Tropical Costa Rica

Lush forests and stunning waterfalls… rumbling volcanoes and endless coastlines… Costa Rica is a paradise teeming with exotic plants and incredible animals. Savor breathtaking beauty and fine sandy beaches.

 

What we've included in this price

• Round Trip Air from Philadelphia Intl Airport

• Transportation to and from Philadelphia Intl Airport from C&R Bus Tours

• Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges

• Included Itinerary as listed

• Hotel Transfers

 

Not included in price

• Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $469 per person*

 

* Add cancellation waiver and insurance

The travel protection program provides comprehensive coverage to safeguard your travel investment - from trip cancellation and interruption, to medical emergencies and baggage protection. For a small additional cost, you can have the invaluable peace of mind knowing you're covered if the unexpected occurs during your travels.

per passenger

 

Deposit Due $698.00 Per Person at Booking

 

Reservations are made on a first come, first served basis. Reservations made after August 18, 2026 are based on upon availability. Final Payment is due November 27, 2026 - Deposits are refundable until August 25, 2026

 

For More Information visit our travel partner

https://groups.gocollette.com/en-US/link/1428620

 

 

Highlights

• Monteverde Cloud Forest

• Hanging Bridges or Canopy Adventure

• Farm Tour and Lunch

• Coffee Plantation

• Arenal Volcano

• Cano Negro Refuge

• Lake Arenal Cruise

 

Essential Experiences

 

Catch a glimpse of local life as you explore a family-owned farm.

 

 

Please Note

 

Book Now rates valid until Aug 25, 2026, valid on air inclusive packages only.

 

Economy air rate and schedule are applicable for groups of 10 or more traveling on the same flights and dates.

 

The overall activity level of this tour is a level 3. This means you’re an on-the-go traveler. You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days with early mornings or late nights balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices.

 

Travel with an average of 37 people (maximum of 44).

 

If you require any special assistance while on tour, please make us aware at time of reservation so the necessary request form can be sent to your attention.

 

Elevators and air conditioning are not available in most accommodations used on this tour.

 

Many accommodations can be spread out, and you should be prepared to walk on a variety of terrains to get to public spaces like resort lobbies and restaurants. You may need to access your room through outdoor pathways.

 

We want you to enjoy your tour with us. Therefore, it is important that you know this tour is an adventure! You will view spectacular scenery while experiencing the culture and heritage of the region. We have selected small, comfortable hotels for their locations and they may be considered rustic.

 

Single accommodations are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Single rate subject to change based on availability.

 

The roads in Costa Rica are notoriously poor and impacted by heavy rains each season making them bumpy and requiring lower driving speeds. In order to experience all that we have included on this tour, we will spend an average of 4-5 hours on your coach to travel to your next stay. You can expect winding and some unpaved roads along the way.

 

To complete your tour, we include round-trip airport-to-hotel transfers when purchasing our airfare with your tour. If you have arranged for your own air , we are pleased to provide you the option of purchasing these transfers. Please note that all transfers will leave at pre-scheduled times.

 

Our transfers will depart from Playa Carrillo, Guanacaste hotel for Liberia airport. Approximate travel time is 2 hours.

 

Our air travelers will depart from Liberia airport.

 

For air-inclusive reservations, the name provided at time of booking must match your government-issued ID that will be used during travel. Name changes are subject to penalties.

 

Please be advised, many airlines do not provide advance seat assignments until check-in at the airport. Advance seating will be subject to the airline's terms and conditions.

 

Return flights should not be booked prior to 11:00 a.m.

 

Passports are required for this tour at your expense. Certain countries require that your passport be valid at least 6 months beyond the dates of your travel. You are strongly urged to contact the appropriate consulate for details. Visit www.travel.state.gov for the U.S. State Department for the latest details about passports and visa requirements.

 

IMPORTANT: We recommend that travelers take a photocopy of their passport and applicable visas. It should be packed separately from your actual passport and visa. We also recommend leaving a copy at home with your emergency contact.

 

Collette will provide all necessary information, updates, and supporting documents for your travel requirements, including visa and Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs), if required, approximately 60-90 days prior to your departure.

 

CST#2006766-20 UBN#601220855 Nevada Sellers of Travel Registration No. 2003-0279

 

What's Included on Your Tour

Thank you for choosing to travel with us and allowing us to guide you along this adventure! From the moment you step out your door, we strive to provide a comprehensive, stress-free, and unforgettable travel experience. To that end, the following features are included with your tour: motor coach transportation, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (porterage), select meals, admission to attractions as outlined in your itinerary, and gratuities for servers of included meals as outlined in your itinerary, bellmen, and door attendants.

