Days 4 and 5 Tortuguero, Caribbean Coast

An endless system of rivers and canals make Tortugero the most biologically diverse region of Costa Rica.  They also allow for some extraordinary in-depth exploration by boat. 

You may come across crocodiles, lizards, toucans, sea turtles, and howler monkeys, to name just a few of the fascinating species.

These two days will include:

* Jungle Boat Expedition:  Explore Tortuguero’s intricate river system via motorized jungle boat.  As you wind your way through the lowland rain forest, your guide will be keeping his eyes peeled for the unusual wildlife that live in the region, and be happy to point them out to you.

* Kayaking:  You and your teenagers can go on a kayaking trip through the waterways for some more rain forest exploration through the impressive maze of canals.

Days 6 to 8 Manuel Antonio, Pacific Coast

This is a great adventure up high in the canopy of the Costa Rican Rain Forest.

Not only does the rain forest zipline canopy tour provide a fun time for all as you glide high above the ground from one platform to another, it also serves as an aid in the preservation of the world’s endangered rain forests.

Your family will participate in the following:

* Zipline Canopy Tour:  Get ready for a bird’s-eye view of the rain forest you’ll never forget.  Gliding through the air surrounded by nature is such an exhilarating feeling that this high-flying adventure is sure to be your favorite activity.

* Explore Manuel Antonio National Park:  This nature preserve juts out into the ocean, so it offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing along its trails, as well as pristine white sand beaches for swimming.

This is truly a glimpse of paradise.

Day 9 Depart San Jose for Home

Then it is back to the big city for some last minute shopping, a great last meal in this fabulous country, and a few more memories which your family will cherish for years to come.

If you have teenagers, why not consider a family vacation to Costa Rica?

Your family will discover a variety of wildlife, explore the canal systems of the Tortuguero rain forest on the Caribbean coast, and visit the pristine beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park on the Pacific coast.

Ensure that your digital camera has plenty of memory, because you will be taking hundreds of pictures while on this exciting journey to Costa Rica.

Here is a sample all year round itinerary you can look forward to when you visit Costa Rica.

Day 1 Arrive San Jose

Today you can settle in and become used to your new surroundings before you and your family begins an adventure of a lifetime.  Costa Rica is Spanish speaking, but many friendly locals also speak English. They are proud of their country, which is near English-speaking Belize, and both nations are trying to encourage responsible eco-tourism, so you will feel more than welcome provided you show a healthy respect for nature while you are here.

San Jose is a typical capital city, with all the amenities you would expect.

Pick up your rental car from the airport, beware the rules of the road, and get ready for the marvels of nature tomorrow. 

Days 2 and 3 – Sarapiqui Region 

This region is named for the immense river that flows through it, and your family will hit the Sarapiqui River for an invigorating Class III white water rafting adventure. 

This climate is warm, however, unlike white-water rafting in the states, so the splashing waters will feel wonderful as your family makes its way over clear rapids that run through the lush rain forest.  There is excellent birdwatching here as well.

You can visit the following popular sites:

* La Paz Waterfall Gardens:  This wildlife park has the largest butterfly garden in the world. It includes hummingbirds, tropical gardens, and an array of waterfalls. 

After spending some time learning about the Costa Rican flora and fauna, your family can hike the surrounding scenic trails.

* White water Rafting: 

Once you’ve been outfitted with life jackets, helmets and paddles, it’s off to the Class III rapids of the Sarapiqui River.  This rafting trip is first timer-friendly, so anyone can join in. Remember to wear your swim suite, and bring some spare clothes. The water will be lovely and warm, compared to the Colorado or other more northerly rivers.