Guanacaste is one of Costa Rica’s most family-friendly regions, offering sunshine, wide open spaces, and unforgettable nature experiences. At the foot of the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, Hacienda Guachipelín invites families to explore waterfalls, hot springs, rivers, and rainforest trails—together. With adventure activities for all ages, comfortable family-friendly rooms, and relaxed dining options, it’s a place where kids learn through discovery and parents truly get to unwind.
Located at the foot of the spectacular Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, Hacienda Guachipelín offers the perfect family-friendly blend of waterfalls, hot springs, adventure parks, horses, wildlife, and open spaces to explore. Parents love the wellness and relaxation options, while kids of all ages can enjoy hands-on fun, nature learning, and safe adventure.
Here’s your guide to the best family activities in Guanacaste with kids—all available right at Hacienda Guachipelín.
Why Hacienda Guachipelín Is Perfect for Families
Safe, spacious, and surrounded by nature
With 3,400 acres of ranch land and protected tropical dry forest, your family has room to roam and explore.
Activities for all ages
From toddlers to teens, Hacienda Guachipelín offers tiered adventure options—high-adrenaline for older kids, gentler experiences for younger ones.
Easy access from Guanacaste Airport
Only 45 minutes from Guanacaste Airport, making arrivals with kids smooth and stress-free.
Education through nature
Children learn about volcanic activity, wildlife, plants, agriculture, and Costa Rican culture.
Family-oriented staff
Warm hospitality and guides trained to work with children create a welcoming, safe environment.
Let´s discover 10 reasons why Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin is the best place in Guanacaste with your kids.
1. River Tubing: The Ultimate Family Adventure
If your kids love thrills, Rio Negro Tubing Adventure is the highlight of any family visit. This is one of Costa Rica’s best family-friendly river activities because:
- The rapids are exciting, but safe
- Children sit in individual, reinforced tubes
- Guides assist along the route
- Kids ages 8+ can participate (younger children can join other water activities)
Parents and kids alike enjoy bouncing through gentle rapids surrounded by canyon walls and lush tropical dry forest.
A must-do if your family likes laughter and splashing!
2. Hot Springs & Volcanic Mud: Relaxation and Fun for All Ages
After adventures, families love spending time at the Rio Negro Hot Springs—a series of natural thermal pools fed by the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano.
Kids enjoy:
- Painting themselves with volcanic mud
- Warm, shallow pools
- A natural “spa” experience that feels like play
Parents love:
- The relaxing minerals
- The jungle setting
- A quiet moment to unwind
This is one of the most iconic Guanacaste experiences—and a perfect way to end an active day.
3. Waterfalls: Easy Hikes with Big Rewards
Hacienda Guachipelín is home to several spectacular waterfalls, each with its own personality—and many are ideal for kids.
Kid-friendly options include:
-
Oropéndola Waterfall
A short walk leads to a stunning turquoise pool surrounded by canyon walls. Perfect for older kids who love swimming.
-
Chorreras Waterfalls (two waterfalls side by side)
A magical swimming spot close to the lodge—great for kids of all ages.
-
Victoria Waterfall
For adventurous families, this 115-foot fall offers canyon views and swimming areas downstream.
Waterfall visits are some of the most photogenic, refreshing, and easy-to-organize activities on the ranch.
4. Canopy Zipline: Family-Friendly Thrills in the Treetops
The Canyon Canopy Tour at Guachipelín is designed with families in mind.
Includes:
- Ziplines over tree canopies and river canyons
- A fun, safe Tarzan swing
- Climbing and controlled rappels for older kids
- Guides trained for first-timers and nervous children
Children as young as 5 (depending on size and comfort) can ride tandem with a guide. Teens absolutely love this activity.
This is the perfect place for kids to conquer fears and celebrate achievements.
5. Horseback Riding: A Gentle Adventure Kids Adore
Nothing says “Costa Rica ranch experience” like a scenic horseback ride.
Why families love it:
- Professionally trained horses
- Gentle routes suitable for beginners
- Forest, river, and mountain viewpoints
- Guides who work wonderfully with kids
Horseback rides can connect to waterfalls, hot springs, or scenic viewpoints—making it easy to plan a half-day adventure.