At the beginning of your tour, your Tour Manager will distribute a personal radio and headset. You should wear them on sightseeing tours to make sure you can hear your guides clearly at all times. Please bring them with you every day. Your Tour Manager will collect them at the very end of your tour, typically on your last evening. You are responsible

for returning these devices and will be charged a replacement fee should you fail to do so.

 

Booking You Own Flights

If you chose to purchase a land-only tour package, you have opted to purchase your own airline tickets to and from home. In this case, we ask that you keep a few important factors in mind when booking your round-trip flights:

 

1) Please make sure your round-trip flights work with your tour itinerary. There may be scheduled activities on these days.

 

2) You must provide us with your flight schedules for the entire tour upon final payment. This ensures that we can arrange any other services you may have purchased from us, including hotel transfers, and that your Tour Manager will know when to expect your arrival. This also allows us to maintain contact with you in case of an emergency.

 

Booking Flights with Us

If you have chosen our air-inclusive tour package, you have opted that we take care of all your air travels from your home to the destination and back. We ask that you keep the following in mind:

 

1) In order to comply with Homeland Security’s “Secure Flight” mandate, you must provide full name (including middle name or middle initial, if applicable), as it appears on your valid, non-expired, government issued photo ID that you will show at the airport. The name on your airline ticket must be an exact match to this ID, or you may be prevented from boarding the aircraft.

 

2) If you are a member of a participating frequent flyer program, make sure to provide the number when you book your trip and retain the copy of your ticket and boarding pass so you will receive proper credit for your mileage. Please note that some air tickets are not eligible for mileage accrual.

 

3) Whenever possible, we will add charges for air departure taxes to your invoice. Some international arrival and departure fees are not included in your air ticket and must be paid by you during the tour in the local currency.

 

On Tour Transportation

Your comfort is important to us. With that in mind, we charter coaches that are temperature-controlled.

 

While some coaches may have a toilet facility, it is for emergency use since local laws require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons. Rest assured that frequent stops will be made along the touring route for your comfort and convenience.

 

Please note, outlets for charging devices may not be available on the coach. Therefore, if you anticipate using electronic devices, we recommend bringing portable power banks.

 

Change your seat, change your view! At least once a day, the Tour Manager will ask all travelers to change seats. This ensures that every traveler has an opportunity to enjoy a variety of views as they travel and a chance to get to know each other better. Depending on availability, single travelers may be seated next to another traveler. In fairness to all, there will be no exceptions to this policy.

 

The roads in Costa Rica are typically dirt paths and are often bumpy. Due to this, rides may seem longer than anticipated. In order to experience all that we have included on this tour, we will need to spend an average of 4-5 hours on your coach to travel to your next stay. You can expect winding and some unpaved roads along the way. After the rainy season, there are many roads that require maintenance.

 

Accommodations

On every tour, we look to provide the highest quality accommodations in the best location.

 

People travel to Costa Rica for the country's natural beauty and wildlife and you will find unique accommodations that reflect the region. You will view spectacular scenery while experiencing the culture and heritage of the region. We have selected small, comfortable hotels for their locations and they may be considered rustic. Many accommodations can be spread out and you should be prepared to walk a variety of terrain to get to public spaces like resort lobbies and restaurants; you may need to access your room through outdoor and/or partially unpaved pathways.

 

At some properties, you may have to utilize a hotel shuttle service to get from your guest room to the main lobby and restaurant. Properties are located in natural settings so insects may be present. Hotels in this region also tend to be isolated with no towns nearby that you would be able to access by foot. Elevators and air conditioning are not available in all hotels and lodges during your Costa Rica tour. We want you to enjoy your tour with us; therefore, it is important that you know this tour is an adventure!

 

Room Types and Layouts:

 

We will forward your room request to the hotel; however, room assignments are made at each property’s discretion and cannot be guaranteed.

For most hotels, the standard double room consists of two small beds joined together with a mattress topper to create a queen or king-sized bed.

 

A single or solo room has only one queen or king-sized bed. If your tour includes multiple hotel stays, your preference may be honored at one property, all properties, or none.

 

A triple room usually consists of a standard double room with two beds. A cot or fold-up bed may be added, but it depends on the room size and local fire codes. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Triples are first come, first-served, as they are also very limited. If you booked a triple and only a double and single room is available at a hotel, appropriate charges for the single and double accommodations will be assessed.

 

Amenities vary by property. For details such as hair dryers, safes, or Wi-Fi availability, please refer to the hotel name listed in your final travel documents. You are also welcome to look up the hotel online for the most current and specific information.

 

Check-in is typically after 3:00 p.m. Early check-in is uncommon due to high occupancy. If you arrive before your room is ready, the hotel may offer to store your luggage in a secure location, though this service may come with a fee and the hotel is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

 

At check-in, you may be asked to provide a credit card or passport for incidentals. Any additional charges must be paid at check-out. Please note that hotel membership programs are not applicable.

