Costa Rica Trek
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a natural wonderland, a stunning mosaic of tropical flora and fauna.
Trip duration:
8 days
Challenge duration:
5 days
Challenge grade:
3/5
Departure months:
May, June, September, October
Accommodation:
Twin-share in 3-star accommodation
Hiking Costa Rica
You will experience it all as you trek through protected national parks and wildlife refuges along Costa Rica's southern Caribbean coast.
From lush tropical rainforests, to volcanic crater lagoons and coastal reserves, you’ll see the best this spectacular country has to offer. You will also have the very special opportunity to visit the Sloth Sanctuary Costa Rica, a safe haven that rescues, protects and rehabilitates sloths. Here, you’ll learn all about these lovable, furry friends and even meet the sanctuary’s oldest resident sloth, Buttercup! Get ready, the adventure of a lifetime starts right here…
Best of all, you’ll be joined by a team of like-minded individuals who are bound to become close friends over the course of this life-changing adventure.
Why you'll love this adventure
- Experience Costa Rica’s rich diversity by foot
- Witness the impressive Arenal Volcano, a magnificent natural wonder that’s sure to spark enchantment
- Visit the Toucan Rescue Ranch where you will visit the resident toucans, sloths, owls, spider monkeys and more!
- Raise vital funds for your chosen cause and make friends with like-minded people when you travel for good
Trip notes
Day 1: Arrive in San Jose
Welcome to Juan Santamaria International Airport. On your arrival, please make your own way to the hotel. This afternoon/evening will be at your own leisure to explore the city, before we meet for our first team dinner and briefing.
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: San Jose to Puerto Viejo- Visit Toucan Rescue Ranch
Today, we depart early from San Jose to Puerto Viejo of Limón. On route to Puerto of Limon, we will visit the Toucan Rescue Range, whose mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and release Costa Rican wildlife. During our tour of the facility, you will have the opportunity to see not only toucans but also sloths, spider monkeys, parrots and macaws all while learning about the importance of conservation and how this premier wildlife rescue centre is run. For lunch, we will visit the Sibo chocolate factory café, surrounded by nature. We will then continue on to the crystal-clear blue waters of Puerto Viejo past a number of impressive volcanoes. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Transfer Time: 4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Puerto Viejo - Cahuita National Park
This morning we begin the adventure on the Caribbean side. The tour consists of a trek along the trail of the Cahuita National Park to Puerto Vargas. The guide will take you from Cahuita town to Cahuita Point where you can observe various types of snakes (boas, bocaraca, bush master, eyelash vipers, etc.), sloths, white faced and howler monkeys, anteaters, armadillos, raccoons, blue morpho butterflies among others, birds as well as local fauna. Then you will hike the trail through Cahuita National Park. On your way from Cahuita Point to Puerto Vargas, you will walk through humid tropical forest where you can observe exuberant trees. Tonight we meet for a group dinner at a local restaurant.
Trekking Distance: 14km
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Puerto Viejo – Talamanca Mountain Range
Following breakfast, today we will immerse ourselves in the primary and secondary forest of the Talamanca Mountain Range. Along the way, your guide will help you to spot wildlife including birds, butterflies and frogs. While trekking we will take in beautiful waterfalls and panoramic views before returning to Puerto Viejo for lunch. The remainder of your day is free at leisure until we meet tonight for dinner.
Trekking Distance: 10km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Arenal Volcano National Park
Today we see one of the most beautiful and iconic volcanoes in Costa Rica, the Arenal volcano. In the morning we will drive from Puerto Viejo to Arenal. On arrival into Arenal, we will have lunch (at your own cost) before we head to the 1968 Trail at Arenal Volcano National Park. Here we will hike to enjoy the flora and fauna and the magnificent solidified lava flows from past eruptions. We will walk along a volcanic stone path, until we reach a lookout point from where you can enjoy great views of Lake Arenal and the Green Lagoon. We will then enter the rainforest along the outskirts of the volcano, giving us the opportunity to see a wide variety of plants and animals that inhabit the rainforest. In the afternoon, we will check into our hotel in Arenal. The rest of the afternoon is free at leisure. You can enjoy the beautiful view from the hotel, relax in the hotel’s own spring-water swimming pool, or if you feel more active you can join our guide and explore the surroundings on one of the many trails in the area. In the evening we will dine at the hotel restaurant.
