Cancellation Policy
Last updated: January 2025
1. General Cancellation Policy
At Explore Costa Rica Today, we understand that travel plans can change. This Cancellation Policy outlines the terms and conditions for canceling or modifying your travel bookings. Please read this policy carefully before making a reservation.
Important: All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing via email to info@explorecostaricatoday.com. Cancellation fees and refund amounts are calculated based on the date we receive your written cancellation request.
2. Cancellation Timeframes and Fees
2.1 Standard Travel Packages
| Cancellation Period | Cancellation Fee | Refund Amount |
|---|---|---|
| More than 60 days before departure | 10% of total package price | 90% refund |
| 31-60 days before departure | 25% of total package price | 75% refund |
| 15-30 days before departure | 50% of total package price | 50% refund |
| 8-14 days before departure | 75% of total package price | 25% refund |
| Less than 7 days before departure | 100% of total package price | No refund |
2.2 Premium and Custom Packages
Premium and custom travel packages may have different cancellation terms. These will be clearly specified in your booking confirmation and may include:
- Higher cancellation fees due to non-refundable supplier deposits
- Extended cancellation periods for complex itineraries
- Special terms for luxury accommodations or exclusive experiences
3. Individual Service Cancellations
3.1 Accommodations
- Hotels: Subject to individual hotel cancellation policies
- Lodges: May require 30-60 days notice for full refund
- Vacation Rentals: Often have strict cancellation policies
3.2 Activities and Tours
- Adventure Tours: 48-72 hours notice typically required
- Wildlife Tours: May require 7-14 days notice
- Private Tours: Custom cancellation terms apply
3.3 Transportation
- Domestic Flights: Subject to airline policies
- Private Transfers: 24-48 hours notice required
- Car Rentals: 24 hours notice for full refund
4. Special Circumstances
4.1 Force Majeure Events
In cases of force majeure events (natural disasters, political unrest, pandemics, etc.), we will work with you to:
- Reschedule your trip to a later date
- Provide travel credits for future use
- Offer partial refunds when possible
- Assist with travel insurance claims
4.2 Medical Emergencies
For medical emergencies affecting you or immediate family members, we may offer:
- Flexible rescheduling options
- Reduced cancellation fees with proper documentation
- Assistance with insurance claims
Required Documentation: Medical certificate from a licensed physician
4.3 Travel Document Issues
If you are unable to travel due to passport, visa, or other document issues:
- Standard cancellation fees apply
- We recommend purchasing travel insurance
- We can assist with rescheduling when documents are obtained
5. Refund Processing
5.1 Refund Timeline
- Processing Time: 7-14 business days after cancellation approval
- Credit Card Refunds: 3-5 business days to appear on your statement
- Bank Transfer Refunds: 5-10 business days
- International Refunds: May take up to 21 business days
5.2 Refund Method
Refunds will be processed using the same payment method used for the original booking. If this is not possible, we will contact you to arrange an alternative method.
5.3 Currency and Exchange Rates
Refunds will be processed in the original currency of payment. Exchange rate fluctuations between booking and cancellation dates may affect the final refund amount.
6. Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes:
- Trip Cancellation Coverage: Protects against unexpected cancellations
- Trip Interruption Coverage: Covers mid-trip cancellations
- Medical Coverage: Emergency medical expenses abroad
- Baggage Protection: Lost or delayed luggage coverage
Important: Travel insurance must be purchased within 14 days of your initial booking to cover pre-existing conditions and other exclusions.
7. Modification Policy
7.1 Date Changes
- More than 60 days: No change fees (subject to availability)
- 31-60 days: $50 per person change fee
- 15-30 days: $100 per person change fee
- Less than 15 days: Treated as cancellation and rebooking
7.2 Package Modifications
- Adding services: Subject to availability and additional charges
- Removing services: May result in package price adjustments
- Upgrading accommodations: Additional charges apply
- Changing destinations: May require complete rebooking
8. No-Show Policy
If you fail to arrive for your scheduled departure without prior notice:
- No refunds will be provided
- All services will be forfeited
- Additional charges may apply for missed connections
9. Group Bookings
For group bookings (8 or more people), special cancellation terms may apply:
- Individual cancellations within the group may affect group rates
- Group cancellation policies may differ from individual policies
- Group leaders should coordinate all changes and cancellations
10. Third-Party Supplier Policies
Some services are provided by third-party suppliers with their own cancellation policies:
- We will inform you of any non-refundable components at booking
- Supplier policies may be more restrictive than our general policy
- We will assist in communicating with suppliers when possible
11. Dispute Resolution
If you disagree with a cancellation decision or refund amount:
- Contact our customer service team in writing
- Provide all relevant documentation and booking details
- We will review your case within 5 business days
- If unsatisfied, you may escalate to our management team
12. Contact Information
For all cancellation requests and inquiries, please contact us:
- Email: info@explorecostaricatoday.com
- Phone: +506-XXXX-XXXX
- Emergency Contact: +506-XXXX-XXXX (24/7)
- Address: Costa Rica
Emergency Cancellations: For last-minute cancellations or emergencies, please call our 24/7 emergency line immediately.
13. Policy Updates
This Cancellation Policy may be updated from time to time. The most current version will always be available on our website. Changes will not affect existing bookings unless required by law or for your benefit.
14. Acknowledgment
By making a booking with Explore Costa Rica Today, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by this Cancellation Policy. This policy is part of our Terms & Conditions and should be read in conjunction with our Privacy Policy.