 

Hotels are located in city areas and typically offer a range of facilities such as a concierge, bars and restaurants, room service, pools, and gyms. Rooms may be smaller than standard hotel rooms in your home country. In some properties, air conditioning and heating systems are centrally controlled and operate seasonally. Not all hotels have air conditioning, and those that do may not cool to the degree you are accustomed to at home.

 

Choice on Tour

One of the ways we encourage you to make your journey your own is with Choice on Tour, letting you decide how to experience a destination or site based on your unique interests.

 

It’s your choice! Included in your itinerary, there may be a day, or days, featuring a choice of two (or more) activities during a designated time. You may have selected your preferred option(s) when booking your tour. In most cases, your selection may be made upon arriving on tour and discussing it with your Tour Manager.

 

While in Monteverde, you have the choice between two activities.

 

Your first choice is to explore the cloud forest reserve on a guided leisurely paced "Hanging Bridges" tour high above the forest floor and gain a different perspective of the cloud forest's unique ecosystem, its mammals, birds, plants and flora.

 

The Activity Level of this choice is a level 2.

 

This is a 1.9 mile walk with some stairs, hills and uneven surfaces. Entry to butterfly garden is also included.. Travelers will have two hours for all activities.

 

Your second choice is to experience the unique sensation of flying through nature on a zip line! This zip line canopy tour is known as one of the best soft adventures with one of the longest routes in Costa Rica. Not only will you get a great adventure, but you will also have the opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.

 

The Activity Level of this choice is a level 4.

 

This choice takes between 2.5 and 3 hours to complete 13 ziplines of varying lengths. Walking and stairs are required between platforms. Accredited personnel oversee the entire process. Not recommended for guests with high blood pressure, pace makers or hip replacements.

 

Tour Manager

Peace of mind for our travelers is our number one priority. When you’re on tour with us, your only thoughts should be to immerse yourself in creating lifelong memories. Your Tour Manager is a destination specialist on the people, places, history, and culture.  While their focus is on the success of the group and making sure your adventure is seamless, they are happy to provide you with recommendations of activities during scheduled free. Please utilize your Tour Manager knowledge and expertise for any questions or concerns during your journey.

 

On some tours, you’ll also meet local guides in select cities who provide additional insight into the history, culture, and traditions of their region.

 

The details above apply to your main tour experience. If you’ve added pre- or post-tour extensions or optional add-ons, those will have separate arrangements outlined in your extension documents

 

WiFi on Tour

Wi-Fi access has improved, with free or cheap internet available in many public spaces. Some restaurants, cafes, and hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi, though at times it may not reach rooms in hotels. Wi-Fi will not be available onboard motorcoaches or other modes of transportation used during your tour

 

Acces to Water on Tour

 

The natural wonders of our planet are awe-inspiring. To ensure their beauty can be enjoyed for generations, we are committed to reducing single-use plastics on our tours and in our offices. On tours in this region, bottled water is provided where drinking the tap water is not advised.

 

Thank you for helping us make the world a better place through travel and supporting sustainability!

 

Culinary Experiences

You’re in for a treat as you sample the truly unique flavors of Costa Rica. Local cuisine is Caribbean-influenced, prepared with locally-grown, simple ingredients.

 

The traditional cuisine here includes Casado - a delicious meal comprised of rice, beans, meat or fish, fried plantains, tortillas, and fruit.

 

Plantains - or plátanos - are a classic snack and will usually accompany meals. They can be served sweet from baking or frying, as well as in the form of chips.

 

For breakfast it is common to serve a hearty dish of black beans and rice with hints of onions and peppers, fried eggs, sour cream and corn tortillas. During other meals, delicious steaks can be found at many restaurants, and empanadas with chicken, rice and vegetables are also common.

 

A common appetizer, ceviche, is a dish of raw fish marinated in lemon juice with cilantro and onions.

 

For those with a sweet tooth, you'll be delighted to try the tapa dulce - brown sugar, native to Costa Rica, sold in a solid form. Dulce de leche is a thick syrup made of sugar and milk. And Tres Leches is a three-layered custard flan and Costa Rica's national dessert.

 

Fruits grown in Costa Rica include pineapple, cantaloupe, watermelon, passion fruit, guava, papaya, and mango. Exotic fruits include zapotes, a brown fruit resembling an avocado in appearance with a very sweet, red-orange pulp; carambola (starfruit), manzana de agua, a dark red pear shaped fruit; and pipas - green coconuts - which are very popular to drink with a straw.

