A hands-on approach to understanding sea turtle conservation in Costa Rica. During your time on this special experience, you will learn about and participate in sustainability measures being taken by national park rangers such as beach night walks to monitor turtles as they lay their eggs, assist in hatchery maintenance, nesting grounds preparation and depending on the time of year, helping to release baby turtles into the wild.

• Contribute to the sustainability of Leatherback, Kemp's Ridley, Hawksbill and Green sea turtles by assisting national park rangers monitor active nests, collect data on the turtles as they lay their eggs and assist in hatchery duties.

• Spot multiple species of dolphins on a Pacific Ocean boat trip and enjoy Costa Rica’s sunshine and sunsets.

• Visit a women’s cooperative to learn traditional skills during an art class, using natural items such as seeds, different varieties of leaves and dried wood.

• Visit the Matambu Indigenous community to learn about their culture, history and cuisine. A very unique experience many visitors to Costa Rica do not get a chance to experience.

Day 1: ¡Bienvenidos a Costa Rica! 
Arrive at Liberia international Airport (LIR) and meet your guide/s who will be with you for the duration of the trip. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a delicious arrival meal in one of the country’s many renowned restaurants, take a quick dip in the warm tranquil waters of the Pacific Ocean and enjoy a beautiful Costa Rican sunset. Finish your day with dinner at the hotel.

Overnight: Hotel Puerto Carrillo

Day 2: Working with sea turtles 

Get a thorough, hands-on introduction to the sea turtle conservation initiatives in which you will be contributing. This includes documenting turtle data and learning how to dig a nest and handle eggs. Enjoy some free time on the beach in the afternoon, eagerly anticipating your first evening/night turtle patrol. 

This turtle expedition will involve nightly walks looking for sea turtles, working in the hatchery during the day and participating in beach clean-ups to keep the sand free of obstacles that can impede the ability of the turtles to navigate to an ideal nesting site at Camaronal Beach. 

• Night walks: During the high tide* and in the company of the park ranger or park coordinator, using infrared headlamps, your group will walk all along the beach looking for turtles. With any luck, you will see the turtles coming out of the ocean, looking for the right spot to lay their eggs, digging the nest, laying the eggs and returning to the ocean. When a nest is found, the park ranger will decide if it is necessary to move the eggs to a safer area in the hatchery.

*Please note that turtle patrol times are determined by high tide times and are often during the night or early in the morning.

• Work in the Hatchery: It is very important to keep the hatchery in good shape. This could include aerating the sand to make it easier to dig, raking the sand to clean debris, and keeping the hatchery fences in good shape to stop anyone or anything (animals) from coming inside and destroying the nest or stealing/eating the eggs.

• Beach clean-ups: Another Important aspect of sea turtle conservation is making sure the turtles are able to get to their nesting sites. Removing marine debris, driftwood or anything else that can become an obstacle for sea turtles to lay their eggs in a safe place needs to be removed.

Overnight: Hotel Puerto Carrillo

Day 3: Assisting park rangers with sea turtle hatchery duties

Enjoy the day working with the local park rangers on various conservation projects and hatchery duties as previously described to help the rate of success for the turtles nesting on Camaronal Beach. 

Overnight: Hotel Puerto Carrillo

Day 4: Beach day, free time, shopping and surf lessons

Switch gears and enjoy a free day to relax at the beach and take surf lessons or paddle board  in the beautiful warm waters of the North Pacific coast. If surfing doesn’t interest you, try a spa treatment or head into town for some souvenir shopping. In the evening, relax at the beach and enjoy the sunset over the Pacific. There is no scheduled turtle patrol tonight.

Overnight: Hotel Puerto Carrillo

Day 5: Coffee farm tour and beach time 

Visit and tour a local coffee farm to learn about the planting, growing and harvesting process. From seed to delicious cup, this is a good opportunity to stock up for the pantry back home and a great gift for loved ones. The rest of the day will be free for you to relax on the beach, swim in the Pacific or do whatever else you choose. There is no scheduled turtle patrol tonight.

Overnight: Hotel Puerto Carrillo

Day 6: Sea kayaking/snorkeling, beach time and night turtle patrol

Enjoy an ocean kayak paddle to Isla Chora for some snorkeling and beach relaxation off the coast of Sámara in the Nicoya Peninsula. The tour lasts about 3 hours, depending on the weather conditions. Assist the park rangers on a night turtle patrol.

Overnight: Hotel Puerto Carrillo

Day 7: Slow morning, women's cooperative and night turtle patrol 

After a relaxing morning at the beach, travel through the countryside to visit a women’s cooperative to learn traditional skills during an art class, using natural items such as seeds, different varieties of leaves and dried wood. Assist the park rangers on a night turtle patrol.

Overnight: Hotel Puerto Carrillo

Day 8: Visit Matambu Indigenous Territory 

Day trip to Matambú, a district of the Hojancha canton in the Guanacaste Province—the only Chorotega indigenous territory in Costa Rica. Take a guided trail walk to learn about medicinal plants. Participate in an indigenous cooking lesson and learn about the group’s history and culture. This is a very unique activity that many visitors to Costa RIca don’t get to experience.

