How These Costa Rica Tours are Inspiring the Next Generation of Environmental Guardians

In the heart of Central America, Costa Rica has earned its reputation as a global hotspot for eco-tourism. With its diverse ecosystems, breathtaking natural landscapes, and unwavering commitment to sustainability, it’s easy to see why this small but remarkable country has become a beacon for travelers seeking meaningful adventures that transcend the ordinary.

Since sustainability and eco-tourism are at the heart of many Costa Rica tours, we take look at how family-friendly travel is leaving a mark on kids – the next generation of environmental guardians. Responsible travel can be a catalyst for positive change, and Costa Rica proves you can experience that while trekking up volcanos, gawking at amazing wildlife, and ziplining through the jungle.

A little monkey seen on one of Trafalgar's Costa Rica tours. It's looking upwards, while sitting on a branch.

The natural beauty of Costa Rica

From misty cloud forests to dense, emerald-hued jungles teeming with life, Costa Rica is full of fascinating ecosystems. Its coastline stretches along both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, giving rise to pristine beaches, coral reefs, and mangroves. Towering volcanoes, like Arenal and Poás punctuate the landscape. And the biodiversity is unparalleled! You’ll find an astounding variety of wildlife, including quetzals, jaguars, and sea turtles. You might feel like you’re walking through a real-life nature documentary! This ecological richness has earned Costa Rica its reputation as one of the world’s foremost travel destinations for nature enthusiasts.

A man ziplining through the canopy of trees in the Costa Rican forest

Why has there been a rise in Costa Rica eco-travel?

In Costa Rica, eco-tourism has flourished, fueled by the nation’s commitment to conservation and environmental stewardship. Costa Rica has a reputation as an eco travel destination. Plus it is an extremely family-friendly place where you can not only sightsee, but also engage with its environment and local communities in a sustainable way.

Discover more on Costa Rica Eco Adventure

A colorful parrot mid-flight

Travel designed to shape young minds

Costa Rica has something for everyone no matter the age. The country easily ignites the curiosity and environmental consciousness in everyone, no matter the age. Through guided encounters with Costa Rica’s diverse ecosystems, young travelers learn about biodiversity, conservation, and the critical importance of preserving natural habitats.

The wake-up call of a troop of howler monkeys might be your child’s first taste of wildlife in magical Costa Rica. If you have a budding wildlife documentary photographer, or a little one who is passionate about animals, Costa Rica might just solidify that passion. While exploring the jungles and waterways of the Central American country you’ll come across sloths, green iguanas, caiman, crocodiles and colourful toucans. Plus tons and tons of monkeys, from agile howler and spider monkeys to white-faced capuchins.

A close-up shot of a monkey, a beautiful part of costa rica nature

Connect with local communities

Sustainable travel isn’t just about the environment. It’s about the people you meet and the connections you make. After gliding through canals, lagoons and lowland rainforest and wetlands you’ll reach the secluded village of Tortuguero. Here the kids can meet Tortuguero Village pioneers and learn about their way of life. They can also meet local children at the Tortuguero Music School, which helps local kids to explore their creativity with Caribbean music.

Discover the Tortuguero village on Monkeys, Jungles and Volcanoes

a green frog walking along a branch, found in costa rica's nature

A lasting impression, an educational experience

It’s easy to turn any Costa Rica tour into an enriching educational experience. Whether that’s Costa Rica Eco Adventure or Monkeys, Jungles and Volcanoes. The journey itself is loaded with inspiration and discovery. Beyond soaking up the sights and sounds of this biodiverse wonderland, it’s easy to prompt kids to explore their own experiences more deeply. Bring pencils and paper and ask them to draw the exotic animals you’ve spotted. Take a dedicated travel journal and ask them to write a daily recount about their adventure. This will deepen their overall Costa Rica experience and give them a chance to reflect.

The result? A memento to look back on for years to come.