 

Many hotels in Costa Rica require meals with an overnight stay. Additionally, there are some long touring days and we are staying in isolated locations so eating at our hotels can be necessary. For that reason, the majority of included dinners will be at your hotels. The hotels all feature regional cuisine and utilize local ingredients. Buffets are also common in many regions and therefore you should expect a mix of buffets and plated meals.

 

The food people eat is a window into their history, traditions, and values, and sharing food brings people together. One of the many wonderful aspects of travel is to experience as much of the regional cuisine as possible. Your tour includes many meals as outlined on your itinerary. Our team has carefully chosen restaurants that feature local ingredients and offer regional flavors.

 

For meals that are not included in your itinerary, your Tour Manager will be happy to recommend eateries and local businesses that best fit your taste and needs.

 

The average price for meals in this region ranges from 10 to 15 US Dollars for lunch and 10 to 20 US Dollars for dinner. Tipping in Costa Rica is 10%, and restaurants will add it to your bill automatically.

 

Please let your Tour Manager know of any food allergies or dietary needs you may have at the beginning or your tour.

 

A note about dietary restrictions:

 

If you have dietary restrictions or food allergies, please notify us at the time of booking. This information will be shared with your Tour Manager, who will communicate with restaurant staff during included meals. While we do our best to accommodate requests, options may be limited and cannot be guaranteed.

 

Meals are prepared in shared kitchens, and we cannot guarantee they will be free from cross-contamination.

 

International travel may present challenges, as menus reflect local tastes and alternative diets may not be widely understood. Group meals typically feature pre-fixed menus designed to suit a variety of travelers

 

Shopping

One of the best parts of traveling is coming back home with souvenirs that really reflect the place you’ve just been to.

 

One of Costa Rica's most popular and unusual souvenirs is a brightly painted oxcart miniature, which is a symbol of the country. Oxcarts, also called caretta, played a role in the history of Costa Rica; they provided the only means of transportation for coffee from the mountains to the coast.

 

There are some charming crafts in Costa Rica made of tropical woods. Beads, boxes, bookmarks, and even coffee makers carved from rosewood are all very lovely, popular items available in artisan markets all over the country. Note that the costs of these tropical wooden goods vary widely.

 

Beaded jewelry is available in glass, semi-precious stones, seeds, shells, and wood. Several markets sell wooden jewelry and re creations of pre Columbian gold and jade designs.

 

The most famous product in Costa Rica is its strong, flavorful coffee, which makes a great gift for coffee lovers. Java is one of the country's best shopping bargains. Keep an eye out for shade grown coffee. It's a bit more expensive, but "shade grown" means that the coffee is grown in concert with other tropical plants. It may or may not be labeled "organic," but it is a more sustainable way of growing coffee while protecting the tropical soil and it requires fewer, if any, pesticides and herbicides. While you have to leave the view and the jungles behind, you can take a hammock home. You can find several kinds of hammocks in Costa Rica including with and without wooden stretcher and support bars, two person hammocks, and hanging chairs. Fabrics range from an open weave natural cotton to tight weaves that are brightly colored with geometric patterns. This souvenir represents the relaxation that is such a part of Costa Rica's "Pura Vida" philosophy.

 

Cultural Insights

Remember that "Pura Vida" is more than just a saying in Costa Rica—it reflects a way of life characterized by positivity and happiness. Embrace the "Pura Vida" spirit wholeheartedly during your trip for a truly enriching experience.

 

Costa Ricans are very friendly—when meeting someone, a handshake and a smile is customary.

 

Tipping is not mandatory, but a 5% to 10% gratuity for non-included meals would be appreciated by your server.

 

Eco-tourism and biodiversity are highly valued. It's essential to show respect for the environment by staying on marked trails, refraining from disturbing wildlife, and disposing of trash responsibly.

 

While Spanish is the official language in Costa Rica, you'll encounter many English speakers in tourist areas. However, learning a few basic Spanish phrases will be greatly appreciated by locals.

 

Punctuality can be more relaxed compared to other cultures. While it is still important to try and remain on time for events, you may encounter a more flexible concept of time.

 

Free Time Ideas

If you have some extra time to explore San Jose before your tour begins, you'll find plenty to do! San Jose is a modern city located in central Costa Rica and offers an appealing variety of historic buildings, museums, and interesting sightseeing.

 

Perhaps visit the popular Spirogyra Butterfly Garden, a small piece of paradise within walking distance from the busy streets of San Jose.

 

The National Theater is a popular and worthwhile building to tour.

 

Important historic and contemporary collections can be found at the Gold Museum, National Museum, Jade Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design – where you will find work from Costa Rican and other Central American artists.

 

Due to varied flight schedules and arrival times of our travelers, there aren't any scheduled activities on your first day of this tour. Should your flight schedule allow for an early arrival, enjoy this opportunity for some independent exploration.

