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Upgraded - Costa Rica Wildlife

Costa Rica - Trip code DCW Wildlife
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174Kg of CO²e
Average carbon footprint per person
Carbon Footprint
You deserve to know everything about your holiday, from what is included, what to expect and every kilogram of CO2 emitted on average per person along the way.

We've partnered with ecollective to measure the carbon footprint of this tour based on an average group size. Find out more about how we calculate this and why we think it's important here.

 

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the Caribbean to the Pacific Coast on our tour through vibrant Costa Rica. Cruise through Tortuguero's untamed waterways, discover wildlife, trek through pristine tropical rainforests, and relax on golden beaches, all while enjoying premium accommodations. This two-week adventure showcases the best of Costa Rica's diverse landscapes and extraordinary wildlife.

Why we love this trip
  • Tortuguero - Cruise the jungle waterways and explore the rainforest in search of its abundant wildlife.
  • Arenal - Walk the flanks of this picture-perfect conical volcano and learn about its most recent eruptions.
  • Monteverde - Search for the rare quetzal and walk through the treetops in this unreal cloud forest reserve.
  • Upgraded range - Immerse yourself in Costa Rica's vibrant wildlife and lush jungles with our hand-picked Premium accommodations
  • Included meals

    Breakfast: 13

    Lunch: 3

    Dinner: 3

  • Trip staff

    Explore Tour Leader

    Boat Crew

  • Transport

    Bus

    Boat

  • i

    Accommodation

    9 nights premium hotel

    2 nights comfortable lodge

    2 nights premium lodge

  • i

    Trip pace:

    Moderate

  • i

    Group Size:

    Trip maximum 16
    Explore average 11

  • i

    Wildlife rating

    Frequent wildlife encounters alongside other experiences

Itinerary

Day 1 - Start trip in San Jose

Our tour starts today in San Jose, Costa Rica's cosmopolitan capital.

Lying in a fertile valley, at an altitude of 1,150 metres, coffee and sugar are big industries here - coffee is even planted between buildings and along the roadsides on the outskirts of the city.

A transfer from San Jose's Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) to the named start hotel is included on all trips in our Upgraded range regardless of your arrival day, provided we receive your flight details no later than 14 days prior to departure.

For those arriving in time, our tour leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 7pm for a welcome meeting, and for those that wish there'll be the chance to go out for dinner. There are no other activities planned today, so you're free to arrive in San Jose at any time. If you miss the welcome meeting, your tour leader will inform you of any essential information as soon as you catch up.

If your flight arrives earlier in the day, you might like to head out and explore the city - the barrios are easy to navigate, laid out in a grid pattern of avenues and streets. The National Museum (Museo Nacional De Costa Rica) is also well worth a visit.

Tonight, we'll be staying at the boutique 'Studio Hotel', known for its rooftop swimming pool and breathtaking views of the Central Valley. Located in the heart of Santa Ana, this 4 star eco-friendly hotel also boasts an à la carte restaurant.

Accommodation:

Grade: Premium Hotel

Single room available

Swimming pool available

Meals Provided: None

Day 2 - Discover Irazu volcano, try artisanal cheese, end the day with a cooking lesson and dinner

We'll drive east out of San Jose this morning, towards the Irazu Volcano. Situated at 3,432m altitude, this makes it the highest volcano in Costa Rica. The drive to the volcano opens up to fantastic views of the valley below, before slowly transforming into a barren windswept moonscape. There are two crater viewpoints at Irazu, and we'll aim to visit both of them before continuing to Turrialba.

The fertile land around Turrialba making it an important agricultural region thanks to its fertile land and the origin of much of Costa Rica's coffee, sugar and macadamia nuts, not to mention dairy. On arrival, we'll visit Finca La Florita, a local dairy farm where the region's famous Turrialba cheese is made. We'll learn about the production process, as well as how the local farmers work together to help distribute their products. Of course, we'll take some time to sample the tasty cheese, too.

We then make our way to the lush Turrialba Valley and our destination for the next two nights: Casa Turire.

Casa Turire is a charming colonial-style boutique property set in the rural Turrialba Valley, adjacent to a working sustainable farm by the tranquil Lake Angostura.

Tonight, we'll join our chef in harvesting fresh produce from the garden and preparing a delicious local recipe together. Afterwards, we'll raise a toast and enjoy our first meal together.