Transfer Time: 5 hours
Trekking Distance: 5km
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6: Planatar Volcano
Today’s trek will bring us to the summit of the dormant Platanar Volcano (2183m). To reach the summit, we will take a spectacular walk through the forest. Beginning with a slow ascent, we will have ample time to take in the spectacular scenic beauty of the tropical forest. On clear days you will be able to see the Arenal Volcano and the plains from San Carlos. After descending, we will enjoy lunch together and the remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore.
Trekking Distance: 13km
Transfer Time: 2 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: Arenal To San Jose, Hule Lagoon Volcanic Crater Tour
On our way back into San Jose, we will stop for our final hike at Hule Lagoon, a 55 hectare lagoon at the base of Cerro Congo volcano. This area is renowned for its excellent trekking trails due the variety of scenery and terrain, from clay, to dirt, volcanic rock and grasslands. We will explore the volcanic lagoons and rainforests, enjoying incredible views of the primary and secondary lagoons along the way. After a few hours, we will arrive at the main observation point, from where we will enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch. When will then trek a few last kilometers before we transfer back to San Jose. Tonight, we enjoy a final dinner together to celebrate all that we have accomplished together.
Trekking Distance: 11km
Transfer Time: 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Depart San Jose
Today, after breakfast, our adventure comes to an end. You will make your own way to the airport for your flight home.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 1: Arrive in San Jose
Welcome to Juan Santamaria International Airport. On your arrival, please make your own way to the hotel. This afternoon/evening will be at your own leisure to explore the city, before we meet for our first team dinner and briefing.
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: San Jose to Puerto Viejo- Visit Toucan Rescue Ranch
Today, we depart early from San Jose to Puerto Viejo of Limón. On route to Puerto of Limon, we will visit the Toucan Rescue Range, whose mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and release Costa Rican wildlife. During our tour of the facility, you will have the opportunity to see not only toucans but also sloths, spider monkeys, parrots and macaws all while learning about the importance of conservation and how this premier wildlife rescue centre is run. For lunch, we will visit the Sibo chocolate factory café, surrounded by nature. We will then continue on to the crystal-clear blue waters of Puerto Viejo past a number of impressive volcanoes. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Transfer Time: 4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Puerto Viejo - Cahuita National Park
This morning we begin the adventure on the Caribbean side. The tour consists of a trek along the trail of the Cahuita National Park to Puerto Vargas. The guide will take you from Cahuita town to Cahuita Point where you can observe various types of snakes (boas, bocaraca, bush master, eyelash vipers, etc.), sloths, white faced and howler monkeys, anteaters, armadillos, raccoons, blue morpho butterflies among others, birds as well as local fauna. Then you will hike the trail through Cahuita National Park. On your way from Cahuita Point to Puerto Vargas, you will walk through humid tropical forest where you can observe exuberant trees. Tonight we meet for a group dinner at a local restaurant.
Trekking Distance: 14km
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Puerto Viejo – Talamanca Mountain Range
Following breakfast, today we will immerse ourselves in the primary and secondary forest of the Talamanca Mountain Range. Along the way, your guide will help you to spot wildlife including birds, butterflies and frogs. While trekking we will take in beautiful waterfalls and panoramic views before returning to Puerto Viejo for lunch. The remainder of your day is free at leisure until we meet tonight for dinner.
Trekking Distance: 10km
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Arenal Volcano National Park
Today we see one of the most beautiful and iconic volcanoes in Costa Rica, the Arenal volcano. In the morning we will drive from Puerto Viejo to Arenal. On arrival into Arenal, we will have lunch (at your own cost) before we head to the 1968 Trail at Arenal Volcano National Park. Here we will hike to enjoy the flora and fauna and the magnificent solidified lava flows from past eruptions. We will walk along a volcanic stone path, until we reach a lookout point from where you can enjoy great views of Lake Arenal and the Green Lagoon. We will then enter the rainforest along the outskirts of the volcano, giving us the opportunity to see a wide variety of plants and animals that inhabit the rainforest. In the afternoon, we will check into our hotel in Arenal. The rest of the afternoon is free at leisure. You can enjoy the beautiful view from the hotel, relax in the hotel’s own spring-water swimming pool, or if you feel more active you can join our guide and explore the surroundings on one of the many trails in the area. In the evening we will dine at the hotel restaurant.
Transfer Time: 5 hours
Trekking Distance: 5km
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6: Planatar Volcano
Today’s trek will bring us to the summit of the dormant Platanar Volcano (2183m). To reach the summit, we will take a spectacular walk through the forest. Beginning with a slow ascent, we will have ample time to take in the spectacular scenic beauty of the tropical forest. On clear days you will be able to see the Arenal Volcano and the plains from San Carlos. After descending, we will enjoy lunch together and the remainder of the day is yours to relax or explore.
