Frequently Asked Questions

We specialize in personalized, authentic Costa Rican experiences. Our local team provides insider knowledge, private transportation, and concierge services. We focus on sustainable tourism and support local communities while ensuring you have an unforgettable adventure tailored to your interests and pace.

Absolutely! While we offer pre-designed packages, we specialize in creating custom itineraries based on your interests, budget, and time constraints. Our team works with you to design the perfect Costa Rican adventure, whether you're interested in adventure activities, wildlife viewing, cultural experiences, or relaxation.

Our packages include accommodations, private transportation with professional drivers, guided activities and tours, airport transfers, and concierge services. Breakfast is typically included at accommodations. Lunch and dinner are not included, giving you the freedom to explore Costa Rica's diverse culinary scene. All entrance fees to national parks and attractions are included.

Costa Rica has two main seasons: dry season (December-April) and green season (May-November). The dry season offers sunny weather and is perfect for beach activities. The green season brings lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Both seasons have their advantages - it depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and budget.

We recommend booking 2-3 months in advance, especially during the dry season (December-April) when accommodations fill up quickly. For custom packages, we suggest 3-4 months advance booking to ensure availability of preferred accommodations and activities. However, we can often accommodate last-minute bookings depending on availability.

Citizens of the US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, and many other countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. You only need a valid passport. However, you must have proof of onward travel (return ticket) and sufficient funds for your stay. We recommend checking with your local Costa Rican consulate for the most current requirements.

Costa Rica is generally very safe for tourists. It's one of the most stable countries in Central America with a strong tourism infrastructure. We provide 24/7 support and work with trusted local partners. As with any travel destination, we recommend standard precautions like not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings.

No specific vaccinations are required for Costa Rica, but we recommend being up-to-date on routine vaccines. Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended for most travelers. If you're planning to visit rural areas or engage in outdoor activities, consider Hepatitis B and Rabies vaccines. Consult with your healthcare provider or travel medicine specialist for personalized recommendations.

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and emergency evacuation. Costa Rica has excellent healthcare, but medical costs can be high for tourists. We can provide recommendations for reputable travel insurance providers that offer good coverage for adventure activities.

Costa Rica is perfect for families! We offer wildlife viewing tours, gentle hikes, beach activities, cultural experiences, and educational visits to coffee plantations. Many activities can be adapted for different age groups. We can arrange family-friendly accommodations and ensure all activities are age-appropriate and safe for children.

Absolutely! Costa Rica is home to 5% of the world's biodiversity. Our expert guides know the best spots and times to see sloths, monkeys, toucans, and other wildlife. We visit national parks, wildlife reserves, and natural areas where you're almost guaranteed to see amazing animals in their natural habitat.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a rain jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat. For adventure activities, bring appropriate gear or we can arrange rentals. Don't forget your camera, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a reusable water bottle. We'll provide a detailed packing list based on your specific itinerary.

We accept all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), PayPal, and bank transfers. For custom packages, we typically require a 30% deposit to secure your booking, with the balance due 30 days before your arrival. We use secure payment processing to protect your financial information.

Cancellations made 30+ days before arrival receive a full refund minus a 5% processing fee. Cancellations 15-29 days before receive a 75% refund. Cancellations 7-14 days before receive a 50% refund. Cancellations less than 7 days before are non-refundable. We recommend travel insurance to protect against unexpected cancellations.

Yes! We offer discounts for groups of 6 or more people. Group discounts range from 5-15% depending on group size and season. We can also arrange special group activities and accommodations. Contact us with your group details for a customized quote and group discount information.

Yes, we understand that plans can change. Modifications are possible up to 14 days before your arrival, subject to availability and any price differences. Changes made within 14 days may incur additional fees. We'll work with you to accommodate reasonable changes whenever possible.

Yes, we offer flexible payment plans for packages over $2,000. You can split your payment into 2-3 installments, with the final payment due 30 days before arrival. This makes it easier to budget for your dream Costa Rica vacation. Contact us to discuss payment plan options.

We provide airport transfers from both major international airports: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia. We can also arrange transfers from regional airports and private airstrips for domestic flights.

