San Jose , Arenal Volcano NP, Guayaquil, Santa Cruz Island, Isabela Island, Santa Cruz Island
Experience two of the world’s most inspiring natural destinations on this 12-day luxury family adventure through Costa Rica and the Galápagos Islands. Designed for families who love comfort as much as discovery, this journey blends upscale accommodations with enriching wildlife encounters and exclusive guided experiences. Begin in Costa Rica, where your family enjoys easy-paced explorations of Poás Volcano, the cloud forests of La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and Arenal’s famed hot springs—always with private transfers and handpicked luxury lodges that keep everyone relaxed. Continue to Ecuador for a lavish escape to the Galápagos Islands, staying in boutique island hotels while meeting giant tortoises, snorkeling with playful sea lions, and learning side-by-side with expert naturalist guides. Every moment is curated to deliver unforgettable family memories with outstanding comfort and style.
Includes
Driver/Guide: Private as per itinerary
Keytours 24-hour emergency assistance
Private arrival and departure transfers as per itinerary
Accommodations of your choice
Sightseeing tours and/or activites of your choice
Excludes
Items of a personal nature
All other items not mentioned as included
Domestic flights; please inquire with your Keytours travel consultant
Transfers not mentioned in the itinerary
Travel insurance; please inquire with your Keytours travel consultant
Gratuities for drivers, guides, and escorts
Itinerary
Day 1
Day 1
San José Arrival: A Warm Family Welcome
Arrive in San José, where a private representative greets your family at the gate and escorts you to a refined, family-friendly boutique hotel. Relax as your luggage and logistics are fully handled for you. Spend the afternoon unwinding by the pool, enjoying spacious interconnected rooms, or exploring the charming historic district just steps away. Families can sip fresh smoothies, browse artisan shops, or enjoy a gentle orientation walk—perfect for settling into Costa Rica’s relaxed rhythm. Enjoy a leisurely evening, perhaps dining at your hotel’s elegant restaurant or nearby eateries featuring fresh Costa Rican flavors.
Day 2
Day 2
Luxury Volcano Views & Cloud Forest Discovery
Begin with a private transfer to Poás Volcano National Park, where families enjoy a refreshing walk to the crater overlook—safe, scenic, and ideal for capturing incredible photos. Continue to the exclusive La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a premium family-friendly nature reserve known for its beautiful trails, animal sanctuaries, and lush cloud forest scenery. Kids will love seeing hummingbirds, butterflies, jungle cats, and exotic birds up close. Enjoy a refined lunch at the lodge’s elegant restaurant before exploring more of the privately protected reserve. Return to San José in the comfort of your private vehicle, with the evening free for relaxation or fine dining.
Day 3
Day 3
Arenal Volcano Luxury & Hot Springs Bliss
Enjoy a scenic private transfer to Arenal, where your luxury resort offers spectacular volcano views, stylish pools, and family suites designed for comfort. After check-in, explore Arenal Volcano National Park on a guided tour tailored to your family’s pace. Learn about lava flows, rainforest ecosystems, and local wildlife while enjoying shaded trails ideal for all ages. In the evening, unwind in Arenal’s premium hot springs, featuring elegant landscaped pools, waterfalls, and warm mineral waters—perfect for parents and children alike. Enjoy dinner at leisure at your resort or a gourmet local restaurant.
Day 4
Day 4
Hanging Bridges & VIP Wildlife Encounters
Begin with a private guided walk along the Arenal Hanging Bridges, where your expert naturalist ensures your family spots wildlife—from monkeys and sloths to colorful toucans—without rushing. Elevated walkways offer thrilling but safe views over the canopy. In the afternoon, choose between a luxury river wildlife safari or a curated chocolate and coffee experience, ideal for curious young travelers. Both options include private guiding and flexibility tailored to your family’s comfort. Return to your resort for pool time, spa appointments, or elegant dining.
