands that shelter a lush jungle of primary forests and exotic plants. There is also a huge variety of fauna the whole family will enjoy: monkeys, sloths, iguanas, caimans, crocodiles, 400 species of birds, and of course turtles. Tortuguero (Land of Turtles) is the place where one of the most amazing ceremonies of nature takes place: the spawning of the Green Sea Turtle. You’ll enjoy the lush biodiversity of flora and fauna in this ecosystem which is the most complex and dynamic of Tropical America.

Family-friendly activities include:

  • Boat tour Tortuguero National Park
  • Tortuguero Village visit (visit the school, churches, stores, community center, and recycling plant)
  • A visit to the lodge’s own botanical garden
  • Sea Turtle nesting tour (July-Oct)
  • Hatching season beach walk (Sept-Nov)
  • Kayak tour

Children are more than welcome at the lodge. Their staff is attentive, helpful, and always happy to attend to any need families and children might have.

It also has complete facilities: comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a bar, a shop, a sports area, and an amazing pool area. The latter is a delight at any time of the day but especially at dusk. With dim lighting, the atmosphere becomes magical accompanied by the first sounds of the night fauna.

The lodge is reachable by a combination of bus & boat or by plane.

*****

Conclusion:

This was just a small insight into the huge variety of accommodations Costa Rica has to offer for families. Costa Rica is a perfect destination for any kind of family vacation: self-drive tours, customized tours, and classic tours. We have got you covered.

We’d love to work with you and create a once-in-a-lifetime family vacation just for your family! You will find many of the above-mentioned best family hotels in Costa Rica in our family tours.

We can’t wait to hear from you! Also, let us know what other content you’d like, or if you have any questions at all!

Contact us today to help you organize your Costa Rica vacation: authentic and customized!

Check out some of our Costa Rica Family Vacation packages:

COSTA RICA – 11 days

Costa Rica Family Fun from US$ 2,650.00
  • A relaxed tour with organized transfers
  • Family-friendly excursions included
  • Enjoy volcano, hot springs, rain & cloud forest, beach
  • Stay in beautiful boutique eco-hotels 

COSTA RICA – 17 days

Family Self-Drive Adventure from US$ 1,990.00
  • Travel at your own pace in a rental car
  • Visit Tortuguero NP with 30 frog, 28 snake, 6 turtle species
  • Stay at a Caribbean beach and in the cloud forest
  • Discover the Arenal volcano and hot springs

Why Now Might Just Be the Perfect Time to Book Your Next Vacation

Why Now Might Just Be the Perfect Time to Book Your Next Vacation

by | Jun 26, 2020 | Vacation

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If you like to travel, you’ve probably had to cancel or postpone a trip, or several, due to the risks and travel restrictions imposed due to the coronavirus, and you are no doubt disappointed. But now, as we move from one chapter in this pandemic to the next, many are looking forward to the fall and winter months and well beyond and are wondering, “Should I book a vacation for a future date right now?” Here at TropiQ Trips, that’s a resounding “yes”!

Now is the perfect time to book your next vacation.

Here are our Top 6 reasons why now might just be the perfect time to book your next vacation:

1. Planning a new trip helps with the disappointment of canceled trips 

Anticipation is the greatest joy; don’t you agree? Even if you don’t know the exact date you’ll be able to travel, there’s lots of fun to be had in physically planning your next getaway. Dig out the bucket list, pick a destination, and start the research…

More downtime means more time to plan and work with your personalized tour operator of choice (that’s where we come in) without the stress of an imminent deadline to make a decision. It also means more possibilities which equates to a whole new world of itineraries with incredible adventures.

Don’t worry if you’re not quite ready to make reservations just yet. You can work with us on your vacation plan now and just pull the trigger when the time is right. However, if you already know exactly where you want to go, booking now might just be a great idea because …

Bocas del Toro-houses in Bocas town Houses on stilts in the Caribbean islands of Bocas del Toro, Panama

2. Booking policies are more flexible than ever

We understand how difficult it is to commit to a trip in the age of coronavirus. Even as the US has moved into a phased reopening, there are still so many unknowns- it feels like it’s changing daily! The good news in all of this is that booking policies are more flexible and consumer-friendly than ever before.

