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Costa Rica Family Adventure

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7 Days from $1799 pp*

Highlights: Costa Rica (San José, Arenal, Manuel Antonio)

Trip Start/End: San José / San José

* USD per person based on 2-4 people, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.

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Fact: Monkeying around can bring families closer together.

If hitting the local arcade is your family’s idea of an adventure, then you’re in desperate need of a Costa Rican vacation. This package will have the whole family exploring waterfalls and tropical rainforests, meeting howler monkeys and toucans, and taking an exciting river safari. Discover family fun in San Jose, Arenal & Manuel Antonio Nature Reserve accompanied by your private guide & driver. At night, spend time in relaxing accommodations that offer all the comforts of home.

Visit La Fortuna Waterfall on your way to Arenal and swim in the crystal blue waters below. Explore the rainforest near the Arenal Volcano to catch a glimpse of monkeys, toucans and other forest dwellers. Spend an adventure filled day at The Club Rio Outdoor Centre where you can choose to go river kayaking, river tubing, horseback riding or mountain biking. Take a safari down the Penas Blancas River, a gorgeous tropical setting where you may see monkeys, Jesus Christ Lizards that actually walk on water, iguanas and a variety of exotic birds. When hunger calls, sip a tropical fruit drink as you learn to make tortillas from one of the friendly locals!

Enjoy a personalized vacation that best suits your needs, developed by one of our experienced destination experts. Relax during your trip with our 24/7 support and expert local guidance.

Overview

Day	Activities	Hotel
Day 1 San José	Meet and Greet Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver Costa Rica - Welcome Package Dinner (not included)	Grano de Oro Deluxe (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults)
Day 2 San José - Arenal	Breakfast (included) Transfer - Private - San José - Arenal [via La Fortuna Waterfall (5 hrs)] - Vehicle/Driver Entrance to La Fortuna Waterfall - Entrance Lunch (not included) Private - 1/2 d Volcano Hike - Vehicle/Guide/Driver Dinner (not included)	Los Lagos Spa and Resort Superior (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults)
Day 3 Arenal	Breakfast (included) Club Rio Adventure Day at The Springs Resort & Spa (with lunch) - Vehicle/Driver Dinner (not included)	Los Lagos Spa and Resort Superior (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults)
Day 4 Arenal	Breakfast (included) Private - 3/4 d Wildlife Safari & Tortilla Making (with Lunch) - Vehicle/Guide Optional Activities Dinner (not included)	Los Lagos Spa and Resort Superior (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults)
Day 5 Arenal - Manuel Antonio	Breakfast (included) Transfer - Private - Arenal - Manuel Antonio [5 hrs] - Vehicle/Driver Lunch (not included) Afternoon at Leisure Dinner (not included)	Hotel Si Como No Superior (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults) Alt: (None)
Day 6 Manuel Antonio	Breakfast (included) Optional Activities Lunch (not included) Dinner (not included)	Hotel Si Como No Superior (B) 1 DBL (2 Adults)
Day 7 Manuel Antonio	Breakfast (included) Transfer - Private - Manuel Antonio - San José [3 hrs] - Vehicle/Driver	Depart (Int`l Airport)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive

Trip Itinerary

- San José
- Grano de Oro, San Jose
Day 1: San José
Upon arrival you will be met by our local representative who will help you locate your vehicle.
Enjoy a private airport transfer with vehicle, and professional driver. The transfer is approximately 30 mins (22km/14mi).
A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, and any other touristic information that you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival.

