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Costa Rica Eco Adventure 2025

8 Day Costa Rica Tour from San Jose

Costa Rica Nature Adventure 2026 with Guanacaste Beach
AARP Member Benefits
AARP Members Save on select departures
SAVE UP TO $258
From $2,318
WAS $2,575
Find this price
8 Days
1 Country

Costa Rica

9 Cities

San José, San Isidro, Braulio Carrillo National Park, Tortuguero, Sarapiqui, Arenal Volcano National Park, Monteverde, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve, Liberia

17 Meals

6 Dinners, 7 Breakfasts, 4 Lunchs

Active

Faster paced with mix of 1 and 2-night stays in each destination. Requires walking to participate in top sites.

Average group size average 48-52
Tour brand Trafalgar

Best Value Tours by Trafalgar

If you like hassle free travel with everything handled for you – looking to meet great people, eat great food, enjoy great sightseeing, and have immersive experiences, Trafalgar is for you.  From the iconic not-to-be-missed to one-of-a-kind local experiences, including Be-my-Guest dining and stays with stories, you’ll connect deeper to your destination, and every tour has at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER immersive impact experience offering you the chance to dive into culture and community.

View all Trafalgar Tours

Glide through tree-lined waterways, relax in thermal pools, sample chocolate made from the world's best cacao and journey back in time with a native Quaker in Old Town Monteverde. Your Costa Rica tour captures the natural highlights of this biodiverse country.

Reviews
54
Average group size
average 48-52
Tour brand
Trafalgar
Globe

Flexible booking 30-day deposit refund guarantee + no change fees See flexible booking terms >

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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to San José

Learn the secrets of Pura Vida – Costa Rica’s inimitable zest for life that will linger throughout your effortlessly delivered encounter with a land that boasts no artificial ingredients. This evening, join your Travel Director and fellow expeditioners for dinner.

Hilltop and mountain in San Jose, Costa Rica
Welcome Meet your Travel Director at 18:00
Accommodation Sheraton San Jose Hotel
Included Meals Dinner

Day 2

Discover the Natural Beauty of Tortuguero National Park

Journey to San Isidro de Heredia where you’ll Dive into Culture with master chocolatiers Julio Fernandez and George Soriano to learn about the history of chocolate and its production at this small workshop. Then, it’s on to Siquirres where we embark on a river journey through protected wetlands and on to secluded Tortuguero, gliding through canals, lagoons and lowland rainforest. Visit the Village of Tortuguero for a culturally enriching MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience meeting Tortuguero Village pioneers and learning about their way of life. Then continue to your Stays with Stories at Laguna Lodge, where you’ll learn the story of how the lodge was built with materials that protect this biodiverse environment and natural habitat. Later, enjoy dinner at your hotel accompanied by the enchanting sounds of resident cicadas and tree frogs.

Squirrel Monkey in Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica
Accommodation Laguna Lodge Tortuguero
Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Tortuguero Village Visit

In the Village of Tortuguero, meet the village’s first pioneers and hear stories of what life was like in Tortuguero. You’ll also learn about all t...

See More
Included in Trip

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Dive Into Culture Master Chocolatiers experience in San Isidro de Heredia, Costa Rica
Dive Into Culture

Meet master chocolatiers, Julio Fernandez and George Soriano, to learn about the history of chocolate and how it is produced at this small workshop.

Included in Trip

Dive Into Culture

Trafalgar Difference
Stay with Stories

Welcome to Laguna Lodge Tortuguero, a remote 15-acre retreat which embraces the rich natural environment Costa Rica is known for. You’ll feel a par...

See More
Included in Trip

Trafalgar Difference

Day 3

Visit the wildlife of Tortuguero National Park

Cruise the canals and streams of the park today with a Local Specialist as howler monkeys watch from the treetops, toucans and egrets fly through the air and crocodiles ply the cool waters. Visit the Village of Tortuguero. If you are here between July and September, take an optional tour to see the sea turtles laying eggs on the beach.

