Essential Tips for Traveling with Kids in La Fortuna

Imagine this: Your family, wide-eyed with wonder, spotting a sloth lazily hanging from a rainforest tree. Your kids giggle as they dip into steaming hot springs, and together, you cross hanging bridges with volcano views so surreal they feel like a painting. La Fortuna isn’t just a destination; it’s where adventure meets family-friendly ease.

A very common question we get at Pure Trek is, “What is the minimum age for canyoning, and how can we prepare as a family?” We know traveling with kids can bring excitement and challenges, so being prepared is key to making your Costa Rica adventure unforgettable.

In this guide, we’ll share essential tips for your time in La Fortuna—from the basics if this is your first visit to Costa Rica, to ideas for activities carefully selected by us, your local experts with over 20 years of experience in the area. Whether you’re exploring for the first time or looking for tailored family-friendly tours, this guide will help you plan a trip full of memories.

La Fortuna Know Before You Go

Location: Nestled in the Alajuela province, La Fortuna is the perfect base for exploring Costa Rica’s stunning natural landscapes. 

Distance from International Airports: About 3 hours by car from Guanacaste Airport (LIR) or San Jose International Airport (SJO).  

How to get there: Options include direct public buses from San Jose, private or shared shuttles, domestic flights to Arenal (La Fortuna Airport), or even a scenic taxi-boat-taxi trip from Monteverde.

Weather: Hot and humid year-round, with temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C). While dry season runs December to April, afternoon rains are always a possibility in this tropical wonderland.

1. Timing is Everything: Start Early

Make the most of your family adventure by starting the day early:

• Morning tours offer cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and the best chance to see wildlife when they’re most active.
• Kids are refreshed, energized, and ready for discovery—whether it’s Arenal Volcano or hidden waterfalls.

Pro Tip: Prefer a more personalized adventure? Opt for a private experience and enjoy the thrill of canyoning with just your family!

2. Family Survival Kit: Packing Essentials

Traveling with kids means being ready for anything. Pack these must-haves for stress-free adventures:

• High-energy snacks (granola bars, trail mix)
• Plenty of water
• Insect repellent
• Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
• Comfortable walking shoes or water sandals
• Sunscreen
• Backup clothes for muddy or wet escapades

With these essentials on hand, you’ll keep little explorers happy—and parents calm—no matter what the day brings.

3. Family-Friendly Tours for All Ages

La Fortuna is the ultimate playground for families, and Pure Trek offers thoughtfully tailored experiences for every age group:

For Active Kids (Ages 5-12):

• Hanging Bridges Adventure: Gentle paths and suspended walkways let you explore the rainforest canopy, spot wildlife, and soak in volcano views.
• Rainforest Falls Tour: Safe, easy trails with breathtaking scenery ensure a memorable and accessible adventure for every generation.
• Rafting for Adventure Families: Pair white water rafting with canyoning for the ultimate adventure day!

For Little Ones & Grandparents:

• Baldi Hot Springs: Shallow thermal pools and kid-friendly water features make this the ultimate relaxation spot for families.
• Safari Float (Ages 4+): A serene boat tour along the river where kids and adults can enjoy close-up views of birds, monkeys, and even caimans.
• Hanging Bridges Adventure: Gentle paths and suspended walkways let you explore the rainforest canopy, spot wildlife, and soak in volcano views.
• Sloth Tour: A leisurely wildlife walk that’s perfect for curious kids (and their sloth-loving parents).
• Also we recomend for families with short time in La Fortuna.
  Waterfall Rappelling & Sloth Combo Tour: Combine adrenaline-pumping canyoning with the joy of spotting sloths in their natural habitat.

Pro Tip: Create a list of your family’s must-do activities and look for combo tours that combine your favorites. It’s the perfect way to maximize your time and make the most of your La Fortuna experience!

Insider Tips for Traveling with Kids

Insider Tips for Traveling with Kids

• Build Excitement: Discuss the tour in advance to set expectations and get your kids excited about the adventure. We also recommend explaining the dynamics of the activity.
• Stay Flexible: Kids might need extra breaks or adjust plans on the go—and that’s perfectly fine!

These small preparations can make a big difference in creating a smooth and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Safety and Comfort: Pure Trek’s Promise to Families

At Pure Trek, we understand that traveling with kids requires special care. Our trained guides:

– Prioritize safety with child-friendly equipment and expert supervision.

– Adapt tours to suit your family’s needs.

– Bring nature to life with educational and fun explanations that keep kids engaged.

With Pure Trek, you can explore La Fortuna stress-free, knowing your family is in good hands.

And if you make until here and still wondering What’s the minimum age for this activity?

Answer: The minimum age is 5 years old, making it perfect for adventurous young explorers!

Take it from families like one of our recent guests, who said:

“Jonathan made our waterfall rappelling tour unforgettable. He kept us safe, entertained, and even helped us spot a sloth along the way. My 8-year-old had a blast!” Moments like these define the Pure Trek experience—adventurous, thrilling, and perfectly tailored for families.

Want to hear more? Check out other reviews and see why families love adventuring with us

Book Your Family Adventure with Pure Trek

Costa Rica with kids can be magical when planned with care. La Fortuna’s adventures, paired with Pure Trek’s family-focused tours, make for memories your family will treasure forever. 

Ready to create those moments? Book your Pure Trek family adventure today and experience Costa Rica like never before!