Solo Traveller
Costa Rica Complete – Jungles, Volcanoes & Coast
Discover the natural diversity of Costa Rica on a journey through rainforests, waterways, volcanic landscapes, cloud forests and the Pacific coast.
15 days
Solo Traveller
60% deposit to book
Remaining 40% due three months before departure. Full payment within 90 days.
15 Days
Duration
1 Country
Costa Rica
Flights Included
Flights from New York
Solo Traveller
Maximum 20 travellers
Guided Holiday
Expert local guides
ABTOT Bonded
ABTOT 5338 · Eligible packages
OVERVIEW
Book Solo. Travel Together. Discover the remarkable natural diversity of Costa Rica on a journey through tropical rainforests, wildlife-rich waterways, volcanic landscapes, cloud forests and the beautiful Pacific coast.
Begin in San José before travelling to the remote waterways of Tortuguero. Continue to Arenal for spectacular natural surroundings and an included guided sloth experience, followed by Monteverde and its atmospheric cloud forest, including a memorable Hanging Bridges experience.
Journey onwards to the Pacific coast and Manuel Antonio, before travelling south to the tropical rainforest of Piedras Blancas. Complete your Costa Rican adventure amid the cooler mountain landscapes of the Savegre Valley before returning to San José.
This option is designed for customers booking individually, with your own private room included at the hotel accommodation forming part of the main tour, while travelling as part of a regular Lumle small-group tour. Your group may include couples, friends, family members and other customers travelling individually. The number of other solo travellers on your departure is not guaranteed, and you may be the only customer travelling individually within the group.
Short Itinerary (With Flights)
Trip Highlights
Key moments at a glance
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Explore Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes
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Discover Tortuguero’s tropical waterways
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Enjoy a guided sloth experience in Arenal
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Experience Monteverde’s Hanging Bridges
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Explore Manuel Antonio and Piedras Blancas
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Relax in the highlands of Savegre Valley
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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Return International Economy Flights from NEW YORK, as specified in your booking. Departures from selected regional airports may be available at an additional cost and can be selected during the booking process
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Own Private Room throughout the hotel accommodation forming part of the main tour
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14 Nights' Accommodation in the hotels and lodges specified for the tour, or comparable alternatives
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Daily Breakfast, together with additional meals in Tortuguero, Piedras Blancas and Savegre Valley as specifically stated in the itinerary
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Airport Transfers & Transportation between destinations as specified in the itinerary
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Tortuguero Boat Transfers and scheduled boat journeys forming part of the included itinerary
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Arenal–Monteverde Transfer including the scheduled land and boat journey as specified in the itinerary
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Tortuguero Guided Experiences including the scheduled waterways and nature experiences
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Arenal Guided Sloth Experience as specified in the itinerary
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Monteverde Hanging Bridges Experience as specified in the itinerary
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Manuel Antonio National Park guided visit as specified in the itinerary
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Piedras Blancas Guided Rainforest Experience as specified in the itinerary
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English-Speaking Local Guides for the scheduled guided sightseeing and experiences as specified in the itinerary
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Entrance Fees for the parks, attractions and experiences specifically stated as included in the itinerary
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Applicable Taxes & Service Charges relating to the services included in the package
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24/7 Emergency Assistance during your holiday
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Financial Protection including ATOL protection where applicable to your flight-inclusive booking and other applicable financial protection arrangements as specified in your booking
Note: Any optional excursions mentioned in the itinerary are not included and are payable separately unless expressly stated as included.
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
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Travel insurance (mandatory)
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Visa, entry or other travel authorisation fees, where applicable
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Meals and refreshments not specifically stated as included in the itinerary
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Optional tours and experiences, including the Arenal Hot Springs, Arenal Volcano Guided Walk, Monteverde Birdwatching, Monteverde Night Walk and Pacific Coast Catamaran Cruise, unless otherwise stated as included
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Personal expenses, including drinks, snacks, laundry, telephone calls and minibar items
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Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers and hotel staff
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Early check-in or late check-out at hotels, unless specifically included
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Any additional transfers, excursions or services not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
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Any personal expenses or additional arrangements arising from flight disruptions, weather conditions or other circumstances outside our control
ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation for Solo Travellers: The price displayed for this Solo Traveller option is based on one person occupying their own private room at the hotel accommodation forming part of the main tour. You will not be required to share a hotel room with another traveller. Room type, configuration, size, facilities, location and views may vary between properties and are subject to accommodation availability and allocation.
We carefully select accommodation to complement your journey through Costa Rica, with consideration given to location, comfort and the overall touring experience. From city hotels to properties surrounded by rainforest, cloud forest and highland landscapes, the accommodation provides a comfortable base for discovering the contrasting destinations featured on your journey.