Accommodation:

Grade: Premium Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 3 - Free day in Turrialba; optional white water rafting

There are no set plans today so you're free to explore as you wish.

You might like to try your hand at white-water rafting on the Pacuare River. Famous for its scenery as well as its Class III-IV rapids, the river has some calm stretches that allow you to appreciate the rainforest-topped canyons and spot blue morpho butterflies and macaws wheeling past.

Alternatively, you might like to visit the CATIE (Centro Agronomico Tropical de Investigacion y Ensenanza) Research Centre. Recognised throughout the world as an important agricultural research station, its environmental development projects seek to enhance human well-being and protect natural resources. Its botanical garden is the perfect place to relax and appreciate the setting, surrounded by the calls of birds, the whisper of the giant Guanacaste Tree and the imposing Ceiba.

Accommodation:

Grade: Premium Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 4 - Journey by bus and boat to Tortuguero National Park. Visit a Sea Turtle Conservancy

We have a thrilling journey ahead of us this morning. First, we'll drive to Cano Blanco or Pavona pier via extensive banana plantations before boarding a boat to take us to Tortuguero National Park. Its complex canal system and narrow lagoons link small, isolated settlements and are rich in fish, including rainbow bass and grouper. They also support an abundance of birds, such as herons, storks, and kingfishers as well as 60 species of mammals with howler and Spider Monkeys in the treetops.

Once we arrive, we'll have a visit to the world famous Sea Turtle Conservancy. STC has been working with green turtles in Tortuguero since 1959, making it the world's oldest sea turtle research and conservation group.

After, we'll take a short walk through Tortuguero town and along the beach, before taking a boat to Pachira Lodge, where we'll spend the next two nights. Set in a 34-acre estate adjacent to the National Park, the lodge boasts an outdoor swimming pool, spa and wellness centre, as well as a bar and restaurant on site.

Throughout the year, you may be lucky enough to see different species of turtle nesting close to our lodge. The best time to see this spectacle is between June and September when over 5,000 green turtles come ashore to nest on Tortuguero's beaches. At this time of year, there's the option of an evening turtle walk in the company of experienced guides.

Accommodation:

Grade: Comfortable Lodge

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5 - Full day to explore Tortuguero National Park searching for wildlife

Today we'll delve into Tortuguero National Park.

For early risers, there's the optional activity to kick off the day with a dawn birdwatching boat trip. Water birds such as herons, egrets and kingfishers are among the birds that you might be lucky enough to spot, although other species of birds such as toucans can be found in the area.

Later this morning, we'll head out on a nature walk to understand more about the area's unique ecosystem.

Then, this afternoon, we'll take to the waterways for even more exploration.

On our travels, we might come across the howler monkey, aptly named thanks to the way it noisily protects its territory. Many shyer animals in this area include ocelots, tapir, and the incredibly elusive jaguar.

Please note some departures may do the waterways tour in the morning and the nature walk in the afternoon. Your tour leader will confirm.

Accommodation:

Grade: Comfortable Lodge

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6 - Travel to Arenal via Guapiles. Visit La Tirimbina for a chocolate tour

Leaving our lodge this morning, we'll travel by boat back to Cano Blanco, before heading on to Arenal.

After an included lunch in Guapiles, we'll plan to visit La Tirimbina for a chocolate tour. On the two-and-a-half-hour tour, we'll learn the secrets and wonders of one of mankind's favourite foods - chocolate. Originally from Central America, the cacao plant has an extraordinary history - it was one of the most important products for the Mayan and Aztec cultures. The discovery of America led to the introduction of chocolate in Europe, transforming it into the product we know and love today.

Our tour starts with a short hike through a forest to a former cacao-growing plot. Upon arrival, we'll be treated to a demonstration of the artisanal process of chocolate making. There'll be plenty of opportunities to taste different kinds of chocolate, prepared on the spot in the traditional way.

This evening, we arrive to our base for the next 3 nights in La Fortuna, located at the foot of the magnificent Arenal Volcano. The town was renamed after the 1968 eruption when it was seen as being 'fortunate' to be located on the eastern side of the volcano.

There may be the option to take a night walk along the on-site nature trails surrounding our hotel, in search of nocturnal species such as insects, amphibians or reptiles.

Our travel time today will be around four hours.

Accommodation:

Grade: Premium Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Hike in Arenal Volcano National Park. Option to relax in hot springs in afternoon

This morning, we'll head right into to Arenal Volcano National Park, skirting around the great central volcanic massif.

