A Relaxed 10-Day Costa Rica Itinerary (Your Family Will Love)

by Anja Phillips | Mar 14, 2021 | Blog, Costa Rica, Family Vacation, Vacation

Visiting Costa Rica is a great idea for a family vacation! The country is pretty safe, the food is amazing and the weather is perfect for exploring and playing outside. This 10-day Costa Rica itinerary gives you a balanced mix of all the best of Costa Rica.

Costa Rica offers many natural wonders: from rainforests to volcanoes, tropical beaches, and more. 10 days is a good length of time to visit Costa Rica with kids, as your itinerary will be filled with fun activities but won’t drag on too long.

When planning a trip to Costa Rica with kids, or any other Central America family vacation, consider staying at least 2 to 3 nights at each location. You will find that your kids are actually less exhausted when you slow travel. That is because they are less likely to get overwhelmed. Being constantly on the move is exhausting for everyone, but especially for kids. And it can be overwhelming on top of exhausting for little ones.

We have included boutique hotels that are able to host a family of 4 or 5 comfortably. You will not only find accommodations mentioned but also the room categories perfect for hosting a family.

With so much to discover in this Central American country, I’d recommend a minimum of 10 days. This will allow you to tick off the main activities without rushing or running on empty.

The following 10-day Costa Rica itinerary will give you some great ideas for your route. It is designed to provide a balanced mix of all the best of Costa Rica.

Want to get an idea about pricing? Check out our Costa Rica Family Fun tour that follows a very similar itinerary (with slightly different accommodations).

OVERVIEW

OF A RELAXED 10-DAY COSTA RICA ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrive in San Jose & Transfer to the Central Valley

Day 2: Explore and Relax in the Central Valley

Day 3: Discover Arenal Volcano

Day 4: Caño Negro & Rio Frio Boat Tour

Day 5: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve & Coffee Tour

Day 6: Monteverde Cloud Forest Adventures: Ziplining and Suspension Bridges

Day 7-9: Be Active or Relax at Nosara Beach

Day 10: Depart to the Airport

Check Out This Relaxed 10-Day Costa Rica Itinerary

Here is a sample 10-day Costa Rica itinerary that starts and ends in Costa Rica’s most popular airport in the capital San Jose. It takes you to the nearby Central Valley, Arenal Volcano, Monteverde with its cloud forests, and ends at Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, before returning to San Jose for your flight back home.
Each of these destinations is easy to get to. But they are very different in terms of landscapes and activities. Some have wildlife, rain forests, and cloud forests, and some have beaches. This slow travel itinerary is ideal for nature and beach-loving families.

Day 1: Arrive in San Jose & Transfer to the Central Valley

Individual arrival at the international airport where your driver awaits you. Private transfer of about 45 min to your first accommodation.

We suggest staying outside of the noisy capital and starting your Costa Rica Itinerary with a stay at the beautiful Xandari Resort. It is located in the Central Valley which is strikingly beautiful and disposes of a mild and dry climate all year round.

**Recommended accommodation: *Xandari Resort & Spa***, Star Villa (2 bedrooms)

The Xandari Resort is an inspiring oasis for art enthusiasts with a panoramic view of the Central Valley! The exclusive hotel features 24 individually designed villas and awes guests with a lively blend of color, art, and architecture.

The ecologically-run hotel complex with three swimming pools, a spa equipped with a jacuzzi, 5 private pavilions, a vegetable garden, and a botanical garden with trails as well various impressive art pieces is truly an insider tip for all those seeking a unique, offbeat experience.

I recommend the largest villa called Star Villa which measures 1,420 sq. ft. This generous villa is ideal for families. It includes two bedrooms, a salon and dining area, a full kitchen, and an office/study with internet, plus a private terrace and private garden. It captivates guests with its unique and creative ambiance. The spectacular view of the Central Valley, the garden, and the swimming pool are equally impressive.

Day 2: Explore and Relax in the Central Valley

Day at leisure.

Explore the beautiful hotel grounds or relax by the pool.