Overnight: Hotel Puerto Carrillo

Day 9: Dolphin tour and farewell dinner 

Your last day of fun in the sun will be highlighted by a boat trip in search of dolphins! Depending on the season, you may spot bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, pantropical spotted dolphins, Risso’s dolphins, rough-toothed dolphins, spinner dolphins, and or striped dolphins—all in their natural habitat! Though nothing is guaranteed, this trip is usually quite memorable. Wrap up the day with another beautiful sunset and special dinner organized by the team.

Overnight: Hotel Puerto Carrillo

Day 10: ¡Buen Viaje! 

Enjoy your last breakfast and some free time for any last-minute shopping or exploring. The team will then escort your group to the airport in private transport. 

*Itinerary days and activities are subject to change without notice due to unforeseen circumstances or events. See full terms and conditions for more information.

All overnight accommodations while in Costa Rica are set to 3.5 or 4 star hotels. Upgrades easily available during booking process.

Carry-On

A school sized backpack or similar sized bag is ideal and can double as a day bag.

• Passport

• Photocopy of passport

• Wallet/money

• Book and/or journal

• Pen to fill out custom forms upon arrival

• Phone / Camera / Chargers

• Change of clothes (optional)

• Water bottle (refillable - Nalgene 1L)

• Medication

• Visa documentation (if applicable)

• Earbuds

Check Luggage

A 50-70 Liter duffel bag or backpack is ideal.

• Clothes

• Socks (enough for each day + 1 or  2 long socks)

• Underwear (enough for each day)

• Pants/capris (2, preferably dark color for night walk) Turtle Program

• Long shorts* (2-3)

• Long skirt (1)

• Tank Tops (1 or 2)

• T-shirts (5-6)

• Long sleeved shirt (1-2, preferably dark color for night walk) Turtle Patrols

• Swimsuit (2 or 3)

• Quick dry towel

• Beach towel/sarong

• Rain jacket

• Strappy sandals (like Tevas or Chacos)

• Sneakers (comfortable and previously broken in)

• Sunglasses / Hat

Toiletries - (Travel sized and in ziplock bags)

• Be sure to pack sunscreen, bug spray, feminine hygiene products and if bringing medications, be sure to bring enough for the duration of travel.

• Foam earplugs, personal medkit and wet wipes are also recommended.

• Headlamp (with a red light setting -  for turtle patrol - Black Diamond or Petzl recommended)

Local guide on call throughout

- All hatchery materials and donations 

- Meals included per day: 

Day 1: Lunch & dinner 

Day 2: BF & Lunch 

Day 3: BF & Lunch 

Day 4: BF & Lunch 

Day 5: BF & Lunch 

Day 6: BF 

Day 7: BF 

Day 8: BF & Lunch 

Day 9: BF, Lunch & Dinner 

Day 10: BF & Lunch 

- All scheduled transportation 

- Each night of accommodation 

- All activities as detailed in your itinerary 

-Contribution to local organizations and/or projects 

What's Not Included

• Travel Insurance

• International flights, visa fees and COVID-19 testing

• Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks unless otherwise stated

• Personal expenses (phone, laundry, cabs, etc.)

• Activities not discussed ahead of time

• Tips to hotel, lodge or tented camp staff

• End of trip gratuity for guide

Do I need a passport to travel to Costa Rica?

You must have a passport to travel internationally. When you book your trip with Off Cape Experiences, we ask that you submit a copy of your passport in part to verify whether it’ll be valid when you travel. To travel, your passport must be valid for at least six months after you return from your trip and has at least one (and probably more) empty pages. 

Renewing a passport can take four months so if it doesn’t meet the above criteria, start the process immediately. 

• Learn more about how to renew an existing passport.

• Learn more about how to expedite your passport renewal.

• Learn more about how to apply for a first-time passport.

Make copies of your passport and keep one in a safe place not with your passport. This will come in very handy if you misplace it and need to get a new one.

Do I need a visa to travel to Costa Rica?

Visas aren’t required for U.S, Canadian or EU citizens visiting Costa Rica for less than 90 days. Learn more by visiting the U.S. State Department website. 

Travelers from outside the U.S. with other passports should review entry requirements for your home country, or get in touch and we’ll help you navigate this process.

What do I write on the customs card as my reason for being in Costa Rica?

Please list tourism/travel as your reason for visiting Costa Rica. 

What vaccines are required for travel to Costa Rica?

None if traveling from the U.S. However, we recommend reviewing the CDC Traveler’s Health page for Costa Rica, which recommends a number of vaccines, including childhood vaccines, COVID-19, Hepatitis A and B and Typhoid. Please be sure to consult your doctor to decide what medicine and vaccines are right for you. 

In addition to vaccines, if you take prescriptions, please bring enough for the duration of your trip. Obtaining your prescriptions in Costa Rica may not be possible. Some other prescription tips:

• Pack you’r prescriptions in their original, labeled containers. We suggest you pack them in your carry-on bag.