Family Welcome Package based on 2 parents with children. (2 parents + 1 child = 3 pax).
Accommodation: Grano de Oro
Grano de Oro is the hotel of choice for those who visit San Jose, with a reputation for hospitality and fine quality. The 35 rooms are magical and full of allure, with each possessing a carefully chosen color scheme and theme. Pleasant features such as a fountain or balcony add to the appeal of each room. Grano de Oro's restaurant is recognized for its culinary success, surpassing the expectations of even the most critical guest. Set under a high ceiling, or in the romance of the outdoors, each dish is prepared with local and international influences. The subtle ambiance of the restaurant is what makes visitors return. Spend time lounging on the lawn beds of the rooftop garden terrace. Otherwise, sink into relaxation in the Jacuzzi.
- The Arenal Volcano
- Arenal Volcano Hike
- Los Lagos Hotel Exterior
Day 2: San José - Arenal
Private transfer between San Jose and Arenal. Stop at the La Fortuna Waterfall en-route (entrance included). Head to the entrance of the waterfall, where you will have spectacular views of the Volcano. Near the waterfall there is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the forest and wildlife while you swim in the crystalline waters of the river (not recommended for travellers with sensitive knees).
Entrance fee included to the La Fortuna Waterfall as part of your enroute visit to Arenal.
You will be picked up at your hotel and driven to the entrance of the micro rainforest near the Arenal Volcano. Enjoy a leisurely 1.5 hour hike through the rainforest while your English speaking guide offers the history of the Arenal Volcano. This park is located at the base of the Arenal Volcano and is filled with wildlife including monkeys, toucans, coati and a large variety of bird species. Observe lava flow at the end of the tour (lava and weather permitting). Return to the hotel in the evening. Duration: 3.5 Hours (Approximately) Pick up is usually at 3:45PM.
Accommodation: Los Lagos Spa and Resort
Los Lagos Hotel Spa and Resort, located a bit of a distance from the center of La Fortuna, is a massive water and land getaway seated near the Arenal Volcano. The 35 rooms are comfortable and clean according to value standards. The restaurants serve enjoyable food, with lovely outdoor seating and close proximity to the birdlife. The swimming pools and water facilities are especially refreshing and attractive, with a hot spring fed Jacuzzi and wet bar. The view of the volcano in the background only adds to its appeal, as the best part of this resort is the surrounding land and view. This is a fantastic option for families!
- Club Rio Inflatible Kayaking
Day 3: Arenal
Depart in the morning for an adventure filled day. You will have the choice of two (2) of the following activities offered at The Club Rio Outdoor Centre: inflatable river kayaking, river tubing, horseback riding, mountain biking, or a guided nature tour. Your adventure day at Club Rio also includes an authentic Costa Rican lunch, hiking trails, river pools and a tour of the Jungle Cat & Wildlife Sanctuary.

Things to bring with you: bathing suit, change of clothes, long pants for horseback riding, rain gear, river shoes with a heel strap, hiking shoes and sunblock. River shoes are available for purchase at Club Rio.

Please note that a $10USD Per Person deposit for towels will be required at check-in and a $5USD charge per locker will be applied at check-in.

Please note you must choose your two included activities a minimum of 30 days prior to the departure date.
Accommodation: Los Lagos Spa and Resort
- Wildlife Safari
- Arenal
Day 4: Arenal
Nature lovers will enjoy a 2 hour safari style float trip down the lower Peñas Blancas River. The pace allows you to enjoy the tranquility of the rainforest soaking in all the sights and sounds of this tropical setting.

Your expert bilingual guides will provide you with descriptions and information of local plant and animal species while en route. Be sure to keep an eye out for monkeys, toucans, Jesus Christ Lizards, caimans, iguanas and a wide assortment of bird species. After the safari enjoy an educational and fun visit to Doña Mara's Home and learn how to make tortillas! Doña Mara and her husband will welcome you with a tropical drink (pineapple, orange, coconut water) at her “rancho” (like a gazebo) where she will prepare a delicious traditional lunch meal on her rustic wood-fired stove. While lunch is cooking, travelers are offered to try their hands at making tortillas out of the fresh ground corn masa (dough). Doña Mara shows her guests how to flatten the masa into perfect circles ready for cooking. The tortillas are served with lunch to top off the afternoon. You will have the opportunity to practice Spanish, and learn about the Costa Rican Culture while enjoying your lunch!
Enjoy leisure time in La Fortuna/Arenal. Optional activities include: White Water rafting, Waterfall Repelling, Zip Canopy Tour, Horseback riding, Wildlife Safari Float, Cano Negro Wildlife Reserve, Lake Kayaking, Biking, ATV Adventure, Extreme Hiking and more!
Accommodation: Los Lagos Spa and Resort
- Manuel Antonio Beach
- Hotel Si Como No Guest Room
Day 5: Arenal - Manuel Antonio
Meet your driver for a private transfer to Manuel Antonio. Along the way stop at the "crocodile bridge" to watch the local wildlife.
In the afternoon, enjoy some time on your own to relax.
Accommodation: Hotel Si Como No
Seated on a magical hilltop in Manuel Antonio is the Hotel Si Como No, where the stunning coastline nudges shoulders with the deep shades of the rainforest. The 58 rooms offer wondrous views of these surroundings, and are complemented by all the amenities and care of home. There is no TV but there is a DVD theatre for all to use. Dining open air, with all sorts of exotic creatures passing by, allows for experiences that are truly down to earth. Others dine outside the resort, to check out the area. Hotel Si Como No holds ecotourism very close, and has a private wildlife refuge onsite, as well as a lot of wandering animals to befriend. Also make sure to try kayaking and diving nearby, both very popular activities with visitors.
- Family Strolling Along The Beach
Day 6: Manuel Antonio
Enjoy time at leisure in Manuel Antonio. There are many optional activities you can choose from during your stay here. Please let us know if you wish to add any of the following optional activities (not included in tour price): white water rafting, zip canopy tour, Nauyaca Waterfalls by horseback, catamaran sunset sail, ATV rentals and more!
Accommodation: Hotel Si Como No
Day 7: Manuel Antonio
Meet your driver for a private transfer to San José.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)

