PLAN YOUR TRIP

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to everything you need to know before exploring Costa Rica with CRNT.

We care about every detail of your journey — including the unexpected. Before you travel, we recommend securing your own international coverage, so you can explore Costa Rica with complete peace of mind.
What travel services can I book with CRNT?

At CRNT you can book all the essential services for your trip, individually or combined:

Our goal is to make your trip easy, safe and perfectly organized — with expert support before and throughout your visit to Costa Rica.

Simply share your travel dates, destinations of interest, number of travelers, any special preferences and your approximate budget. We’ll prepare a personalized proposal and send it to you for review. If you’d like to move forward, we confirm availability and let you know the amount needed to secure your services. To get started, contact us here.

No. We work with official rates from authorized providers in Costa Rica, so you pay exactly the same as booking directly — no hidden fees, no added commissions. The difference is that with CRNT you receive expert guidance, full itinerary management and personalized support at every stage.

Yes. Through our Tailor-Made Journeys service, we design itineraries built entirely around you — your interests, travel pace, budget and specific needs. You tell us what kind of experiences you’re looking for, and we craft a balanced plan combining destinations, hotels, tours and transfers. No rigid packages, no generic itineraries.

We recommend booking 4 to 6 weeks in advance, especially during high season or for boutique hotels and activities with limited availability. We also handle last-minute bookings whenever possible — the sooner you reach out, the more options and better rates we can secure for you.

Yes. We understand plans can change. If you need to modify or cancel, please contact us as soon as possible so we can explore the available options. Conditions vary depending on the service, provider and how far in advance the request is made. In general:

Modifications requested with sufficient notice are handled at no extra cost when the provider allows Late cancellations may incur charges according to each provider’s policy We will always clearly communicate all conditions before confirming any booking. We recommend having travel insurance that covers unexpected cancellations.

Yes. All our guides and drivers are bilingual in Spanish and English, and we work exclusively with licensed and certified professionals in Costa Rica. This ensures a safe, friendly and high-quality experience on every tour and transfer.

For group tours or shared transfers, the service may depart on schedule without you. For private services, we’ll do our best to wait a few extra minutes when the operation allows. If you anticipate a delay, please notify us immediately so we can coordinate with the provider and find the best solution.

International flights are not part of our services. What we do is ensure that from the moment you land, every detail is perfectly orchestrated — private airport transfers, domestic connections, and all ground logistics — so your journey feels effortless from the very first step.
We’ll also guide you on the best arrival airports and flight schedules to align seamlessly with your custom itinerary.

We’ll contact the provider to assist with the search, though recovery is not guaranteed. If the item is found, some providers can arrange delivery to your hotel or the airport, with shipping costs at the client’s expense. We recommend keeping your belongings in sight at all times and avoiding leaving valuables in vehicles or public areas.We’ll also guide you on the best arrival airports and flight schedules to align seamlessly with your custom itinerary.

How and when do I pay for my services?

Payment is processed once you approve the proposal and we confirm availability. Depending on the service, an initial deposit or full payment may be required to secure your booking. We always send you a clear breakdown of the amount, deadlines and conditions before processing any charge.

We accept credit and debit cards, bank transfers and electronic payments. All transactions are processed through platforms with data encryption and international security standards — reliable, straightforward payments with no complications. We do not accept personal checks.

All payments are processed in US dollars (USD). If you pay in another currency, your bank will apply the conversion automatically. Any difference due to exchange rates is the client’s responsibility.

Refunds depend on the type of service, the provider and how far in advance the cancellation is requested:
Cancellations made with sufficient notice are generally eligible for a partial or full refund, subject to each provider’s conditions
Late or last-minute cancellations may not be refundable
Some services such as domestic flights or limited-availability activities have stricter policies
In all cases, we will clearly communicate the conditions before confirming your booking. We recommend having travel insurance that covers unexpected cancellations.

Do I need a passport and a return ticket?

Yes. You must present a valid passport for the entire duration of your stay and a proof of onward travel out of the country (by air or land).

Most visitors do not need a visa. Upon arrival, Immigration may authorize a stay of up to 180 days depending on your nationality. The exact duration will appear on your entry stamp.

We adjust your service according to your new arrival time — just notify us as soon as the airline informs you of the change. If any provider applies rescheduling fees, those costs are the client’s responsibility. For this reason, we recommend having travel insurance that covers delays and cancellations.

No vaccinations are required, except for travelers coming from countries with yellow fever risk, who must present an International Certificate of Vaccination.

Costa Rica has two main international airports: Juan Santamaría (SJO) in the central region, and Daniel Oduber Quirós (LIR) in the north.

Yes, though in most cases it is already included in your airline ticket. If not included, it can be paid at the airport.