Day 3: Discover Arenal Volcano

Today your 10-day Costa Rica itinerary takes you to La Fortuna which is about 2.5 hours away. La Fortuna is a small town located northwest of the capital, San José. It is known as a gateway to Arenal Volcano National Park, comprising 2 volcanoes. Hot springs dot the foot of the volcano, on the thermal Tabacón River. The dormant Chato Volcano has a crater lake and rainforest trails leading to La Fortuna Waterfall, with its natural pool.

In the late afternoon join a 2-hour Night Walk: When the sun sets across the park, a different side of the Costa Rican rainforest comes to life under the cover of darkness. Join a guided night walk through Arenal Natura Ecological Park for a chance to see all of the nocturnal creatures that call the park home. Explore the forested trails of this private nature reserve and listen as the jungle comes alive with the activity of nocturnal animals like sloths, armadillos, night birds, and more than 20 species of frogs!

**Recommended accommodation: Arenal Paraiso Resort ***(*), 1 Villa**

The hotel offers its visitors a variety of private trails and its own canopy tour. Apart from the amazing volcano view, the main attraction is the pool park: 14 pools of which 13 are thermo-mineral pools. Natural hot springs water is pumped up to the highest hill of the property and flows down to the main pool area.

The spacious Villas provide a living room and two bedrooms. The master bedroom is equipped with a King-size bed and a single sofa bed and features a jacuzzi in the bathroom. The second bedroom comes with a double bed and a single bed. In front of the living room, you also find a nice balcony with a beautiful view of the volcano.

Day 4: Caño Negro & Rio Frio Boat Tour

Caño Negro actually means “Black Canyon” in Spanish – but quite the contrary, Caño Negro should have been named “Green Canyon” thanks to its rich heritage when it comes to biodiversity. Wetlands, native and migratory birds, sloths, caimans, and a great variety of trees, flowers, and plants.

First, you drive to Los Chiles, one of the northernmost villages in Costa Rica. Once there, you will come on board a little boat, embarking on a sort of floating safari, passing through verdant pastures and forests. The knowledgeable guide will be very helpful pointing at different animals, trees, and incredible rarely-seen birds and will share their secrets with you.

Duration: approx. 9 hours

Day 5: Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve & Coffee Tour

Off to the mountains, you go today – all the way to Monteverde – via road and boat crossing the Lago de Arenal. The transfer takes about 3h 30 min. There is a faster route without crossing Arenal Lake but this one is the more scenic route and I’d definitely recommend taking it. You will find out why once you are there and can thank me later!

Monteverde is home to one of the rarest habitats on Earth, the cloud forest, and an astounding variety of flora and fauna. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is unique from Costa Rica’s other rainforests, with a constant mist that looks like clouds and gives the forest its name.

Monteverde is a destination of bucket list experiences. Its ecosystems are home to some of the world’s rarest wildlife. In Costa Rica’s tropical highlands, there is seldom a dull day. Monteverde’s famous canopy tours include miles of cables, multiple platforms, and unimaginable views above the clouds.

Looking for a less exciting experience? Learn about the fascinating history of Costa Rican coffee and chocolate and try your hand at making some sweet sugar cane juice too. Or trot and gallop along scenic forest trails and up into mountains on horse-back.

Afternoon suggestion: Don Juan Coffee Tour

The Don Juan coffee tour is a real experience of family history and tradition. You will be invited to take a look into the world of coffee and be introduced to the history of coffee in Costa Rica and its socio-economic development. And you will learn a lot about chocolate as well as sugarcane, as both contribute to Costa Rican culture. So, this is 3 in 1 – living history.

**Recommended accommodation: The Senda Monteverde **, 1 Bungalow with 2 Junior Suites

The Senda Monteverde hotel is located between Santa Elena and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. It is a luxury eco-hotel for adventurous travelers! Those who seek a peaceful, down-to-earth stay.

The 24 suites and rooms are dotted across the boutique mountain hotel in Contemporary Mountain Bungalows. Some are positioned on hilltops with incredible views all the way to the Gulf of Nicoya. Others enjoy amazing windows into the cloud forests.

You will have all the privacy, comforts, and essentials you’d expect from a luxury mountain lodge.