Many airlines have changed their policies to allow you to book your flights now, and still have the freedom to change your booking for the next twelve months, no penalties!

One of the biggest challenges with booking tour packages is the deposit and payment plan. Often, you’ll pay for much — or all — of your trip in advance, and there are steep cancellation penalties. Not when you book with us. When you book a vacation with TropiQ Trips, we want you to have peace of mind. We want you to know that, if circumstances change, we’ve got your back.

Our comprehensive COVID Travel Protection Plan will allow you to book any TropiQ Trips tour or custom vacation for travel in 2020 or 2021 and cancel, change or postpone your trip for any reason up to 40 days prior to departure. You’ll receive a 100% future travel credit, valid through December 31, 2022. 

SUVwith driver Turks & CaicosLuxury vacation in Turks & Caicos

3. Start over and book a vacation in a different destination

Is your originally planned trip no longer an option due to the current reality? Is that cruise on the Med through Europe no longer feasible?

A shorter flight in a different direction might just be the perfect alternative. Many countries, such as Panama or Costa Rica, have not been as affected as we are here in the US, or have taken stricter measures to prevent the spread of the virus. Panamanians for example were and currently still are (after a week of fewer restrictions) only allowed out of their homes for 6 hours a week!

There are a lot of international destinations that actually pose a far lower risk than we are exposed to in our own home states at the moment.

Self-drive tour family with rentalSelf-drive tour in Costa Rica

4. Availability is not an issue

There’s no doubt that coronavirus is putting a strain on the travel industry. Destinations will want to welcome travelers back as soon as it is safe and possible to do so.

For you as travelers, not only does this mean more availability in the most popular hotels (a lot more!), but also for the most sought-after tour guides. But wait, there’s even more! If you beat the masses, by planning and booking your vacation early, you’ll pretty much have the beaches to yourself, even during the busy dry season (Dec-Apr). Who knows when an opportunity like that will come around again?

Maya ruinsMaya ruins of Chichen Itza, Mexico

5. Support sustainable tourism and help locals

Unfortunately, just like here in the States, people in the travel industry worldwide have had to close their businesses due to lost tourism revenue, income that they depend on to feed their families. Our local partner agencies, guides, drivers, transportation companies, providers such as hotels and sightseeing locations, are now struggling to survive. By booking your vacation, you support small businesses and their families. Starting right here in the US, and extending worldwide as you travel.

As a company TropiQ Trips, wherever possible, avoids “tourist traps” and focuses on authentic experiences off the beaten path. We include local experiences – be it tasting traditional food or visiting a community project. We prefer small private lodges & boutique hotels, carefully selected for a unique and special experience, over large chain hotels. With us, your money supports the locals, not big corporations.

In Costa Rica, for example, around 80% of accommodations are family-owned businesses or boutique hotels that have fewer than 40 rooms. This also allows tour providers to consistently implement the recommendations of the health organizations and ensures the lowest possible risk for travelers.

Garifuna drummers in BelizeGarifuna drummers in Belize

6. Reopening of destinations

Most of our destinations in Central America and the Caribbean are aiming to reopen by the end of July. That is also when a lot of international flights will resume making these exotic destinations accessible again.

Bottom line

If you’re one of the many Americans that put travel on hold in favor of a wait-and-see approach, we are right there with you. But there’s no reason you should continue to put a hold on vacation planning. Now is the best time to start researching those dream trips and to work with us so you can book a spectacular vacation when the time comes. Depending on your situation and intended destination, perhaps the time to book has already arrived!

We are here for you and can’t wait to send you a free quote for a vacation to any of our amazing destinations!

Your travel might be on hold, but your dreams and plans don’t have to be.

 

Get in touch, and let’s make your next vacation happen! 