No. Your valid driver’s license from your home country is sufficient.

120V / 60Hz, plug types A and B — the same as in the United States and Canada. No adapter needed if you’re traveling from North America.

The Costa Rican colón (CRC), though USD is widely accepted in tourist areas. All CRNT prices are quoted in USD. Each proposal will clearly indicate whether taxes are included or not, depending on the service.

Tipping is not mandatory. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is already included. For guides, drivers and hotel staff, tips are voluntary and always appreciated.

In most parts of the country, yes. In remote areas, some travelers prefer bottled water as a precaution.

Yes. If your phone is unlocked, a local SIM or eSIM is a great option and usually offers better coverage than an international plan. Most hotels and restaurants offer free WiFi. In rural or mountainous areas, signal may be limited.

Yes. Foreign nationals can marry through a licensed notary, presenting only a valid passport and a brief sworn statement.

The national emergency number is 911, available in both Spanish and English.

Is Costa Rica a good destination for families with children?

Absolutely. Costa Rica is an ideal family destination — safe natural environments, educational activities and a culture that deeply values children. Hotels, parks and tour operators are well experienced in welcoming families of all ages.

Many are — boat safaris, hanging bridges, wildlife gardens, gentle trails and educational experiences are perfect for little ones. Just let us know the ages of your children and we’ll recommend the safest and most appropriate options.

Yes. All our vehicles have infant seats, booster seats and child restraints available upon request. When booking, simply let us know your children’s ages so we can assign the correct seat in compliance with current regulations.

Yes. Many national parks, private reserves and tour operators offer reduced rates or free entry for young children. When preparing your proposal, we automatically apply all available discounts based on each child’s age and each provider’s policies.

What documents does my pet need to enter Costa Rica?

Your pet requires three documents:

  • A veterinary health certificate issued within 14 days prior to travel
  • Proof of rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before travel and currently valid
  • Official export permit issued by the veterinary authority of your home country (e.g. USDA in the United States)

Costa Rica does not require quarantine for dogs and cats that meet these requirements.

It depends on the location. Many hotels, particularly in beach and mountain areas, welcome pets with possible additional charges. Most tours and National Parks do not allow pets for safety and wildlife protection reasons. If you’re traveling with your pet, we’ll help you select pet-friendly accommodations and suitable activities for your itinerary.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Costa Rica is home to one of the greatest biodiversities on the planet — it’s common to encounter animals in their natural habitat without even looking for them. Depending on the region, you may see:

  • White-faced, howler and squirrel monkeys, two and three-toed sloths
  • Toucans, scarlet macaws and hummingbirds
  • Colorful frogs, reptiles and butterflies
  • Crocodiles and caimans in rivers and mangroves
  • Dolphins, sea turtles and humpback whales in season along the coast

Our local guides will help you observe wildlife safely and respectfully.

Keep your distance, do not touch or feed them, do not block their path, and always follow the instructions of your guide or park staff. The best way to enjoy the experience is to observe without interfering.

The main regulations to protect wildlife and ensure your safety:

  • Stay on official trails at all times
  • Do not feed, touch or approach animals
  • Do not remove plants, rocks, shells or any natural element
  • No pets, glass containers or drones without special permits
  • No smoking or vaping inside protected areas
  • Carry out all your trash

Yes. Several parks have universal trails, ramps and handrails. The most accessible are Poás Volcano (universal trail to the crater viewpoint), Carara (one of the best accessible trails in the country) and Manuel Antonio (boardwalks and improved access paths).

Yes. The tropical climate is variable and most tours run in the rain. They are only cancelled if conditions pose a real safety risk — electrical storms, rising rivers or strong winds. In those cases, we work to reschedule or offer alternatives based on availability.

They are distinct ecosystems. The rainforest is found in low-lying, warm areas with heavy rainfall and extraordinary biodiversity (Tortuguero, Sarapiquí, South Pacific). The cloud forest sits at higher elevations, with cool temperatures and permanent mist (Monteverde, Bajos del Toro, San Gerardo de Dota). In short: one is warm and lush, the other cool and mystical.

Costa Rica is one of the few places in the world where both can be observed at different times of year:

  • Humpback whales — July to October in the South Pacific (Drake Bay, Uvita), with a shorter second season between December and March
  • Leatherback sea turtles — March to October on the Caribbean coast (Tortuguero) and North Pacific (Playa Grande)
  • Green sea turtles — July to October, primarily in Tortuguero

If you’d like to include any of these experiences in your itinerary, let us know and we’ll plan it at the perfect time of year.

What is the best time to visit Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on what you’re looking for. The dry season (December to April) offers sunny days and ideal conditions for beaches and outdoor activities. The green season (May to November) brings sunny mornings, afternoon showers, lush landscapes, fewer crowds and better rates. The Caribbean coast has variable weather year-round with alternating periods of sun and rain.

