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Costa Rica is one of our favorite countries to visit. We love it so much that we’re planning a Mocha Travel trip in 2023! So, we know firsthand how much goes into planning a family-friendly travel itinerary. You want to ensure everyone in the family has a good time while on vacation.
Don’t worry – we did some digging and put together these top 5 fun things to do in Costa Rica with kids!
1. Horseback Riding on the Beach
Horseback riding in Costa Rica is something you don’t want to miss. It will take your family through scenic coasts, beaches, and jungles. While on the horses, you’ll see wildlife from toucans and sloths. The horses’ pace allows you to take in your surroundings. It’s a slower pace than some other outdoor activities.
The typical tour is around 90 to 120 minutes, more than enough time to soak up Costa Rican nature. Horseback riding is a great activity to do in Costa Rica with kids. They get to see the diverse ecosystem and will learn so much about their surroundings. Pick the tour that combines trotting down the beach and in the jungle.
2. La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park
Costa Rica has several nature parks you can choose to explore. Horseback riding is the perfect activity for the family to see exotic animals and learn about biodiversity. Located a little over an hour from San Jose, La Paz Waterfall Gardens has hundreds of different animal and plant species.
You can navigate the park on your own or book a day tour. Either way, seeing the wildlife and the breathtaking waterfalls is something your kids won’t forget.
3. Snorkeling and Sailing Tours
Another great outdoor activity to add to your Costa Rica itinerary is enjoying a sailing tour. More than just sailing, add snorkeling and some beach time to your itinerary. The best part is that sailing is family friendly.
Choose a catamaran tour that includes stops at a private beach and snorkeling. The kids will be happy to see dolphins, sea turtles, and all the different fish. They are bound to remember all the treasures of the sea.
4. Walking Food Tour
Try new foods while taking advantage of the outdoors in Costa Rica with kids. A walking food tour allows them to taste their way through learning about the rich culture of this country. A foodie tour through San Jose, Costa Rica is one way to switch up from the fast-paced adventures. The bonus is you’re also able to see historical sites in addition to trying different food.
Walk through the lively market, Mercado Borbón, one of the oldest places in San Jose. There is also the Catedral Metropolitana. The main church in San Jose, you can find this cathedral included on most walking tours.
Make sure to include other famous attractions like the Teatro Nacional to admire the architecture.
5. Wildlife Safari Float
Before leaving Costa Rica, a wildlife safari float is a must! You can tour the rainforest as you float down the river. Choose between shorter rides of 2 hours, or depending on the family, you may decide on 5 hours or longer!
With so many tour options, you can float down the river and take in some of the most exotic rainforests in the world. You can even include visiting other locations, such as ending the tour at a local working horse farm.
Costa Rica is a beautiful destination to take the family, filled with many outdoor activities for all ages. To ensure you have a fun-filled itinerary, check out tours ahead of time or even book while you’re already there! If you’d rather have it all planned out for you, our 2023 trip to Costa Rica is a packed itinerary with learning and adventures, and it’s all planned for you – including accommodations!
