Costa Rica December 3 to 11, 2024

Details

Accommodations

Based on 5 people 

4 star accommodations 

Included:

• Breakfast daily
• Roundtrip Airport Transfers 
• Driver 
• English speaking guides
• 24 hour in location assistance 
• Three nights in a 4* hotel in Arenal 
• Arenal Hanging Bridges
• Safari Float on Rio Penas Blancas  
• Coffee, Sugar and Chocolate Tour 
• Two nights in a 4* hotel in Monteverde 
• Curi Cancha Reserve Guided Hike  
• 3 nights in a 4* hotel in Manuel Antonio  
• Private Manuel Antonio National Park Tour 
• Chocolate Harvesting to chocolate

 Excluded: 

Important Reminders

• This tour take up to 5 travelers.

Protect Your Travel Investment:  Travel insurance is more important than ever. To get an idea of rates, please go to speak with us regarding options for Insurance. 

Packing Suggestions

The best time to visit Costa Rica is in December when the weather is dry and sunny. This makes it ideal for touring. We suggest you monitor weather apps before you depart for the most current information. Refer to http://www.weather.gov/.
 
For This Trip You May Want—

• Smart-casual wear if you’d like to dress up a bit for dinners.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle
• Swimsuit, dress in layers 
• Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping pills, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.

Good Packing Habits—

• Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind – or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
• Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
• Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
• Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.

Luggage

On every SG tour, our policies regarding luggage restrictions are driven by the physical space limitations of the vehicles we use and the requirement that all travelers be able to manage their own belongings without assistance. 

• It is best to travel as lightly as possible. Most travelers regret when they have packed too much.
• You may bring one suitcase plus small shoulder bag/day pack/purse.
• Maximum suitcase size: 25-inches in height as measured from the FLOOR to the top of the retracted handle. The small case in a 3-piece luggage set easily meets this requirement and should be plenty roomy for this length of trip.
• Suitcases larger than 25" in height will not fit in the SG coach; don't bring them.
• The maximum weight of your suitcase should not exceed 50 pounds, as you will need to lift it into the coach luggage compartment.
• You are responsible for managing your own belongings.  We expect you to take your belongings from the coach to your room and to bring it back to the coach and load it on days we change hotels. We do not provide luggage pulls; they are not safe and are inconvenient. The possibility of steps exist at most hotel entrances.

Fitness

Walking is a key component of our tours. On some days, between walking tours and personal exploration you can expect to walk 2-3 miles over the course of a day. Although the activity level on this trip may not appear strenuous, we believe you will enjoy the tour more if you possess a general level of fitness and endurance.

Money

Only you can determine the optimum amount of cash to take on tour. When budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses, there are several aspects to consider:  the number of meals you are responsible for, the amount of money you like to have on-hand for snacks and drinks, and your individual shopping interests and habits.

• Notify your credit card issuer that you will be traveling and provide dates of travel.
• ATMs are typically the best way of obtaining cash; you must know your PIN number for your debit and credit cards in order to use the ATMs.

Tipping

All tips to local guides during your tour have already been paid on your behalf. 

• You are responsible for tipping wait-staff, porters, or other individuals who provide a service to you at the hotel, or other public locations.
• You may want to tip your SG Tour Leader for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $7-$10 per day. 

• Shared Double Room

           $4300.00 (Insurance offered)--BASED on 4 travelers

• Single Room

  $4690.00  (Insurance offered)--BASED on 4 travelers

• Status of this Tour

  OPEN to 4 travelers. Please note pricing is based on 4 travelers, if less than 4 the trip may be postponed.  

Packing for a December trip to Costa Rica means preparing for a variety of weather conditions and activities, as December marks the beginning of the dry season in many parts of the country but can still be wet in others. The climate varies significantly between the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, as well as in the highlands. Here’s a comprehensive packing list to ensure you're well-prepared for your adventures:

Essentials

• Passport: Ensure it's valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
• Travel insurance documents: Keep a copy with you and another digitally.
• Credit/debit cards and some cash: U.S. dollars are widely accepted, but having local currency (Colón) is useful for small purchases.

Clothing

• Lightweight, breathable clothing: Quick-drying fabrics are ideal.
• Long sleeves and pants: For protection against the sun and insects, especially in the evenings.
• Rain jacket or poncho: Even in the dry season, tropical showers can occur, especially in the Caribbean side and cloud forests.
• Swimwear: For the beaches and hot springs.
• Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots: Waterproof is a plus for jungle treks or if visiting cloud forests.
• Sandals or flip-flops: Essential for the beach or around your accommodation.
• A hat and sunglasses: For sun protection.
• A light sweater or jacket: Evenings in the highlands can be cool.

Gear and Gadgets

• High SPF sunscreen: The tropical sun is strong.
• Insect repellent: Preferably with DEET, especially important in the rainforest and at dusk.
• Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic usage.
• Camera or smartphone with a good camera: For capturing the country's stunning landscapes and wildlife.
• Portable charger/power bank: Keep your devices charged on the go.
• Waterproof bag or case: Protect your gadgets during water activities or rain.
• Binoculars: A must for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
• Flashlight or headlamp: Useful for early morning or late evening activities, as well as in more remote locations.

Health and Hygiene

• Basic first-aid kit: Include medication for stomach upsets and motion sickness.
• Personal medications: Bring enough for the duration of your trip.
• Hand sanitizer and wet wipes: Handy for cleaning hands before eating when water and soap aren't available.

Miscellaneous

• Eco-friendly toiletries: Biodegradable options are better for the environment, especially in eco-sensitive areas.
• Snacks: Especially for long bus rides or hikes.
• A small backpack or daypack: For carrying essentials during daily excursions.
• Copies of important documents: Keep digital copies accessible online in case of loss or theft.

Optional (Based on Activities)

• Snorkeling or diving gear: Some prefer their own mask and snorkel for comfort and hygiene.
• Surfing accessories: If you plan to surf, consider bringing specific gear or wax, though these can also be rented or bought locally.
• Yoga or exercise clothes: If you’re participating in wellness activities.

Packing smart involves preparing for the activities you plan to do while allowing for the unexpected. Layering is key in Costa Rica’s variable climates, and protecting yourself from the sun and insects is crucial. 

Client Registration