Name: Costa Rica Adventure: Volcanoes, Coasts - Travel Tour
Brand: Zero Trace Tours
SKU: 44772932878512
Price: 1479.0 AUD
Availability: InStock

San José ⇄ San José

Easy | Ages 12+

Hotels

200% CO₂ Offset

Costa Rica Pura Vida: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Wild Coasts | San José → San José (9/16 Days)

Trace Costa Rica’s greatest hits—from Arenal’s volcano views to Monteverde’s cloud forests and Manuel Antonio’s Pacific beaches—with the option to go deeper on a 16-day circuit that adds Tortuguero’s wildlife canals, a Sarapiquí jungle lodge, and Caribbean coast time. Over 9 or 16 days, expect a small-group rhythm, flexible daily choices, and guides who keep the moving parts smooth so attention stays on the good stuff: rainforest sounds, warm springs, and palm-framed sunsets.

The core loop balances active days and free time; the longer route turns up the variety—canal wildlife, coffee-co-op experiences, and laid-back bike trails by the sea. Pack a sense of curiosity (and quick-dry layers): this is Pura Vida in motion.

Quick Facts

Duration: 9 or 16 days (extension adds Sarapiquí, Tortuguero & Caribbean coast)
Style: Small-group (Classic · Standard)
Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (9-day light; 16-day includes more active options)
Start/Finish: San José → San José
Transport: Private vehicle, boat; public bus segments on 16-day
Stays: Hotels (9-day); Hotels + Jungle lodge (2 nights) on 16-day

Trip Highlights

Arenal/La Fortuna: volcano viewpoints, hot-spring time, optional canyoning/zipline
Monteverde: guided cloud forest night walk among hanging vines and bioluminescent moments
Manuel Antonio: palm-lined beaches, sloths and monkeys, national park entry included
Mi Cafecito (G for Good): community-run coffee experience supporting local growers
Sarapiquí jungle lodge with nature trails and swimming spots (16-day)
Tortuguero canals: boat wildlife watching in a maze of waterways (16-day)
Puerto Viejo bike day: colourful Caribbean coast cruising (16-day)

Good to Know

Age & group: Small group (max 16, typical ~12); minimum age 12.
Meals: 9-day includes 1 Lunch; 16-day includes 4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners (others at own expense).
Seasonality: Rain showers are common year-round; wildlife sightings vary with weather and time of day.
Pace & terrain: Mix of paved roads, boardwalks, and well-trodden trails; humidity can make easy walks feel warmer.
Optional extras: Adrenaline bundle (canyoning/zipline), catamaran in Manuel Antonio, and other activities may be seasonal and at extra cost.

Booking Terms & Conditions

$350.00

RESERVE WITH DEPOSIT

INQUIRE ABOUT TOUR

Day 1 | San José Arrival

Touch down in San José and meet your group this evening. Swap intros, get the lay of the land, and feel the tempo shift to Pura Vida.

Stay: Hotel (San José).

Included meals: None.

Day 2 | San José → Mi Cafecito Co-op → La Fortuna (Arenal)

Roll north through lush foothills to Mi Cafecito, a community coffee project—learn the bean-to-brew story and sit down to a local lunch. Continue to La Fortuna beneath Arenal Volcano; soak in the pace of a classic adventure town as the summit fades into evening cloud.

Stay: Hotel (La Fortuna).

Included meals: Lunch.

Optional extras (own expense): Evening hot-spring soak; chocolate tour.

Day 3 | La Fortuna—Choose Your Adventure

Dial it up or keep it cruisy: canyoning through jungle slots, ziplining over canopy, hiking to waterfall plunge pools, or a slow morning café-hopping with volcano views. After dark, hot springs call.

Stay: Hotel (La Fortuna).

Included meals: None.

Optional extras (own expense): Canyoning, zipline canopy, hanging bridges, waterfall hike, hot springs.

Day 4 | La Fortuna → Monteverde + Cloud-Forest Night Walk

Cross Lake Arenal by boat and climb into the Monteverde highlands. As dusk falls, head out with a naturalist on a cloud-forest night walk—listen for rustles, spot eye-shine, and meet the forest when it truly wakes.

