Costa Rica- FAQ

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This trip is rated Moderately Strenuous; what does this mean?

This trip is designed for the truly adventurous, but you don’t have to been an Olympic athlete to keep up. It includes a 4-day backpacking trip on the Osa Peninsula, high altitude climbing to catch volcano-top views, hiking through dense, humid jungle mountains, and EXTREME relaxation at some of the world’s most beautiful beaches…

Although we will be doing plenty of relaxing on the sand, soaking in the sun, and floating in pools of cool water at the base of a waterfall… there is also some work to be done in paradise! To get to some of the most pristine tropical beaches in the world we plan to trek 2 days over a mountain ridge in the humid, steamy jungle.  For a rare chance to photograph some of the most extraordinary wildlife in its natural habitat we’ll be camping out and day-hiking to remote locations, only reached by foot.

How can I physically prepare for this trip?

Good physical condition is required for hiking in a tropical climate with a full pack (around 30 lbs). Daily hikes will be between 4 and 10 miles, and may involve elevation change of up to 2 thousand feet, but mostly trails are relatively moderate and well maintained.

This trip is what we call a ‘multi-adventure‘, meaning we’ll be exploring many different parts of the country, and lots of different activities. Even on days we are relaxing on the beach, playing in the waves and walking in the sand will make you aware of muscles you never knew you had!

Our best recommendation is to “do something every day” even if it’s only 15 minutes per day. We feel this is the most natural, easy, and fun way to maintain an active, energized body. Whether you like to run a mile or 5 each day before work, or if you prefer to practice yoga one day, take a long walk the next, play basketball with friends another day… whatever gets you moving is good.

In the month or two before the trip, we suggest training by jogging or running at least 2 miles, at least twice per week. Work your way up to a distance of 5 miles once per week. Practicing yoga at least twice per week is also highly recommended, as it’s one of the best ways to gain strength and endurance, awaken and stretch many of the important muscle groups that get ignored in the habitual daily range of movements.

As well, yoga can help us prepare mentally for some of the unique parts of traveling in Latin America- such as delays, change of plans, detours. In Costa Rica it’s important to have a flexible attitude, and “enjoy the journey rather than focus on the destination!”

What will the weather be like?

We’ve planned this trip during the heart of the dry season. During the month of March weather is usually sunny with very little rain. That being said, be prepared for anything! It would not be unusual to have showers everyday, they don’t call it a rainforest for nothing.

Along coastal areas and in lowlands temperatures average as highs in the 70’s to mid-80’s, and lows in the 60’s to mid-70’s. At mid elevations, (example: San Jose) subtract 5-10 degrees. At high elevations (example: Monteverde) subtract 20-30 degrees.

What should I pack for this trip?

Make sure all of your ’stuff’  fits into your backpacking pack. Space in the vehicle will be limited. Additionally, each person can take a purse or fannypack for essentials on short trips and day-hikes.

Take a look at the Gear List. If you have any questions please send us an email, or leave a comment on the discussion section at the bottom of the page. Chances are your question will be helpful to others, too.

What is included?

The cost for your trip will include all transportation and logistics, breakfasts and dinners, accommodations, permits and entrance fees, and guide services.

What is not included?

Your airfare,

Your lunches- including alcoholic beverages

Your Exit Fee- Costa Rica charges visitors $27 to exit the country

Extra spending cash- including snacks, souvenirs, gratuity (tips) for guides on guided tours, and any extra activities (for example: spa treatment or massage, visiting an internet cafe, etc.) We recommend calculating an average of $20 to $40 per day.

What form of money should I bring as spending cash?

The official currency of Costa Rica is the Colon. Both Colones and USDollars are accepted throughout the country, but many smaller villages prefer to accept Colones.

Credit cards are accepted at retail establishments in most major cities (hotels, restaurants, gas stations) and you will also find ATMs. The thing is, we don’t plan to spend much time in major cities!

We recommend bringing your spending money as cash or traveler’s check and converting the money at the bank in San Jose. Rates are much better at the bank than in the airport.

Further questions?

If you have any questions please send us an email, or leave a comment on the discussion section at the bottom of this page. Chances are your question will be helpful to others, too.