Clouds, Waterfalls & Waves: A 7-Day Family Costa Rica Adventure
San Gerardo & Manuel Antonio – 7 Days
Wake up in the clouds and fall asleep to the sounds of the jungle. This is the Costa Rica family adventure your family will always remember.
During seven exciting days, you’ll travel from the misty highlands of San Gerardo de Dota to the sunny beaches of Manuel Antonio. Along the way, you’ll explore hidden waterfalls, meet friendly locals, and experience the wild beauty that makes Costa Rica so special.
First, begin your journey in San Gerardo, a peaceful cloud-forest valley full of bird songs and cool mountain air. During the Quetzal Tour, follow your guide along forest trails and search for the brilliant Resplendent Quetzal. Meanwhile, kids love spotting its long green feathers shimmering through the trees.
Afterward, the adventure grows even more exciting with the Diamante One Day Experience. Here, you’ll hike through dense jungle, listen to the rush of water, and rappel down a towering waterfall surrounded by tropical beauty. It’s a safe, thrilling challenge that families of all ages can enjoy together.
Next, make your way to Manuel Antonio, where nature meets adventure at every turn. You can choose between several fun activities: a National Park Hike to spot sloths and monkeys, an adrenaline-filled Canopy Zipline, or a calm Damas Island Kayak or Boat Tour through mangrove tunnels. Each experience, in its own way, connects your family with nature.
Then, as your journey nears its end, celebrate with a Catamaran and Snorkeling Tour. Swim in clear turquoise water, watch dolphins jump beside the boat, and enjoy the warm sunset over the Pacific Ocean. In the end, it’s the perfect finale to your Costa Rica family adventure.
Finally, unwind in comfort at Lauráceas Lodge and Jungle Vista Boutique Hotel. Both combine cozy design with family-friendly service and breathtaking views. Moreover, with our seasonal promo, you’ll receive a free night in Manuel Antonio—an extra reason to smile before heading home.
Because every family deserves a trip that feels joyful, safe, and full of connection. This isn’t just a vacation—it’s a story your family will treasure forever.
Plan your family’s adventure now!
Trip Code: FMCR8-2471
$1705
$ 1565
$1090
$ 1035
• Based on quadruple occupancy.
• Single Supplement and Family Pricing Available.
• Travel Window: 01/May/2026 to 30/Jun/2026, 01/Sep/2026 to 31/Oct/2026.
* Children rate from 8-11 years old.
Rates may vary according to the travel season, please contact us to check availability and provide the correct price according to your travel date.
Trip Designed by Travel Expert Carolina Solorzano
Pre-Departure Information. To visit our country there are some requirements See details
Itinerary
DAY 1:
Arrive in San Gerardo de Dota – Check In at Lauráceas Lodge
- Arrival to San José
- Private transfer to your hotel at San Gerardo de Dota
- Overnight at San Gerardo de Dota
DAY 2:
Quetzal Birdwatching Tour in the Cloud Forest
- Breakfast at the Hotel
- Cloud Forest Quetzal Quest Hike
- Overnight at San Gerardo de Dota
DAY 3:
Transfer to Manuel Antonio with Stop at Diamante Waterfall
- Breakfast at the Hotel
- Private transportation to Las Tumbas (Journey time 2-2.5 hours)
- Rappel adventure at Diamantes Waterfall Cave, Hiking and river pool cliff jumping
- Private transportation to Manuel Antonio (Journey time 1-1.5 hours)
- Overnight at Manuel Antonio
DAY 4:
Leisure Day in Manuel Antonio Costa Rica
- Breakfast at the Hotel
- Your day- your choice! Free time to explore
- Time to relax around the pool
- Overnight at Manuel Antonio area hotel
DAY 5:
Manuel Antonio Adventure
- Breakfast at the Hotel
- Choose Your Manuel Antonio Adventure
- Overnight at Manuel Antonio area hotel
DAY 6:
Manuel Antonio Adventure
- Breakfast at the Hotel
- Pacific Sunset Catamaran & Snorkeling Tour
- Overnight at Manuel Antonio
DAY 7:
Departure Day – Transfer to San José Airport
- Breakfast at the Hotel
- Transportation back to San José International Airport
DAY 1:
Arrive in San Gerardo de Dota – Check In at Lauráceas Lodg
Welcome to Costa Rica!
Airport Meet and Greet with private transfer to the small mountain town of San Gerardo de Dota on the foothills of the Talamanca Mountain Range.
We recommend arrival prior to 3 pm. Be welcomed with a cozy garden-to-table dinner using local indigenous and seasonal ingredients.
Overnight at Lauráceas Lodge.
DAY 2:
Quetzal Birdwatching Tour in the Cloud Forest
At dawn, surrounded by the beauty of the valley, you’ll have the chance to spot one of the world’s most iconic and majestic birds—the resplendent quetzal. The main goal of this excursion is to reach the specific feeding spots where the quetzal is often seen. The walk is not very long and offers a unique opportunity to admire this remarkable bird in its natural habitat. Duration: approx. 2 hours.
Overnight at Lauráceas Lodge.
Meals: B.
DAY 3:
Transfer to Manuel Antonio with Stop at Diamante Waterfall
On the way from San Gerardo to Manuel Antonio, enjoy the Diamante One Day Experience. Hike 3 km through pristine forest with a guide, reach the 600 ft Diamante Waterfall for stunning views, and swim in natural pools with optional cliff jumps. Visit the Diamante Sanctuary “Casa de Piedra” and try a 90 ft rappel (no experience needed). A fresh vegetarian lunch is included before continuing to Manuel Antonio.