Stay: Hotel (Monteverde).

Included meals: None.

Included activity: Guided night walk (included on 9-day departures; optional on some 16-day departures depending on date/availability).

Day 5 | Monteverde—High-Canopy Choices

Zip between treetops, wander hanging bridges above dripping ravines, or learn the terroir of Costa Rican coffee/cacao. Cooler mountain air makes everything feel crisp and alive.

Stay: Hotel (Monteverde).

Included meals: None.

Optional extras (own expense): Zipline canopy, hanging bridges, coffee/cacao tour.

Day 6 | Monteverde → Quepos (Manuel Antonio)

Descend from cloud to coast: palms thicken, air warms, and the Pacific appears. Settle into Quepos beside Manuel Antonio National Park—a place where monkeys chatter above palm-fringed beaches.

Stay: Hotel (Quepos).

Included meals: None.

Day 7 | Manuel Antonio National Park

Walk shady trails where sloths, iguanas, and capuchins share the canopy. Cool off in calm coves and linger for that soft, late light on the bay.

Stay: Hotel (Quepos).

Included meals: None.

Included activity: Manuel Antonio National Park entry.

Optional extras (own expense): Catamaran cruise, surf lesson, mangrove kayak.

Day 8 | Quepos → San José

Enjoy a last ocean morning—beach time or a catamaran sail—then return to San José for a relaxed final night together on the core loop.

Stay: Hotel (San José).

Included meals: None.

Day 9 | San José/La Fortuna → Sarapiquí Rainforest

Head for Sarapiquí, a green world of rivers and cacao. Stop for a fresh local lunch and arrive at a jungle lodge wrapped in birdsong. Late-day swim in a river hole, then dinner under a chorus of tree frogs.

Stay: Jungle lodge (Sarapiquí).

Included meals: Lunch, Dinner.

Included activity: Community Mi Cafecito visit (route timing varies by departure).

Day 10 | Sarapiquí Rainforest—Trails, Swim & Foodie Moment

Walk nature trails beneath buttress roots, cool off in natural pools, and join a cooking demo to taste regional flavours. After dark, a night walk often reveals a different cast of creatures.

Stay: Jungle lodge (Sarapiquí).

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Travelling the 9-day version? Your trip concludes after Day 9 in San José; the days below apply to the 16-day extension.

Day 11 | Sarapiquí → Tortuguero

Shift to the Caribbean side and boat into Tortuguero, a village laced by canals and rainforest. Lanterns glow on wooden walkways by night; by day it’s all water, palms, and birds on the wing.

Stay: Lodge/Hotel (Tortuguero).

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Optional extras (own expense): Seasonal turtle-nesting night visit (in season).

Day 12 | Tortuguero—Canal Wildlife Day

Drift by canoe or small boat through a maze of waterways as herons, kingfishers, and caimans appear between lily pads and mangroves. Afternoon free for a hammock, a book, or another glide at golden hour.

Stay: Lodge/Hotel (Tortuguero).

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 13 | Tortuguero → Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

Follow the coast south to Puerto Viejo, where Afro-Caribbean rhythms, painted storefronts, and surfer coves create a laid-back tapestry.

Stay: Hotel (Puerto Viejo).

Included meals: Breakfast.

Day 14 | Puerto Viejo—Coastal Bike Day

Roll along the shoreline by bicycle with your CEO—palms, coves, and warm sea air—then spend the afternoon beach-hopping or tasting spicy Caribbean fare.

Stay: Hotel (Puerto Viejo).

Included meals: None.

Included activity: Guided coastal bike ride.

Day 15 | Puerto Viejo → San José

A final morning for a dip or a café stop, then return to San José for your last night—souvenirs sorted, stories ready.

Stay: Hotel (San José).

Included meals: None.

Day 16 | San José (Depart)

Your Costa Rica chapter closes today—depart any time, with rainforest in your ears and salt in your hair.

Included meals: None.

