Waking up in your central valley hotel is a wonderful way to see in your first morning in Costa Rica. But, things are about to get even better. Today, you’ll venture far from the well-trodden holiday path and into the wilderness with a journey to Boca Tapada. This is a real gem of a destination, and one that truly encapsulates everything that’s so special about Costa Rica. It’s wildlife, it’s nature, and it’s eco-conscious love for the planet we call home. It’s so remote that getting to it is an adventure in itself. Bumpy roads and a river crossing await, before you’ll find yourself checking into your very own treehouse. Perched high above the forest floor, Maquenque Eco Lodge is home to the most unique accommodation, we love it, it's perfect for an unforgettable family experience.

Your wake-up will be an unforgettable one today. Open your eyes to the sun glinting through the curtains and the sounds of wildlife all around. Exotic bird calls fill the air, and the sounds of mischievous monkeys making a racket as they swing through the trees. Sip on a coffee on your treehouse veranda and soak up the sights and sounds of the jungle coming to life. Today, we recommend heading off on a boat trip down the San Carlos River. Your guide will point out the array of incredible wildlife that calls the region home. You’ll glide past crocodiles sunning themselves on the river banks, tortoises basking in the warmth and an impressive variety of birdlife. Everything from colourful kingfishers flitting between the trees to king vultures circling above can be spotted in this remote corner of Costa Rica. As you make your way right up to the border with Nicaragua, you’ll feel like you’re real explorers here.  

Today, start your day with a delicious plate of gallo pinto at the lodge restaurant, whilst watching endless birdlife swoop in and feed from the natural feeder on the lake. There are more than 500 species of birds recorded here, so your eyes will be busy! If you’re lucky, a striking scarlet macaw or a rare great green macaw might soar in to wish you a good morning. Spend the rest of your morning exploring the countless forest trails that wind their way around the lodge and spotting the wildlife hiding within. You might even cross paths with a roving band of coatimundis! This afternoon, we highly recommend taking Macquenque’s coffee and chocolate tour. You’ll explore the grounds and learn all about the production of two of Costa Rica’s biggest exports from the people who know them best.

Today, you’ll leave the remote magic of Boca Tapada behind and head to the famous Arenal Volcano region, where thick forests meet ancient lava fields. Here, you’ll settle into your home for the next four nights. There are plenty of different accommodation options in Arenal, from lodges with stunning volcano views to brilliant family-friendly eco-resorts with sprawling pools and private trails. We’ll be sure to find the best option to suit you and your family. Arenal has it all. There are so many activities to get stuck into in the region, so get a good kip tonight before the adventures kick off in the morning. 

Arenal’s volcano forest is home to many sloths, and your day starts with a guided walk in search of them. Often spotted lazily snoozing in the treetops, your naturalist guide will know exactly where to look as you make your way along the trails. You won’t just see them either, you’ll learn their names, habits and all about their lifestyles as you go. Some of the facts may well surprise you! Sloths will be the star of the show today, but keep an eye out for vibrant poison dart frogs, leafcutter ant trails, capuchin monkeys and an array of colourful butterflies as you go. After a busy day of wildlife spotting, head back to your hotel for a spot of relaxation by the pool before watching the sun set against the volcano backdrop with a cocktail (for the grown-ups!) in hand. 

This morning you’ll head to Arenal Volcano National Park, where lava trails lead you through a unique landscape of volcanic rock, all shaped by past eruptions. This park is packed full of natural beauty, with panoramic views of the volcano and wildlife rustling everywhere you look. After an active morning of trekking, you deserve a soak. Head to the area’s famous hot springs for a rejuvenating float, maybe even with a delicious drink in hand. The perfect way to rest up after a busy day of exploring. 

It’s adventure after adventure on this Costa Rica holiday. And today is no exception. Today you’ll head off to Lake Arenal for a paddle about in your very own kayak. One of the largest lakes in Latin America, it’s the perfect place for a spot of family adventuring. Paddle along through the glassy waters and soak in the views of the imposing Arenal Volcano, your guide will share tales of the lake’s history and point out its fascinating natural features as you go. 

You’ll be driven up into the misty Monteverde Cloud Forest today to explore another of Costa Rica’s crucial and wildlife-teeming ecosystems. You’ll arrive at your cosy lodge and check in before grabbing your walking boots (and your nerve) to head out on a night walk once the sun goes down. Under the light of your torch, you’ll follow your guide along the eerie forest paths in search of the nocturnal creatures lurking within the leaves. From red-eyed tree frogs to hairy tarantulas, exploring by night is a great chance to encounter wildlife you wouldn’t see when the sun’s up. 

Today you’ll take in the beauty of the cloud forest from an entirely new perspective. Monteverde Cloud Forest Adventure Centre is one of the best spots in Costa Rica to channel your inner Tarzan and fly through the treetops on a zipline. First up, you’ll ride the gondola high up to the start of the course – this bit is an experience in itself. As you journey up through the clouds, it’ll be a real challenge not to fill your camera roll with snaps of the views across the canopy. There are plenty of ziplines to enjoy here, all soaring over lush green valleys and all with heart-stopping views of the forest below. The guides are brilliant here, and they have full control of making sure you stop at the end safely, so you can focus on the good bit, soaking up the adrenaline and the landscapes. Your adventure finishes with a real family challenge. Who will take on the free fall?  

Say goodbye to Monteverde’s cool air today as it’s time to hop in the car and head to Costa Rica’s Northern Pacific Coast. You might be lucky enough to spot some crocs lazing in the sun on the way to the white sand beaches bathed in sunshine waiting at the end of the drive. We’ve slowed the pace down here, so grab a book, head to the beach and settle in under a swaying palm tree whilst the kids play on the sand. There are some brilliant beachfront hotels to choose from here, with family-sized suites, direct beach access and huge swimming pools to splash about in. The next few days don’t need to be purely about the R&R. There are plenty of activities and adventures to be enjoyed nearby. From watersports and horse-riding along the beaches to wandering through one of the nearby national parks – soak it all up before toasting your family adventure with a sunset sundowner. 

It’s time to head back to the airport today as your family adventure comes to an end. Costa Rica’s wildlife and beauty have a way of lingering in the heart – so we don’t doubt there’ll be a next time! In the meantime, you’ll have plenty of new family holiday memories to reminisce about over the dinner table.