6. Ranch Animals
Families with younger children especially enjoy the lodge’s nature and ranch exhibits, which offer hands-on learning experiences.
Kids can:
- Explore the stables to meet horses, cows, and farm animals
- Understand how a real Costa Rican ranch operates
These experiences help children connect with nature in a safe, educational environment.
7. Volcano Trails in Rincón de la Vieja National Park
A visit to Rincón de la Vieja National Park—just minutes from Hacienda Guachipelín—is a fantastic way for kids to discover the power of nature.
Trail highlights families’ love:
- Bubbling mud pots
- Steam vents
- Fumaroles
- Volcanic clay areas
- Forest wildlife (coatis, monkeys, toucans)
Most trails are easily manageable for school-aged children and offer a rare chance to see volcanic activity up close.
8. Cultural & Educational Activities
Hacienda Guachipelín is a working ranch, giving families the chance to learn about Guanacaste culture and traditions.
Kids can experience:
- Traditional Costa Rican cooking
- Ranch life demonstrations
- Organic gardens and sustainable practices
- Local wildlife conservation education
These activities bring Costa Rican culture to life in a fun, accessible way.
9. Family-Friendly Rooms Designed for Comfort & Space
A great family vacation isn’t just about activities—it’s also about having the right space to relax and recharge. Hacienda Guachipelín offers comfortable, family-friendly rooms designed to welcome parents and children alike after a day of adventure.
Spacious layouts for families
Family rooms and connecting options provide plenty of room for everyone, with configurations ideal for parents traveling with children or teens. Comfortable beds, practical layouts, and easy access to outdoor areas make it simple to settle in.
Comfort in the heart of nature
Rooms are air-conditioned and thoughtfully designed to keep families cool and rested, while still offering an authentic Guanacaste ranch atmosphere. Private terraces or patios allow parents to relax while kids unwind nearby.
Convenient amenities for families
- Family-size room options
- Easy access to the pool and restaurant
- On-site laundry services (ideal for longer stays)
- Reliable Wi-Fi for planning activities or downtime
- Safe walkways and open spaces around the property
10. Family-Friendly Dining Everyone Will Enjoy
Mealtimes at Hacienda Guachipelín are designed to be just as enjoyable as the adventures—relaxed, flexible, and welcoming for families. After active days exploring waterfalls, rivers, and volcano trails, kids and parents alike can refuel with delicious, satisfying meals in a comfortable setting.
Menus that please both kids and adults
The hotel’s restaurant offers a wide variety of options, making it easy to find dishes everyone will love. Alongside traditional Costa Rican flavors, families will find kid-friendly favorites, simple dishes, and familiar tastes—perfect for picky eaters or hungry adventurers.
Fresh, local ingredients
Many ingredients are locally sourced, allowing children to enjoy fresh fruits, juices, and wholesome meals while learning about Costa Rican food culture in an approachable way.
Relaxed, family-welcoming atmosphere
With open-air dining areas and friendly service, meals feel easy and stress-free. Parents can enjoy a leisurely meal while kids unwind after a busy day—no rushing required.
Perfect 3–5 Day Family Itinerary at Hacienda Guachipelín
Day 1:Arrival + hot springs + early dinner + stargazing
Day 2:Canyon Canopy Tour + horseback ride to waterfalls
Day 3:Rincón de la Vieja National Park volcanic trail + lunch + butterfly garden
Day 4:River tubing + mud baths + pool afternoons + free time
Day 5: Choose your adventure: waterfall hike, canyoning, or another relaxing hot springs visit
This mix gives families time to explore, learn, play, and relax—without rushing.
Tips for Visiting with Kids
- Bring water shoes for waterfalls and tubing
- Pack sunblock and hats (Guanacaste is sunny year-round)
- Lightweight long sleeves are great for trails
- Bug spray for nature activities
- Let kids choose one activity per day to keep everyone happy
- Remember: mornings are cooler and ideal for hikes
Plan Your Family Adventure at Hacienda Guachipelín
Hacienda Guachipelín, an Enchanting Hotel, offers everything families dream of in Guanacaste—nature, wildlife, adventure, culture, comfort, and unforgettable experiences. It’s a place where kids learn by exploring, and where parents reconnect with nature and with each other.