Key Tour Info

Where You’ll Be Staying & What You’ll Be Eating

Where You’ll Be Staying

Hotels throughout (9-day core): Comfortable, traveller-friendly hotels in San José, La Fortuna, Monteverde, and Quepos. Expect private bathrooms, air-con or fans, and walkable locations to cafés and markets.
Extension only (16-day): Jungle lodge stay (2 nights, Sarapiquí): Forest-wrapped rooms with screened windows/fans, nature trails on the doorstep, and a river swim spot when conditions allow.
Caribbean coast (16-day): Laid-back beach-town hotel in Puerto Viejo close to cafés and shoreline.
Rooming: Twin share as standard; My Own Room upgrade may be available on request (limited).
Facilities: Wi-Fi common in towns (patchy in rainforest areas), hot showers at hotels/lodge, and luggage kept with you on transfers (soft bags easiest).
Vibe: Social, clean, close to the action—mornings start early to beat heat and catch wildlife hours.

What You’ll Be Eating

Included meals (9-day): 1 × Lunch (community lunch at Mi Cafecito).
Included meals (16-day): 4 × Breakfasts, 4 × Lunches, 4 × Dinners spread across the jungle-lodge, Tortuguero, and Puerto Viejo segments as per the itinerary.
Style:Breakfasts: Simple hotel or lodge offerings—fruit, eggs, breads, gallo pinto where available.Lunches: Mix of community/co-op meals and casual local spots; picnic-style possible on transfer days.Dinners: Lodge dinners on rainforest days; otherwise local sodas (diners) and beach-town eateries with plenty of fresh seafood and vegetarian options.
Dietaries: Most common requirements can be accommodated with advance notice; carry preferred snacks if you follow a very specific diet.
Water & hot drinks: Purified water available at most stays or via large refill containers; bring refillable bottles. Coffee culture is strong—expect excellent local brews.

✅ What’s Included

Itinerary Activities

Community Mi Cafecito coffee experience with local lunch (route day as scheduled)
Guided cloud-forest night walk in Monteverde (included on 9-day departures; optional on some 16-day departures depending on date/availability)
Manuel Antonio National Park entrance (wildlife trails + beach time)
Guided coastal bike ride in Puerto Viejo (16-day extension)
Canal/wildlife days in Tortuguero (16-day extension)
Nature-trail swims and Foodie Moment cooking demo at Sarapiquí jungle lodge (16-day extension)

Guides

Professional tour leader (Chief Experience Officer) throughout
Local specialists/naturalists for included experiences where specified

Accommodation

Hotels throughout the core loop (San José, La Fortuna, Monteverde, Quepos)
Jungle lodge (2 nights) in Sarapiquí (16-day extension)
Additional hotels in Tortuguero and Puerto Viejo (16-day extension)
Twin share as standard (private facilities typical)

Meals

9-day: 1 × Lunch (community lunch at Mi Cafecito)
16-day: 4 × Breakfasts, 4 × Lunches, 4 × Dinners (as per itinerary)

Transport

Private vehicle transfers between key stops
Boat segments (e.g., Lake Arenal, Tortuguero canals) as scheduled
Public bus segments on the 16-day (where specified)

Equipment & Support

Activity safety briefings and logistics coordination
Potable-water refill guidance; recommendations for responsible travel practices

Fees & Impact

Park/area entry fees for included visits (e.g., Manuel Antonio)
Community-run experience (G for Good participation at Mi Cafecito)

🚫 What’s Not Included

International flights to/from San José
Airport transfers (arrival/departure) unless specified by the operator
Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
Visas/entry documents and related fees (e.g., tourist card if applicable)
Optional extras (own expense): Arenal canyoning/zipline (Adrenaline Bundle), hanging bridges, hot springs, catamaran cruise, mangrove kayak, seasonal turtle-nesting tour, guided night walk on some 16-day departures, additional local activities not listed as included
Meals and snacks not specifically listed as included; personal drinks and alcohol (BYO)
Personal gear (e.g., footwear, daypack, rain jacket, refillable bottle)
Laundry, phone/Wi-Fi, souvenirs, and other personal expenses
Tips/gratuities for guides, drivers, and local providers (optional, at your discretion)
My Own Room upgrade unless purchased (limited availability)

Seasonal Weather Expectations

Overview
Costa Rica’s microclimates swing from volcano lowlands (La Fortuna) to cool cloud forest (Monteverde) and humid Pacific/Caribbean coasts (Quepos, Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo). Expect warm temps, high humidity, and quick shifts—layers and quick-dry fabrics are king.