Trekking Distance: 13km
Transfer Time: 2 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: Arenal To San Jose, Hule Lagoon Volcanic Crater Tour
On our way back into San Jose, we will stop for our final hike at Hule Lagoon, a 55 hectare lagoon at the base of Cerro Congo volcano. This area is renowned for its excellent trekking trails due the variety of scenery and terrain, from clay, to dirt, volcanic rock and grasslands. We will explore the volcanic lagoons and rainforests, enjoying incredible views of the primary and secondary lagoons along the way. After a few hours, we will arrive at the main observation point, from where we will enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch. When will then trek a few last kilometers before we transfer back to San Jose. Tonight, we enjoy a final dinner together to celebrate all that we have accomplished together.
Trekking Distance: 11km
Transfer Time: 5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart San Jose
Today, after breakfast, our adventure comes to an end. You will make your own way to the airport for your flight home.
Meals: Breakfast
Frequently asked questions
Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au
About the adventure
How challenging is this adventure?
This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train.
The Costa Rica trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. You will be well supported on the adventure by the expert guides and the wider team. You can move at your own pace and we take frequent rest breaks.
Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?
Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.
Who will I be travelling with?
Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.
The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team.
Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.
What is the general age range of participants?
The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–80+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
Fitness and training
How do I train for this adventure?
We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.
It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.
Accommodation
What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in 3-4 star hotels and lodges.
Will I be sharing accommodation? All hotels and lodges offer modern and clean amenities including toilet paper, shampoo and soap.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.
What to expect
What are the toilets like?
While trekking in National Parks, you will encounter basic toilet conditions. We recommend that you always take some toilet paper and hand sanitiser in your day pack.
What is the food like?
Costa Rican cuisine winningly evokes a sense of real home-style cooking that’s comforting and undeniably satisfying. Healthy, hearty and relatively mild, almost every traditional dish is made from scratch and consists of only the freshest ingredients. If you’re eager to try some Costa Rican specialities, below are some popular dishes and drinks, guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Gallo Pinto: A traditional Costa Rican dish made with rice and red or black beans and seasoned with cilantro, red pepper, onion, celery, and Salsa Lizano. It is often served for breakfast with fried or scrambled eggs.
Vegetarian Casado: A popular dish consisting of many foods. Casado typically contains rice, beans, salad, tortillas and fried platano maduro.
Sopa Negra: A delicious black bean soup consisting of onions, peppers, cilantro, tomatoes, mixed spices and Tabasco sauce.
Patacones: Deep-fried plantains that are flattened and seasoned with a pinch of sea salt.
Platanos Maduros: A popular side dish made with pan-fried and seasoned plantains.
Empanadas: A delicious savoury snack filled with cheese, potatoes, beans and an optional choice of meats such as pork, chicken or beef. Empanadas are typically baked or fried.
Tres Leches: A delicious layered sponge cake and traditional Costa Riccan dessert made with evaporated, condensed and fresh milk. It is then topped with whipped cream and fruit.
Horchata: A refreshing cold beverage made with milk, cinnamon, sugar and rice flour.
Pinolillo: A sweet, cold beverage made with toasted corn kernels and cocoa.
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. A special meal can always be prepared to meet individual needs specified in advance.
Will I have mobile phone reception?
Internet is common throughout Costa Rica, with email and social media remaining the cheapest and easiest way to keep in touch with friends and family while travelling. If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls.
Will I have access to electricity?
Costa Rica uses a 110V/60Hz power system that is compatible with two and three-prong plugs.
What do I need to pack?
You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.
What happens if there is a medical emergency?
Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record.
All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.
How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?
See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.
Costs and payments
What’s included in the travel cost?
Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost includes:
- Twin-share accommodation in 3-4 star hotels and lodges
- All transfers as per itinerary
- Local English-speaking guide
- Meals as per itinerary
- Sightseeing fees and entrance fees as per itinerary
What’s not included in the travel cost?
Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost does not include:
- Airfares
- Airport transfers
- Visa
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Costa Rica departure tax of USD $29 per person
- Tips and gratuities
Are the travel costs subject to change?
We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size, currency fluctuations or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.
Why do I need to pay a registration fee?
When you register, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - including a personalised fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.
How much spending money do I need?
While most meals are included in the adventure, we recommend that you allow US$15 for lunches and US$25 for dinners not included in the itinerary.
Is it customary to tip?