Junior Suites are 1-bedroom suites with 44sq.m (475sq.ft) of living space. Junior Suites can accommodate a max. of 2 adults + 1 or 2 small children. Sleeping Arrangement: King-sized bed and a twin day bed in the living area. One Full Bathroom. Minibar & living area with sofa, table & chairs.

Junior Suites have a cozy, open-air terrace. Each stand-alone bungalow features two Junior Suites

Day 6: Monteverde Cloud Forest Adventures: Ziplining and Suspension Bridges

Today you will explore some of the many activities Monteverde has to offer! An adventure package for a full day of experiences with amazing views that you won’t forget. You will be able to soar through the mountains at incredible speed, heights, and lengths on the unmatched ziplines. Explore the tropical forest from a bird’s eye view on the aerial tram. Get to discover the secrets of nature in hanging bridges and trails guided expedition.

Highlights

8 ziplines, 6 hanging bridges, and a tramway over the forest
Unmatched views of the Arenal Volcano, Nicoya Gulf, and more
Astounding ziplines that go up to 328ft in height and 2460ft in length and impressive speeds that go up to 43.5mph.
Mountain to mountain and canyon crossing ziplines
Professional certified braking systems on ziplines
No hands-on cable (always on the pulley)
Hanging Bridges Trail length: 1.5mi
Hanging Bridges: 6 with distances up to 774ft and heights up to 165ft
Admire primary and secondary forests with varying vegetation on our hanging bridges and trails walk

7. Be Active or Relax at Nosara Beach

Today you will travel to the Pacific Ocean side of Costa Rica on a private transfer of about 5 hrs. Defined by its worries-by-the-wayside attitude and shorelines untainted by commercialism, Nosara is a small town famous for its yoga and surf. We want you to relax at the end of your 10-day Costa Rica itinerary so suggest staying here for 3 nights for a relaxed end of your Costa Rica family vacation.

Many people know it as “No shoes, no shirt, Nosara,” which aptly sums things up. Located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica in the Guanacaste region, the traditional village of Nosara sits six kilometers inland, although the beaches are the biggest draw.

For decades, Nosara has been protected by the national park system, in addition to longstanding efforts of local citizens to ensure that this unspoiled forest and beach destination remains as such. Nosara has three different beaches: Playa Guiones, Playa Nosara and Playa Pelada.

Visitors rave about the ATV and horseback riding tours. Along the way, you can marvel at the roaring waterfall and try coconut water on the beach. Or try boogie boarding or family-friendly paddle boarding.

Feel the real culture and support the locals at nearby restaurants. Within the area, you can find a wide variety of restaurants, including romantic hotspots meant for couples as well as kid-friendly locales serving up sandwiches and beverages.

**Recommended accommodation: Olas Verdes Boutique Hotel ***(*) – 2-Bedroom Beach Apartment**

Olas Verdes Hotel is an all-suite boutique hotel, just a short walk through the forest to Playa Guiones. Wake up with the waves and stay in comfort, while enjoying in-house surf and yoga lessons. Offering casual luxury, Olas Verdes Hotel has the best location to explore the towns of Guiones and Nosara. Restaurants, shops and massages are a fun and easy bicycle ride away. Free Wi-Fi, beach cruisers and laundry. El Manglar restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Olas Verdes Hotel is a proud partner of the Safari Surf School. Safari provides fun, easy-going lessons delivered by highly qualified professional staff.

Stay 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. The downstairs living room has a pull-out sofa bed, mini-fridge, coffee maker, toaster oven, large ceiling fan and wet bar, while the upstairs living room has a sofa, microwave oven, full-size fridge/freezer, breakfast area, and a large ceiling fan.
Each bedroom has a queen size bed and a single bed, closet, desk, safe box, large ceiling fan and air conditioning. Total area is approximately 1,050 sq. feet.

8. Be Active or Relat at the beach in Nosara

Day at leisure to enjoy the hotel, pool, beach, or activities.

9. Be Active or Relat at the beach in Nosara

Day at leisure to enjoy the hotel, pool, beach, or activities.