Dry Season (Dec–Apr)

San José / Central Valley: ~17–27 °C; warm days, cooler evenings; brief afternoon breeze.
La Fortuna (Arenal): ~21–31 °C; mostly dry but short showers still possible; high humidity.
Monteverde (cloud forest): ~15–24 °C; cooler, misty mornings; wind on ridgelines.
Quepos / Manuel Antonio (Pacific): ~23–33 °C; sunniest stretch, strong UV, calmer seas.
Sarapiquí (rainforest): ~22–31 °C; steamy with occasional showers.
Tortuguero & Puerto Viejo (Caribbean): ~23–31 °C; mix of sun and passing showers; February/March often the clearest.

Green Season (May–Nov)

San José / Central Valley: ~18–26 °C; sunny mornings, afternoon downpours common (especially May–Oct).
La Fortuna (Arenal): ~22–30 °C; classic pattern—bright start, heavy showers late day; waterfalls full and lush.
Monteverde (cloud forest): ~15–22 °C; mist and drizzle more frequent; evenings can feel cool—pack a warm layer.
Quepos / Manuel Antonio (Pacific): ~23–30 °C; heavier rains May–Oct, especially late afternoons/evenings; mornings often beach-friendly.
Sarapiquí (rainforest): ~22–30 °C; frequent showers keep trails slick—good grip footwear.
Tortuguero & Puerto Viejo (Caribbean): ~23–30 °C; June–July mixed; September–October can be surprisingly dry/clear on the Caribbean.

Rain, Humidity & UV

Expect high humidity nearly everywhere; technical quick-dry fabrics help.
UV is strong year-round—hat, sunglasses, and SPF 30+ are essentials.
Showers can be intense but brief; a light waterproof and a pack cover/dry bag keep gear happy.

Sea & Water

Pacific swells vary; the Caribbean is often calmer in Sep–Oct. Always follow local safety advice.
Rivers and waterfalls run higher in the green season—spectacular, but trails may be muddy.

Daylight & Wildlife Timing

Sunrise ~05:15–05:45, sunset ~17:15–18:00. Early starts beat both heat and crowds and align with prime wildlife hours.

Trail & Conditions Notes

Surfaces range from paved paths to muddy jungle trails; closed-toe footwear with tread is recommended.
Cloud-forest ridges can feel notably cooler and windier than towns the same day—carry a warm layer even on “hot” days.

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What to Pack

Essentials

Daypack (20–30 L) with hip belt; refillable water bottles (1–2 L total) or hydration bladder.
Lightweight microfibre towel, compact toiletries, hand sanitiser, biodegradable wipes.
Head torch (spare batteries) and a 10–20k mAh power bank.
Personal first-aid (plasters/blister care, pain relief, rehydration salts, any meds).
Travel adapter (Type A/B, 110–120 V).

Layering & Weather

Quick-dry tees and breathable shorts; one light long-sleeve for sun/bugs.
Thin fleece or light insulated jacket (Monteverde nights can feel cool).
Waterproof, hooded rain jacket + light rain pants (showers can be heavy).
Neck gaiter/bandana for sun and sweat management.
Lightweight, packable umbrella (handy in towns).

Footwear

Closed-toe walking shoes/low hikers with tread (already broken in).
Water shoes/secure sandals for waterfalls, boat landings, and beach days.
Breathable socks (merino/synthetic) + spare laces.

Sun & Insect

Sun hat, UV-rated sunglasses, SPF 30+ sunscreen (ocean-safe if possible).
Insect repellent (picaridin/DEET) and after-bite soothing cream.
Lightweight long pants for evenings and forest trails.

Documents & Money

Passport, required visa/ETA (if applicable), travel insurance details (printed + digital).
Credit/debit card and a small amount of CRC cash for tips/snacks.
Copies of key documents stored separately.