Arenal is a classic conical volcano which was famous for its nightly eruptions until it finally went quiet in 2010. We'll explore the national park on foot, taking a hike on the flanks of the volcano. The eastern side is covered by a tangled mass of vegetation, while the western side remains starkly barren after a major eruption in 1968 decimated its small towns and landscapes. Our hike should last about 3 hours.

Along the way, our leader will point out interesting flora and fauna and give us more information about the science and history of the volcano, before taking us to a viewpoint for a closer view.

This afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. There will be the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing dip in some healing hot springs after this morning's hike.

Accommodation:

Grade: Premium Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 8 - Morning search for sloths and other wildlife in Arenal.

The Arenal area is well known for its diverse wildlife. Some of the most sought-after species are the multicoloured toucan, the poisonous blue jeans dart frog and, of course, the languorous sloth.

This morning, we'll keep our eyes peeled to spy these three wonderful species as we head out on foot and by bus to visit La Fortuna's many spotting areas. Our exclusive wildlife tour ventures into private areas inaccessible to other tourists, offering optimal opportunities to observe sloths, birds, iguanas, various types of monkeys, and other fascinating creatures.

This afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish. You can take the time to relax at our accommodations, or explore the natural and adventurous paradise that is Arenal.

Accommodation:

Grade: Premium Hotel

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 9 - Drive to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, evening night walk

Today we'll travel around Arenal Lake up into the cloud forest region of Monteverde, one of the best places in Costa Rica to see wildlife. The final leg of our journey takes us along some bumpy roads, but the bumps are well worth it to enjoy the lushness of the cloud forests.

Perched on the Continental Divide between the Pacific and the Caribbean, it's thought that there has been indigenous habitation in Monteverde since 3000 BC. However, the turning point in its recent history came in 1950, when a group of pacifist Quakers from Alabama moved here to avoid subscription in the Korean War. They sought a lifestyle in a country in which they could embrace their peaceful beliefs and continue to cultivate their dairy farms. These families went on to establish the community of Monteverde and some of its famed cloud forest reserves.

The drive from Arenal will take around five hours. On arrival, we'll have free time to explore at our leisure.

This evening, we'll embark on a guided night walk through the cloud forest, seeking out nocturnal species like pacas (pronounced "pah-kuh")-a large rodent native to Central and South America-as well as tarantulas, snakes, frogs, and toads.

Accommodation:

Grade: Premium Lodge

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 10 - Search for wildlife on hanging bridges through the cloud forest

The renowned resplendent quetzal, once abundant but now rare, is known to inhabit Monteverde, one of the few remaining sanctuaries in Central America where its habitat remains preserved. Sacred to the ancient Maya and Aztec peoples, it's considered one of the most beautiful birds in the world - the best time to see it is during its breeding months of March and April.

This morning, we'll have a guided walk in the Monteverde cloud forest, walking the paths that wind their way through gigantic ferns and trees covered with draping lichen and moss. The jungle floor is often littered with blossoms that fall from the high canopy providing a carpet of colour amidst the endless green. Next, we head high up into the canopy to the included 'hanging bridges'. The amazing view paired with the adventure of crossing a swaying suspension bridge is a must do when in Costa Rica.

The rest of the day is free to spend as you wish. You might like to stay longer in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and explore the trails more.

Accommodation:

Grade: Premium Lodge

Single room available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 11 - Drive south to the Pacific Coast

Leaving the cloud forest behind us this morning, we'll descend to the Pacific Coast with staggering views over the Gulf and Peninsula of Nicoya. Heading south, we'll pause at the famous Rio Tarcloes and see the crocodiles below.

We'll also stop briefly at Carara Biological Reserve, famed for the scarlet macaws and abundant birdlife which populate this transitional forest, before continuing along the Pacific Coast to the region of Dominical, where we'll spend the next two nights.

Our accommodation Cristal Ballena isa boutique hotel set in the grounds of tropical forest, with magnificent views over the Pacific Ocean. It offers an outdoor swimming pool, 12 hectares of landscaped grounds with a rainforest hiking path and a spa. There is also a complimentary shuttle bus to the beach.

Our journey time today will be approximately four to five hours.

