Costa Rica: before you travel
A little preparation leaves more time to enjoy Costa Rica. This guide covers the questions to consider while planning and the details to confirm before making a booking.
Before you travel
Getting there · Budget · Children and activity levels · Confirming services · Documents and insurance
Arrivals, departures and transfers
The suggested itineraries use Juan Santamaría Airport near San José, followed by travel to Puntarenas and a ferry to Playa Naranjo. A further transfer leads to Playa Leona Beach Resort. Ask for confirmation of the route, transport provider, ferry connection and transfer price based on your flights.
Allow time for airport procedures, road traffic and ferry connections. Your return transfer needs to fit your departure time. The 19 days / 18 nights shown for the suggested trips refer to time in Costa Rica; your total time away also depends on your flights.
Understanding prices and planning your budget
Compare the same price unit and service scope. A bungalow rate is different from a per-person rate, and a boat price does not cover a group of any size.
- Accommodation: bungalow type, number of guests, rate per night, meals and any supplements.
- Fishing: price per boat and outing, number of anglers, duration and included equipment. The cost per person changes with occupancy.
- Excursions: price per person, any minimum group charge, transport, admission and meals.
- The whole trip: check flights, transfers, accommodation away from the resort, meals outside the stated scope and insurance separately.
The relevant provider will confirm the current price. Before paying, request the final amount, currency, taxes, compulsory charges and a clear list of what is included and excluded. Any CZK conversion is a guide; check the currency in which you will actually pay.
Children, non-angling companions and activity levels
A day on the beach has different demands from a long drive, a waterfall walk or a cave visit. For each activity, check walking distances, steps, terrain, equipment, age limits and opportunities to rest. The provider needs to assess suitability for a particular child or traveller with reduced mobility against the actual activity.
Non-angling companions can also consider the fishing itinerary. Their activities, transport and costs need to be agreed separately. The size of the travelling group does not determine the number of places available on a fishing boat.
What to confirm before committing
- The actual contracting party for each service, with its full legal identity and contact details.
- Dates, availability, service scope, final price and payment instructions.
- Terms for changes, cancellation, alternatives and refunds.
- A contact during your stay and the procedure for resolving a problem or complaint.
Weather, sea conditions and safety may affect the order or operation of activities. Catches, wildlife sightings and the intensity of bioluminescence cannot be guaranteed. Before booking, ask the provider how changes or cancelled outings will be handled.
Documents, health requirements and insurance
Entry and transit requirements can change and depend on your nationality and route. Check passport validity, any visa requirements and health rules with the relevant authorities before buying flights and again before departure. Include any countries where you will change planes.
- Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs: travel to Costa Rica — Czech-language guidance primarily for Czech nationals.
- Czech Embassy: travel requirements for Costa Rica — Czech-language guidance with links to the relevant Costa Rican authorities.
Ask your insurer to confirm cover for your planned activities, including sea fishing and more demanding excursions, as well as medical costs and any repatriation. Discuss health preparations with a medical professional based on your circumstances and route.
Have a trip in mind?
Your first message only needs approximate dates, length of stay, numbers of adults and children, and your interests. Do not send copies of travel documents, payment details or detailed medical records.
SAF presents travel ideas and receives your first enquiry. We will clarify your dates and interests and arrange the handover to the local partner. The actual provider confirms the specific offer and contractual terms. Your statutory rights and each party’s responsibilities under applicable law remain unaffected.