5 Incredible Toddler Vacation Destinations Your Family Will Actually Enjoy

5 Incredible Toddler Vacation Destinations Your Family Will Actually Enjoy

by | Jun 18, 2020 | Blog, Latin America

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Are you looking for the best toddler vacation destinations? Just because you’ve settled down and had kids doesn’t mean your adventuring days are over. Family vacations introduce kids to the inner workings of other cultures through language, sports, crafts, and time with experts who bring what they’ve learned in school into real life. Whether you are lie-on-a-beach-with-a-coconut people or adventure junkies, there are incredible toddler vacation destinations that are only a few flight hours away to indulge your personal idea of a tropical family vacation spot.

Here are our Top 5 of the best toddler vacation destinations – see the map below for locations:

1. Riviera Maya, MEXICO

Mexico is one of the best countries in the world to travel with children. The culture is very family-oriented and people will welcome your children pretty much everywhere. There are also many attractions that are designed with families in mind.

The Riviera Maya is a natural choice for the best toddler vacation destinations. The beaches are idyllic but there are also nature parks, cenotes, and archaeological sites to explore. The Riviera Maya runs along the Caribbean coastline of the state of Quintana Roo. South of the Riviera Maya, you’ll find the Costa Maya, an even more secluded and pristine area. Don’t confuse the Mayan Riviera with the Mexican Riviera, which is the name given to Mexico’s Pacific coastline.

There are many family-friendly resorts in the Riviera Maya. With kids’ clubs to keep the kids occupied, parents can use their leisure time at the beach or poolside, or book a treatment at the spa.

Beach-loving families will be happy to spend most of their time enjoying the sun, sand, and sea; building sandcastles, collecting shells and playing in the waves can keep little kids happy for many hours, but the Riviera Maya also has tons to do off the beach. There are archaeological sites to explore, cenotes to cool off in, and many parks, such as Xcaret, where you can learn about the nature and culture of the area.

2. San Ignacio, BELIZE

What is surprising about Belize is the cultural diversity of such a small country with a tiny population. Mayans, Creole, Mestizos, and Garinagu being the most common of groups and they all live in harmony, respect, and embrace each other’s cultural differences.

Once a British colony and known as British Honduras, the first language is English. That makes things such as navigating maps and chatting with locals very easy.

A couple of hours west of Belize City is the quaint town of San Ignacio. It’s a colorful little place with lots going on. It is a great base for budget-friendly tropical adventure travel and definitely one of the best toddler vacation destinations in Central America.

Toddler-friendly activities include

  • Chocolate-making: Learn how to turn raw cacao beans into drinking chocolate. Kids are allowed to grind the beans and sample just about everything and of course you get to drink the warm chocolate at the end.
  • Maya Ruins: The easiest and most accessible are only a few minutes away and can easily be reached by taxi. The Cahal Pech ruins are one of the smaller Maya sites and are perfect to explore for toddlers. There’s lots of vegetation so shade is available too.
  • Iguana Sanctuary: Inside the San Ignacio Hotel, there is a conservation project underway to protect one of the country’s beloved creatures, the iguana. You will learn about their protection measures and might even get the chance to feed them! Your toddlers will surely love this!
  • Chaa Creek is a wonderful resort that is located about half an hour from San Ignacio. It’s an award-winning Belize Jungle Resort, located in the heart of the Maya civilization. Here, adventure abounds within the rainforest reserve. Whether you decide to stay or just visit, there is plenty for everyone to do, especially with kids: With hiking, horseback riding and canoeing, as well as guided nature walks and river exploration included in on-site activities, there are plenty of choices to excite every member of the family. There’s even a Butterfly farm. Kids up to 18 years stay for free!

3. Tamarindo, COSTA RICA

Costa Rica is a great country to travel to if you’re bringing little ones. It is safe, warm, and connected enough to the first world that you can enjoy the differences.

Tamarindo is one of the best toddler vacation destinations, located in the Guanacaste province, which attracts many visitors year-round. It is undoubtedly an ideal destination for those visitors traveling with toddlers. It has a huge variety of accommodation services, from basic to more luxurious. Many of the hotels are located just a few steps from the beach. In the town center, you find all necessary services such as pharmacies and supermarkets, where you can buy everything you need from sun lotion to after-bug-bite cream, Tylenol, diapers, or beach toys.

And “Ticos” are super friendly and love kids. Many restaurants will have a kid’s menu and will be happy to accommodate any special baby food needs.