Accommodation:

Grade: Premium Hotel

Single room available

Swimming pool available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 12 - Full-day trip to explore the wildlife haven of Corcovado National Park on the Osa Peninsula

This morning, we'll travel into the heart of the Osa Peninsular, famed for its beautiful beaches and rich wildlife.

Travelling a short distance to Punta Uvita, we'll board a boat for a thrilling ninety-minute crossing to San Pedrillo Ranger Station in Corcovado National Park. Between July and October, it's possible to spot whales in the bays that hug the Pacific coastline. Turtles and dolphins as well as a host of marine birds can also be spotted from the boat.

On arrival, we'll meet our expert local guide who will accompany us on the network of trails and tracks that weave in and out of the pristine protected primary forest and beaches that dot the coastline.

The park has an abundance of bird species as well as 140 species of mammals. During our day in the park, we're likely to spy white-faced capuchin monkey, coatimundi (part of the racoon family) and the tiny squirrel monkey. It's also possible to spot sloths, coatis, raccoons, and on occasion tapirs.

Our first walk takes three hours followed by a well-deserved break and picnic lunch at the park ranger station. In the afternoon we'll have a shorter thirty-minute stroll before heading back to our boat and a ninety-minute crossing back to Punta Uvita and onwards to our hotel.

We'll aim to be back at the hotel by 5.30pm in time for a sundowner drink.

Accommodation:

Grade: Premium Hotel

Single room available

Swimming pool available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 13 - Free day to explore Dominical

Today is your day to unwind on the Pacific Coast. You can enjoy a final dip in the sea, perhaps take a surf lesson, go whitewater rafting on the Savegre River, or, if it's the right season, embark on a whale-watching cruise.

Alternatively, you can simply relax and take full advantage of the hotel's amenities on your last day.

Accommodation:

Grade: Premium Hotel

Single room available

Swimming pool available

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Day 14 - Trip ends in Dominical. Included transfer to San Jose Airport (SJO)

Our trip ends this morning at our hotel in Dominical.

There are no activities planned today, so you're free to depart at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel.

A transfer to San Jose's Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) from the named end hotel is included on all trips in our Upgraded range regardless of your departure day, provided we receive your flight details no later than 14 days prior to your tour departing.

Meals Provided: Breakfast

Trip information

Climate and country information

Costa Rica

Climate

Seasonal weather patterns can be unpredictable. Up-to-date information on the weather worldwide can be found by following the BBC weather link on this page. Costa Rica has a tropical climate with high temperature humidity and rainfall. The average temperature is 21°C in the highlands and variable in the lowlands. The rainy season is from May to October and the summer from December to April, but it does still tend to rain, usually in short bursts. Bear in mind that Costa Rica has 12 microclimates and weather can vary significantly in one day.

Time difference to GMT

-6

Plugs

2 Pin Flat

Religion

Christian, Roman Catholic

Language

Spanish

Budgeting and packing

Optional activities

The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities are booked and paid for locally and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.


The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities are booked and paid for locally and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.


Turrialba- White Water Rafting Pacuare US$103; CATIE entrance with guide & lunch US$60; Aquiares Coffee tour with lunch US$62

Tortuguero- Turtle Watching at night (June-September) US$49; Bird/wildlife watching tour US$32; Spa Treatment (subject to lodge policies) US$43-72

Arenal- Waterfall Walk Entrance US$20; Safari Float - Peñas Blancas River US$71

Monteverde- Treetopia Park Canopy Zip wire (Incl Tram) with local guide US$95; Butterfly Gardens Entrance US$22; Orchid Garden entrance US$20

Dominical- Sea Kayaking with transport US$112; Isla Damas Boat Trip (Transport Included) US$90; Catamaran & Sunset Tour (Transport Included) US$101; White Water Rafting Grade III - Savegre River (Transport Included) US$119; Cooking Lesson - local flavours (Transport Included) US$90; Surf Lessons (Transport Included) US$90; Horseback riding + lunch (Transport Included) US$97; Whale watching (Min 4 passengers) Only runs Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays from July 15th to October 15th US$170

Please note all optionals in Costa Rica can be paid for by card except CATIE

Please be aware that Class II-III white water rapids are available to all adults on rivers throughout Costa Rica. However, for Class IV rapids and above, some rivers may have lower and upper age restrictions. For specific information, please consult with our tour leader.