We provide comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicles with professional drivers for all transfers between destinations. For longer distances, we can arrange domestic flights or scenic drives with stops at interesting locations. All transportation is included in your package price.

While we can arrange car rentals for you, we recommend using our transportation services for the best experience. Our drivers know the roads, weather conditions, and can provide local insights. If you prefer to drive, we can adjust your package and provide detailed driving directions and recommendations.

Don't worry! We monitor flight arrivals and will adjust pickup times accordingly. Our drivers will wait for you and keep you updated via phone or WhatsApp. If there are significant delays, we'll work with you to adjust your itinerary to ensure you don't miss any important activities.

We offer a range of accommodations from eco-lodges and boutique hotels to luxury resorts and beachfront properties. All accommodations are carefully selected for their quality, location, and authentic Costa Rican experience. We can accommodate different budgets and preferences, from rustic jungle lodges to 5-star luxury resorts.

Absolutely! Many of our accommodations offer family rooms, connecting rooms, and family-friendly amenities like pools, playgrounds, and kids' activities. We can arrange accommodations with kitchenettes for families who prefer to prepare some meals. Let us know your family's needs and we'll select the perfect accommodations.

Most accommodations offer WiFi, though speeds may vary in remote areas. All properties have modern amenities including air conditioning, hot water, and comfortable beds. Some eco-lodges may have limited WiFi to preserve the natural experience, but we'll inform you of any limitations beforehand.

Yes! We can upgrade your accommodations based on availability and your preferences. Whether you want ocean views, spa access, or luxury amenities, we can arrange upgrades for an additional cost. Contact us to discuss upgrade options for your specific itinerary.

Breakfast is typically included at all accommodations. Lunch and dinner are not included, giving you the freedom to explore Costa Rica's diverse culinary scene. We can arrange special dining experiences, cooking classes, or include meals at specific restaurants if desired. Our guides can recommend the best local restaurants in each area.

Absolutely! We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, and other dietary restrictions. Costa Rica has excellent options for all dietary needs, including many organic and health-focused restaurants. Please inform us of any dietary requirements when booking, and we'll ensure all accommodations and restaurants can meet your needs.

Costa Rican cuisine is fresh, flavorful, and diverse. Traditional dishes include gallo pinto (rice and beans), casado (typical lunch plate), fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and excellent coffee. The country offers everything from street food to fine dining, with influences from Spanish, indigenous, and Caribbean cultures. We can arrange food tours and cooking classes to enhance your culinary experience.

Yes, tap water is generally safe to drink in most areas of Costa Rica, especially in major cities and tourist areas. However, we recommend drinking bottled water in remote areas or if you have a sensitive stomach. All accommodations provide safe drinking water, and bottled water is readily available throughout the country.

Costa Rica has a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry season (December-April) with sunny, warm weather, and green season (May-November) with afternoon showers and lush landscapes. Temperatures range from 70-85°F (21-29°C) year-round. The weather varies by region - coastal areas are warmer, while highland areas like Monteverde are cooler.

Rain rarely affects activities significantly. In the green season, rain typically falls in the afternoon for 1-2 hours, leaving mornings and evenings clear. We schedule outdoor activities for optimal times and have backup plans for weather-sensitive activities. Many activities like wildlife viewing and hot springs are actually enhanced by the rain!

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a light rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes, sandals, swimwear, and a hat. For highland areas, bring a light sweater or jacket. Don't forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle. We provide a detailed packing list based on your specific itinerary and travel dates.

Costa Rica is rarely affected by hurricanes due to its location. The Caribbean coast may experience some tropical storm activity from June to November, but it's uncommon. We monitor weather conditions closely and will inform you of any potential weather concerns. Travel insurance is recommended for peace of mind.

No, Spanish is not required! English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and all our guides and drivers are bilingual. However, learning basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with locals. We can provide a basic Spanish phrase guide and arrange Spanish lessons if you're interested.

