Costa Rica’s Wild Heart: Rainforests, Wildlife & Conservation from Coast to Canopy

For Costa Rica’s Wild Heart, the group is limited to 10 travelers. This intimate group size creates space for deeper presence in nature, meaningful encounters with conservation leaders, and a more personal, low-impact journey through one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.

We pour our hearts into crafting meaningful, conservation-driven journeys—and we know that travel plans are a significant investment of both time and intention. While we hope you’ll be able to join us, we understand that circumstances can change. Please review the following policy carefully before booking.

Standard Cancellation Terms

• 121+ days (4+ months) prior to departure: A $200 cancellation fee per person will apply.

• 61–120 days (2–4 months) prior to departure: 50% of the total trip cost, including internal flights, pre/post extensions, and added services (e.g. additional hotel nights), will be non-refundable.

• 60 days or fewer prior to departure: Unfortunately, we are unable to offer any refunds at this stage due to our financial commitments to local partners and accommodations.

Deposit Policy

• All trip deposits and payments are non-refundable.

• For fully private bookings (e.g., you reserve an entire departure), deposits are double the standard rate and remain non-refundable.

Special Note on Deposits & Cancellation Policy

This journey requires a non-refundable deposit of $1,000 USD per person, in addition to the total trip cost. This deposit secures your space on the itinerary and covers the cost of non-refundable, non-transferable permits. Please note that this policy differs from our standard terms, due to the unique nature of the experiences and conservation access included in this itinerary.

Yes. Because our trips venture into remote, wild, and weather-sensitive areas, comprehensive travel insurance is required for all travelers. This must include coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, emergency medical needs, and evacuation. We recommend purchasing travel insurance at the time of booking to maximize your coverage window.

If you have any questions about this policy, we’re happy to assist.

• Laundry services

• Items of a personal nature

• Tips and gratuities

• Alcoholic beverages

• Travel insurance

• Visas and international airfare

This itinerary combines rainforest hikes, wildlife encounters, coastal exploration, and snorkeling in pristine waters with moments of relaxation and luxury.

You’ll experience daily walks on uneven forest trails, moderate hikes of 2–4 hours, and gentle boat rides through canals. Snorkeling sessions require basic swimming ability and comfort in open water.

Costa Rica is a year-round destination, but your journey in late July and early August aligns with the veranillo, a mini dry season within the green season.

Expect sunny mornings, occasional afternoon showers, and lush rainforests teeming with wildlife. Daytime temperatures range from 22–30°C (72–86°F) in lowlands and rainforests, with cooler evenings in cloud forests.

Yes. Costa Rica is among the safest countries in Central America, known for warm hospitality and well-developed eco-tourism.

We partner with trusted local operators, stay in reputable eco-lodges, and our experienced guides prioritize your safety and comfort throughout the trip.

Most travelers from the US, Canada, EU, Australia, and many other countries do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days.

Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Always verify current entry requirements before travel.

The official currency is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC). US dollars are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas.

We recommend carrying some cash for small purchases or tips in rural locations. Credit cards are accepted at most lodges and towns on the itinerary.

All tipping for lodge staff, local guides, and drivers is included in your TerraFauna package.

The only gratuity not included is for your dedicated TerraFauna guide; we recommend tipping $10–20 USD per person, per day, based on your satisfaction.

We recommend this journey for travelers aged 12 and older, particularly for our July and August departures when rainforest trails may be muddy and activities involve moderate hikes and wildlife tracking.

For families with younger children, we offer customized private itineraries tailored to your needs.

This Costa Rica itinerary directly benefits local ecosystems and communities.

You’ll stay at eco-lodges committed to sustainability, visit protected reserves that fund conservation projects, and engage with community-based initiatives. We also donate a portion of revenue to organizations preserving Costa Rica’s biodiversity.

Comprehensive travel insurance is required for all participants. Since July and August include rainforest weather risks, your policy should cover medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, and baggage loss.

Adventure activities like hiking and boat excursions must be included. We recommend Trawick International Insurance for reliable coverage; contact us for assistance purchasing a policy.

No mandatory vaccines are required for most travelers. Routine vaccines like tetanus, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B are recommended. If arriving from a yellow fever risk area, a certificate may be required.

During the green season, use insect repellent and wear protective clothing to prevent mosquito bites. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Spanish is Costa Rica’s official language. All TerraFauna guides and local hosts speak excellent English to ensure you have full support.

Many lodge staff also speak English. Basic Spanish phrases can enrich your experience but are not required.

Yes! We’re happy to assist with pre- or post-trip hotel bookings if you want to extend your stay in Costa Rica.

Let us know your plans, and we’ll arrange accommodations tailored to your needs.

Absolutely. We offer private departures for families, friends, or organizations.

Contact us to discuss group size, pricing, and flexible deposit and cancellation terms.

Booking as “willing to share” means reserving a spot at the double occupancy rate and agreeing to share a room with another traveler of the same gender you don’t know.

If no roommate match is found 120 days before departure, the single supplement fee applies.