 

Elevation

The highest elevation encountered on this tour is 5,250 feet/1,600 meters in the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

 

Smoking Restrictions

Our tours are non-smoking throughout: This includes all transportation exclusively provided by Collette, dining venues, and any other designated non-smoking areas on tour. Smoking of any kind including traditional tobacco products, e-cigarettes, e-cigars, vaporizers, and any other smoking devices—is strictly prohibited during group travel.

 

Hotel policies: Most hotels worldwide are entirely non-smoking, including guest rooms and public areas. Smoking rooms are generally no longer offered, and we cannot accommodate requests for them.

 

Local laws and regulations: Smoking laws vary widely by country and region. Travelers are responsible for understanding and complying with local regulations during their free time. Your Tour Manager may be able to assist in identifying permitted smoking areas when available.

 

Name Badges

Included in your tour documents bundle is your personalized name tag. We ask that you put this on before your first gathered event and wear it throughout your tour. This helps your fellow travelers get to know you and for your Tour Manager to better identify you in large groups.

 

 

 

 

Activity Level - 3

You don’t want to miss a thing, so walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal. A moderately paced two-and-a-half-hour walking tour, covering several miles, hills, and uneven surfaces, is no problem for you. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable, as is climbing into and out of various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.). You can climb three flights of stairs easily and handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. Expect some longer days balanced with free time to recharge or set out on your own adventure. This level is not a fit for travelers who require mobility assistance devices

Getting Ready

Get excited – and get ready for your upcoming tour! As you look ahead to your tour, you’ll probably have some questions. Our team of travel experts assembled this booklet packed with answers so you can feel ready for your upcoming journey. Before you go, take time to review and get familiar with what to expect throughout your tour, and keep this information on hand during your travels. Being part of a group tour is a wonderful opportunity to meet new people and share the adventure. Familiarizing yourself with this information now helps create a smooth experience and a sense of harmony within the group.

 

By booking a guided tour, all the details of your trip are covered so you can make the most of every moment. You’ll join your tour group (a maximum of 44 people) to experience an expertly planned itinerary led by a professional Tour Manager.  They’re there to handle logistics, answer questions, and offer recommendations along the way.

 

Want to make your experience even smoother: Download the Collette Compass smartphone app and enhance your tour with this easy-to-use digital companion that never leaves your side.

 

Your full tour details will appear 45 days before departure, and with Compass, you can:

 

Find Your Way Around: Easily navigate your destination like a local with detailed maps and offline turn-by-turn directions, all without using Wi-Fi or cellular data.

Plan Your Free Time: Discover exciting activities, dining options, and local attractions during your free time, ensuring you make the most of every moment.

 

Stay Informed: Review your daily itinerary, on-tour inclusions, as well as information on your hotels and transfer services.

Record the Fun: Create your own trip journal as you travel, including text and photos. Share it with friends and loved ones back home!

 

Live Flight Tracking: Check in online (where available) for your flights and stay up to date on your schedule with real-time tracking of your flight status, gate changes, and delays. Please note: online check-in may not be available for all flights, and real-time updates require Wi-Fi or cellular data.

 

 

Pre & Post Night Stays

If your schedule allows, you may have selected to give yourself the advantage of an additional day or more in the starting or ending destination of your tour by booking a Pre-Night or Post-Night and arranging your flights accordingly. (Please note: A Tour Manager is not present during Pre-Night or Post-Night Stays.)

 

 

Transfers

We offer full-service transfers from start to finish. So, when you arrive at the airport of your destination, arrangements will have been made to transfer you to your first hotel on the tour.

 

If you purchased our air-inclusive tour package, you will enjoy this service free of charge.

 

If you booked flights with Collette:

Round-trip airport transfers are included at no extra cost when you purchase an air-inclusive Collette escorted tour (including any extensions booked with us).

 

If you booked your own flights:

 

You can add round-trip airport transfers on standard tour dates for an additional cost. Some hotels offer complimentary shuttles (booked directly with the hotel), but Collette transfers include priority check-in and a Tour Manager escort for a seamless experience.

 

To keep things running smoothly, please share your flight details at least 60 days before departure. If your flights change, let your travel professional or Collette know right away so we can confirm your transfers.

 

Please note for All Travelers with Transfers:

 

Meeting locations and times will be set up to accommodate your transfer arrival and departure schedules, which will be provided to you in your document's packets.

 

Transfers operate at scheduled times and are not private.

 

 

Luaggage Info

Travelers flying to the United States from all international destinations will require extra screening when carrying powdered products weighing 12oz/350ml or more in carry-on luggage for security reasons. This added security measure will apply to all powders, with the exception of baby formula and medications. For your convenience, please consider packing any non-essential powders in your checked bag. Items that cannot be verified by a TSA officer risk being confiscated. Please visit www.tsa.gov for more information.