Overnight at Jungle Vista.
Meals: B,L.
DAY 4:
Leisure Day in Manuel Antonio Costa Rica
A day to discover Costa Rica on your own while you are in the Manuel Antonio area. It can be a perfect occasion to add extra activities. Relax by the pool, try surf lessons on the Manuel Antonio beach or take a night walk. Our local experts have an extensive menu of tours to offer you to help plan your day.
Overnight at Jungle Vista.
Meals: B.
DAY 5:
Choose Your Manuel Antonio Adventure
Personalize your adventure: Explore lush trails in Manuel Antonio National Park with a naturalist guide in search of monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds. Prefer more thrill? Glide across the rainforest on a canopy zipline with ocean views, or explore Damas Island mangroves by kayak or boat, discovering hidden wildlife. Your Manuel Antonio experience will be tailored to your pace and style.
Overnight at Jungle Vista.
Meals: B.
DAY 6:
Pacific Sunset Catamaran & Snorkeling Tour
Cruise the coastline of Costa Rica! Explore the waters off Manuel Antonio aboard a catamaran, enjoying local drinks, snacks, and a snorkel in a calm bay. Feel the ocean breeze as you watch for dolphins, turtles, and whales. Take in the stunning tropical scenery, relax on deck, and admire breathtaking coastal views while soaking up the sun and enjoying the perfect day at sea.
Overnight at Jungle Vista.
Meals: B, Cold Lunch
DAY 7:
Departure Day – Transfer to San José Airport
Your Costa Rica adventure concludes as you board private transportation from Arenal to Juan Santamaría Airport. Reflect on the incredible landscapes, wildlife, and unforgettable experiences you have encountered. Depart with cherished memories of your journey through this beautiful country, carrying the spirit of Pura Vida with you and the stories of adventure, relaxation, and nature that will stay with you forever.
Overnight at Jungle Vista.
Meals: B.
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Lauráceas Lodge
A peaceful cloud-forest escape where families enjoy cozy rooms, fresh local food, garden walks, and the chance to spot the magical resplendent quetzal.
View more -
Jungle Vista Boutique Hotel
A family-friendly rainforest hideaway in Manuel Antonio, Jungle Vista offers comfy studios, two pools, and incredible wildlife views right from your balcony. Perfect for families who love nature and adventure.
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Catamaran Dolphin and Snorkel Sail
Set sail along Manuel Antonio’s stunning coastline in search of dolphins, turtles, and vibrant marine life. Enjoy snorkeling in calm Biesanz Bay, delicious onboard food, and breathtaking ocean views—fun for the whole family, morning or sunset.
View more- Bilingual guide
- Natural fruit juices
- Alcoholic beverages and lunch.
- Snorkeling equipment (mask, snorkel, fins)
- Transportation to/from select hotels in the Manuel Antonio area
- Towel
- Sun Hat
- Camera
- Swimsuit
- Sunscreen
Catamaran Dolphin and Snorkel Sail
What’s included
What to bring
Manuel Antonio National Park Family Tour
Explore Manuel Antonio National Park on a family-friendly hike filled with monkeys, sloths, and colorful wildlife. With an expert naturalist guide and spotting scope, you’ll enjoy easy trails, stunning scenery, and unforgettable animal encounters.
View moreManuel Antonio National Park Family Tour
What’s included
- Transportation to/from Manuel Antonio area
- Bilingual certified guide
- Snacks
- Water
- Entrances Fee
What to bring
- Come dressed ready for an easy hike
- Bathing Suit & Towel
- Please bring a hat or visor
- Repellent
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Walking shoes
Kayaking Damas Island Estuary
The Damas Island kayaking tour does not require previous experience. On this COSTA RICA FOR KIDS Mangrove Kayaking Tour, you and your kids will get an opportunity for some real bonding.
View moreKayaking Damas Island Estuary
What’s included
- Lunch
- Life vest
- Bottled water
- Transportation
- Bilingual guide
- Kayak equipment
What to bring
- Hat or visor
- Clothes and shoes you won’t mind getting wet
- Apply plenty of sunscreen and repellent before leaving for the tour
- And apply plenty of sunscreen and repellent before leaving for the tour
Canopy Adventure Tour
This COSTA RICA FOR KIDS Zipline Tour is just the ticket to put a smile on your kids face!
View moreCanopy Adventure Tour
What’s included
- Transportation to/from Manuel Antonio area
- Entrance to the zipline tour
- All necessary equipment
- Bilingual certified guide
What to bring
- Please wear shoes that stay on your feet
- Apply plenty of sunscreen and repellent before leaving for the tour
Included Services
- Cloud Forest Quetzal Quest Hike
- Rappel adventure at Diamantes Waterfall Cave, Hiking and river pool cliff jumping
- Choice of Manuel Antonio Adventure (1 option): Manuel Antonio Park Hike, Canopy Adventure or Damas Island on Kayak or Boat Tour.
- Coastal Catamaran Cruise and Snorkel
- All transportation services are included.
- Overnight San Gerardo de Dota | 2 Nights | Breakfast Included.
- Overnight Manuel Antonio | 4 Nights | Breakfast Included.
Trip Highlights
- Quetzal Birdwatching Tour in San Gerardo’s cloud forest
- Rappel behind the waterfall
- Sleep in a cave behind a waterfall
- Trekking through Manuel Antonio and Costa Rica’s most visited National Park