Most accommodations offer WiFi, and you can purchase local SIM cards for your phone. We can arrange a local SIM card for you or help you set up international roaming. WhatsApp is widely used in Costa Rica for communication. We also provide 24/7 emergency contact numbers for immediate assistance.

The official currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC), but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. Most restaurants, hotels, and tour operators accept both currencies. We recommend carrying some local currency for small purchases and tips. ATMs are readily available, and credit cards are accepted at most establishments.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A 10% service charge is often included in restaurant bills. For excellent service, you can add 5-10% more. Tip guides $5-10 per person per day, drivers $3-5 per day, and hotel staff $1-2 per service. We provide a tipping guide with your travel documents to help you navigate local customs.

Costa Rica is home to incredible biodiversity! You can see sloths, monkeys (howler, spider, capuchin), toucans, macaws, iguanas, crocodiles, sea turtles, dolphins, and whales. We visit the best national parks and wildlife reserves where sightings are almost guaranteed. Our expert guides know the best times and locations for wildlife viewing.

Early morning (6-8 AM) and late afternoon (4-6 PM) are prime times for wildlife activity. Many animals are most active during these cooler hours. We schedule wildlife tours during optimal times and provide binoculars for better viewing. The green season (May-November) offers lush landscapes and active wildlife, while the dry season provides easier spotting in less dense vegetation.

Costa Rica has very few dangerous animals. While there are some venomous snakes, they're rarely encountered and avoid humans. Our guides are trained in wildlife safety and know how to avoid any potential risks. The biggest safety concern is actually the sun and insects - we provide sunscreen and insect repellent recommendations. Most wildlife encounters are completely safe and magical experiences.

Yes! Costa Rica is famous for sea turtle nesting. The best places are Tortuguero (July-October for green turtles) and Ostional (year-round for olive ridley turtles). We can arrange guided night tours to witness this incredible natural phenomenon. Tours are conducted with strict environmental guidelines to protect the turtles and their nesting sites.

We visit Costa Rica's most spectacular national parks including Manuel Antonio (beaches and wildlife), Arenal Volcano (volcanic landscapes), Monteverde (cloud forest), Tortuguero (canals and turtles), Corcovado (remote wilderness), and many others. Each park offers unique ecosystems and wildlife. We include all entrance fees and provide expert guides who know the best trails and viewing spots.

Costa Rica offers incredible adventure activities: zip-lining through cloud forests, white-water rafting, volcano hiking, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, horseback riding, ATV tours, and canyoning. We work with certified operators to ensure safety and provide equipment. Activities can be customized based on your fitness level and interests.

Yes, all our adventure activities are conducted by certified, experienced operators with excellent safety records. Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained. Guides provide thorough safety briefings and are trained in first aid. We only work with operators who meet international safety standards. Travel insurance is recommended for adventure activities.

Age requirements vary by activity: zip-lining (5+ years), white-water rafting (8+ years), volcano hiking (10+ years), surfing (6+ years), snorkeling (4+ years). Many activities offer family-friendly versions with modified difficulty levels. We can arrange age-appropriate activities for all family members and provide alternative options for younger children.

Most activities are suitable for average fitness levels, but some require moderate physical ability. We offer activities for all fitness levels, from gentle nature walks to challenging volcano hikes. We can customize itineraries based on your physical capabilities and interests. Let us know about any physical limitations, and we'll recommend appropriate activities.

All necessary equipment is provided: helmets, harnesses, life jackets, snorkeling gear, surfboards, wetsuits, and safety equipment. We work with operators who maintain high-quality, regularly inspected equipment. You only need to bring appropriate clothing and footwear. We provide detailed packing lists for each activity.

We offer authentic cultural experiences including coffee plantation tours, cooking classes, visits to indigenous communities, traditional craft workshops, local market tours, and cultural performances. These experiences provide insight into Costa Rican traditions, history, and daily life. We work directly with local communities to ensure authentic and respectful cultural exchanges.

Yes, we can arrange visits to indigenous communities that welcome tourists. These experiences are conducted with respect for local traditions and provide authentic cultural exchange. You'll learn about traditional crafts, music, food, and daily life. We ensure these visits benefit the communities and are conducted ethically and respectfully.