 

Your tour includes luggage handling for one main bag per traveler. Upon arrival at each hotel, your bag will be delivered to your room and collected for departure. You’ll be responsible for handling your luggage during airport arrivals and transfers, so pack what you can comfortably manage.

 

While airlines may allow more or different luggage restrictions, your tour has specific limits to ensure everything fits safely and efficiently on the motor coach. Most airlines, including domestic carriers now charge fees for checked bags, so be sure to check your airline’s baggage policy before departure.

 

To help ensure a smooth and comfortable experience, please follow the luggage guidelines below.

 

What You Can Bring:

Main Luggage: Limit 1 per traveler; similar in size to a standard airline-checked suitcase; maximum weight 50 lb / 23 kg.

 

Hand Luggage: A small, soft-sided bag to bring with you during daily sightseeing and transfers - a backpack is the most practical option. Tour vehicles have limited space under the seats and narrow storage space overhead, therefore hard-sided roller carry-ons are not suitable for this purpose.

 

Small Personal Items: Small items worn on your person (e.g., purse, belt bag).

 

Medical Devices: Essential medical items such as CPAP machines do not count toward your luggage allowance

 

Please Note: If space is tight, non-compliant bags may need to be stored separately or left behind. Please pack conservatively. While these guidelines are designed to ensure a smooth journey, we recommend avoiding maximum limits to prevent issues with vehicle space or handling. If you bring more than what is allowed on tour, you will likely need to store excess luggage at your own expense.

 

Luggage Protection: We cannot accept claims for loss or damage due to breakage, theft, or normal wear and tear from hotel, airline, or group carrier handling. Use a TSA-approved lock and consider travel insurance. Our "No Worries Travel Protection" offers coverage for luggage incidents. See your policy for details.

 

Label your bags clearly: It’s important that all your bags are clearly labeled, even if you don’t plan to check them. This helps ensure lost or misplaced items can be returned quickly whether at the airport, hotel, or during sightseeing. We’ve included a durable luggage tag (not the paper one) with your documents. If you don’t already have one, please use it on the bag you plan to check. Your Tour Manager will explain how to use the paper luggage tag upon arrival.

 

 

Packing Tips

If you take prescription medication, make sure to bring enough for your entire tour plus a few additional days in the original prescription containers.

 

Medication should be packed in your carry-on bag, never your checked luggage; this is in case your luggage is delayed. You don’t want to be without your medication. You could also bring extra medication in a separate bag in case any gets lost.

 

In general, we recommend not packing anything of value in your checked bag.

 

You’ll want to take pictures of everything, so make sure to bring a camera as well as extra memory cards and batteries for your entire trip. If you decide to bring a video camera, don’t forget an extra battery for it plus a charger. Be sure to pack chargers and cords for all your electronic equipment.

 

It’s also a good idea to bring a travel alarm clock, a travel sewing kit, a portable scale to weigh luggage, and some hand sanitizer for when soap and water aren’t readily available.

 

If you are travelling with a companion, we suggest dividing the contents of your suitcase with them, that way if one bag is delayed, some of your belongings are still available to you both.

 

If that is not an option for you, you could put a change of clothing in your carry-on if there’s room. That will give you something to wear if your checked luggage is delayed as well.

 

Last but certainly not least, leave room! You’ll need it to fit all the souvenirs you want to bring home.

 

When you’re deciding what to bring on your trip, we have a few suggestions for you.

 

Costa Rica experiences two seasons, wet (May to November) and dry (December – April). Depending on the time of year be sure to pack clothes appropriately.

 

In regards to clothing, think layers. It’s much easier to maintain a level of comfort if you can add or remove a layer at a time, especially when the temperature can vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. So always bring a light jacket, sweater or fleece. We recommend staying away from cotton sweaters or jackets as they won’t keep you warm if they get wet.

 

Comfortable footwear is crucial. Make sure you bring a pair of shoes that fit well and give you the necessary support. If you decide to purchase new shoes for your trip, we suggest you wear them a number of times before you leave to break them in. Your feet will thank you.

 

While you may opt to wear shorts and tee shirts, long sleeves and pants are recommended for anyone who is sensitive to both sun and insects.

 

Rain gear, such as an umbrella, raincoat or poncho, and sturdy, closed-toed walking shoes with good traction are a must have!

 

Many walking trails in Costa Rica are on dirt or muddy roads, be prepared for all types of weather when packing shoes.

 

A reusable water bottle, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, toiletries and insect repellent are also highly recommended for Costa Rica. A small flashlight or headlamp is helpful when moving around properties as low-lumen lighting is popular to reduce ecological impacts to wildlife.