Nice-to-Haves

Dry bags/stuff sacks to keep clothing and electronics dry.
Trekking poles (collapsible) for longer or muddy jungle walks.
Swimwear + quick-dry sarong or cover-up.
Reusable mug/spork for picnics and early starts.
Earplugs & eye mask (early wildlife hours = early mornings).
Small binoculars for canal and canopy wildlife viewing.

Pack light, think quick-dry + layers, and keep electronics/wallet in a zippered, water-resistant pouch—humid rainforest and sudden downpours are part of the fun.

Local Insights

Two coasts, two patterns: The Pacific tends to follow the classic dry (Dec–Apr) / green (May–Nov) rhythm, while the Caribbean can be sunnier in Sep–Oct—handy for planning boat days in Tortuguero or beach time in Puerto Viejo.
Why the water glows green: Many rivers and hot springs near Arenal run over volcanic rock rich in minerals and suspended sediments—sunlight scatters and you get those milky aqua tones in pools and falls.
Cloud forest ≠ rain forest: Monteverde sits higher and cooler; mist and wind are part of the show. Trails can feel like skywalks—pack a warm layer even if San José felt summer-like.
Wildlife etiquette that actually works: Move slowly, keep voices low, and let animals cross trails first. Monkeys and coatis are clever—no food in hand and zip bags closed. For sloths, patience beats proximity.
Prime time is early time: Wildlife is most active around dawn; it’s also the coolest part of the day. Early entries to Manuel Antonio and first boats in Tortuguero are worth the alarm.
Coffee with a conscience: Community projects like Mi Cafecito pay growers fairly and reinvest in local jobs. Buying beans there keeps your souvenir money circulating in the region.
Sea savvy: Pacific beaches can have rip currents; always check local flags and follow guide advice. On the Caribbean, conditions swing with weather—calmer in Sep–Oct is common.
Bugs, meet strategy: Long, light layers at dusk, repellent on ankles and cuffs, and a quick tent/room check at night. Humidity is high—quick-dry fabrics earn their place.
Turtle nesting (seasonal): If you visit in the right months, guided night walks near Tortuguero may be offered. Red-light rules, silence, and strict distance protect the turtles—guides will brief you.
Pura Vida pace: Things start early and move unhurriedly. A smile, “Pura vida,” and a little Spanish (“por favor,” “gracias”) open doors—from roadside sodas to market stalls.
Cash still counts: Cards work in most towns, but small bills are handy for tips, fruit stands, and park-side snacks—especially on the Caribbean coast and in rural stops.
Pack-out mindset: Trails and beaches are shared with wildlife; carry a small bag for your own rubbish and any stray bits you spot—leave places a touch better than you found them.

Your Tour Offsets drive far more than Tree Planting — We Go Climate Positive By Design | Click Here to View the Method

CO₂ Footprint

Results Summary (Topline)

Estimated per guest — 9-day: ~1.4 tCO₂e
Estimated per guest — 16-day: ~1.7 tCO₂e
Estimated per tour (assumed 16 guests): 9-day ≈ 22.4 tCO₂e · 16-day ≈ 27.2 tCO₂e
Counter-impact applied: 200% (e.g., 9-day ≈ 2.8 tCO₂e per guest; 16-day ≈ 3.4 tCO₂e per guest)
Method note: High-estimate using DEFRA-aligned factors with Well-to-Tank and RF = 1.9 for aviation; includes single-hub guest travel, all meals (included and off-tour), on-tour road/boat/ferry transport, accommodation (HCMI approach), and one wildlife/boat day per guest. +10% uncertainty uplift applied.

Purpose

Provide a clear, conservative estimate of the greenhouse-gas footprint so travellers understand the impact of this itinerary and the 200% counter-impact applied.

Tour Header

Tour: Costa Rica Pura Vida: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Wild Coasts | San José → San José (9/16 days)
Style: Small-group (Classic · Standard)
Regions: Central Valley · Arenal/La Fortuna · Monteverde · Pacific (Quepos/Manuel Antonio) · (16-day adds Sarapiquí, Tortuguero, Puerto Viejo)

Scope & Boundaries (what’s counted)

Guest travel to/from the tour: Single official feeder hub → San José (SJO) and return (loop).
On-tour transport: Mini-coach/private vehicle, public bus segments (16-day), boat/ferry segments (Lake Arenal/Tortuguero).
Accommodation: Hotels throughout; 2-night jungle lodge on the 16-day.
Meals: All meals (included + off-tour) for the full trip duration.
Activities: One wildlife/boat day per guest (conservative assumption).
Excluded: Personal shopping; extraordinary add-ons not typical for the route.

