COSTA RICA EXTENDED FAQ

Your questions answered for our Costa Rica EXTENDED trip

Visualize the experience

highlights

Experience Costa Rica Extended

-Sunrise in Monteverde
-Sunset dinner at Playa Hermosa
-Enjoy the beautiful beaches of Costa Rica
-Explore local waterfalls and hot springs
-Get hooked on some of the best coffee in the world
-Hike the Costa Rican rainforest

Combine two of our most popular trips into one with this AMAZINGLY affordable, diverse, epic experience in Costa Rica where you'll not only see the best beach in the country but get immersed in the rainforest and stay at a famous eco-lodge where your food is grown right on site! (video is from our Costa Rica rainforest trip)

Have a question about the Under30Experiences Costa Rica Extended trip?
What are the accommodations like?

You will stay in boutique hotel rooms for the duration of your trip. Solo travelers are paired with someone of the same gender.  You can request a friend to be your roommate upon checkout. 

If you'd prefer not to have a roommate, private room options are available upon request, subject to hotel availability for an extra charge.  Please contact bookings@under30experiences.com for more details.

Is laundry available?

Laundry is available at the hotel for an additional fee. Ask your Trip Leader for details.

What is the bug situation?

We are staying in the jungle so expect to see lizards, frogs, or bugs. Costa Ricans prefer not to kill insects as they understand we are a visitor to their environment.

Long sleeves and pants are a good idea at dusk to protect from mosquitos. Please opt for eco-friendly, non-aerosol insect repellents.

What type of wildlife can I see in Costa Rica?

We can’t guarantee wildlife sightings, but the most commonly seen wildlife are White Face Capuchin Monkeys, Squirrel Monkeys, Sloths, Scarlett Macaws, Iguanas, and Toucans.

What type of luggage is best?

We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer.
A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items.

Space is limited on our transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.

Are the outlets compatible with American plugs, or should we bring adaptors?

Costa Rica uses 110-volt, 60-cycle electricity, just like in the US. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat types so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter.

What kind of food can I expect in Costa Rica?

Breakfasts will be enjoyed at our eco-lodge in the rainforest and at our boutique hotel in Manuel Antonio. In the rainforest, most of the food will be grown right on the permaculture farm where you'll be staying.

Eat like a local with delicious Costa Rican dishes such as gallo pinto and some of the best fruit in the world.

Sample Breakfast Menu:

  • Fresh fruit, juice, coffee, gallo pinto (rice & beans), eggs, toast.

Sample Dinner Menu:‍

  • Casados
    A casado is a typical Costa Rican lunch consisting of: rice, beans, plantains, veggies or salad and chicken, fish, beef or pork. Paired with salads and smoothies or local juices.

We do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions. Most meals can be modified for special requests and food allergies.

What type of weather should I expect?

The average temperature in Manuel Antonio is 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 75-80 degrees at night.  

The average temperature in Arenal is 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 65-75 at night. 

What type of transportation will we be taking?

You will be traveling by private and public ground transportation throughout your trip.

What is the physical activity level of this trip?

Moderate. Some travelers will find the hills on the hikes challenging, while more athletic people will not find them particularly difficult.

Weather conditions like heat, humidity, and rain can change trail conditions and the intensity of the activity.

If you work at a desk all day, expect to do a lot more physical activity than normal.
Our Trip Leaders are great at challenging you while keeping you safe and waiting for hikers who like to take their time

What activities are optional? And how much do they cost?

We’ve included many activities in the price of the trip giving you plenty to do. However, we pride ourselves in helping you make the trip perfect for you. Therefore we’ve sought out the best activities and vendors to help you have the experience you want.  And don’t worry, your trip leader can help set up any of the following optional activities for you so you can sit back and enjoy your trip.
-White Water Rafting: $75
-Zip-lining: $91
-Kayaking: $65
-Horseback riding $55
-Hot Springs: $8 
-La Fortuna Waterfall: $19
-Pedal Board: $65
-Surf Lessons: $65 per person
-Salsa Lessons: $10 per person (cash only)
-Yoga: $15 per person (cash only)

Can I opt out of an included activity?

Of course! This trip is your trip, and you don’t have to participate in anything you don’t want to. Just be aware that opting out of included activities will not change the price of your trip.

What is the nightlife like?

Monteverde and Fortuna are very quiet towns. Manuel Antonio and Quepos have several nightlife options.  Keep in mind it is a small town so don’t expect Miami Beach. 
Nightlife in the high season, Christmas until Easter, is much more lively than other times of the year.
Please drink responsibly and remember you’ll need to be up at a reasonable hour the next morning to join the group.

What languages are spoken in Costa Rica?

Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica. English is widely spoken in many tourist areas and hotels. Knowing a second language is not required to enjoy this trip.

Is tipping customary in Costa Rica?

Tipping is not expected though it is greatly appreciated, especially since tourism and hospitality are one of the leading industries in Costa Rica. Adding 10% gratuity at restaurants, local guides and drivers is a suitable tip.

How much should I budget for food and activities?

Bring cash with you! We recommend you have at least $500 USD cash on you during the trip for lunches, snacks, optional activities, souvenirs, etc.All places accept USD so you do not need to convert to the local currency.

Do I need to worry about a visa?

When traveling with a passport, citizens of the United States, Canada, and most Latin American and European countries are entitled to stay in Costa Rica for 90 days. They must enter the country with a departure ticket and a valid passport that does not expire within 30 days of their arrival in Costa Rica.
To find specific visa requirements or restrictions for your home country, visit the Costa Rican embassy page.

Do you have last-minute deals?

Yes! When travelers take advantage of our “Switch Your Trip” program last minute slots open up on sold out trips. Visit our Trips On Sale page for the latest last-minute deals.

Sign up to the list to be notified.

Which itineraries are considered to have a "Light" activity level?

If you are looking to relax on your trip without exerting yourself too much, we have a number of trips that are good picks. Trips marked as "Light" activity level are:

Remember, all activities on our trips are optional, so if you feel like doing something less strenuous one day, our Trip Leader can help provide alternative options. If you have concerns about your ability to participate in any activities on a trip, please let us know at bookings@under30experiences.com, and we'd be happy to accommodate.

Have a question that's not on this list?

Feel free to reach out to our all-star customer service team at info@under30experiences.com or by calling 1 (888) 839-2086.

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