Clothing

Lightweight clothing is essential in midsummer though a warmer sweater is advisable for cooler evenings in the highlands (especially in Monteverde). A good waterproof is essential, and you should consider waterproof trousers. The jungle lowlands are hot and muggy, and it can rain at any time of year. Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts are recommended on jungle walks.

Footwear

Lightweight trail/walking boots for jungle walks, comfortable shoes/trainers and sandals. In the rainy season (roughly April to September) waterproof boots are recommended.

Luggage: On tour

One main piece of luggage and a daysack. Remember, you are expected to carry your own baggage - don't overload yourself.

Equipment

We recommend a sunhat, sunscreen, a small umbrella, a torch, insect repellent, beach towel and a water bottle. Binoculars are essential for bird and animal spotting.

Tipping

Explore leader
Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. However, you might want to recognise a leader that's done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It's a tricky one, and down to personal preference, but we'd recommend between £15 to £20 per person per week as a guideline
Local crew
Although entirely voluntary, tipping is a recognized part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. In order to make things easier for you, your leader may organise a group's tips kitty for included activities and meals and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the tour.

Accordingly, you should allow US$ 40, approx. 23'450 Colones for group tipping

For all non-included services and meals on your trip please tip independently at your discretion.

Costa Rica

Food and drink

The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.


Lunch price
£24
Dinner price
£32
Beer price
£4
Water price
£3.50
Foreign Exchange
Local currency
Costa Rican Colon (CRC)
Recommended Currency For Exchange
You can choose to either change your money in advance or on arrival at the airport. Here you will find both ATMs and Bureau de Change. The exchange rate with the CRC is approximately CRC 800 to the British Pound. USD are accepted in some shops / restaurants. We recommend you take some emergency cash in USD as the GBP exchange isn’t very good. Notes should be in good condition otherwise they may not be accepted. Please check on line for up to date information
Where To Exchange
Your Tour Leader will advise you on arrival.
ATM Availability
ATMs can be found in the major towns and cities for cash withdrawals in Colones. Always have some cash back up as they are not always reliable
Credit Card Acceptance
Credit card are widely accepted in many shops and restaurants but some may be subject to a service charge
Transport, Accommodation, Food & Drink

Transport Information

Bus, Boat

Accommodation notes

We've hand-picked a selection of characterful, premium properties which provide a higher level of comfort, modern amenities and a wide range of facilities.

In San Jose, we've chosen a boutique hotel with an excellent location, featuring a rooftop pool and bar with views of the Central Valley. In Turrialba, we stay in a charming colonial-style boutique property next to tranquil Lake Angostura and a sustainable farm. We have two nights in a comfortable property located next to the Tortuguero National Park. Although this forest lodge is graded as 'comfortable', the location is fantastic and the opportunity for wildlife is right on our doorstep.

In Dominical, we stay at a 4-star hotel & spa between the Pacific Ocean and rainforest-covered mountains, offering magnificent ocean views, an outdoor pool, and stunning gardens.

Costa Rica

Food and drink

Please note that as of August 1, 2024, Costa Rica has implemented a comprehensive plastic ban on a wide range of items, including plastic bags, disposable plates, cups, forks, knives, spoons, straws, food containers, and more. We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle (such as our Water To Go bottle), as well as any other reusable items you think you may need.


Can you drink the water? 
The water quality is poor and therefore it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water during your trip. 
 

Essential Information

Government Travel Safety Advice

We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination's safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. Relevant government website links for UK, US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens are available on our Travel Safety page.

If you'd like some inital information on country-specific entry requirements, such as visas or any health declaration forms, please refer to our Entry Requirements page.  The services and information on this page are provided by a third party, and so we will still recommend that you cross check this against your government website for the latest advice.
 

Under 18 immigration guidance

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. However, please note that if you voluntarily make any changes to your booking including changing your trip or departure date, any additional costs or charges incurred will not be covered. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information.Booking Conditions
 

Visa and Passport Information


Costa Rica: Citizens from the UK, US, Canada and most EU countries do not require a visa for a stay up to 90 days. Citizen of Australia, New Zealand and the Republic of Ireland do not require a visa for stays up to 30 days.
Other nationalities should consult the relevant consulate.

USA: If your flights pass through the USA, even if only in transit, you will require either a visa or an ESTA (an e-visa). Please read on for more information.

