Costa Rica

Costa Rica's varied and fascinating natural attractions make it a wonderful destination for family holidays with inquisitive children. The range of landscapes to explore includes mountains, rainforests, volcanoes and beaches, so whether you're travelling with toddlers or teenagers you'll find attractions and activities that are suitable for your family to enjoy together.

The country's reputation as a top place for adventure sports means it's especially well-suited to active teenagers, while the wealth of exotic wildlife will certainly capture the imaginations of younger children. The fantastic beaches on the Caribbean and Pacific coasts also mean there are plenty of opportunities for some rest and relaxation in the sun as well some pampering options for parents.

Family-friendly attractions in Costa Rica

One of the best things to do on a family holiday in Costa Rica - especially if you and your children love wildlife - is to visit some of the national parks. These cover 25 per cent of the country and give you the chance to experience Costa Rica's pristine natural environment first-hand.

Among the most exciting protected areas to visit is the Arenal National Park, home to the active volcano of the same name. What makes this place so amazing are the lava streams that can be seen flowing down some of its slopes.

Poas Volcano National Park is one of the most popular among visitors to Costa Rica and it's easy to see why - you can walk up to the rim of this active volcano and watch as vast geysers erupt from the crater floor, with some spouting water and steam up to 250 metres into the air. There are several well-maintained hiking trails within the park that will enable you to explore further.

The wildlife is another of the attractions here, with colourful birds like quetzals, emerald toucanets and hummingbirds being just a few of the species to look out for. Keep your eyes open for other animals such as marmots, frogs, squirrels and coyotes as you walk as well. The infrastructure in the Poas Volcano National Park, as well as its proximity to San Jose, makes it an excellent choice for families keen to get back to nature.