Accommodations

- Grano de Oro, San Jose
Grano de Oro - San José
Grano de Oro is the hotel of choice for those who visit San Jose, with a reputation for hospitality and fine quality. The 35 rooms are magical and full of allure, with each possessing a carefully chosen color scheme and theme. Pleasant features such as a fountain or balcony add to the appeal of each room. Grano de Oro's restaurant is recognized for its culinary success, surpassing the expectations of even the most critical guest. Set under a high ceiling, or in the romance of the outdoors, each dish is prepared with local and international influences. The subtle ambiance of the restaurant is what makes visitors return. Spend time lounging on the lawn beds of the rooftop garden terrace. Otherwise, sink into relaxation in the Jacuzzi.
- More information
- Los Lagos Hotel Exterior
Los Lagos Spa and Resort - Arenal
Los Lagos Hotel Spa and Resort, located a bit of a distance from the center of La Fortuna, is a massive water and land getaway seated near the Arenal Volcano. The 35 rooms are comfortable and clean according to value standards. The restaurants serve enjoyable food, with lovely outdoor seating and close proximity to the birdlife. The swimming pools and water facilities are especially refreshing and attractive, with a hot spring fed Jacuzzi and wet bar. The view of the volcano in the background only adds to its appeal, as the best part of this resort is the surrounding land and view. This is a fantastic option for families!
- More information
- Hotel Si Como No Guest Room
Hotel Si Como No - Manuel Antonio
Seated on a magical hilltop in Manuel Antonio is the Hotel Si Como No, where the stunning coastline nudges shoulders with the deep shades of the rainforest. The 58 rooms offer wondrous views of these surroundings, and are complemented by all the amenities and care of home. There is no TV but there is a DVD theatre for all to use. Dining open air, with all sorts of exotic creatures passing by, allows for experiences that are truly down to earth. Others dine outside the resort, to check out the area. Hotel Si Como No holds ecotourism very close, and has a private wildlife refuge onsite, as well as a lot of wandering animals to befriend. Also make sure to try kayaking and diving nearby, both very popular activities with visitors.
- More information

Travel Info

Travel tips of Costa Rica

VISA/PASSPORT
For entry into Costa Rica, U.S. and Canadian citizens must present valid passports that will not expire for at least thirty days after arrival, and a roundtrip/outbound ticket. Airlines should not permit passengers to board flights to Costa Rica without a roundtrip ticket unless they have Costa Rican residency or visa. Passports should be in good condition; Costa Rican immigration will deny entry if the passport is damaged in any way. Costa Rican authorities generally permit U.S. citizens to stay up to ninety days. Canadian citizens do not need to obtain visas for tourism stays of up to ninety days. Persons traveling to Costa Rica from some countries in South America and Sub-Saharan Africa must provide evidence of a valid yellow fever vaccination prior to entry. The South American countries include Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela.

Please note obtaining a visa is your responsibility. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Costa Rica for the most up to date visa information.

HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality but not widespread. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/costa-rica.aspx

COUNTRY INFO
Capital: San José.
Government: Republic. Gained independence from Spain in 1821.
Language: Spanish is the official language. English is widely spoken. Some French, German and Italian is also spoken.
Religion: Almost entirely Christian, with Roman Catholic majority.
Time: GMT - 6.
Electricity: 110 volts AC, 60Hz. Two-pin plugs are standard.
Telephone: Country code +506. There are no area codes.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with some countries. Handsets can be hired, although this can be difficult and time-consuming. Costa Rica employs both GSM and TDMA systems.
Internet: There are Internet cafes throughout the country, and most tourist hotels also provide facilities.

Trip Map

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What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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23 Mar 2012 / COMPASS EDITOR

Costa Rica Family Adventure

Overview

Trip Itinerary

Day 1: San José

Day 2: San José - Arenal

Day 3: Arenal

Day 4: Arenal

Day 5: Arenal - Manuel Antonio

Day 6: Manuel Antonio

Day 7: Manuel Antonio

Accommodations

Grano de Oro - San José

Los Lagos Spa and Resort - Arenal

Hotel Si Como No - Manuel Antonio

Travel Info

Travel tips of Costa Rica

Trip Map

Request a Quote

What's Included:

What's not Included:

Trip Terms & Conditions

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