Citizens of the UK, New Zealand, Australia, Canada and passport holders from several EU countries can apply for an ESTA under certain conditions. This applies if you enter the country by sea or by air, and this must be done online via https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov, no later than 72 hours prior to travel. Travellers who have not registered before their trip are likely be refused boarding.

You must have a biometric passport to apply for an ESTA. UK passports which are biometric feature a small gold symbol (camera) at the bottom of the front cover.

If you have visited Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen since 2011 or are dual nationals of these countries, you cannot travel with an ESTA and instead you will need to apply for a visa from the nearest US Embassy or Consulate. If you are unable to provide a valid visa before boarding flights to the US, or entering via another method, you may not be permitted to travel. You should also be aware that if you have travelled to or have been in Cuba since the 12th of January 2021, you will not be eligible for an ESTA visa waiver and will need to apply for a US visa. You should consult the US State Department website to determine which you will need.

Your ESTA application will ask for Point of Contact information. Please note that if you're only transiting through the USA then this is not required. If you're visiting or staying in the USA on an Explore trip, then our USA contact information will be listed on your final documentation which you will receive approximately 3-4 weeks before departure.
Entry requirements for the USA can change regularly, therefore, please ensure you have the most up to date information before you travel by checking the US embassy website. Visa applications - http://london.usembassy.gov/niv/apply.html

Canada: An electronic travel authorisation (ETA) is required by British citizens transiting via Canada. For more information see the official Canadian government website: http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta.asp Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office


If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination.
 

Booking conditions

Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and Booking Conditions.
 

Minimum age restrictions

For our group tours, the minimum age is 16. The minimum age on Family trips varies between 7 and 11 - please check the 'Family information' section of the trip page for more information. 


Your safety and enjoyment on tour

We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday, so we ask you to confirm when booking this trip that you are fit and able to fully participate in all elements of the itinerary. If you have any concerns about your fitness or ability to complete any of the activities, please get in touch with our Customer Relations team at cr@explore.co.uk as soon as possible. Our tour leaders are trained and experienced in managing differing abilities within a group, but if they have concerns about a group member’s ability to safely participate in any element of the itinerary or believe someone’s presence could affect the safety or enjoyment of the holiday for others, in accordance with our Booking Conditions our tour leaders have the authority to ask an individual to miss an activity or activities. This decision would never be taken lightly, but on the rare occasions our tour leaders ask someone to sit out part of the tour, refunds will not be offered and individuals may be liable for additional costs incurred. 
 

Your Tour Leader

All tours aside from extensions, Galapagos cruises and polar expeditions will be led by one of our experienced Tour Leaders. We believe that our Tour Leaders are the key to the success of our tours; they are local experts who are bursting with first-hand knowledge which they love to share, and their unique insights will bring the destination to life. Your Tour Leader will be on hand throughout your tour to make sure arrangements run smoothly, to organise all the local logistics and to keep you safe. Your Tour Leader should be your first point of contact if you encounter any difficulties or disappointments in country – please raise any concerns, however small, with your Tour Leader as they are best placed to assist you.

Transfers

Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.

Booking a land only package with Explore

Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information. 

You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.


Joining Tour Abroad

Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both.

The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.  

Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.

If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.  

For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here

Insurance

It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the United Kingdom.
Read more information about what travel insurance is required.

Flight information

Explore can arrange your flights for you, to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read more about them here.


Flight Information

You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.

 

Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore

We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.

On our website we display the price of the tour only. Please call us or select the flight option during the online checkout to receive a quote for a flight inclusive package. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.

Ability to swim

An ability to swim is essential for your safe enjoyment of the water based activities on this trip. If you wish to participate in these activities then we insist that you are able to swim.

Costa Rica

Vaccinations

Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against typhoid, infectious hepatitis and polio. Please consult your travel clinic for the latest advice on Malaria, Dengue and Zika Virus. Please take preventative measures to avoid mosquito bites - these include mosquito repellent as well as long trousers and long sleeve shirts to cover up when necessary. Please note many countries in Central America, South America and the Caribbean require a yellow fever vaccination certificates if travelling from infected areas. A detailed list of these countries can be found on the NaTHNaC website - http://travelhealthpro.org.uk/countries. Also on the NaTHNaC site there is a list of Countries (and specific areas within a country) which are at risk of infection and a vaccination is therefore recommended. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at Explore Travel Health and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.

Wildlife information
Award Winning Explore Leaders
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Price Guarantee Promise
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Airport Transfers
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