10. Depart to the airport

During the course of the day 5 ½ -hour private transfer to the international airport near San Jose.

*****

Conclusion:

When traveling to Costa Rica with kids, it’s important to plan your time together carefully. But of course, you can adjust the schedule however you like to fit your family’s needs and preferences.

The best thing is, as an experienced family travel agency, TropiQ Trips can take the stress out of planning your Costa Rica vacation and help you create the perfect itinerary for your family.

Would you love to include the Caribbean Coast instead? Check out this awesome itinerary and Costa Rica guided tour: Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast.

If you are interested in planning a trip to Costa Rica, contact us today to get started! Let’s plan your family vacation, romantic getaway, or honeymoon. Check out our sample tours or ask us for one of our self-drive tours or our customized tours, at no additional cost.

Want to explore more? Check out neighboring any of our other awesome destinations in Central America: Mexico, Belize, Panama, Nicaragua.

Have you been to Costa Rica? What was your 10-day itinerary?

Let us know in the comments.

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Check out some of our sample Costa Rica tours

COSTA RICA – 11 days

Costa Rica Family Fun

Relaxed tour with transfers
Family-friendly excursions
Volcano, hot springs, rainforest, beach
Beautiful boutique eco-hotels

COSTA RICA – 11 days

Highlights of Costa Rica

Poas and Arenal volcanoes
Tortuguero National Park
Tropical rainforest & Caribbean beaches
Fully guided tour

COSTA RICA – 17 days

Family Self-Drive

Travel at your own pace
Visit Tortuguero: frogs, snakes, turtles
Caribbean beaches and cloud forest
Arenal volcano and hot springs

COSTA RICA – 8 days

Costa Rica Escape

Authentic Costa Rica adventure
Waterfalls, volcanoes, ziplining & more
Unique 4 and 5-star properties
Pampering at a whole new level

COSTA RICA – 8 days

Caribbean Coast

See crocs, sloths, monkeys in Tortuguero
Jungle stay – disconnect!
Isolated beaches in Cahuita NP
Cooking workshop

COSTA RICA – 7 days

Pacific Tour

Beach & jungle in Manuel Antonio NP
Walk on suspension bridges
Visit a unique wetland and bird paradise
Hot springs at Rincon de la Vieja volcano

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15 Exciting Things To Do In The Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico in 2023

by Anja Phillips | Feb 2, 2021 | Family Vacation, Honeymoon, Mexico, Vacation

The Yucatán Peninsula separates the Gulf of Mexico from the Caribbean Sea, encompassing 3 Mexican states, Yucatan, Quintana Roo, and Campeche, plus portions of Belize and Guatemala. It is known for its tropical rainforests, vibrant colonial cities, as well as its being the home of the ancient Maya people. Whether you are searching for beautiful white-sand beaches to relax on or seeking out thrilling adventure, there is nowhere quite like the Yucatan Peninsula. No wonder people from all over the globe head to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula every year. Check out our 15 exciting things to do in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico!

15 Exciting Things to Do in Yucatan, Mexico

1. Chichen Itza

Probably the epitome of Maya architecture, in its 12th-century heyday Chichén Itzá was a sacred and ceremonial place, and a trading hub. In a site full of wonders and intriguing accounts of Maya customs, the ball court is impressive. In this vast, stone-walled space open to the sky, Maya men played a game of life or death. It’s believed that the captain of the victorious team would be sacrificed to the gods. Don’t miss the Temple of the Warriors, a long platform of intricately carved columns. Some are intact, others crumbling.

Other Mayan sites include Ek Balam, noted for well-preserved sculptures, and Uxmal, with its intricate carved facades.

2. Cenote Ik-Kil

Most people visiting the historical Chitzen Itza pyramids during a Mexico tour also make a stop at the stunning Ik Kil cenote. It is just a short 10-minute drive from the pyramids and the perfect place to cool off in its refreshing deep blue water.

The Ik Kil cenote backdrop is beautiful with a wide opening into the sky, a stairwell leading down to it and lush jungle vines winding all around it. Make sure to go super early if you want to beat the crowds.