Man in Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica
Accommodation Laguna Lodge Tortuguero
Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4

Sample heart of palm in Tortuguero

Bid adiós to Tortuguero and head back to the mainland where we’ll enjoy lunch before meeting the Tico family for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at their palm plantation. There you'll learn about and sample the delicate heart of palm. Tonight you'll enjoy dinner with the owners of your hotel as they prepare a special barbecue meal just for you.

Sloth in Costa Rica
Accommodation La Quinta Sarapiqui Lodge
Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Meet the Tico family at their palm plantation in Sarapiqui, Costa Rica
Heart of Palm Plantation Experience

Meet the Tico family at their palm plantation to learn about and sample the delicate heart of palm surrounded by tropical forest. Your experience d...

See More
Included in Trip

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Whats Included Visit the Quintana family's Hacienda Pozo Azul, Sarapiqui, Costa Rica
Dinner at Hotel La Quinta Sarapiqui

Tonight you'll enjoy some time with the owners of your hotel, providing a unique experience, as they prepare a special BBQ meal just for you.

Included in Trip

Whats Included

Day 5

Mingle with Locals in Saripiqui

Rise with the sun to get up close and personal with Costa Rica's exquisite nature during a leisurely walk. Keep a lookout for the endangered great green macaw and connect with your beautiful natural surroundings. Embark on an optional rafting trip later this morning. We Connect With Locals this afternoon, enjoying a Be My Guest experience lunch at an eco-friendly hacienda built by the Quintana family as a retirement project. Today, it is home to an organic farm and related eco-adventures. Learn how your experience contributes to the local community. Our journey continues to Arenal Volcano, on whose slopes we spend the afternoon relaxing in our resort's beautifully landscaped thermal pools.

People River Rafting in Sarapiqui, Costa Rica
Accommodation Arenal Paraiso Resort and Spa
Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch
Be My Guest Visit the Quintana family's Hacienda Pozo Azul, Sarapiqui, Costa Rica
Hacienda Pozo Azul

Visit the Quintana family's Hacienda Pozo Azul and discover how they reduce their carbon footprint and support the local community.

Included in Trip

Be My Guest

Optional Experiences People River Rafting in Sarapiqui, Costa Rica
White Water Rafting Level II and III

The morning excursion on a class II and III river involves navigating nearly 13 km (over 8 miles) on the Sarapiqui River, and is a great introducti...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 6

Immerse in the stories of Monteverde Cloud Forest

Our soul-stirring encounter with Costa Rica’s natural wonders continues after a morning at leisure. Straddle the Continental Divide and touch the sky in Monteverde Cloud Forest, where you’ll have an opportunity to explore this biodiverse sanctuary, renowned for its collection of orchid species – more than in any other single place. Tonight, you will Dive into Culture as you meet descendants of native Quaker and a Local Specialist, who will share stories of Old Town Monteverde and delve into the history of the American Quakers who settled in the area in the 1950s. This evening, relish some of the best views as you enjoy dinner.

Toucan in Monteverde Cloud Rainforest, Costa Rica
Accommodation El Establo Mountain Hotel, Monteverde
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Dive Into Culture Watch a presentation by Monteverde Quaker pioneer descendants at El Establo Mountain Hotel in Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica
Monteverde's Quaker Pioneers

Meet Monteverde's Quaker descendants and Local Specialist to learn about Old Town Monteverde and the fascinating history of the American Quakers wh...

See More
Included in Trip

Dive Into Culture

Optional Experiences Green Crowned Brilliant in Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica
Arenal Natura Ecological Park & Walking Tour

At this wonderful park you will have the opportunity to experience Costa Rica’s wildlife up close and personal where beautiful frogs, birds, reptil...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Red Ginger near Volcano in Arenal, Costa Rica
Arenal Volcano Hike

Ever since the 1500s, locals considered Arenal to be just a regular everyday mountain. However, everything changed on the morning of July 29, 1968,...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences
Kayak On Lake Arenal

Arenal Lake is the largest in the country and home to a wide diversity of birds, both resident and migratory, such as flycatchers, kingfishers and ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences
ATV Tour

Enjoy nature and unique views of the majestic Arenal Volcano on this exhilarating ATV adventure. After a brief operation and safety demonstration, ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 7

Wander the Monteverde Cloud Forest

This morning, join your Travel Director for an excursion through the lush rainforests of Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Ascend to the treetops high above the jungle floor below, treading lightly along the Sky Walk suspension bridges amongst the wildlife that find sanctuary in the boughs of the surrounding canopy. As our epic eco-adventure nears its end, we share stories with newfound friends at a Farewell Dinner.