While there are countless activities for older kids and grown-ups such as surfing, boogie boarding, zip-lining, there are options for the very little ones as well. The southern end of the bay is the most kid-friendly stretch of the beach, well protected from the wind, has the smallest waves, and the least currents. There is a boutique hotel located right here that would be an awesome choice for a family with toddlers.

Other toddler-friendly activities include: visiting the local farmer’s & crafts market (Sat mornings) or the night market (Thursdays), enjoying walks on the long beach, playing mini-golf, or participating in turtle nesting tours in Las Baulas Marine Park. Or you could just while away the time people-watching and enjoying a pipa (coconut) or cocktail at one of the many beach bars.

Off-the-beaten-track toddler alternative to Tamarindo

Samara is also located in Guanacaste province. It has calmer waters but not a lot of tourist infrastructures. Most hotels are more basic and are not as conveniently located at the beach. But if you are looking for a more off-the-beaten-track experience and don’t mind roughing it a bit, this is another awesome place to go with your little ones.

Life in both Tamarindo and Samara is very laid-back, so go and have a great time.

4. Isla Palenque, PANAMA

For adventurous families, traveling to Panama with kids is an unforgettable experience. From jungle hikes to whale-watching tours and sailing trips among Caribbean islands, there are countless ways to explore the natural wonders of this country. Panama is still widely unexplored and therefore an excellent destination for off-the-beaten-path adventure and undisturbed relaxation for the whole family. For families with toddlers, we have the best toddler vacation destination: Isla Palenque.

Isla Palenque is located near Boca Chica and can be easily reached from Panama City via a short domestic flight to David and a car/boat transfer from there.

The Resort of Isla Palenque has really mastered the art of a family tropical island adventure. There are 400 acres of private island and jungle to discover. The waters are safe and gentle – perfect even for the little ones. The beaches are long, ideal for walks and to collect rocks. While on Isla Palenque you are sure to see and hear howler monkeys, exotic birds, and the sounds of the sea. Daybeds and hammocks are perfect for the whole family to relax in while the Casitas offer all amenities. Designed with indoor-outdoor living in mind, families have all the extravagances they’d expect from a luxury hotel. Babysitting services and cribs are also available. The chefs are happy to prepare special baby and toddler food. And, Panamanians love children! Are you a nature lover who wants to stay in a luxurious place? Then make sure to put Panama and our Panama Private Island Escape, which includes a stay on Isla Palenque, on your bucket list!

Other awesome toddler vacation destinations in Panama include the Caribbean islands of Bocas del Toro and San Blas (Guna Yala).

5. Grace Bay, TURKS & CAICOS

The paradise of 40 islands that make up Turks & Caicos sits in the middle of the Caribbean. Here you will not find theme parks but beautiful sandy beaches and endless summer sun – a perfect getaway for families with small children. It has a dry, tropical climate with year-round sunshine and temperatures between 70-75 (Dec/Jan) and 90*F (July).

The holiday capital of Turks and Caicos, Providenciales, is the place for big beaches and luxurious family resorts. Many of them are located right at the beach, making it easy for families with small kids. Some resorts are either all-inclusive or have kitchens for self-catering or making toddler food.

Grace Bay is officially the world’s best beach and you’ll find it on Providenciales, also called Provo. With three national parks, several marine and nature reserves, miles of coast, and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect island for young kids. Toddlers can try all sorts of water sports for the first time in safe, calm waters. But there is also island hopping, iguana watching, or just exploring – very little is off-limits to kids. What else could you wish for in a toddler vacation destination?

The islands can easily be reached with short flights from many major US cities. English is the official language and the US Dollar is the common currency.

Should this short article have raised your curiosity to venture out into the whole wide world with your family – and we most certainly hope so -, we’d love to help you to organize your next amazing family vacation.

Our personalized service guarantees that your next family vacation to any of our tropical destinations will be unique, enjoyable, and trouble-free! Our family vacation packages cater to your family’s interests, size, ages, and budget. And all our tours can be customized to your family’s needs! Make sure to check out our Family Vacations!

