Costa Rica: From Sea to Mountains

4.7

(60 reviews)

Yes, you’ll need a valid passport that does not expire within six months of travel. U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days.

No, if you’re coming from the United States or Canada, you won’t need an electrical converter . Costa Rica uses the same 120V and Type A/B plugs (two flat prongs, sometimes with a grounding prong). Travelers from other regions including Europe will need an adapter and possibly a voltage converter.

In January and February, Costa Rica is in its dry season on the Pacific side — warm, sunny days with little rain make it one of the best times to visit. Coastal areas are typically hot and humid (80s–90s °F / 27–34 °C), while the mountains and cloud forests are cooler, especially in the evenings (50s–60s °F / 10–18 °C). You can expect plenty of sunshine, but always be prepared for an occasional tropical shower.

This trip is rated Easy Active (Level 1). Activities include rainforest hiking, kayaking, rafting, and ziplining. No previous experience is necessary, and activities are designed to be fun and accessible.

Yes. Costa Rica is one of the safest and most welcoming countries in Central America. As with any travel, it’s smart to be mindful of your belongings, but traveling with our group and experienced guides makes it worry-free.

We’ll be staying in eco-lodges and small, locally owned hotels that are comfortable but not overly luxurious. Rooms are double occupancy with private baths unless you select a single supplement. The lodging is surrounded by nature, so you may wake up to birdsong or howler monkeys.

No vaccinations are required to enter Costa Rica. The CDC recommends being up-to-date on routine vaccines and considering Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Check with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

The local currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are common, and ATMs are available. It’s handy to carry small bills for tips, snacks, and local markets.

Your trip covers most expenses, but you’ll want to bring funds for souvenirs, additional beverages, snacks, or optional extras. Around $150–200 USD is usually plenty for the week.

Yes, most lodges and hotels have Wi-Fi, though it may be slower in remote areas. Cell service isn’t reliable outside of San Jose. Check with your provider for international roaming or consider using WhatsApp over Wi-Fi. This trip is a great chance to unplug and unwind.

Costa Rican food is fresh and flavorful, with lots of rice, beans, vegetables, tropical fruit, and seafood. If we know well in advance, we can accommodate vegetarian, lactose-free, and gluten-sensitive diets. We cannot guarantee a completely gluten-free diet and we cannot provide a kitchen guaranteed to be free of cross-contamination. If you are vegan, we ask that you bring some additional protein bars; and if you are gluten-sensitive, please bring some gluten-free snacks. If you have severe allergies, Celiac disease and/or other significant dietary restrictions, please call the office before you register.