Feeder Hub — Single Origin City

Miami (MIA) selected as the nearest major hub commonly serving San José (SJO). Routing applied for both versions: MIA ↔ SJO.

Emission Factors & Conservative Defaults (overview)

Aviation (economy, short/medium-haul): ~0.158 kgCO₂e/pax-km base × RF 1.9 + WTT uplift applied.
Mini-coach / public bus (passenger-km): ~0.09 kgCO₂e/pax-km (conservative for smaller vehicles/mixed terrain, WTT included).
Boats/ferries (allocated passenger share): conservative fixed trip totals applied by segment.
Accommodation (HCMI-style proxies): Hotel ~10 kgCO₂e/night, Jungle lodge ~10 kgCO₂e/night.
Meals: ~2.5 kgCO₂e per meal (production + prep, conservative).
Wildlife/boat day: ~0.05–0.06 tCO₂e per guest.

Activity Data (applied)

Aviation (MIA ↔ SJO): ~3,640 km total.
Road distance (on tour): ~650 km (9-day) · ~1,200 km (16-day).
Boats/ferries: Lake Arenal shuttle (9/16-day); Tortuguero canal boats + river shuttles (16-day).
Accommodation: 8 nights (9-day) · 15 nights (16-day).
Meals counted: 27 (9-day) · 48 (16-day).
Wildlife/boat day: 1 per guest (both versions; conservative).

Results — Per Guest (rounded)

Aviation (MIA–SJO–MIA, RF+WTT): ~0.95–1.10 tCO₂e
Road transport: ~0.06 tCO₂e (9-day) · ~0.11 tCO₂e (16-day)
Boats/ferries (allocated): ~0.03–0.05 tCO₂e (9-day) · ~0.05–0.08 tCO₂e (16-day)
Accommodation: ~0.08 tCO₂e (9-day) · ~0.15 tCO₂e (16-day)
Meals: ~0.07 tCO₂e (9-day) · ~0.12 tCO₂e (16-day)
Wildlife/boat day: ~0.05–0.06 tCO₂e
Subtotal: ≈ 1.21–1.36 tCO₂e (9-day) · 1.41–1.56 tCO₂e (16-day)
+10% uncertainty uplift: → ~1.3–1.5 tCO₂e (9-day) · ~1.6–1.7 tCO₂e (16-day)
Rounded for communication: ~1.4 tCO₂e (9-day) · ~1.7 tCO₂e (16-day)

Results — Per Tour (assumed 16 guests)

9-day: ~22.4 tCO₂e
16-day: ~27.2 tCO₂e

Assumptions (key)

Single-hub model fixed to Miami (MIA) for this listing.
Mini-coach factor set higher than large-coach norms to reflect smaller vehicles and varied topography.
All meals counted (included + off-tour) at a conservative per-meal factor.
One wildlife/boat day assumed per guest for both versions, even if not all guests participate.
+10% uplift covers variability (weather reroutes, vehicle idling, occupancy/load factors).

Versioning

Method: Zero Trace Standard v1.9 (DEFRA-aligned; WTT included; RF = 1.9 for aviation).
Date: 29 September 2025.
Preparer: Zero Trace (marketplace methodology; not the tour operator).

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The core 9-day loop is Easy–Moderate with short walks and humid conditions; the 16-day adds more active options but remains accessible if you’re comfortable on your feet for a few hours.

Hotels throughout the 9-day (private facilities typical). The 16-day adds a 2-night jungle lodge in Sarapiquí plus hotels in Tortuguero and Puerto Viejo. Twin share as standard; My Own Room upgrade may be available (limited).

9-day: 1 × Lunch (community co-op). 16-day: 4 × Breakfasts, 4 × Lunches, 4 × Dinners. Most dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice—bring preferred snacks if your diet is very specific.