Bridge in Monteverde Cloud Rainforest, Costa Rica
Accommodation El Establo Mountain Hotel, Monteverde
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Iconic Experience Sky Walk tour in the Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica
Sky Walk

Walk above the jungle floor on the Sky Walk. A chain of six suspension bridges at canopy level with complete views of the forest and access to a co...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Optional Experiences Coffee Beans in Monteverde, Costa Rica
El Trapiche Tour

The tour begins with a walk through the farm where you’ll view sugarcane, banana, orange and coffee plantations. You will learn about the coffee ma...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Mare grazing in Estancia pasture, Argentina​
Horseback Riding Tour

On your horseback excursion, enjoy sweeping views of the Nicoya Gulf and its islands as you ride your way through coffee and sugarcane plantations,...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences
Sky Tram and Sky Trek

Board a comfortable gondola and fly among the trees on the lookout for local wildlife. As you glide among the forest, see how it changes in vegetat...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences
Sky Tram Up and Down

Board a comfortable gondola and fly among the trees on the lookout for local wildlife. As you glide among the forest, see how it changes in vegetat...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 8

Adios Monteverde and Liberia

Transfer to Liberia International Airport. Airport arrival will be at approximately 11:00 am, please be aware when booking your flights.

Toucan in Monteverde Cloud Rainforest, Costa Rica
Included Meals Breakfast

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Special Departure

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Included Highlights

Top rated highlights

Learn more about the landmarks, history and culture that makes your destination special.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Tortuguero Village Visit

In the Village of Tortuguero, meet the village’s first pioneers and hear stories of what life was like in Tortuguero. You’ll also learn about all t...

See More
Included in Trip
Dive Into Culture
Dive Into Culture

Meet master chocolatiers, Julio Fernandez and George Soriano, to learn about the history of chocolate and how it is produced at this small workshop.

Included in Trip
Trafalgar Difference
Stay with Stories

Welcome to Laguna Lodge Tortuguero, a remote 15-acre retreat which embraces the rich natural environment Costa Rica is known for. You’ll feel a par...

See More
Included in Trip
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Heart of Palm Plantation Experience

Meet the Tico family at their palm plantation to learn about and sample the delicate heart of palm surrounded by tropical forest. Your experience d...

See More
Included in Trip
Whats Included
Dinner at Hotel La Quinta Sarapiqui

Tonight you'll enjoy some time with the owners of your hotel, providing a unique experience, as they prepare a special BBQ meal just for you.

Included in Trip
Be My Guest
Hacienda Pozo Azul

Visit the Quintana family's Hacienda Pozo Azul and discover how they reduce their carbon footprint and support the local community.

Included in Trip
Dive Into Culture
Monteverde's Quaker Pioneers

Meet Monteverde's Quaker descendants and Local Specialist to learn about Old Town Monteverde and the fascinating history of the American Quakers wh...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Sky Walk

Walk above the jungle floor on the Sky Walk. A chain of six suspension bridges at canopy level with complete views of the forest and access to a co...

See More
Included in Trip

About this trip

All porterage and restaurant gratuities
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
All transport and transfers shown
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Optional Experiences and free time
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

What to expect

Visit Tortuguero Village, Sarapiqui
View Arenal Volcano
Explore Cocoa Farm with Master Chocolatier and explore Monteverde with Quaker pioneer descendants
Hike through Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve guided by a Local Specialist
Cruise the canals of Tortuguero National Park

Optional Experiences

Sign up on tour for additional experiences that have been curated by your Travel Director from their own in-depth local knowledge.