 

Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit! The Guanacaste region is well known for their beaches. You may want to take a swim in the Pacific Ocean or in a pool available at a few of your accommodations.

 

 

Electricity & Adapters

When traveling to another country, you may need an adaptor and/or electric converter to plug your electrical devices and appliances into the local power grid. An adaptor changes the plug so it fits into the outlet. A converter changes the voltage coming out of the outlet.

 

To determine what you need, first verify if the plugs on your devices fit the outlet of your destination.

 

In Costa Rica, the plug type is A, which has two flat parallel pins. If your plugs do not match this description, you will need an adaptor.

 

Next, verify the voltage of each device you intend to bring. You can find this information on the cord, plug, or on the device itself. Many devices are dual-voltage. For those, you do not need a converter. If your device is not dual-voltage and it differs from the voltage of your destination, you will need a voltage converter.

 

In Costa Rica, the voltage is 110V, plug type A. If necessary, make sure to get a converter that converts to this voltage.

 

If you plan to bring a sleep apnea machine, please remember to bring an extension cord along with the adaptor and voltage converter.

 

 

Currency

It used to be when traveling abroad, you had to go to a bank to exchange your home currency for that of the country you were visiting. Thanks to technology, those days are gone. Now you can use your bank card at any ATM in almost any city around the world just like you would at home. There may be a fee for this convenience, but it makes getting local currency quick and easy.

 

You can find ATMs in airports, hotels, and banks. Fees tend to be lower at hotels or within cities than they are at the airport.

 

You can also pay with a credit card when travelling. The price will automatically be converted to your home currency by the system. Some merchants charge a fee for this service, but it adds an extra guarantee on your purchase, so it’s a nice option.

 

If you have a credit or debit card with a chip in it, it is recommended you use it rather than a card with a magnetic stripe. The chip adds an extra layer of protection against fraud.

 

Many of our tours include optional excursions that are available for purchase. If you decide to go on one of these during your trip, please note, the credit card you use for payment must have an expiration date greater than 30 days from the start of the tour.

 

US Dollars (no coins) are widely accepted in Costa Rica and preferred for tipping. If you choose to review exchange rates or exchange currency before you depart for your trip, the currency in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Colon. If you intend to use US Dollars in Central American countries, the bills cannot be very old, torn or marked on; they will not be accepted by local banks or institutions. Change will be given in Costa Rican Colones in bills and coins according to the exchange rate.

 

 

Gratuity

Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation for the people who help keep your tour running smoothly. Tipping is discretionary and should be on an individual basis.

 

Gratuities for hotel housekeeping staff, local sightseeing guides, transfer drivers, on-tour motor coach drivers, and your Tour Manager are not included in the price of your tour.

 

The suggestions below are provided in US Dollars to help you budget for your trip. You can plan to convert the total US Dollar amounts into the equivalent local currency, or can tip in USD which is widely accepted.

 

Tour Manager: equivalent of $10 US Dollars per person for each travel day, given at the end of your tour. For this 9-day tour, this would amount to $90 US Dollars total per person.

 

Local Guide: equivalent of $2-3 US Dollars per person, given at the end of your day or time with them. There are 2 local guides on this tour.

 

On-Tour Motor Coach Driver: equivalent of $5 US Dollars per person for each travel day, provided at the end of your tour or time with your driver.

 

Boat Driver: equivalent of $2-3 US Dollars per person, provided at the end of your time with your driver.

 

Hotel Housekeeping: equivalent of $1 US Dollar per day, per room, left each morning.

 

Airport Transfer Driver: If your airport transfer is included in your package or purchased from Collette, the suggested tipping amount is $3 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person.

 

Important Note: In many destinations, tipping is considered a customary part of compensation. You may occasionally encounter individuals who request additional gratuities beyond what is suggested. While these requests are not uncommon, please know that you are never obligated to tip beyond the recommended amounts. If you ever feel uncomfortable or unsure about a situation, we encourage you to speak with your Tour Manager.

 

 

Travel Savvy Tips

Here are some tips we have gathered from our staff and past travelers:

 

Leave a copy of your itinerary, hotel list (included in your tour documents bundle) and a contact number with a designated person in case an emergency comes up while you’re away and someone needs to reach you.

 

We recommend you leave a copy of your passport at home in a secure location and bring an additional copy with you as a precaution.

 

During your flight, make sure to stand up and walk around as much as possible, and drink plenty of water. These simple suggestions will help you stay comfortable, particularly during long flights.