Small group, max 16 (typical ~12), led by a professional tour leader (Chief Experience Officer) with specialist local guides where listed.

How do I book and confirm my departure?

Pick a departure date, pay the deposit, then reply to your confirmation with tour name, date, guest details (full names, DOB, dietaries) so the operator can finalise your place.

What’s the luggage allowance and best bag type?

Pack light and soft: one main duffel/bag plus a daypack. Shared vehicle space and frequent transfers make soft bags easier than hard cases.

How do optional activities work (zipline, canyoning, catamaran, turtle walk)?

They’re own expense unless listed as included. Your leader will cover timings, prices, and sign-ups on tour. Availability can be seasonal and weather-dependent.

Will I have phone signal or Wi-Fi?

Reliable in cities/towns; patchy to none in cloud forest, Tortuguero canals, and some coastal stretches. Some lodges may not have Wi-Fi—plan for offline windows.

Is travel insurance required—and do I need a visa?

Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Entry requirements vary by passport; check visa/eTA rules for Costa Rica before booking flights.

What’s the camping situation?

None—this itinerary uses hotels (plus a jungle lodge on the 16-day). Bring a sleep mask/earplugs if you’re a light sleeper; early wildlife hours mean early mornings.

Is the itinerary guaranteed?

The spirit is consistent, but weather, park advisories, and road conditions can prompt changes. Adjustments prioritise safety and experience quality.

What’s not included that I should budget for?

International flights, airport transfers, optional extras, meals/snacks not listed as included, personal drinks (alcohol is BYO), personal gear, laundry, souvenirs, and tips (at your discretion).

CO₂ Emissions

0t

CO₂ Reductions

0t

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Travel insurance is your friend for recovering non-refundable costs.
The earlier you contact us, the better your options typically are.

Short answer: Usually yes, but it depends on the operator’s rules and how close you are to departure.

Date changes

We’ll check new-date availability with the operator.
If a change is possible, you’ll pay any applicable operator change fee plus any price difference for the new date.
The closer to departure, the tighter (and costlier) changes become; some trips treat late changes as a cancel + rebook under the operator’s policy.

Transfer to another person (name change)

Many operators allow a name change/transfer up to a certain cut-off.
Fees and deadlines vary by operator and services booked (e.g., flights may be non-transferable).

Instant-confirmation bookings

If you booked via a live operator calendar, the operator’s T&Cs apply immediately. Some departures are non-changeable or have stricter windows.

How to request a change

Email us with your booking reference, preferred new date/person’s details, and any flexibility.
We’ll confirm options, fees, and any price differences before making changes.

Pro tips

Ask early—more seats = more options, lower fees.
Consider travel insurance that covers change/cancellation costs.
Always check booking terms and conditions, links displayed on each tour page under the overview.

Yes. Your money is protected by our own accreditation and safeguards, plus the protections of our tour partners and the payment methods we use.

Our business safeguards

Legally registered business with documented booking & refund policies.
Commercial insurance appropriate to our operations.
VTIC Quality Tourism Accreditation (Quality Tourism Accredited Business) confirming we meet industry standards for customer service, safety, and risk management.

Operator-level protection

We partner only with established operators who maintain their own financial protections and clear refund/credit policies.
When you book via a live operator calendar, payment is processed directly by the operator and their protections/terms apply immediately.

How your payment is handled

All card payments run through a secure, PCI-compliant gateway; we don’t store your full card details.
If you book through a live operator calendar, payment is processed directly into the operator’s system, and their terms & protections apply immediately.

Your legal rights

Your purchase is also covered by consumer laws in your country/state (fair trading/refund rights). We reference the applicable jurisdiction on your paperwork.

Extra peace of mind

Paying by credit card may add chargeback protection from your card issuer.
We strongly recommend travel insurance to cover situations outside operator/consumer protections (your own cancellation, medical, delays).

Absolutely. Our prices update live from the operator, but if you spot the same tour on the same dates with the same inclusions and terms advertised for less — even in a public sale or promo — we’ll match it.

Already booked? We’ll refund the difference to your original payment method (eligibility applies, based on the final checkout price including taxes/fees from an authorised seller). And yes, the matched price still includes our 200% carbon offset — no dilution of benefits.