Optional Experience
White Water Rafting Level II and III

The morning excursion on a class II and III river involves navigating nearly 13 km (over 8 miles) on the Sarapiqui River, and is a great introducti...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Arenal Natura Ecological Park & Walking Tour

At this wonderful park you will have the opportunity to experience Costa Rica’s wildlife up close and personal where beautiful frogs, birds, reptil...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Arenal Volcano Hike

Ever since the 1500s, locals considered Arenal to be just a regular everyday mountain. However, everything changed on the morning of July 29, 1968,...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Kayak On Lake Arenal

Arenal Lake is the largest in the country and home to a wide diversity of birds, both resident and migratory, such as flycatchers, kingfishers and ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
ATV Tour

Enjoy nature and unique views of the majestic Arenal Volcano on this exhilarating ATV adventure. After a brief operation and safety demonstration, ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
El Trapiche Tour

The tour begins with a walk through the farm where you’ll view sugarcane, banana, orange and coffee plantations. You will learn about the coffee ma...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Horseback Riding Tour

On your horseback excursion, enjoy sweeping views of the Nicoya Gulf and its islands as you ride your way through coffee and sugarcane plantations,...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Sky Tram and Sky Trek

Board a comfortable gondola and fly among the trees on the lookout for local wildlife. As you glide among the forest, see how it changes in vegetat...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Sky Tram Up and Down

Board a comfortable gondola and fly among the trees on the lookout for local wildlife. As you glide among the forest, see how it changes in vegetat...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Costa Rica

  • Official Language of Costa Rica: Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica.
  • Currency used in Costa Rica: The currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC).
  • Capital city: The capital of Costa Rica is San José
  • Time Zone(s) in Costa Rica: Central Standard Time (CST) zone. During Daylight Saving Time, it follows Central Daylight Time (CDT).

Costa Rica passport, visa, and entry requirement information for US citizens.

  • Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
  • Visa Requirement: A visa is not required to enter Costa Rica.
  • Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions.

Costa Rica has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The dry season, or "verano," lasts from December to April, bringing sunny days and less rainfall. The wet season, or "invierno," spans from May to November, characterized by more frequent rain showers, predominantly in the afternoons. The coastal regions, both on the Pacific and Caribbean sides, experience higher temperatures and humidity, while the central areas, like the capital city of San José, have milder temperatures due to higher elevation. The country's diverse topography and microclimates create a wide variety of ecosystems, including rainforests, cloud forests, and dry savannas.

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage: Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag: *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

  • *Please note: A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a guided tour will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:

Clothing:

  • Comfortable hiking shoes: Suitable for walking and light hikes. You should also consider bringing sandals or flip-flops for lounging or beach days. 
  • Lightweight, breathable clothing: Pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for warm and humid weather, but also consider bringing a light jacket or layers for cooler evenings or higher-altitude areas. Pack quick-drying shirts, shorts, and pants for warm and humid conditions. Long-sleeved shirts and pants offer protection against sun, bugs, and cooler evenings.
  • Quick-dry pants: Opt for comfortable pants that dry quickly if they get wet.
  • Layers: To ensure you're ready for any situation, it's wise to pack adaptable, layered clothing.
  • Rain jacket or poncho: Be prepared for sudden rain showers, especially during the rainy season.
  • Swimsuits: For beach and water activities.

Outdoor Gear & Sun Protection:

  • Hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing.
  • Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring reef-safe sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly.
  • Water-resistant backpack cover: To protect your belongings from rain.
  • Lightweight, quick-drying towel: Useful for beach visits and other water activities.

Medications and First Aid:

  • Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
  • Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

  • A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone. However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
  • Mobile phone.
  • Binoculars: Enhance your wildlife viewing experiences. Helpful for bird watching and wildlife spotting.
  • Chargers for each electronic you bring.
  • Travel adapter and/or voltage converter
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter if needed).

Miscellaneous:

  • A travel-friendly daypack or bag to carry your essentials during excursions.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet, and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
  • A small travel alarm.
  • A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
  • A travel pillow.