Standard-category accommodation is included in your tour price. Below are the hotels and lodges currently planned for this tour.
| Destination | Standard – Included | Description |
|---|---|---|
| San José | Holiday Inn La Sabana or similar | A comfortable city hotel providing a convenient base for the beginning and end of your Costa Rica journey. |
| Tortuguero | Aninga Lodge or similar | A rainforest lodge providing a comfortable base for experiencing Tortuguero’s waterways and surrounding natural environment. |
| Arenal | Faro Arenal or similar | A relaxed lodge-style property providing a convenient base for exploring the natural attractions of the Arenal and La Fortuna area. |
| Monteverde | Jaguarundi Jungle Lodge or similar | A comfortable lodge providing a convenient base for discovering Monteverde and its distinctive cloud forest environment. |
| Manuel Antonio | Plaza Yara or similar | A comfortable boutique-style property set amid tropical surroundings and conveniently located for exploring the Manuel Antonio area. |
| Piedras Blancas | Esquinas Rainforest Lodge or similar | A rainforest lodge set amid peaceful natural surroundings, providing a base for experiencing the tropical forest environment of the Piedras Blancas area. |
| Savegre Valley | Trogon Lodge or similar | A highland lodge surrounded by the natural landscapes and cloud forest environment of the Savegre Valley. |
Please Note: The hotels and lodges shown above are those currently planned for this tour and are subject to availability. If a listed property is unavailable, an alternative accommodation of a comparable category or standard may be used. Hotel ratings, classifications and standards are not internationally standardised and may differ from those in your home country.
Your Costa Rica Journey – Travelling Solo
This option is designed for customers travelling individually, but the tour itself is not exclusively for solo travellers. You will travel as part of a regular Lumle small group of 1–20 passengers, which may include couples, friends, family members and other individual travellers.
As a Solo Traveller customer, your own private room is included at the hotel accommodation forming part of the main tour. You will not be required to share a hotel room with another traveller.
Selected dates are guaranteed departures. Once your booking is confirmed, Lumle will not cancel your holiday simply because a minimum number of participants has not been reached. As with all holidays, operation remains subject to our Booking Terms & Conditions and circumstances beyond our reasonable control.
Price for individual travellers: The price displayed for this selected departure is per person based on one person occupying their own private room at the hotel accommodation included in the main tour. Prices for the same or a similar tour displayed elsewhere on our website may be based on different departure dates, availability or occupancy arrangements and may therefore differ.
Important Information
- Wildlife: Wildlife is encountered in its natural environment and sightings of any particular species cannot be guaranteed.
- Tortuguero: Boat journeys, wildlife experiences and other activities in the Tortuguero region are subject to weather, water levels, local conditions and operational requirements.
- Arenal: Views of Arenal Volcano are dependent on weather and visibility conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
- Monteverde: Cloud forest and Hanging Bridges experiences are subject to weather, local access and operational conditions.
- Manuel Antonio: Visits to the national park are subject to local opening arrangements, access conditions and park regulations.
- Piedras Blancas: Rainforest activities are subject to weather, trail conditions and local operational requirements.
- Savegre Valley: Outdoor and nature experiences are subject to prevailing weather, visibility and local conditions.
- Optional Experiences: Optional excursions and activities are not included in the main tour price unless specifically stated otherwise and are subject to availability, local operating conditions and additional charges.
- Itinerary & Transportation: The sequence of the itinerary, transportation arrangements and scheduled activities may be adjusted where reasonably necessary because of weather, transport schedules, local conditions or other operational requirements.
What to Bring
Lightweight, comfortable clothing and suitable walking footwear are recommended, together with layers for the cooler highland and cloud forest regions. A light waterproof layer, sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and insect repellent may also be useful during your journey.
If the listed hotels are unavailable, we will provide alternative accommodation of a similar standard and style.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS & EXTENSIONS
Enhance your trip with these additional experiences.
DATES & PRICES
Choose your preferred departure date and airport to see live prices and availability.
Secure your preferred departure
Popular dates fill quickly, and prices may vary with availability.
Book now, pay in stages
Secure your holiday with a 60% deposit and pay the remaining 40% three months before departure. Full payment is required for departures within 90 days.
Prices are per person, based on at least two people sharing a twin or double room.
Travelling alone? Visit our Solo Traveller page.
All Upcoming Departures (2 available)
Important Information
- Prices are per person, based on at least two people sharing a twin or double room, and include all the services listed in What's Included.
- If you are travelling alone, a single supplement applies. For our dedicated solo departures and special offers, please visit our Solo Traveller options.
