Costa Rica: Tortuguero, La Fortuna & Rio Celeste - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the age range for this tour?

  This tour is suitable for travelers between 18 and 100 years old.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation includes 5 nights in hotels and 2 nights in a jungle lodge.

• Which meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners.

• What are the main highlights and included activities of this tour?

  Highlights include kayaking the canals of Tortuguero National Park, zip-lining or waterfall canyoning in La Fortuna, soaking in the thermal springs at Tabacón Resort with dinner, spotting wildlife from hanging bridges, and hiking to the blue Rio Celeste Waterfall in Volcán Tenorio National Park. A complimentary arrival transfer, welcome dinner, and farewell dinner are also included.

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  Optional activities include a Guided Boat Tour (USD75) and a Turtle Nesting Night Excursion (seasonal, USD51) in Tortuguero National Park, and tubing down the Rio Celeste or horseback riding in Parque Nacional Volcan Tenorio.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travelers, with an average of 12.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, solo travelers joining group trips are paired in shared accommodation with someone of the same sex, so there is no single supplement. A 'My Own Room' option for a single room is available if booked separately.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

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

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage is strongly recommended.

• What are the health considerations for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required, and it is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor well before departure for up-to-date medical travel information. It is recommended to carry a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and any personal medical requirements, as medical facilities in remote areas may be limited.

• How much emergency money should I have access to?

  It is advisable to have access to at least an additional USD200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances that may require a change to the planned route.

• What should I know about currency and exchanging money on this tour?

  Credit cards and debit cards (Visa most widely accepted) are useful for cash advances, though ATM functionality cannot be guaranteed in all remote areas. It is advisable to withdraw enough USD cash (in good condition, in denominations lower than USD100) in San José before leaving, as exchange and ATM access may be difficult during the first week. Do not rely solely on cards.

• What is the policy on tipping?

  On Geluxe Collection tours, tipping for all included activities and meals is already covered. Tipping for the CEO (Chief Experience Officer) or porterage is not included; a guideline of USD10-15 per person per day for the CEO is suggested. For non-included meals and activities, a 10% tip is appropriate and expected in Latin America.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are available at almost every stop on the trip. If you prefer to do your own laundry, bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Due to Costa Rica's high humidity, clothes may take longer to dry.

• What are the modes of transportation used on this trip?

  Transportation on this tour includes private vehicles, kayaks, boats, and walking.

• What are the key safety and security considerations for this trip?

  It's recommended to check your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. During free time, use good judgment when selecting activities, and at night, stay in small groups and use taxis. All water-based activities should be accompanied by guides.

• What rules should I be aware of regarding illegal drugs and paid sex workers?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as possession or use contravenes local laws and puts the group at risk. The use of paid sex workers is also not acceptable. Our CEOs have the right to expel any group member found in violation of these rules.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating economic opportunities for local communities through tourism. They develop and support community-owned businesses, integrating them into our itineraries. Our tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, ensuring 100% of your donation directly supports their projects.

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  This tour features kayaking in the canals of Tortuguero National Park to spot tropical birds and monkeys, zip-lining or rappelling down waterfalls in La Fortuna, soaking in the restorative thermal springs at Tabacón Resort, spotting wildlife from hanging bridges, and hiking to the blue waterfall in Volcán Tenorio National Park.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 3.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation includes Hotels for 5 nights and a Jungle Lodge for 2 nights. Please note that properties with only two stories may not have elevators.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners. Generally, meals are included when there isn't a wide choice of eating options.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average of 12.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

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

• Is there an age limit for participants on this tour?

  The minimum age for this tour is 18, and the maximum age is 100.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Costa Rica?

  All countries require a valid passport with a minimum of 6 months validity. It is your responsibility to check with your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements. Costa Rica also requires proof of a departure ticket to enter the country.

• Do I need to pay a departure tax from Costa Rica?

  Yes, there is a Costa Rica airport exit tax of $29 USD.

• What is the tipping policy on this tour?

  On Geluxe Collection tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals. Tipping is not included for the CEO (Chief Experience Officer) or porterage. A guideline for tipping your CEO is $10-15 USD per person, per day. For non-included meals and activities, a 10% tip is appropriate in Latin America.

• What are the optional activities available during the tour?

  Optional activities include a Tortuguero National Park Guided Boat Tour (75USD), a Turtle Nesting Night Excursion (seasonal, 51USD), tubing down the Rio Celeste, and horseback riding.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation on this tour includes private vehicles, kayaks, boats, and walking.

• What currency should I bring and how should I manage money during the tour?

  Credit and debit cards (Visa widely accepted) are useful for cash advances, but do not rely on them as your only source of money as ATMs can malfunction. A combination of US dollars cash (good condition, denominations lower than 100USD) and cards is best. It is advisable to withdraw enough cash in San José for the first week, as ATMs may be difficult to find or use in Tortuguero.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  You should have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Are there health considerations I should be aware of?

  Inoculations may be required; consult your travel doctor well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers. Leaders are prohibited from administering drugs. Assess your ability to cope with the travel style, referring to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings.

• What is the policy for solo travelers regarding accommodation?

  Solo travellers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, with no single supplement. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are available at almost every stop. If doing your own laundry, biodegradable soap is suggested. Be aware that clothes may dry slowly due to high humidity.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  The tour will be led by a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, along with local guides. The CEO provides information, suggestions, and assistance, while local guides offer specific knowledge.

• What is Planeterra and how does the tour operator support local communities?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to projects. You can participate in their 'Dollar-a-day Program' to contribute.

• What rules should I be aware of regarding illegal drugs and paid sex workers?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated and contravene local laws, posing a risk to the group. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also strictly against the travel philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel any group member found with drugs or utilizing paid sex worker services.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travellers, including the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. Travellers are encouraged to visit the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page for useful resources, including the Equaldex tool, to ensure comfort and safety throughout the trip.

• What general safety and security advice is provided for the trip?

  Check your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet/money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Utilize hotel safety deposit boxes and luggage locks. The CEO can amend the itinerary for safety. Be cautious in cities at night, staying in groups and using taxis. Participate in water-based activities only when accompanied by a guide.