3. Izamal

Izamal is a small, charming, and beautiful colonial town in the center of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It is about 1 hour east of Merida. The town has a magical and peaceful atmosphere, and the cobblestone streets are lined with historic colonial buildings painted in a beautiful and eye-catching mustard yellow color.

In the center of town is the eye-catching Convento de San Antonio de Padua. Built in 1561 on the site of a destroyed Maya temple, it is one of the oldest Catholic monasteries in the Americas and its outdoor atrium is the second largest in the world (after the Vatican). Izamal is an official Mexican Pueblo Mágico, Magical Town.

Photo by journey.app

4. Merida

To fully experience the culture and history of the peninsula, go to Merida, the capital of the Yucatan state. With an interesting mix of Mayan and colonial culture, the city is encircled by ancient temples, crumbling ruins, sacred cenotes, and colorful mansions.

Flanked by gorgeous, pastel-colored buildings and the historic city cathedral, the Plaza Grande is one of the most attractive plazas in Merida. The plaza is also often a hive of activity – which is all part of its charm. Witness the daily Mexican flag raising and lowering ceremony, explore the bustling craft market on Sundays, and enjoy the animated live music performances held here almost every night.

Make sure to check out the brightly woven hammocks. Hammock weaving has been a tradition on the peninsula for more than 700 years.

Lovingly nicknamed ‘the White City’ after its iconic whitewashed buildings, Merida is a must among the things to do in the Yucatan Peninsula and one of the highlights of Mexico.

5. Las Coloradas

Mexico is replete with incredible scenic wonders, but few sights are as unique and breathtaking as the pink lakes in Quintana Roo.

Known locally as Las Coloradas (“blush red”), the cotton-candy-colored lakes attract tourists from all across the world. The lakes are pink due to the abundance of red and pink marine life including red algae, brine shrimp, and plankton – all of which thrive in water with high salt content. The man-made lakes are extremely shallow, and the marine life becomes highly concentrated as the saltwater evaporates. Las Coloradas has been a salt mining community for thousands of years, going back to the ancient Maya.

If you find yourself visiting the Yucatan peninsula, add Las Coloradas to your list of things to do.

6. Isla Holbox

Holbox Island is a small piece of heaven on earth on the Yucatan Peninsula, northwest of Cancun, Mexico. Only 26 miles long and one mile wide, the island is comprised of 22 miles of white and coral sand beach. It is separated from the mainland coast of Mexico by a shallow lagoon which gives sanctuary to thousands of flamingos, pelicans, and other exotic birds and creatures.

During the months of June and September, you cannot miss the biggest congregation of whale sharks that come to measure up to 50 feet in length. Its docility allows you to swim on the side of these giants for an unforgettable experience.

The island is a 40-minute ferry ride off the northern coast of the Yucatan peninsula that Cancun calls home. Isla Holbox is intimate, romantic, and definitely wild. Here people don’t drive cars, they use golf carts and beach cruisers.

7. Valladolid

Yucatán’s third-largest city is famous for its quiet streets and sun-splashed pastel walls. The provincial town makes a great hub for visits to Río Lagartos, Chichén Itzá, Ek’ Balam, and a number of nearby cenotes.

Valladolid resides at that magic point where there’s plenty to do, yet it still feels small, manageable, and affordable. Go into the colonial city built atop ancient grounds to view the colorful architecture including the San Gervasio Church.

Make sure to try some of the great eats at the restaurants situated throughout the area.

8. Coba Ruins

Visit the Coba Ruins with the highest pyramid in Mexico. It is one of the few Mayan pyramids you can still climb and is 138 feet tall with 120 stone steps.

Coba is different from the other archaeological big sites in Yucatan. It is situated by four natural lakes, which is a rare sight in the Yucatan. Furthermore, it is not as excavated nor reconstructed as Chichen Itza or Tulum. Coba still has a number of big structures covered with the growth of the jungle, making it a wild place that truly triggers your imagination. It is not overrun with tourists and if you’re early you might be all by yourself with only birds, monkeys, and the dense jungle to accompany you.