- Secure your holiday with a 60% deposit and pay the remaining 40% three months before departure. Full payment is required for departures within 90 days.
- You can amend your booking up to 180 days before departure for a fee, subject to our Terms & Conditions.
- Financial Protection: Eligible non-flight packages and packages with flights departing from and returning to airports outside the UK are protected through ABTOT membership 5338. Packages with flights departing from or returning to a UK airport are protected under ATOL 7375. View protection details.
- All holidays are subject to operational changes and our full Terms & Conditions.
- Private departures on any day all around the year can be arranged for this tour. For custom dates and arrangements, email sales@lumle.com or call 1-888-214-4856.
Travel Information
Essential information for your Costa Rica holiday. Content is tailored to your selected market.
Best time to visit
September to November is mild; November to March is the warmest. The Amazon Rainforest has two seasons: wet (January to June) and dry (July to December).
Flight time
Direct flights to San José take approximately 10 hours. One-stop flights via Panama City, Bogotá, São Paulo, or Miami take longer.
Recommended airlines
JetBlue, Avianca, LATAM, United Airlines, and American Airlines offer one-stop flights. Our packages include one-stop flights, with direct and preferred airline options available at an extra cost.
Visa & entry requirements
US citizens do not require a tourist visa. Entry requirements may change, so travellers should check with the Costa Rican Embassy or official sources before departure. It is your responsibility to check and meet entry requirements before travel.
Time difference
UTC –6 hours (Costa Rica is 6 hours behind the UK during standard time and 7 hours behind during British Summer Time)
Before you go
Essential information to help you prepare for your Costa Rica holiday.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Got questions? We've got answers.
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Find FAQs by category to quickly get the information you need.
Popular questions
Quick answers to the questions we’re asked most often.
How much deposit do I need to pay?
Secure your holiday with a 60% deposit and pay the remaining 40% three months before departure. Full payment is required for departures within 90 days.
When is my final balance due?
Secure your holiday with a 60% deposit and pay the remaining 40% three months before departure. Full payment is required for departures within 90 days.
When will I receive my travel documents?
Your comprehensive travel pack, including e-tickets, final day-by-day itinerary, hotel contact details, and practical destination advice, will be emailed to you approximately 2 to 3 weeks before you travel.
Are international flights included?
Select a package with flights to include the flights shown in your chosen departure. Routes, baggage allowances and inclusions depend on the itinerary and departure airport; check your booking details before confirming.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all our holidays. You must ensure your policy covers all activities you plan to undertake, as well as medical emergencies, repatriation, luggage, and trip cancellation.
What happens if I need to change my booking?
We understand plans change. You can amend your booking up to a certain period before departure. Amendment fees may apply depending on the changes and airline ticket conditions. Please contact our team as soon as possible.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations must be made in writing. Cancellation charges apply and increase the closer it gets to the departure date. Please refer to our full Terms & Conditions for the specific cancellation fee scale.
Can I arrange my own flights (Land Only)?
Yes. If you prefer to arrange your own international flights, please contact our travel specialists and we will be delighted to provide a tailor-made land-only quote for your travel dates.
All FAQs
Browse all questions and answers by category.
Booking your holiday 2
How do I book a trip with Lumle?
You can reach out to Lumle through their website or contact them directly via email or phone. Their experienced travel consultants will assist you in designing and booking your ideal Costa Rica adventure.
How much deposit do I need to pay?
Secure your holiday with a 60% deposit and pay the remaining 40% three months before departure. Full payment is required for departures within 90 days.
Payments 3
Are credit cards accepted in Costa Rica?
Most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards. However, you might incur an additional charge whilst paying through credit cards.
Do I need cash or can I pay by card on site?
The local currency is the Colón (CRC, ¢).
Withdrawal of cash from ATMs is possible in an amount of about € 300 per day in Colones and / or US $ Payment with US $ is possible in most places. It is recommended to pay with US $, if the price is shown in dollars. Otherwise bad exchange rate. We also recommend to pay with Costa Rican Colones. Many banks have cancelled contracts with Maestro, so it is not always possible to withdraw money with a Maestro bank card. Try at:
- (i) Banco Nacional
- (ii) BAC San José
- (iii) Scotiabank
- (iv) Davivienda
- (v) Banco Promerica
When withdrawing money, “current account” must be selected instead of “credit card” Credit card: MASTER CARD or VISA CARD recommended. American Express is only accepted by a few service providers. The same applies to the deposit of a rental car.
Please check with your bank:
- (i) Activation of your card for Costa Rica necessary.
- (ii) Fee to withdraw money with credit card.