Costa Rica produces some of the world's finest coffee! We offer plantation tours where you'll learn about the entire coffee process from bean to cup, including harvesting, processing, roasting, and tasting. You'll meet local farmers, learn about sustainable farming practices, and enjoy fresh coffee in beautiful mountain settings. Coffee tours are educational and delicious!

Costa Rica has many vibrant festivals throughout the year! Popular events include the Palmares Festival (January), Independence Day celebrations (September), and various local fiestas. We can incorporate festival visits into your itinerary when they coincide with your travel dates. These events offer authentic cultural experiences with music, dancing, food, and local traditions.

Absolutely! Costa Rica is a photographer's paradise. You can bring cameras, lenses, and photography equipment. We recommend waterproof cases for beach and rain activities. Some national parks may have restrictions on tripods or flash photography near wildlife. We can arrange photography tours with professional wildlife photographers for the best shots.

Yes! We can arrange professional photography services for special occasions, family portraits, or to capture your entire trip. Professional photographers know the best locations and lighting conditions. We can also arrange drone photography for unique aerial perspectives of Costa Rica's landscapes. Services include photo editing and digital delivery.

Costa Rica offers incredible photo opportunities: Arenal Volcano at sunrise/sunset, sloths in Manuel Antonio, colorful toucans and macaws, stunning beaches, cloud forest canopies, coffee plantations, and vibrant sunsets. Our guides know the best photo spots and optimal times for lighting. We can arrange sunrise tours and golden hour photography sessions for the most spectacular shots.

Yes! Costa Rica has beautiful local crafts including hand-carved wooden items, pottery, textiles, jewelry, and coffee. We visit local markets and artisan workshops where you can meet the makers and purchase authentic souvenirs. We can arrange visits to cooperatives that support local communities and ensure fair trade practices.

Absolutely! Costa Rica is perfect for romantic getaways and honeymoons. We can arrange luxury accommodations, private beach dinners, couples' spa treatments, sunset cruises, and intimate wildlife tours. We specialize in creating romantic experiences with beautiful settings, from beachfront resorts to mountain lodges with volcano views.

Yes! We can arrange destination weddings in stunning Costa Rican locations. From beachfront ceremonies to mountain-top vows with volcano backdrops, we handle all the details including venues, officiants, flowers, photography, and guest accommodations. We work with local wedding planners to create your perfect day in paradise.

Of course! We love helping you celebrate special occasions. We can arrange surprise celebrations, special dinners, birthday cakes, anniversary gifts, and memorable experiences. Whether it's a milestone birthday, anniversary, or any special occasion, we'll make it unforgettable with personalized touches and unique Costa Rican experiences.

Yes! Costa Rica is perfect for corporate retreats and team building. We can arrange meeting facilities, team building activities like zip-lining and rafting, group adventures, and professional development in beautiful natural settings. Our corporate packages include comfortable accommodations, meeting spaces, and activities that promote teamwork and relaxation.

We're committed to sustainable tourism practices. We work with eco-certified accommodations, support local communities, use environmentally responsible transportation, and follow Leave No Trace principles. We partner with conservation organizations and ensure our activities don't harm wildlife or ecosystems. A portion of our profits supports local conservation efforts.

We partner with eco-lodges and sustainable hotels that use renewable energy, water conservation systems, organic gardens, and support local communities. Many accommodations are certified by international sustainability programs. We can arrange stays at carbon-neutral properties and eco-lodges that blend seamlessly with nature while providing modern comfort.

We provide eco-friendly travel tips including using reef-safe sunscreen, bringing reusable water bottles, staying on designated trails, not feeding wildlife, and supporting local businesses. We can arrange carbon offset programs for your flights and provide information about sustainable practices throughout your trip. Small actions make a big difference!

Absolutely! We prioritize working with local guides, drivers, accommodations, and restaurants. We support community-based tourism projects, indigenous cooperatives, and local artisans. Our tours include visits to local markets, family-run businesses, and community projects. This ensures your tourism dollars directly benefit Costa Rican families and communities.