Tropical and highly variable by region. The North Pacific is drier and warmer; the Central and South Pacific has frequent afternoon rain during the green season; the Caribbean is mixed year-round; mountain zones and cloud forests are cool and misty; and the northern region (Arenal, La Fortuna) typically has sunny mornings with occasional afternoon showers. In general: warm temperatures, humidity and fast-changing weather.

We recommend light, practical luggage suited for a tropical climate:

  • Lightweight, quick-dry clothing and a light jacket for mountain areas
  • Rain jacket or poncho and a waterproof cover for your backpack
  • Comfortable walking shoes and sandals for the beach
  • Sunscreen, insect repellent and a hat or cap
  • Swimwear and a microfiber towel
  • A small daypack for excursions and a reusable water bottle
  • Waterproof bags for electronics (especially during the green season)

Yes. Some tours allow only a small backpack for safety reasons. Domestic flights typically allow between 12 and 18 kg of checked luggage depending on the fare, with strict carry-on limits. Shared shuttles generally allow one large suitcase plus one carry-on per person.

  • Verify your passport is valid for the entire duration of your stay
  • Confirm your return ticket and review your itinerary and transfer times
  • Have your vouchers and confirmations easily accessible
  • Pack personal medications in your carry-on luggage
  • Notify your bank if you’ll be using cards abroad
  • Download offline maps and activate your local SIM or eSIM
  • Keep digital copies of your important documents.
Is Costa Rica a safe country?

Yes, it is one of the safest countries in Latin America for travelers. Tourist areas have a good police presence and reliable services. As with any destination, we recommend keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places, avoiding walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, using hotel safes and booking only authorized tours and transportation.

Yes, but it’s important to be prepared. Some roads are narrow, winding or steep; rural areas may have potholes or unpaved roads; and rain can reduce visibility during the green season. If you prefer not to drive, private transfers and shared shuttles are comfortable and reliable alternatives. If you do drive, we recommend doing so during daylight hours and with a vehicle suited to your route.

Waze is the local favorite — it updates traffic, road closures and routes in real time. Google Maps is excellent for general navigation and offline maps. We recommend downloading offline maps before your trip, as signal can be intermittent in mountainous areas.

It depends on your itinerary. A 4×4 is not necessary for main destinations such as San José, La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, Tamarindo or Liberia. It is recommended if your route includes mountain areas or destinations like Monteverde, Bajos del Toro, Dominical, Uvita or the Nicoya and Osa Peninsulas — especially during the green season.

Yes. Costa Rica has a solid healthcare system. In most tourist areas you will find private clinics, pharmacies and regional hospitals. In cities like San José, Liberia and Quepos, private medical services are fast and modern. We recommend traveling with health or travel insurance to avoid unexpected expenses. Emergencies: 911.

Yes — pain relievers, antihistamines, cold medicine, topical creams and gastrointestinal medications are available without a prescription. Controlled or specialized medications require a doctor’s prescription. If you take chronic medication, we recommend bringing a sufficient supply and your original prescription.

Yes. Costa Rica is very friendly for travelers with dietary preferences or restrictions. In tourist areas you will find restaurants with vegetarian, vegan and adaptable menus. Traditional dishes like “Gallo Pinto”, vegetable “Casados” and fresh tropical fruits are naturally suitable. If you have severe allergies, please let us know so we can notify hotels and operators in advance.

It’s not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. It covers medical attention for illness or accident, trip cancellations or delays, lost luggage and itinerary changes due to weather. Especially important in a destination with so many outdoor activities.

How does CRNT practice responsible tourism?

At CRNT we believe that traveling well means traveling with purpose. That’s why we work exclusively with providers, guides and accommodations committed to respecting nature, local communities and the environment. Every itinerary is designed to minimize impact and maximize benefit for the people and ecosystems that make Costa Rica such a unique destination.

Yes. We prioritize working with certified local guides, farmers, artisans and small operators from each region. This ensures authentic experiences and directly contributes to the economy of the communities we visit.

Small actions make a big difference:

  • Respect wildlife — observe without touching, feeding or disturbing
  • Stay on official trails in parks and nature reserves
  • Reduce single-use plastics — bring a reusable water bottle
  • Support local businesses and artisans
  • Respect the local culture, customs and natural spaces
  • Take only memories, photographs and experiences
How can I contact CRNT?

You can reach us through our official channels:

  • USA Support Line (calls and WhatsApp): +1 (234) 212-4764
  • Email: info@costaricanaturaltours.com

We are available for general inquiries, service coordination, in-trip assistance and document delivery. For your security, please communicate only through these official channels.

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