- (iii) Maximum amount of money that can be withdrawn daily.
- (iv) Card limit high enough for rental car deposit.
(a) It is advisable to use only banks or authorized exchange offices. Your passport is required for bank transactions!
(b) Please DO NOT change money in the airport building: bad exchange rate. There is an ATM at the airport (in the security area, just after the border control and duty free), we recommend to withdraw some cash already here while waiting for your luggage.
(c) Use ATMs only in bright and public places and politely but firmly refuse help or company from strangers when using them.
(d) Payment by credit card is widespread in Costa Rica; you can pay by credit card in most public places, hotels, restaurants and stores.
Tip: always have some change in cash with you, e.g. for parking and tolls.
When is my final balance due?
Secure your holiday with a 60% deposit and pay the remaining 40% three months before departure. Full payment is required for departures within 90 days.
Flights & travel 3
Can I carry my valuables and luggage without worry?
- (i) Never leave luggage unattended and park loaded vehicles only in fenced and guarded parking areas.
- (ii) Tragen keep your backpack/bag in front of your chest to prevent a trick thief from reaching into your backpack/bag from behind unnoticed.
- (iii) Wertsachen be sure to carry only what is necessary and avoid jewelry altogether, as well as visibly worn fanny packs.
- (iv) Empfehlenswert is to have, for example, a thin fanny pack that you wear under your clothes – it is very thin, waterproof and comfortable to wear against your skin. From the outside you can not see them.
- (v) Bringen carry a waterproof bag (dry-bag) for your valuables so you can take them with you into the sea when you visit the beach.
- (vi) Keep your passport in the hotel safe and identify yourself to the Costa Rican authorities with a copy of your passport for smaller tours.
Tip: Take a photo of your first passport page and entry stamp, as well as key documents, and save them to your phone or mail account.
Are international flights included?
Select a package with flights to include the flights shown in your chosen departure. Routes, baggage allowances and inclusions depend on the itinerary and departure airport; check your booking details before confirming.
Can I arrange my own flights (Land Only)?
Yes. If you prefer to arrange your own international flights, please contact our travel specialists and we will be delighted to provide a tailor-made land-only quote for your travel dates.
Passports & visas 1
Do I need a visa to enter the Costa Rica?
British nationals do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica. You may stay as a visitor for up to 180 days under a tourist visa waiver, although the exact period is at the discretion of the immigration officer on arrival.
For more details please visit: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/costa-rica/entry-requirements#:~:text=Visa%20requirements,the%20immigration%20officer%20on%20arrival.
Before you travel 4
Is a specific vaccination required for entry? Can I carry my medication with me?
A valid vaccination against yellow fever is required for all travelers older than 9 months upon entry from a yellow fever area and must be proven by an International Vaccination Certificate.
Vaccination protection exists from ten days after the yellow fever vaccination. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in a ban on entering the country.
Otherwise, no vaccinations are required for entry; tetanus and polio protection may be recommended, as well as a malaria standby preparation under certain conditions.
For more details about vaccinations and health advice please visit:
https://www.passporthealthglobal.com/en-gb/destination-advice/costa-rica/
https://www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/destinations/central-america/costa-rica
If you need prescription medication during your trip and carry it in your hand luggage, an official translation of the medical certificate in English or Spanish is required.
General medical care in Costa Rica is well developed, as you will find an ebais (primary care health center) in every town. In larger cities there are both public as well as private hospitals. In case of serious illnesses, accidents, etc. you should always go to one of the hospitals in the greater San José area (Clínica Bíblica or CIMA San José). Thus, in case of emergency, assistance can be provided by the Lumle’s local partner.
What do I have to consider before leaving the country?
When you leave Costa Rica you have to pay a departure tax. The most common airlines already include this in the fare and show this on your ticket. Please check the price listing of your invoice before your departure and contact the airline if necessary.
If you need to pay the departure tax of US $29 (cash or credit card) before check-in, you will find ATMs in the departure lounge.
Please note: At peak times, there may be longer waiting times at the counters, so it is imperative that you adhere to the check-in times required by the airlines!
When will I receive my travel documents?
Your comprehensive travel pack, including e-tickets, final day-by-day itinerary, hotel contact details, and practical destination advice, will be emailed to you approximately 2 to 3 weeks before you travel.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory for all our holidays. You must ensure your policy covers all activities you plan to undertake, as well as medical emergencies, repatriation, luggage, and trip cancellation.
On your holiday 13
Are accommodations provided by Lumle?
Yes, Lumle can arrange accommodations for you, ranging from eco-lodges to luxury resorts. They work with a variety of partners to provide options that align with their sustainable travel ethos.