Day 5
Day 5
Fly to Ecuador: Luxury Arrival in Guayaquil
Enjoy a smooth private transfer back to San José Airport for your international flight. Upon arrival in Guayaquil, your family is met by a VIP host and taken to a luxury hotel near the waterfront. Spend the evening strolling the Malecón 2000, enjoying gelato, interactive fountains, and illuminated gardens. Explore the charming neighborhood of Las Peñas, or relax in your hotel’s spacious suites and pool area before the next phase of your adventure.
Day 6
Day 6
Galápagos Arrival: Tortoises & Highland Elegance
Fly to Baltra Island, where your naturalist team greets you for a seamless transfer to Santa Cruz. In the lush highlands, walk among giant tortoises roaming freely—an unforgettable moment for kids. Explore dramatic lava tunnels and learn about the islands’ volcanic origins. Arrive in Puerto Ayora and check into an upscale boutique hotel offering ocean views, family suites, and refined dining. Enjoy the evening at leisure, relaxing by the pool or strolling the waterfront.
Day 7
Day 7
Darwin Discovery & Tortuga Bay Bliss
Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station, where children and adults learn about conservation efforts, meet giant tortoise juveniles, and understand the islands’ scientific significance. Later, enjoy a luxurious family outing to Tortuga Bay, accessed via a scenic, easy walk or optional kayak excursion. This pristine beach offers calm waters ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and spotting marine iguanas. Return to Puerto Ayora for dinner at a top-rated local restaurant or your hotel.
Day 8
Day 8
Exclusive Yacht Excursion: North Seymour or Bartolomé
Board a premium yacht—complete with comfortable lounges, expert guides, and gourmet lunch—for a full-day luxury island adventure. Explore North Seymour, where blue-footed boobies, frigatebirds, and sea lions abound. Or visit Bartolomé Island, famous for its iconic Pinnacle Rock and crystal-clear snorkeling. Families will love swimming with sea turtles, penguins, and colorful fish, always under expert supervision. Return to Santa Cruz refreshed, sun-kissed, and full of incredible stories.
Day 9
Day 9
Isabela Island Escape: Flamingos & Lagoon Snorkeling
Travel by luxury speedboat to Isabela Island, where a relaxed pace and soft sandy beaches create the perfect family retreat. Explore the Wetlands, home to marine iguanas and mangrove ecosystems, followed by a stop at the Flamingo Lagoon, a kid favorite. In the afternoon, snorkel at the calm, clear waters of Concha de Perla, ideal for families thanks to its tame sea lions and gentle marine life. Check in to a chic beachfront hotel and enjoy a serene sunset as waves lap the shore.
Day 10
Day 10
Sierra Negra Volcano: Family Adventure in Style
Set out on a private guided hike to the dramatic Sierra Negra crater, where children learn about volcanic activity through hands-on interpretation. Those who want more adventure can continue to Volcán Chico, exploring colorful lava formations and fumaroles. Return to Puerto Villamil for a relaxed afternoon—swim, enjoy a beachfront lunch, or treat yourselves to a refreshing smoothie or ice cream. End the day with a peaceful family evening at your boutique hotel.
Day 11
Day 11
Return to Santa Cruz: Leisure & Luxury Farewell
After a scenic speedboat ride back to Santa Cruz, enjoy a day of leisure tailored to your family’s interests. Visit Las Grietas for a private guided swim, relax at Playa de los Alemanes, or shop for upscale local crafts. In the evening, savor a memorable luxury farewell dinner, celebrating your family’s extraordinary journey across two countries and two world-class ecosystems.
Day 12
Day 12
Farewell Galápagos: VIP Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer to Baltra Airport for your flight back to mainland Ecuador. As you depart, reflect on the incredible family experiences—snorkeling with sea lions, walking among giant tortoises, relaxing in Costa Rica’s hot springs, and exploring volcanoes side by side. This luxury adventure leaves your family with lifelong memories, deeper connections, and a renewed appreciation for the natural world.