Costa Rica: Monteverde and La Fortuna - 7 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of activities are included in the tour description?

  The tour focuses on cloud forests, coffee plantations, and canyoneering, offering opportunities to explore natural wonders, visit a sustainable farm, and enjoy thrilling activities like whitewater rafting and waterfall jumping in La Fortuna.

• What is the minimum and maximum age for participants on this tour?

  Participants must be a minimum of 12 years old and a maximum of 100 years old.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The tour accommodates a minimum of 1 person and a maximum of 16 people.

• Which meals are included in the tour price?

  Six breakfasts are included in the tour price. Lunches and dinners are generally not included to allow for flexibility.

• What type of accommodation is provided on the tour?

  Accommodation will be in hotels for all 6 nights of the tour.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 2, indicating it involves a moderate level of activity.

• What is a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and what do they do?

  A CEO accompanies all group trips to take the hassle out of your travels. They provide information, offer suggestions for activities and local eating venues, and introduce you to local friends. They have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited, and local guides are used for more specific knowledge.

• What optional activities are available in Monteverde?

  In Monteverde, optional activities include ziplining, visiting the Monteverde Butterfly Garden, walking the Hanging Bridges, a guided Santa Elena Cloud Forest Tour, El Trapiche Tour, Monteverde Horseback Riding, and a CASEM Coop Visit.

• What optional activities are available in La Fortuna and Arenal?

  In La Fortuna and Arenal, optional activities include the Costa Rica Adrenaline Bundle, Hot Springs Soak, Lost Canyon Adventures Canyoning, Stand Up Paddle (Lesson and Tour), Gravity Falls Waterfall Jumping, La Fortuna Waterfall Swim, Whitewater Rafting, and Hanging Bridges near Arenal.

• What transport methods are used during the tour?

  Transportation between destinations and to/from included activities will be via private vehicle, boat, local bus, and walking.

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

  Credit and debit cards (especially Visa) are useful for cash advances, but their functionality can vary. A 5-10% fee may apply to credit card purchases. It's recommended to carry a combination of US dollars cash and cards, with traveller's cheques as backup. Bring notes in good condition and denominations lower than 100USD. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 is also recommended.

• What are the tipping customs in Costa Rica for this tour?

  Tipping service providers like waiters is customary (approx. 10%). For drivers and local guides, recommendations range from $5-10 USD per day. Tipping your Chief Experience Officer is also appreciated, with a guideline of $5-7 USD per person, per day.

• Are there any specific entry requirements for Costa Rica?

  Yes, Costa Rica requires proof of a departure ticket (bus, airplane, boat, etc.) to enter the country. If traveling through multiple Central American countries, you will need to show proof of your itinerary and a departure ticket from your last destination.

• What is the overall theme or experience of the Costa Rica: Monteverde and La Fortuna tour?

  This seven-day tour focuses on experiencing Costa Rica's natural wonders, including cloud forests, coffee plantations, and thrilling activities in the adrenaline capital of La Fortuna.

• What kind of activities are included or optional on this tour?

  The tour includes a 'Life Monteverde Experience' and free time to explore Monteverde and La Fortuna. Optional activities available in Monteverde include ziplining, guided walks in the cloud forest, and visiting Hanging Bridges. In La Fortuna, options include whitewater rafting, waterfall rappelling, mountain biking, paddleboarding, kayaking, and visiting hot springs.

• Are there any age restrictions for this tour?

  Yes, the minimum age for this tour is 12 years, and the maximum age is 100 years.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The tour has a minimum group size of 1 person and a maximum group size of 16 people.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  Six breakfasts are included in the tour price. Lunches and dinners are generally not included to allow for flexibility, but your CEO will be able to suggest local eating venues.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation consists of hotels for all six nights. Please be aware that properties with only two stories may not have elevators, requiring you to climb stairs with luggage.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 2, indicating it's considered a lighter adventure suitable for most fitness levels.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation between destinations and to/from included activities is by private vehicle, boat, local bus, and walking.

• Is an emergency fund recommended 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 outside of our control, such as a natural disaster requiring a route change. This is a rare occurrence.

• What are the guidelines for tipping on this tour?

  Tipping service providers such as waiters (approximately 10% depending on service) is customary. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides range from $5-10 USD per day. Tipping your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) is also much appreciated, with a guideline of $5-7 USD per person, per day in the region.

• Will there be a group leader on this tour?

  Yes, a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) accompanies the group throughout the trip, along with local guides. The CEO provides information, suggestions for things to do and see, recommends local eating venues, and helps with logistics.

• How are solo travelers accommodated on this tour?

  Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip without an additional single supplement. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• What health precautions or inoculations should I consider?

  You should consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. It's recommended to carry a First Aid kit and personal medical requirements, as the tour may visit remote areas away from medical facilities.

• What are the recommendations for money and currency exchange?

  Credit cards and debit cards (especially Visa) are useful for cash advances, though their functionality may vary in Latin America, so check with your bank. It is best not to rely on cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollars cash and cards with traveler's cheques as backup is recommended. Bring notes in good condition and denominations lower than 100USD. Daily exchange rates can be checked on www.xe.com.

• Are there any specific entry requirements for Costa Rica?

  Yes, Costa Rica requires proof of a departure ticket (bus, airplane, boat, etc.) to enter the country. If traveling through other Central American countries, you will need to show proof of your itinerary and a departure ticket from your last destination. Please print your itinerary and voucher and bring it with you.