Optional:

  • Water shoes: For water-based activities or beach walks.
  • Hiking gear: If your tour involves more intense hiking or trekking, consider bringing sturdier boots and tear-away, convertible clothing items.
  • Rain pants: For additional rain protection during outdoor activities.
  • Hat with neck protection: Extra sun protection for your neck and ears.
  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites or to cover up in conservative areas.
  • Light sleepwear.
  • A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here!
  • Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

As an American citizen traveling to Peru, here's what you need to know about electricity, adapters, hair dryers, and air conditioning:

Electricity

American appliances run on 110-120 volts at 60 Hz. Costa Rica uses a standard voltage of 120V and a frequency of 60Hz, which is similar to the electricity standards in the United States. This means that most American devices will work without the need for a voltage converter.

Adapters and Converters

  • Costa Rica uses Type A and Type B outlets. Type A outlets have two flat parallel pins, while Type B outlets have two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin.
  • You might not need a voltage converter, but you will likely need a plug adapter to fit your American devices into the Costa Rican outlets.

We recommend purchasing a universal adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. And to pick up any necessary adapters or converters for your electronic devices before departing on your guided tour and bringing them with you.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Many hotels in Costa Rica provide hair dryers in their rooms for guests to use, especially those catering to international travelers. These hair dryers are usually compatible with the local voltage and plug types, so you won't typically need to worry about bringing your own unless you have specific preferences or requirements.

Since Costa Rica uses the same voltage as the United States (120V), most American appliances, including hair dryers, if you have a high-powered or specialized hair dryer that you prefer to use or if you're staying in accommodations that might not provide hair dryers, yours should work without the need for a voltage converter. However, if your appliances aren't dual-voltage, you'll still need a plug adapter to fit them into the Costa Rican outlets.

Remember also to pack any necessary travel adapters or voltage converters if your hair dryer is not compatible with the local voltage and plug type. It's always better to be prepared to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience during your trip.

If you are unsure about the electrical compatibility or amenities provided by a specific hotel, you can see if they provide this information on their site or contact them directly before your trip to inquire about the availability of hair dryers and other electrical considerations for international travelers. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but cannot find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

  • Depending on the area you're visiting in Costa Rica, the climate can vary. Some areas are quite warm and humid, while others may be cooler due to higher altitudes.
  • Air conditioning is used in Costa Rica. Given the warm climate, air conditioning helps maintain comfortable indoor temperatures. Restaurants, shopping malls, museums, and other public spaces typically have air conditioning to provide relief from the heat. 
  • In more traditional or older buildings, air conditioning might not be as prevalent as in modern structures.
  • Keep in mind that local customs and practices might influence the use of air conditioning.

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days of your tour are complimentary only if you are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold, and your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings. Learn more about Airport Transfers here.

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

Traveling on a guided tour can be an exciting and enriching experience. However, it's essential to prioritize your health and safety while exploring new territories. Staying informed, prepared, and cautious will go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable travel experience. Always stay in touch with your Travel Director and always follow their recommendations.

Here are some health advice and recommendations for travelers:

Visit the Doctor: Before embarking on your trip, schedule a visit with a medicine specialist or your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized health advice based on your medical history, current health status, and the specific countries you'll be visiting.

Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuations, and trip cancellations.

First Aid Kit: Carry a basic kit with essential items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, antidiarrheal medication, and any prescribed medications.  

Stay Hydrated: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day, and rest in air-conditioned or shaded areas.

Respect Local Customs: Respect local customs and dress codes, especially in conservative areas. Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medications and carry them in their original packaging, along with a copy of your prescription. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications.

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these. 