Not for every trip—but for most travellers, we strongly recommend it

Some itineraries and partner operators do require insurance (especially remote treks, glacier walks, or bookings made via live operator calendars with mandatory cover).

When it’s required

Certain partners/departures make insurance compulsory and may ask for proof before departure. If you book one of these, their T&Cs apply immediately.

What good cover includes

Medical treatment & emergency evacuation/repatriation (high limits).
Trip cancellation/interruption (protects your deposit and balance if plans change).
Baggage & travel delay, and supplier default where available.
Coverage for all activities on your itinerary (e.g., trekking, glacier hikes, kayaking) and any relevant altitudes/conditions.
24/7 assistance hotline and a clear claims process.

When to buy

At booking. That way, cancellation benefits start immediately and you’re covered if something crops up before you travel.

How to share proof

Email us your policy certificate (names, policy number, assistance phone).
If you booked via an instant-confirmation operator calendar, follow their proof instructions and deadlines exactly.

Most departures run as planned, but guarantees depend on the operator and minimum numbers. If there’s a wobble, we’ll tell you fast and give you options.

How it works

Minimum group size: Most partners need a minimum number of travellers to confirm a trip.
When we confirm: Each operator has a confirmation window (often 30–60 days before departure). We monitor load and update you as status changes.
Any listing from "G-Adventures" will be guaranteed to run with a booking

If a trip is under-subscribed

We’ll contact you with clear options:

Move to another date (same tour)

Switch to a comparable trip

Full refund of monies paid (per the operator’s terms)

Any price differences for new dates/trips will be discussed before you decide.

If a trip is suspended (weather, park closures, strikes, force majeure)

First, we’ll look to re-route or adjust (e.g., alternative park, similar activities).
If that’s not viable, you can move dates, choose a different trip, or receive a refund/credit according to the operator’s policy.

Our promise

Proactive comms: We’ll keep you posted as soon as we know more—no last-minute surprises if we can help it.
No pressure choices: You pick the outcome; we handle the admin.
Flight advice: Until your tour is confirmed, book flexible/refundable flights or add insurance that covers schedule changes.

TRAVEL

RESTORE

REPEAT

- RESERVE YOUR SPOT NOW -

Costa Rica Pura Vida: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Wild Coasts | San José → San José (9/16 Days)

San José ⇄ San José

Easy | Ages 12+

Hotels

200% CO₂ Offset

Costa Rica Pura Vida: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Wild Coasts | San José → San José (9/16 Days)

Key Tour Info

We are working to bring live on-site reviews for this tour

Save time planning with our helpful travel tools

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Point A - B Travel Time Estimator

Co2 Calculator

BOOKING & PAYMENT FAQ's

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Reserve Spot

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Adventure Time!

TRAVEL

RESTORE

REPEAT

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Verified Reviews

Live Dates, Matched Prices

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Vetted Tour Operators

200% Restoration Offsets

Verified Reviews

Live Dates, Matched Prices

Secure Payment Portals

Vetted Tour Operators

200% Restoration Offsets

Country/Region

Country/Region

Costa Rica Pura Vida: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Wild Coasts | San José → San José (9/16 Days)

San José ⇄ San José

Easy | Ages 12+

Hotels

200% CO₂ Offset

Costa Rica Pura Vida: Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Wild Coasts | San José → San José (9/16 Days)

Key Tour Info

We are working to bring live on-site reviews for this tour

Save time planning with our helpful travel tools

Optimum Travel Time Heat-Map

Point A - B Travel Time Estimator

Co2 Calculator

BOOKING & PAYMENT FAQ's

Choose Tour

Pick Dates

Reserve Spot

Sort Logistics

Adventure Time!

TRAVEL

RESTORE

REPEAT

Would you like to hear from us (occasionally) with cool adventure stuff..?

Verified Reviews

Live Dates, Matched Prices

Secure Payment Portals

Vetted Tour Operators

200% Restoration Offsets

Verified Reviews

Live Dates, Matched Prices

Secure Payment Portals

Vetted Tour Operators

200% Restoration Offsets