Costa Rica Family Journey: From Cloud Forests to the Beach - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of tour is this and who is it designed for?

  This is a 'National Geographic Family Journey: Costa Rica Family Journey: From Cloud Forests to the Beach', specifically designed for families traveling with children between the ages of 7 and 17. All travelers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

• What meals are included in the tour?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 3 dinners.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation for this tour is in hotels for 7 nights. Please note that hotel standards can differ from your home country, and in places like Monteverde, accommodations might be located outside the main town to take advantage of the natural beauty. Hot water shortages and power outages can also be common.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 2, which suggests a generally accessible level of activity. It is always recommended to assess your personal ability to cope with the travel style and consult a doctor for any health considerations.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation will primarily be by private vehicle, with additional modes including boat, horse, and walking for specific activities.

• What are the main activities and experiences included in this tour?

  The tour includes soaring through the jungle canopy on ziplines, a naturalist-guided night walk in the cloud forest, participating in a reforestation project at the Monteverde Institute, a San Luis rural community farm-to-table lunch and learning to make sugar cane juice, a Junior Explorer's Night with nature and wildlife bingo, horseback riding and guided hikes in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, and visiting the Rio Negro Hot Springs and volcanic mud baths. All tips for activities and included meals are also covered, along with transport between destinations.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, optional activities in Monteverde include ziplining, visiting the Hanging Bridges (approx. $56 USD), and a Santa Elena Cloud Forest visit (approx. $35-50 USD). In Rincón de la Vieja, you can opt for a Rio Negro Tubing Adventure (approx. $60 USD). In Guanacaste, there's optional sailing (approx. $85-95 USD).

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, this tour is designed for shared accommodation and does not involve a single supplement. Odd-numbered adult travelers will be paired in twin accommodation with another adult of the same sex.

• What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?

  Local tipping for guides, drivers, and included meals is already covered. For the National Geographic Expedition Leaders, a tip of $8-10 USD per person per day is appreciated as a guideline. For non-included meals, a tip of 10-15% of the bill is recommended.

• Is an emergency fund required for this trip?

  Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances that might require a change to the planned route.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have a minimum coverage of USD $200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation. It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.

• What should I know about currency and money in Costa Rica?

  The local currency is the Costa Rican Colon (CRC). Credit and debit cards, especially Visa, are useful for cash advances, though ATM functionality isn't guaranteed. Be aware that credit card purchases may incur a 5-10% fee. It's best to carry a combination of US dollars cash (in good condition, denominations under $100 USD) and cards, and not rely solely on cards.

• Are laundry facilities available during the tour?

  Some hotels offer laundry facilities for a charge. Your Expedition Leader can also advise on the closest laundromat. Bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap is suggested if you plan to do your own laundry.

• What are the safety considerations for this trip, including for LGBTQ+ travelers?

  In San José, it's advised to be aware of your belongings and avoid carrying expensive items due to increased tourism and potential crime. For LGBTQ+ travelers, the tour operator prioritizes their safety and well-being, recommending a visit to their LGBTQ+ page for resources and the Equaldex tool for specific destination information.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour will be led by two National Geographic Expedition Leaders throughout, supplemented by local guides for specific activities.

• What should I expect regarding weather and climate in Costa Rica?

  Costa Rica is known for its diverse ecosystems and lush rainforests, which means there can be a lot of rain and humidity at any time of year, especially during the 'green' season (May-November). Travelers should be prepared for wet weather and variations in temperature, including warm days and sometimes cool evenings.

• What is the tour's involvement with local communities and sustainability?

  The tour includes 'G for Good' and 'Made Together' moments, such as a San Luis Rural Community Experience with a farm-to-table lunch and learning to make sugar cane juice. There's also a 'Family Journeys Moment' at the Monteverde Institute for a lecture and participation in a reforestation project, supported by National Geographic. The tour operator is also the largest corporate donor to Planeterra, a non-profit that helps local communities benefit from tourism.

• When and where is the welcome meeting?

  A welcome meeting is held on Day 1, typically between 5 PM and 7 PM at your joining hotel, where you will meet your Expedition Leader and other travelers. Details will be provided at the hotel reception.