KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
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.
USA to Costa Rica airfare is included when registration is received byJuly 1, 2025. 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.
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.
The individual travel protection is covered and based on your state of residence that will govern the final interpretation of any provision or claim.
Transfers to and from the host hotel is provided. More instructions will be sent prior to the event.
If you have any questions before or during your trip, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me directly. I’m here to make your experience smooth and enjoyable. For your safety and peace of mind, I also recommend leaving my contact information, along with your travel itinerary, with a trusted family member or friend at home. This ensures that someone can reach you—or me—if needed while you’re away. Mary DeSpain 907-231-2111 Your on-site contact is Mike DeSpain 907-306-0992
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. Elevators and air conditioning are not available in most accommodations used on this tour. 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. 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 pathways.
DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari, San Jose Mountain Paradise Resort & Spa, Arenal El Establo Hotel, Monteverde Cloud Forest Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows, Playa Carrillo, Guanacaste
While Costa Rica is a relatively safe country, travelers should be aware of potential risks from pickpockets. Use bottled water where advised.
Day 1 – DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari, San Jose Days 2-4 – Mountain Paradise Resort & Spa (or comparable) Days 5-6 – El Establo Hotel, Monte Verde Cloud Forest Days 7-8 – Nammbu Beachfront Bungalows, Playa Carrillo, Guanacaste (schedule is always subject to change)
Destination CLEs requires advance notification of food allergies and dietary restrictions to properly prepare for your trip. We provide 8 Breakfasts • 1 Lunch • 5 Dinners
- Pack and Use Sun Protection – The sun is stronger at higher elevations. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat daily.
- Bring a swimsuit.
- Wear Proper Footwear – Trails and stone steps can be uneven and slippery. Sturdy, broken-in walking shoes or hiking boots with good traction are essential.
- Dress in Layers –Bring lightweight layers and a waterproof jacket so you can adapt to cool mornings, sunny afternoons, and sudden rain.
- Refer to our packing list https://destinationcles.com/destinationcles-packing-list/
Casual wear is recommended.
The money system in Costa Rica is not too confusing, so you shouldn’t be too worried about trying to figure it out. A quick reference point is that everything is a multiple of five. 500 colones is equivalent to approximately one dollar. Make sure you check the exchange rate before your trip. The exchange rate may go up or down, but it won’t make that much difference in everyday purchases. 1,000 colones is about $2, 4,000 colones ~ $8, 5000 ~ $10. 10,000 colones ~ $20. A good trick is to look at the first number and double it to equal the approximate dollar amount. US dollars are widely accepted.
Limited internet and phone service will be unavailable outside of nearby cities.
Greetings – A warm handshake is common, often accompanied by direct eye contact and a smile. Among friends, a light hug or kiss on the cheek is normal.
Politeness Matters – Always use courteous phrases like por favor (please), gracias (thank you), and con mucho gusto (my pleasure). Costa Ricans value respect and kindness in conversation.
Pura Vida – This national phrase, meaning “pure life,” is used as a greeting, farewell, or expression of gratitude and happiness. Using it appropriately will make you feel more connected to locals.
Respect for Nature – Costa Rica is known for its biodiversity. Stay on marked trails, do not disturb wildlife, and avoid removing plants, shells, or natural objects.
Sacred & Cultural Sites – Respect churches, indigenous reserves, and cultural monuments. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Punctuality – In social settings, Tico Time means being 15–30 minutes late is common. For tours, buses, and excursions, however, punctuality is expected.
Dress Code – Casual, lightweight clothing works for most places, but avoid beachwear in towns or restaurants. In rural areas and religious spaces, modest attire is appreciated.
Tipping – A 10% service charge is usually included in restaurant bills, but leaving a little extra is appreciated. Tip guides, drivers, and hotel staff directly in colones or U.S. dollars.
Dining Etiquette – Wait until everyone has been served before eating. Saying “¡Buen provecho!” before starting is a thoughtful gesture.
Shopping & Haggling – Prices are often fixed in stores, but at open-air markets, bargaining politely is acceptable.
Environmental Respect – Costa Rica is eco-conscious. Avoid single-use plastics, recycle when possible, and never litter. Many locals take great pride in keeping their country green and clean.