Do you have any questions or comments? Know other best toddler vacation destinations? Let us know in the comments or get in touch with us.

Are you looking to get a free quote for an amazing tropical family vacation?

Get in touch with us today.

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WHERE TO VACATION IN COSTA RICA

WHERE TO VACATION IN COSTA RICA

by | Apr 10, 2020 | Blog, Costa Rica

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It’s hard to pick where to vacation in Costa Rica as there are so many amazing things to see and do in this tiny country that has the size of West Virginia or the entire country of Denmark. There are the volcanoes with Poas being the largest and most active, Tortuguero National Park, the mountain town of Monteverde, Corcovado National Park, and the many beautiful beaches on the Pacific and Caribbean. 

Costa Ricans, or “Ticos” as they like to call themselves, have a saying: They are rich in paradise. And it’s true — their homeland never ceases to astonish its visitors. The gorgeous beaches, never-ending activities, friendly people, and a plethora of wildlife, amazing scenery and scrumptious food make a vacation in Costa Rica unforgettable.

Irrespective of the number of days you have in your hand, you will always feel short of time in this spectacular place. 

Here are the top five things to do and see:

1. Discover Volcanoes

Costa Rica volcanoes are known as the top tourist attractions in the region. The most famous volcano for lava eruption, Arenal stopped in 2010, but that does not make it less interesting. There are still mesmerizing trails in its vicinity. Other volcanoes that are worth exploring, include:

Poás Volcano which remains one of Costa Rica’s largest and most active volcanoes is located in the Central Highlands of Costa Rica, about 1.5 hrs from San José. In the same region, you can also visit the Irazú Volcano or Turrialba Volcano.

Rincon de la Vieja Volcano is located in the Guanacaste región. Fit hikers can climb the top of one of the craters on a 6-mile hike.

Surrounded by an enchanting blend of forest, hot springs and geysers, you will find the Tenorio Volcano, also located in Guanacaste.

2. Explore the canals of Tortuguero National Park

If you are an animal lover, make sure to keep this place in your where to vacation in Costa Rica-itinerary. Tortuguero is a protected wilderness area on Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean coast. Its beaches are famous nesting grounds for sea turtles, including endangered green turtles.

The park’s freshwater creeks and lagoons, which can be navigated by boat or canoe, shelter spectacled caimans, and river turtles. The surrounding dense rainforest is also rich with wildlife, from monkeys to many bird species.

3. Birdlife & adventure in Monteverde

This is a place that tops the list of must-visit locations in Costa Rica. Monteverde is a small mountain town where travelers often indulge in hiking, coffee plantation visits, or canopy or suspension bridge tours.

The famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve shelters countless wildlife species, including jaguars, ocelots and the colorfully plumed resplendent quetzal.

4. Visit the remote Corcovado National Park

Corcovado National Park is a beautiful destination located on the remote Osa Peninsula. This quiet, rugged, and off-the-beat destination is for all those searching for peace.

Here you can indulge in diving, hiking or enjoy a walk. Corcovado National Park has been referred to by National Geographic as “the most biologically intense place on Earth in terms of biodiversity.”

It is the largest national park in Costa Rica, the largest primary forest on the American Pacific coastline, and one of the few remaining large areas of lowland tropical rainforests in the world.

5. Spend a lazy day at one of Costa Rica’s beautiful beaches

There is the stunning beach of Manuel Antonio, part of the Manuel Antonio National Park, with its consistently calm water which makes it a terrific choice for families with young children. The surrounding national park is filled with wildlife. You can easily spot white-faced monkeys, howler monkeys, green iguanas, and sloths.

Another awesome choice is Tamarindo, one of Costa Rica’s most popular beaches. It is an action-packed destination known for great beginner surf and a lively nightlife.

The town is also surrounded by Las Baulas National Park, which protects endangered leatherback sea turtles that nest on nearby beaches between October and February.

South of Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast, Punta Uva is one of Costa Rica’s most enchanting destinations. Golden sand, pristine water, coral reefs, palm trees, monkeys! As you wander around Punta Uva, keep an eye out for great green macaws in the trees above.

