Costa Rica Travel Details

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General information about Costa Rica can be found here.

• You'll need a valid passport with an expiration date after our return date.
• No visa is needed for US citizens.
• Check for additional requirements at the Costa Rican Embassy or US Department of State.

• There are no specific vaccine requirements at this time. The CDC recommends certain precautionary vaccines. Details can be found at this link.
• Insect bites and sunburn are the most common health concerns in Costa Rica. Please take precaution to protect yourselves by wearing sunscreen and insect repellent. 
• Malaria is not an issue in Costa Rica.
• Bring a water bottle to keep filled and to keep you hydrated. Drinking water will be available on the bus.
• Not all water is safe to drink. Ask your guides about best sources for drinking water.
• If you bring prescription medications, including epi-pens, also bring a doctor's note or prescription information.
• Bring extra medication, if needed.

• The currency in Costa Rica is the colon (singular) or colones (plural). There is generally no need to exchange money before your trip. Nearly all venues and stores will accept US dollars at a good exchange rate. Change may be given to you in US dollars or colones. In most cases, change will be in colones.
• Credit cards are also accepted in most locations. Check to make sure the credit card you use does not impose foreign transaction fees. If asked, you should pay in colones for the best credit card exchange rate.
• Paying with cash in another country is a great learning experience for children. Consider having your child purchase a snack or special treat on the trip. 
• Cash is only needed for optional extra purchases and tips for discretionary spending at venues (tips for activities are included in the trip cost). 

In many cases, you can add an international plan or temporary international plan to your cellular service. The signal in Costa Rica is good in most places we visit. The Caribbean Turtle Station we visit does not have reliable cellular service. During bus transfers between destinations, connections can be unreliable.

Most hotels will have WiFi available in certain locations.

• Costa Rica uses power outlets that are similar to US outlets. There is no need for any special power adapters.
• Power is not available at the Caribbean Turtle Station (except for emergency use)

It's customary to tip guides and drivers about $10 per day per person (total). Example: For a 12-day itinerary, that would be about $120 per person, split between guides and drivers. Tips like these are customary and greatly appreciated, but are always optional.

Swimming is an inherently dangerous activity. Participants should closely monitor conditions and make judgments based on their swimming skills. Often, places do not have lifeguards. Swimming is not permitted at the Caribbean Turtle Station due to rip currents.

• We highly recommend additional coverage to protect your trip investment (cost of attendance, transportation, etc.) in the event of emergency or unforeseen cancellation. 
• Many plans require a purchase within two weeks of registration. Compare several plans using the link link below.