Where to Go in Costa Rica: Arenal Volcano National Park & La Fortuna

ABOUT

At Our Whole Village, we plan meaningful vacations for families who want to create lifelong memories and show their kids the world in a more conscious and intentional manner.

WORK WITH US

We help families take meaningful vacations so that they can escape everyday life, show their kids the world and make lifelong memories - with care, confidence and peace of mind.

THE BEST FAMILY VACATIONS BY AGE

Your (free) guide to the top travel destinations for families with babies, teens and everyone in between.

DOWNLOAD NOW

ABOUT US

Central America, Costa Rica, Out & About

September 7, 2018

Just because you’ve settled down to start a family, doesn’t mean your days of adventuring are numbered. Costa Rica remains one of the top outdoor destinations in the world. The area around Arenal Volcano National Park and La Fortuna features activities for all ages making this a top adventure destination when traveling Costa Rica with kids.

Whether you’re ziplining above the jungle or hiking to a lush rainforest waterfall, you and your kids with cherish the memories you forge on this once-in-a-lifetime family trip to Costa Rica. Here’s a breakdown of where to go in Costa Rica.

1. The Sky Tram and Sky Trek Combination Tour

After a 20-minute gondola ride via the SkyTram, you’ll reach an observation platform affording your family sweeping views of rainforest-covered mountains punctuated by Arenal Volcano and Arenal Lake.

When you’re ready to head back down, the adventure starts! Prepare for an exhilarating ride down the 3,280-foot-long Sky Trek zip line system. At 600 feet above the rainforest, you’ll literally soar like a bird with continuous views of the volcano, lake, and forests below. Nothing comes closer to the sensation of flight than this adrenaline-packed experience. Best of all? It’s family-friendly!

2. The Fortuna Waterfall

This stunning 200-foot-tall waterfall sits just three miles outside of the town of La Fortuna. Arguably the most beautiful waterfall in Costa Rica, the falls emerge from a verdant wall of vegetation before plunging sharply into an emerald green pool below. To reach it, you’ll hike a well-maintained path through the pristine rainforests of Arenal Volcano National Park.

Along the way, you’ll pass through pasture lands and jungle, so keep your eyes open and your cameras ready. You never know when you might just spot a monkey, toucan, or other rainforest animal peeking down from the canopy. Once you reach the bottom of the falls, prepare for a chilly freshwater swim if you and your kids are feeling adventurous. Or, enjoy the picturesque scenery and photo ops from the rocky shoreline.

3. The Ecotermales Hot Springs

After a day of hiking and flying, there’s no better way to decompress and reward tired muscles than with a soak in naturally-fed volcanic hot springs. At Ecotermales, you and your kids can relax and re-energize in thermal pools while reliving all of the amazing adventures of the day. The pools are integrated into the surrounding jungle making Ecotermales a truly magical place.

Choose from five volcanic hot springs with temperatures ranging from 99 to 106 degrees Fahrenheit. There’s also a waterfall and freshwater pool. Paved and lit trails allow you to explore the nearby jungle looking for broadleaf plants, large trees, and tropical flowers, too. The hot springs are family-run with several members on hand to welcome you and attend to your needs. There’s no better way to end your Costa Rican adventure than with a relaxing dip in the springs.