Located near the dramatic Southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa combines stunning natural beauty with an upscale backpacker vibe. Because it remains relatively difficult to get to, Santa Teresa is not overrun with “sun and fun” tourists who arrive en masse. Instead, this rugged area lures more adventurous travelers.

Once here, you will never want to leave. One of my personal favorites is Montezuma which is another town in the Southern part of the Nicoya Peninsula, and off the main tourist track. A favorite for youths, surfers, and alternative-types, the bohemian town is really an ideal, laid-back beach town. Its natural beauty ranges from beautiful beach, mangroves, and estuaries to dense tropical forest and waterfalls with natural pools.

Well, this was just a small insight into everything Costa Rica has to offer. Would you like more on where to vacation in Costa Rica? We’d love to hear from you! Also, let us know what other content you’d like, or if you have any questions at all!

Contact us today to help you organize your Costa Rica vacation: authentic and tailor-made!

5 EXPERT MONEY SAVING TIPS FOR YOUR VACATION

5 EXPERT MONEY SAVING TIPS FOR YOUR VACATION

by | Feb 7, 2020 | Blog

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If you are traveling to Latin America on a budget and want to save money yet enjoy your trip to the maximum, here are a few money-saving tips for your vacation:

1. Travel in the off-season 

One of the best ways to save money is to travel in the off-season. Late-April to November is considered rainy or green season in many of our destinations and thus prices tend to be lower. The rainy season is actually a great time to travel. Everything is green, lush and beautiful. And a lot quieter!

2. Tourist activities

With our self-drive tours, you are flexible and have the freedom to choose your own activities. You can visit a lot of places like national parks and waterfalls on your own if you are trying to save money. Guides definitely add value to nature tours because of their expertise but are not always necessary. Talk to us and we’ll help you plan!

3. Avoid big tourist towns

The most popular destinations, like the beach towns of Guanacaste in Costa Rica, are more expensive than lesser-known places that haven’t made it into the guidebooks yet. And a small authentic B&B often times gives you a better value for money than a big anonymous resort, not to mention a more authentic experience of the “real” Costa Rica, Panama, Nicaragua, Belize, or Mexico. Of course, you will want to visit some of the hot spots too but staying just 15 minutes away could save you hundreds on meals and lodging.

4. Choice of rental car

We can help you to decide whether to rent a standard sedan or a more expensive SUV/truck with four-wheel drive. Although there are places where you definitely want a 4WD, you don’t need it everywhere. You’d be surprised how big the price difference can be between the mentioned categories.

Related post: Check out our Self-drive tours

5. Eat locally

Sodas or fondas are small local restaurants that serve inexpensive, typical local food. They vary from full-blown restaurants to shacks with a couple of chairs. Often, they don’t look like much but don’t let the plastic tablecloths and simple structures stop you. I’ve had some of my best meals at the most unassuming places. You could enjoy a lunch plate of fresh fish, rice and beans, plus salad for only $6!

Hopefully, these money-saving tips will help you in your Latin America vacation.

Do you have any questions or comments? Other money-saving ideas? Let us know in the comments. And get in touch with us to plan your vacation in Latin America!

7 TIPS TO PLAN THE BEST COSTA RICA TOURS

7 TIPS TO PLAN THE BEST COSTA RICA TOURS

by | Sep 5, 2019 | Blog, Costa Rica

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Dreaming of a vacation in Costa Rica? Let us help you to plan the best Costa Rica tours for yourself and your family.

Here are our top 7 tips that will make planning the tour easier for you. This way, when you are finally ready to go to Costa Rica, you will have an amazing time and be able to indulge in all the awesome adventure activities the country has to offer.

1. What’s Your Budget?

Whenever you are planning a trip, it is important to establish a budget. This will make it easy to avoid unnecessary surprises and give you the opportunity to enjoy your trip to the maximum. Whether you love making budgets or hate it, it is an essential part of the journey.

If you would like our input, make sure to let us know an estimated budget so we can plan accordingly and don’t lose time quoting above or below your budget. If the budget is not reasonable, we will discuss it with you and see if we can find a solution.