Coba is a short drive from Playa del Carmen.

9. Cozumel Island

I loved exploring Cozumel by rental car (jeep) so definitely recommend you include it in your list of top things to do in the Yucatan.

Cozumel is the largest island in the Mexican Caribbean. It is an authentic paradise in the middle of the sea with white beaches, beautiful sunsets, and world-famous for its coral reefs. Cozumel is a destination of adventure and relaxation. Go here to snorkel and scuba dive or simply hike through the luscious green jungle areas.

The city of San Miguel has a laid-back vibe, and there are stunning stretches of untouched nature to be found along the eastern and southern shores.

The island can be reached by ferry from Playa del Carmen.

Photo by Caleb George

10. Akumal Beach

If you’re infatuated with sea turtles, make your way to Akumal Beach to swim in the shallow waters where three different varieties of sea turtles live. White sand beaches, palm trees, and awesome snorkeling await! You can literally snorkel right off the beach without a guide or need to look very far.

Beware: The small bay at Akumal has a sandy bottom comprised of very fine sand. It gets stirred up as the day goes on, cutting visibility significantly. When the tour groups start arriving in the mid-morning, the bottom can get stirred up very quickly. Try getting there early.

Akumal is about half-way between Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

11. Xel-Há Park

Discover one of the best theme parks in the Riviera Maya: Xel-Há.

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience where snorkel, food, and beverages are included. There is something special for every taste. Immerse yourself in amazing cenotes, lagoons, and an inlet. Enjoy a spa, water zip-lines, slides, high jumps, and many other activities that you will only find at Xel-Há.

The park is part of Xcaret Experiencias Group which also owns the Xplor Park, Xcaret Park, and Xenses Park.

12. Mayan Ruins of Tulum

You can’t visit Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula without seeing the Mayan Ruins of Tulum. They are considered by many as the most beautiful of the Mayan Ruins sites around Cancun and part of most Mexico guided tours.

The 13th-century, walled Mayan archaeological site at Tulum National Park overlooks the Caribbean Sea. Tulum was built to be a fortress. It incorporates the clifftop Castillo, built as a watchtower, and the Templo de las Pinturas, with a partially restored mural.

The ruins of Tulum are located 100 miles to the south of Playa del Carmen.

13. Tulum

If you need to relax for a day or two, visit Tulum for sunbathing and yoga on the beach. Tulum’s spectacular coastline – with all its confectioner-sugar sands, cobalt water, and balmy breezes – makes it one of the top beaches in Mexico. There’s also excellent cave and cavern diving, fun cenotes, and a variety of lodgings and restaurants to fit every budget.

Tulum is the fastest-growing vacation destination in the area.

Photo by Spencer Watson

14. Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve

Don’t miss the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, ‘the place where the sky is born’. It is massive, covering over 2,000 square miles, from tropical forests inland to coral reefs offshore. The tropical forests are home to charismatic mammals such as Jaguar, Puma, Ocelot, and Central American Tapir. The property also provides habitat for a large number of resident and migratory bird species. There is a great diversity of marine life, including the West Indian Manatee, four species of nesting marine turtles, and hundreds of fish species.

Explore this pristine slice of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula by boating through spectacular inlets, on snorkeling trips, birdwatching tours, or via guided hikes deep into the wilderness.

15. Bacalar Lagoon

Last but not least: Include a visit to the Bacalar Lagoon on your list of things to do in the Yucatan. Also known as “The lagoon of the 7 colors” this is one of the most beautiful places in the region.

Bacalar is an amazing lake in the southern tip of Quintana Roo State. It is called the lagoon of seven colors because of the white sandy bottom that gives the effect of having so many shades of blue. This is a fresh water lake feed by underground cenotes, but it does look like the ocean. The lake is about 34 miles from tip to tip and 1.2 miles at its widest point. This size makes it a huge place to visit and explore.

The town of Bacalar was declared a Pueblo Magico since it is such a unique place. Bacalar Lagoon is also the second largest natural body of fresh water in Mexico and without question should be on your list of places to visit in the Yucatan Peninsula