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Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Janis King
Review date: Saturday, March 30, 2024
Service
Our vacation to Costa Rica was outstanding. What a great company. Our tour guide Victor was awesome and had many different excursions for us to enjoy. We will definitely travel with them again.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you so much! Costa Rica is an amazing place to see and we're so happy you enjoyed yourself.
Wednesday, April 3, 2024
Vacation
Our tour director Victor made our tour so special. Every day we saw new birds and animals. We got to try many new foods and stay in many beautiful places in the rain forest.
Gail Wekenmann
Review date: Monday, March 9, 2020
Service
Had multiple issue getting call backs or follow ups this time. Also overcharged and had to call back twice to get it fixed.
Vacation
German was the most fantastic tour guide. He loves his job and country.
Irene Sada
Review date: Sunday, April 7, 2019
Service
disconnect with original flight plans. although it was corrected, it was very distressing in the beginning.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are glad that everything was able to be sorted out with your flights and apologize for any confusion or misunderstanding.
Tuesday, April 16, 2019
Vacation
it would could have been made better if we had more time in each location.. One night is not enough as a travel day can be all day long leaving little time to enjoy each location.
Michele CK
Review date: Wednesday, April 3, 2019
Service
Loved the Costa Rica Eco-Adventure. Wish we could have more time in each location. Loved being away from it all. Some accommodations were a bit "rustic," but all were clean with exceptional service and great food! German, our Travel Director was the best!
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for taking the time to share your wonderful experience in Costa Rica.
Friday, April 5, 2019
Vacation
The adventure itself was excellent. Getting there and home again were a bit of a nightmare! But, all worked out.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Tuesday, February 5, 2019
Service
Wonderful daily itinerary and great tour guide who had very good command of English. What enhancements: 1. Reconstruct the day to include time to stretch, walk, exercise, if appropriate swim 2. Time just to enjoy the lodge and area we are staying - in January it got dark early so I selected not to walk after dinner in the dark due to the natural habitat of the areas i.e. rain forest in Tortuguero and Sarapique. So, extend daylight free time and leave for the next location the next day vs. cramming in time to getting to a new lodge at dinner time (missing daylight fun on the ground) 3. Perhaps, add 2 days to this itinerary 4. Provide a heads-up that Costa Rica is primarily a Spanish speaking country with little English spoken by natives/staff at lodges 5. Provide a heads-up that wi-fi is not available or very limited 6. Provide information on proper clothing. I refer to zip-lining in Monteverde where it felt like 35 degrees with wicked winds..... I loved the unique locations we stopped at. The owners of the small plantations were so informative (translated at times by the guide) and welcoming. Hats off to those individuals. Our guide made sure that we never starved! reneabrams@aol.com
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for all your suggestions and review. We are so happy that you enjoyed beautiful Costa Rica.
Wednesday, February 13, 2019
Vacation
Everyone likes a "best" price and as a single I really feel that statement. Some tour agencies have consideration for singles and have us pay the same fare as couples.
Carolyn Dimig
Review date: Monday, February 4, 2019
Service
Rob Rainwater was excellent. He answered all my questions quickly and efficiently.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you! We will be sure to pass this on to Rob.
Wednesday, February 13, 2019
Vacation
Very early morning departures and many hours on the bus or boat to Tortuguero. The name tags are not good. Most of us quit wearing them after a day or two.They are difficult to attach to a "t" shirt. A lanyard would work much better.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Saturday, October 20, 2018
Service
Transportation, air and ground, excellent. Hotel in San Jose great. We were hoping we could change one leg of air at the airport but due to the booking we weren't eligible unless we paid high fee. I could have purchased through Trafalgar but GET qualifies me for an AARP discount. GET is sister company to Trafalgar. This is first escorted trip we have done. I would do it again. We had a fantastic trip.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Costa Rica is a beautiful country--we're so glad you had a fantastic trip and were able to discover the "pure life." Thank you for taking the time to write!
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
Vacation
Extra excursions should have been priced before we booked trip.
Karen Wubenhorst
Review date: Saturday, July 7, 2018
Service
The tour guide was knowledgeable and interesting. The sights were magnificent as well as the lodging. It was the perfect trip!
Vacation
Excellent value for the price
Herbert Rudd
Review date: Monday, June 4, 2018
Service
Good and excellent director
Vacation
Yes Very good but needed one or 2 more days
Frank Mauro
Review date: Saturday, June 2, 2018
Service
The tour guide and bus driver were beyond excellent. Kept us entertained and informed the entire trip.
Vacation
Good value for the money.
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