Tipping is customary, but not compulsory in Costa Rica. The recommended tipping amount for this adventure is around US$40-50 (approximately AU$60-75) per person for the length of the adventure.
Travel insurance and visas
Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is compulsory for international adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.
Do I need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?
A visa is not required for Australian or New Zealand passport holders for stays under 90 days. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.
About Costa Rica
What weather can I expect?
Costa Rica is warm and tropical year-round. There are two distinct seasons: High (Dry) and Green (Rainy). The High season spans from November to April and the Green season spans from May to October. The average annual temperature in Costa Rica varies between 19-27°C. During the adventure, temperatures may reach 31°C during the day and drop down to 20-24°C overnight. We recommend packing layers and wet weather gear in case the weather transitions without warning.
Can I drink the water in Costa Rica?
We strongly advise that you do not drink the tap water, as it is only safe to drink after being boiled.
Are credit cards widely accepted in Costa Rica?
In most restaurants and souvenir shops, you will be able to pay by credit card. In the smaller village stores that are en route to national parks, credit card or US dollars may not be accepted. We recommend that you exchange US$20 into Costa Rican colones at the airport or hotel before your trek to cover any souvenirs or additional activities you may wish to participate in.
About the adventure
How challenging is this adventure?
This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train.
The Costa Rica trek is a physical challenge, and the fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience. You will be well supported on the adventure by the expert guides and the wider team. You can move at your own pace and we take frequent rest breaks.
Can I join an Inspired Adventure on my own?
Of course, most people do! Throughout your adventure journey, we will connect you with your fellow adventurers so you can get to know each other before you hit the road.
Who will I be travelling with?
Our average group size at Inspired Adventures ranges from 10 to 20 people. You can be sure that you have all come together with the shared purpose of making a difference to others and having the adventure of a lifetime.
The group will be led by a local tour guide with expert knowledge of the region. Many groups will also be accompanied by an Inspired Adventures team leader or doctor to support and motivate the team.
Where applicable, a charity representative may also join the team. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about your chosen charity and their work.
What is the general age range of participants?
The minimum age for this adventure is 18, however younger ages are considered on application. We have had participants aged 16–80+ take part in our challenges, all united by their sense of philanthropy and adventure.
Fitness and training
How do I train for this adventure?
We will provide you with basic information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. We recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.
It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek. As part of your training, we recommend making use of your weekends to complete a full day hike and if possible, an overnight hike. You should aim to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours and get up to do it again the following day comfortably. Conventional exercise routines which build strength, fitness and stamina, such as aerobics and light weight training can be beneficial, particularly if your fitness level is less than ideal.
Accommodation
What is the accommodation like?
Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in 3-4 star hotels and lodges.
Will I be sharing accommodation? All hotels and lodges offer modern and clean amenities including toilet paper, shampoo and soap.
Will I be sharing accommodation?
Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single rooms are available at an additional cost and subject to availability.
I’m travelling with a friend, can we stay together?
If you’re travelling with a friend, please make note of this and we will pair you together.
What to expect
What are the toilets like?
While trekking in National Parks, you will encounter basic toilet conditions. We recommend that you always take some toilet paper and hand sanitiser in your day pack.
What is the food like?
Costa Rican cuisine winningly evokes a sense of real home-style cooking that’s comforting and undeniably satisfying. Healthy, hearty and relatively mild, almost every traditional dish is made from scratch and consists of only the freshest ingredients. If you’re eager to try some Costa Rican specialities, below are some popular dishes and drinks, guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Gallo Pinto: A traditional Costa Rican dish made with rice and red or black beans and seasoned with cilantro, red pepper, onion, celery, and Salsa Lizano. It is often served for breakfast with fried or scrambled eggs.
Vegetarian Casado: A popular dish consisting of many foods. Casado typically contains rice, beans, salad, tortillas and fried platano maduro.
Sopa Negra: A delicious black bean soup consisting of onions, peppers, cilantro, tomatoes, mixed spices and Tabasco sauce.
Patacones: Deep-fried plantains that are flattened and seasoned with a pinch of sea salt.
Platanos Maduros: A popular side dish made with pan-fried and seasoned plantains.
Empanadas: A delicious savoury snack filled with cheese, potatoes, beans and an optional choice of meats such as pork, chicken or beef. Empanadas are typically baked or fried.
Tres Leches: A delicious layered sponge cake and traditional Costa Riccan dessert made with evaporated, condensed and fresh milk. It is then topped with whipped cream and fruit.
Horchata: A refreshing cold beverage made with milk, cinnamon, sugar and rice flour.