2. Where Do You Want to Go?

Costa Rica is a beautiful place and thus it can become difficult to pick a perfect destination for your vacation. There are so many amazing places with different vibes. I am sure you want to visit them all, but it won’t be possible to cover everything in a single trip.

Therefore, it is important to narrow down a few places to visit and keep other places for the next time. We will help you to figure out what destinations suit your travel needs best. This all depends on the length of your stay, your means of transportation, and most of all your interests.

Monteverde is definitely part of our best Costa Rica tours but if you are looking for a beach vacation, you will be disappointed with all the rainforest, hiking trails, and adventure sports – and no beach in sight.

3. Book Your Flight

When planning the best Costa Rica tours, it is important to know that Costa Rica has two international airports – one located in Liberia and the other located just outside the capital San Jose.

A majority of people tend to fly into San Jose airport because of its location and affordably priced flights. But you can also choose to fly into Liberia airport if you plan on visiting the Guanacaste part of the country.

There are plenty of airlines that fly to and from Liberia airport: American, Southwest, United, and Delta. Moreover, before booking a flight, you can compare different flights and check whether it is cheaper to fly into San Jose airport or Liberia Airport.

We can easily plan the itinerary around your flight plans!

4. The Right Accommodation

When planning your best Costa Rica trip, make sure to let us know what kind of accommodation you prefer. Costa Rica has plenty of the usual chain hotels, especially in San Jose and the tourist hot spots. But what makes the country stand out and leave you with lasting memories, are its beautiful ecolodges all over the country. Costa Rica has been at the forefront of the green tourism movement for many years, so it is no surprise that the country hosts some spectacular ecolodges. One of them is the amazing Pacuare Lodge.

The most thrilling way to arrive at -or depart from-  this lodge is by rafting the Pacuare River – one of the best white-water rivers in Central America. The lodge consists of thirteen wooden cabins (made by local Cabécar Indians) in the heart of the Talamanca Mountain Range, where you can explore the rainforest on foot or on horseback. Pacuare supports primary-school programmes and has helped to reintroduce howler monkeys to the forest. Many people have classified this beautiful riverfront lodge as one of the most luxurious eco-lodges in Costa Rica, if not the world.

We can help to find the right accommodation just for you and help make this vacation your best Costa Rica trip ever!

5. How to Travel within the Country?

One of the trickiest things to figure out when planning your best Costa Rica trip might be the means of transportation to use for traveling within the country. But no worries. We are here to help!

There are different options to choose from, depending on how flexible you want to be.

The most convenient way is, of course, a private driver-guide. But not everyone’s budget allows for it. This way we plan the general itinerary but small changes in the daily program are often possible.

The most flexible solution is a rental car which gives you the flexibility to move around at your own pace. On our self-drive tours, you can drive yourself but the route is fixed as we have pre-booked your hotels which is essential especially in high season.

Don’t want to spend the money on a private driver and don’t like driving in a foreign country? We can also book you on the existing shuttle services that take you in comfortable and modern minivans around the main tourist destinations in Costa Rica. 

6. Fun Things to Do?

How can you plan the best Costa Rica tours without including some fun things to do? There are so many amazing things to indulge in Costa Rica that you will wish you had some more days on hand.

Whether you want to relax on the beach and indulge in outdoor activities such as hiking the rain forest or exploring the many suspension bridges or want to experience the adrenaline rush through your body with activities such as ziplining, Costa Rica has you covered.

7. Try out the Local Food

Can vacations be complete without exploring local delicacies? Our answer is no!

Known for its use of fresh ingredients, like fruits and vegetables, the cuisine in Costa Rica is generally on the mild side. Exotic fruits grow locally in a tropical environment, so there is always something to make the food exciting. Meals in Costa Rica often contain rice and black beans, such as in the traditional Costa Rican breakfast Gallo Pinto. The dish’s main ingredients of rice and beans are mixed together and paired with other ingredients to give it some spice, like peppers, cilantro, and onions.

These were some tips that will make it easy for you to start planning the best Costa Rica tours.

Are you looking to get a quote for an amazing and unique Costa Rica vacation? Get in touch with us today.