A (Family's) Guide to Backpacking in Costa Rica

Arrive in San José, the capital city of Costa Rica. Explore the city and visit attractions like the National Theater and the Gold Museum. Get acclimated to the local culture and enjoy the vibrant nightlife that accommodates travelers of all ages.

Travel to La Fortuna, a small town known for its proximity to the majestic Arenal Volcano. Take a dip in the natural hot springs and relax while enjoying the volcano's stunning views, go hiking, horseback riding or take a kayak tour on Lake Arenal. Don't miss the opportunity to relax in the natural hot springs that are fed by the volcano's geothermal activity, or visit the La Fortuna Waterfall for a refreshing swim. The Arenal Volcano National Park offers hiking trails and viewpoints for observing the volcano's impressive lava flows and craters.

Head to Monteverde, a cloud forest region known for its rich biodiversity. Adventurous travelers can try ziplining, canopy walks or hiking to discover the region's natural wonders. Situated in the mountains of the Cordillera de Tilarán, embark on a guided tour through the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can spot rare orchids, exotic birds and other wildlife. This forest is renowned for its cloud forests and rich biodiversity. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a must-visit, offering a chance to observe unique wildlife, including the resplendent quetzal, orchids and countless species of insects.

Travel to Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific coast. It's located on the Pacific coast, near the town of Quepos. It’s known for its stunning beaches, dense rainforests and diverse wildlife. Spend a few days hiking through the park's lush rainforest trails and relaxing on the beautiful beaches. Additional popular activities include sunbathing on the pristine beaches and spotting diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths and tropical birds. Stop by the park’s visitor center for information about the local flora and fauna.

Make your way to Puerto Viejo on the Caribbean coast and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Explore Cahuita National Park, known for its coral reefs and diverse marine life. You have to try snorkeling or diving to discover the underwater wonders of the region. This will be a highlight for kids of all ages.

Situated on the northeastern Caribbean coast and known as the "Amazon of Costa Rica" due to its intricate network of canals and lush rainforests, Tortuguero National Park is a must see but is only accessible by boat or plane. Take a guided boat tour through the park's canals and mangroves, spotting turtles, caimans and various bird species. The park is a major nesting site for sea turtles, including the endangered green turtle and the massive leatherback turtle (timing dependent on nesting seasons). Take a guided boat tour through the canals to spot wildlife like monkeys, caimans and various bird species.

Located on the Nicoya Peninsula in the Guanacaste province Tamarindo, is a popular beach town on the Pacific coast. Tamarindo offers excellent surfing conditions for all skill levels, and visitors can take lessons or rent boards. If surfing is not for you, rest assured you can relax on the pristine beaches, take a sunset catamaran tour or indulge in the local cuisine. Make time to visit the town and experience its lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, bars and shops. Finally, wrap up your trip and take a sunset catamaran tour to enjoy breathtaking views and possibly spot dolphins or whales.

Return to San José for your departure or continue your journey.