Can I customize my itinerary with Lumle?
Absolutely! Lumle specializes in designing personalized itineraries based on your preferences, interests, and budget. They can tailor-make your trip to include specific activities, destinations, and durations.
Can I use my mobile phone in Costa Rica?
Suppose you want to use a mobile phone in Costa Rica. In that case, you must bring an UNLOCKED cell phone and buy a SIM prepaid card at the ICE (the national telecommunications company) booth in the baggage section of the airport (or in a telephone company office in any city around the country). The unlocked cell phone must be a quad-band GSM or 3G handset or at least have an 850 or 1800 MHz band. Most US phones use 950 mHz. Motorola and Sony Ericcson are brands that have models with the right bands. At the airport ICE booth, you can ask for the different SIM prepaid cards they offer and they will be inserted in your handset. Some of them will include internet access.
Do Costa Ricans speak English?
People who work in the travel industry do speak conversational English. However, when you explore the rural areas of the country you will find people who only speak Spanish.
Is Costa Rica a safe destination for travellers?
Costa Rica is generally considered a safe country for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is advisable to exercise caution, take necessary safety measures, and be aware of your surroundings.
Is Internet widely available throughout the country?
The Internet is very common in the tourism destinations. Hotels often provide free WiFi service and you can get many internet cafes which provide high-speed connections.
Is it easy to drive a rental car in Costa Rica?
The road traffic is very similar to ours, only more chaotic. However, the condition of the roads is different, because there are often potholes and landslides due to the heavy rains. Also, keep to the speed limits.
- (i) Do not pick up hitchhikers.
- (ii) Always keep the doors and windows of the car closed. Do not leave valuables in the car.
- (iii) Avoid driving when it is dark. Please always leave on time so that you arrive at your destination before dark (6:00 pm).
- (iv) Always park in guarded parking lots.
- (v) In case of a flat tire: DO NOT seek help from others, but go to a busy place and contact the police and/or your car rental company.
- (vi) your car rental company.
Trick thieves are not afraid to break open cars – especially rental cars – and steal luggage in seconds, even in daylight and when the driver is only a short distance away. This happens more often in tourist centers and San José.
Is it safe to drink tap water locally?
Basically, in more than 90% of the country the drinking water is drinkable for tourists without any problems. In remote destinations like Tortuguero or Corcovado it is recommended to use bottled or filtered water. Most accommodations have a water station where you can fill up your own reusable water bottle (preferably stainless steel for hot and cold) for free.
Otherwise please buy large bottles of water to reduce plastic consumption!
What is the best place to stay in Costa Rica?
Contact us to help you advise you and craft you The Experiences. Below places are best for you and build your ideal Costa Rica holiday package.
Arenal Volcano—Adventure Capital.
Manuel Antonio—1 National Park.
Tamarindo Beach—Surf & Sunsets.
Monteverde—Birdwatching Paradise.
Conchal Beach—Shell Beach.
Gulf of Papagayo—Calm Waters.
What is the best time to visit Costa Rica?
Costa Rica has a tropical climate, and the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The dry season, from December to April, is popular for outdoor activities and beach trips. The wet season, from May to November, offers lush green landscapes and is great for wildlife spotting.
What is the electricity configuration in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica’s electricity operates at 110 volts and 60 Hertz.
What kind of activities can I expect to do in Costa Rica with Lumle?
Lumle offers a wide range of activities, including wildlife tours, rainforest hikes, zip-lining, surfing lessons, volcano visits, and cultural experiences. They specialize in eco-friendly and sustainable travel, ensuring that these activities have minimal impact on the environment.
What number should I dial in case of emergency?
In case of emergencies, please dial 911.
Changes & cancellations 2
What happens if I need to change my booking?
We understand plans change. You can amend your booking up to a certain period before departure. Amendment fees may apply depending on the changes and airline ticket conditions. Please contact our team as soon as possible.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations must be made in writing. Cancellation charges apply and increase the closer it gets to the departure date. Please refer to our full Terms & Conditions for the specific cancellation fee scale.
After your holiday 1
How can I contact Lumle after my holiday?
For questions or feedback after your holiday, contact our team, email sales@lumle.com or call 1-888-214-4856.
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Book with Confidence
Eligible non-flight packages and packages with flights departing from and returning to airports outside the UK are protected through ABTOT membership 5338. Packages with flights departing from or returning to a UK airport are protected under ATOL 7375.
ATOL Protected
ATOL 7375 · Eligible UK-flight packages
ABTOT Bonded
ABTOT 5338 · Eligible packages
Allied Member of USTOA
United States Tour Operators Association
What our travellers say
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