 

Navigating meals independently: While everyone enjoys exploring local cuisine, travelers with food allergies or dietary restrictions should take a few extra steps to ensure a smooth experience:

 

1.) Discuss your needs early: Let your Tour Manager know at the start of your tour. They may be able to assist with helpful phrases or tools to support communication in the local language during non-included meals.

 

2.) Bring a dietary card: For meals taken independently, consider carrying a card with your dietary requirements written in the local language to help ensure your needs are understood.

 

3.) Pack extra snacks: If you have severe allergies or complex dietary needs, bringing personal snacks or supplies can help supplement what’s available locally.

 

 

Read, Watch & Be Inspired

Check out the following book and movie recommendations that will immerse you into the destination long before your arrival. Let them set the scene for you as you prepare for the trip of a lifetime and get excited about all that is to come!

 

Books:

Monkeys are Made of Chocolate: Exotic and Unseen Costa Rica (Jack Ewing) - This novel allows readers to discover the ways that animals, plants, and people interact with one another through the rainforests of Costa Rica.

 

Costa Rica: A Traveler’s Literary Companion (Barbara Raas) - This novel is composed of twenty-six stories that are organized perfectly for the curious traveler. These stories cover everything you can imagine for your future travels to Costa Rica.

 

Costa Rica After Coffee: The Co-op Era in History and Memory (Lowell Gudmundson) - This books dives into the political, social, and economic place that is taken by the coffee industry throughout Costa Rican history.

 

Movies:

Clara Sola (Nathalie Alvarez Mesen) - Through a remote village within Costa Rica, a thirty-six-year-old woman, Clara leaves her villages and goes through a journey to break free from social and religious conventions and become the master of her sexuality and newfound powers.

 

The Blue Butterfly (Lea Pool) - The Blue Butterfly is one of the rarest butterflies, and could have a cure to Pete’s brain tumor, so Pete convinces an insect expert to bring him into the Costa Rican jungle.

 

A Bold Peace (Matthew Eddy & Michael C. Dreiling) - This movie shows the history of how Costa Rica was one of the only nations in the world to disband their military and turn their natural resources towards things such as education, health, and more

 

 

Local Language

Common Greetings in Spanish:

• Hello/ Good Morning = (Hola/Buenos dias)

• Good Afternoon = (Buenas tardes)

• Good Night/Evening = (Buenas noches)

• Goodbye = (Adios)

• Do you speak English? = (¿Habla usted ingles?)

• I don’t understand = (No entiendo)

• I do not speak Spanish = (No hablo espanol)

• Nice to meet you = (Es un placer conocerte)

• How are you? = (¿Cómo estás?)

• Good = (bueno) Bad = (malo)

• So so = (mas o menos)

• Response = (respuesta)

 

Polite Expressions

• Yes = (sí) No = (No)

• I don’t know = (No sé)

• Excuse me = (Perdón)

• Please = (Por favor)

• Thank you very much = (Muchas gracias)

• You’re welcome = (De Nada)

• No Problem = (no hay problema)

• I’m Sorry = (Lo siento)

 

Shopping

• Do you accept credit cards? = (¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?)

• How much does this cost? = (¿Cuanto haga este costo? Or Cuanto cuesta?)

• I’m just looking, thank you. = (Sólo estoy buscando, gracias)

• The bill, please = (La cuenta, por favor)

• Open = (abierto) Closed = (cerrado)

 

Getting Directions

• Where is… = (¿Donde esta...?)

• the restroom? = (el baño)

• the Post Office = (la oficina de correos)

• the Police Station = (la estación de policía)

• the bank = (el banco)

• the hospital = (el hospital)

• the pharmacy = (la farmacia)

• the hotel... = (el hotel...)

• Straight ahead = (todo derecho)

• Up = (arriba) Down = (abajo)

• Far = (lejos) Nearby = (cerca)

 

Dining

• Breakfast = (desayuno)

• Lunch = (almuerzo)

• Dinner = (cena)

• Bread = (pan)

• Butter = (mantequilla)

• Salt = (sal)

• Pepper = (pimienta)

• Coffee = (café)

• Tea = (Té)

• Wine = (Vino)

• Beer = (Cerveza)

• Water = (agua)

• Juice = (jugo)

 

Signs

• Pharmacy = (farmacia)

• Bank = (Banco)

• Market = (Mercade)

 

In Case of Emergency

• Help! = (Ayuda!)

• Stop! = (Para!)

• Call an Ambulance = (Llamar a una Ambulancia!)

• Call the Police! = (Llame a la policia!)

 

Numbers

• 1 = (uno)

• 2 = (dos)

• 3 = (tres)

• 4 = (cuatro)

• 5 = (cinco)

• 6 = (seis)

• 7 = (siete)

• 8 = (ocho)

• 9 = (nueve)

• 10 = (diez)

 

 

 

 

Go Collette