Pinolillo: A sweet, cold beverage made with toasted corn kernels and cocoa.
I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?
Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. A special meal can always be prepared to meet individual needs specified in advance.
Will I have mobile phone reception?
Internet is common throughout Costa Rica, with email and social media remaining the cheapest and easiest way to keep in touch with friends and family while travelling. If you have worldwide coverage, you can bring your own mobile phone and use it to make domestic or international calls.
Will I have access to electricity?
Costa Rica uses a 110V/60Hz power system that is compatible with two and three-prong plugs.
What do I need to pack?
You will be sent a comprehensive packing list after you register for the adventure with everything you need to consider.
What happens if there is a medical emergency?
Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record.
All Inspired Adventures guides and Team Leaders are first aid trained. Our guides carry a satellite phone to be used if further assistance is required.
How will you manage the risk of COVID-19?
See the COVID-19 section of our website for full details.
Costs and payments
What’s included in the travel cost?
Package inclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost includes:
- Twin-share accommodation in 3-4 star hotels and lodges
- All transfers as per itinerary
- Local English-speaking guide
- Meals as per itinerary
- Sightseeing fees and entrance fees as per itinerary
What’s not included in the travel cost?
Package exclusions vary from trip to trip so please refer to the specific trip notes for details.
Generally, the travel cost does not include:
- Airfares
- Airport transfers
- Visa
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Costa Rica departure tax of USD $29 per person
- Tips and gratuities
Are the travel costs subject to change?
We will do our best to keep the travel costs as quoted. However, please bear in mind they can change due to group size, currency fluctuations or factors out of our control. If absolutely necessary, Inspired Travel may have to add on an additional supplement fee should the current social distancing measures continue. This fee would be required if our operator needs to add on additional vehicles, equipment and/or staff.
Why do I need to pay a registration fee?
When you register, you will be required to pay a registration fee to secure your spot on the team. From the minute you register until you return from your adventure, the team at Inspired Adventures will provide you with everything you need - including a personalised fundraising plan, fitness advice and support with travel preparations. You will receive access to your online adventure portal complete with your own online fundraising page and lots of resources to help you along the way. Your registration fee goes towards our cost of managing the adventure and supporting you on your journey.
How much spending money do I need?
While most meals are included in the adventure, we recommend that you allow US$15 for lunches and US$25 for dinners not included in the itinerary.
Is it customary to tip?
Tipping is customary, but not compulsory in Costa Rica. The recommended tipping amount for this adventure is around US$40-50 (approximately AU$60-75) per person for the length of the adventure.
Travel insurance and visas
Do I need to have travel insurance?
Travel insurance is compulsory for international adventures to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage. We recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.
Do I need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?
A visa is not required for Australian or New Zealand passport holders for stays under 90 days. For the most current requirements, refer to the Smartraveller website.
About Costa Rica
What weather can I expect?
Costa Rica is warm and tropical year-round. There are two distinct seasons: High (Dry) and Green (Rainy). The High season spans from November to April and the Green season spans from May to October. The average annual temperature in Costa Rica varies between 19-27°C. During the adventure, temperatures may reach 31°C during the day and drop down to 20-24°C overnight. We recommend packing layers and wet weather gear in case the weather transitions without warning.
Can I drink the water in Costa Rica?
We strongly advise that you do not drink the tap water, as it is only safe to drink after being boiled.
Are credit cards widely accepted in Costa Rica?
In most restaurants and souvenir shops, you will be able to pay by credit card. In the smaller village stores that are en route to national parks, credit card or US dollars may not be accepted. We recommend that you exchange US$20 into Costa Rican colones at the airport or hotel before your trek to cover any souvenirs or additional activities you may wish to participate in.
All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.
Reviews
★★★★★
“Without the trek we wouldn’t have considered going to Costa Rica. I’m thankful for the amazing country I got to explore. Fabulous life memories.”
Joanne Holmes
Responsible Travel
Caring for our adventurers, the communities we visit and the wellbeing of the planet is the heart of everything we do. This adventure is no exception.
Meaningful connections: Hear from Aranda Elders who will tell us about the history of the area.
Environment: We offset the emissions from this trip through carbon credit programs in partnership with Carbon Neutral.
Treading lightly: Trekking is a great, low-impact way to explore.
Small group travel: Our teams consist of a maximum of 25 people. Better for you, and better for the planet.
Responsible business: We’re a certified B-Corp, committed to using business as a force for good
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We’re a certified B Corp, committed to using business as a force for good.