Frequently Asked Questions
Please read through our packing list in addition to the FAQs. If you still have questions, please email info@friendsoftherainforeset and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
About Your Trip
How many people do I need in a group?
We recommend having at least 7 people in your group. This will help to keep individual costs low. The more people you have in your group, the cheaper the cost per person!
Can I add someone to my trip?
Depending on the age of the additional participant, we should be able to accommodate them. Please get in touch with us as soon as possible with the following information: Participant name, age, and whether they will be able to share a room with any of the other travelers.
When is my final payment due?
We require your final payment to be made at least 5 weeks in advance of the day you arrive in Costa Rica. This will allow Jeff Norris with Natural Solutions to put deposits down on hotel stays and activity reservations.
Do I really need rubber boots?
Yes. We highly recommend purchasing some rubber boots before your trip. This will help protect your feet and legs from mud, bugs, and water. Regular hiking shoes will quickly become muddy and soaked.
Should I bring bug spray?
Please do not bring any bug spray that contains DEET. We recommend spraying boots and pants with Permethrin, and treating them at home before you travel. Picaridin is a nice DEET alternative for skin application. Any bug sprays not containing DEET are also safe to use in the Rainforest.
About Costa Rica
What vaccines do I need to travel to Costa Rica?
No vaccinations are required for U.S. citizens traveling to Costa Rica. However the CDC and WHO both recommend travelers receive the following vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and COVID-19.
What kind of money should I bring?
Most businesses in Costa Rica will accept U.S. dollars, however, you will often receive change in Costa Rica colones, so we would advise bringing smaller bills. Many places in Costa Rica will accept credit cards, with the main exception being roadside stops, etc. Don't forget to tell your bank of your travel to avoid any issues during your trip.
Will I need a power/outlet adapter?
If traveling from the U.S., you will not need an outlet adapter in order to use the electric outlets in Costa Rica.
Is the water safe to drink?
The water in Costa Rica is safe to drink in all commercial establishments and field stations. If water is unsafe to drink, you will be notified and bottled water will be provided.
What to expect at Costa Rican customs in the airport?
Immigration/customs can be quite busy at the San Jose airport depending on what time you arrive. With your flight information, Natural Solutions will account for the time it will take you to get through customs when scheduling your pick-up time. Plan accordingly by packing a small snack in case you're hungry after getting off the plane. The customs process itself is pretty straightforward. You can tell the immigration officer that you are participating in an Ecotour organized by Natural Solutions and will be staying at the Pocosol Field Station in the Children's Eternal Rainforest near Monteverde.
Check out the links below to get more information about what to expect on your trip.
Every participant must fill out a registration form once your trip is confirmed.
Click here to find information about how the emergency response procedures in Costa Rica.