• Be sure to bring enough contact solution and personal hygiene products for the duration of your trip. Ear plugs are also a good idea to have on your flight.

• A personal First Aid kit is always a good idea to have on you when traveling abroad. 

Is the tap water safe to drink? 

Water from the tap is generally safe to use for brushing teeth etc, but participants will be provided as much bottled water as they can drink. Bringing a Nalgene or similar 1 Liter refillable bottle is highly recommended and promotes sustainable travel and respect for the places we are traveling.

In addition, routine hand washing before and after meals and after using the bathroom will cut down on your chances of getting sick. Although delicious and a great way to experience local culture, eating street food can also increase your chance of getting sick. 

What will the food be like? What kind of dietary requirements/food allergies can you accommodate?  

Group members will eat a combination of local Costa Rican dishes and more western-style dishes. Breakfasts typically include cereal, breads, eggs, oatmeal, and fresh fruit. Lunches and dinners range from traditional Costa Rican food – rice and beans, chicken, seafood, plantains, fresh fruit and salad – to pastas, barbecues etc.

Dietary Requirements/Food Allergies – We can easily accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other common dietary requirements. Please make sure to let us know if you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions. Keep in mind that the variety of foods available for some dietary preferences may become a little repetitive on longer trips.

Is it safe where we’re going in Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is generally a safe place to travel. However, using common sense is a must. You will be briefed upon arrival at each location. Listen to briefings from your guides and ask questions! Do not assume. We highly suggest avoiding excess alcohol intake and being out late at night, especially alone. 

What happens if I need medical care while in Costa Rica?

Our staff will take you to the clinic or hospital that has been previously vetted in the area. It is important that each traveler purchase Travel Medical Insurance.

What’s the weather like?

Costa Rica is beautifully warm all year, with an average annual temperature of 80°-90° Fahrenheit on the coasts and 75°-80° in the countryside and on the mountainsides. The most stable weather is between December and April. These months have little to no rain in most of the country.

Do I need to bring cash? How much? 

It’s always a good idea to bring some US dollars as spending money. ATM cards with Plus or Cirrus network (or both, so with standard debit cards like Mastercard or Visa you should be fine). Beware of fees your bank may charge you though for international withdrawals.  Contact your bank beforehand as banks often freeze the account when used abroad. We can help you exchange dollars for colones. 

Some additional info about cash and money:

• ATMs are widely available in towns and tourist areas. They usually offer decent exchange rates, even when including fees from your bank.

• Travelers Checks are not recommended as you will receive a lower rate of exchange and additional fees to use them.

• Bargaining is acceptable in many places such as street vendors, when buying souvenirs in Costa Rica. Stores, not as much. How much you want to push it is up to you. Ask yourself what you would pay for that item at home, compare the price, and find somewhere in the middle that is reasonable for both parties. Remember to keep a smile on your face and always be polite. It’s a good thing when both sides of the deal are happy.

Is tipping expected in Costa Rica?

Yes. You’ll be expected to tip your guides and service staff you interact with while traveling in Costa Rica. How much to tip is up to you, but please use the following as a guide:

Whenever you are unsure, ask a local or your guide. As a general rule, expect to tip around 10% of the bill. If you get exceptionally good service, say thank you with a tip closer to 15-20%. Whether you're tipping with cash or card, always use the local currency to save money.

Should I bring my expensive digital camera?

If you want to capture images your phone can not capture, then yes. Cameras are or can be an important piece of equipment while traveling. As for what type of camera or lens to bring, it’s entirely up to you. Whichever camera you decide to bring, be sure to become familiar and comfortable using it before departing for your adventure and keep in mind that it will be your responsibility to look after and carry.

Photo etiquette is very important. The etiquette of photographing most people is about the same as it would be on the streets of your hometown. In general, you need permission to take a close-up, as you would at home, but not for a crowd scene. Be especially polite if you want to photograph people. If you want to shoot a portrait, show interest in your subject, and try to have a bit of interaction first. Then use sign language to inquire if a picture is OK. Your driver-guides can help.  

Will my phone work in Costa Rica?

Short answer, probably, if you pay for it. Check with your provider for roaming rates and international data packages before traveling. These rates can pile up very quickly and be extremely expensive. If you have a travel phone or a phone with a slot for an extra SIM card, you can buy a local SIM card with data for the duration of your stay. This usually ends up being the cheapest option, though not always the most convenient.

Do I need a power adapter to charge my devices?

American electronics generally do NOT need any adaptors. In some places outlets might be two pronged instead of three. So you might want to pick up a three prong adaptor on Amazon or your local hardware store before traveling. That being said, most places have standard three prongs, same as the U.S.

How will we get around in Costa Rica?

We work with a local transportation company that has a private fleet of vehicles for you to travel comfortably as we move about the country.

From $3,895 USD + international airfare

Pricing is per person, based on double occupancy for a group of at least 6 people. An additional charge is applied for single occupancy. A 20% deposit is required to book travel. The balance is due 90 days prior to departure, or immediately if booked within that time period. Special rates may be available for group bookings. Questions? Fill out this form.