Question 1

What's Included

Accepted Answer

Your G for Good Moment: Puesta del Sol Community Guesthouse Stay, Isla de Ometepe
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Discover Moment: Granada
Your Discover Moment: Monteverde
Your Discover Moment: La Fortuna. Beach time in El Tunco. Orientation walk around León and Granada. Free time in Granada, Ometepe, Monteverde, and La Fortuna. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

Question 2

What are the main highlights of this trip?

Accepted Answer

Embrace local experiences with your hosts at a community guesthouse stay in Ometepe, Savor authentic pupusas: El Salvador’s beloved stuffed tortillas, Relax seaside to the sound of waves in El Salvador, Spend time in the lush cloud forest of Monteverde

Question 3

Is there a disclaimer I should read before booking this trip?

Accepted Answer

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. 

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you view a final copy of your Trip Details a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Question 4

Is there a travel disclaimer for my itinerary I should review before booking this trip?

Accepted Answer

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. 

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

Question 5

Are there Itinerary notes?

Accepted Answer

Important note for Nicaragua: New regulations now require visas for certain nationalities, including Australian and New Zealand passport holders. Requirements can change at short notice, so all travelers should check with the nearest consulate or official sources before travel. Please note this is a basic level trip, using a mix of multi-share accommodations like hostels, and basic hotels, as well as public transportation throughout. We have an 18-30’s version of this trip, please see here for more details.

Question 6

What important notes should I be aware of before the trip?

Accepted Answer

1. In the instance that you are a parent or guardian traveling with a minor under the age of 18 and you do not share the same gender as the minor child, you will accommodated together in a private room instead of the multi share option. 2. As this trip crosses national borders, please be prepared to pay some border fees for certain countries totalling approx $22 USD for the entire trip. Please check with your local embassy or consulate for up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. 3. Please note that you will be required to fill out the form found at the link below at least two days prior to crossing into Honduras. It's encouraged that you have the form filled out and with you at Welcome Meeting on Day 1. Your CEO will go over the details and make sure everyone has the correct information. The group will travel into Honduras on Day 2. The correct form can be found at this link . 4. COMBO TRIP Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes. 5. This tour departs Antigua in the morning on Day 2. If you are interested in exploring the city and its nearby attractions, it is recommended you book additional pre-trip accommodation nights. 6. Please note the use of drones is banned in Nicaragua. 7. Important note for Nicaragua: New regulations now require visas for certain nationalities, including Australian and New Zealand passport holders. Requirements can change at short notice, so all travelers should check with the nearest consulate or official sources before travel.

Question 7

What is the role of the group leader during this trip?

Accepted Answer

All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. For our shipboard expeditions and voyages we have a highly experienced shipboard staff and crew, including level III guides in the Galapagos, and an expedition team aboard the M/V Explorer and M/S Andrea.  On truck trips in Africa you will be accompanied by a G Adventures leader, and a driver/cook, who offer a wealth of knowledge on the regions you will be visiting.

Question 8

What are the meals like on this trip?

Accepted Answer

Eating is a big part of traveling.  Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip.  The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.

Question 9

What are the modes of transportation on my trip?

Accepted Answer

Local bus, boat, ferry, private vehicle, taxi, walking.

Question 10

How will we travel between destinations?

Accepted Answer

This trip combines a variety of transportation types. At G Adventures, we believe that getting there is half the fun. When it comes to getting around, public transport is often the best and most colourful way to go. You'll be using a combination of public buses, private vans, ferries, boats and taxis to get from here to there.

Question 11

Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

Accepted Answer

All local flights are included in the cost of your tour unless otherwise noted. It is important that we have your passport information at the time of booking in order to process these tickets. Internal flight tickets are issued locally and will be given to you prior to the flight departure.

Question 12

Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?

Accepted Answer

We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Question 13

Where will we stay during the trip?

Accepted Answer

Simple hotels (12 nts), hostel (2 nts, multi-share), homestay (2 nts).

Question 14

What should I expect from the accommodations on this trip?

Accepted Answer

Accommodation will be varied throughout your adventure. Some nights on this tour will be multi-share. This may involve 4-6 group members sharing a room. The majority of accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities. 

Where we use multi-share hostels, rooming requests of any kind cannot be taken. For private accommodation please see tours in our Classic Standard Travel Style, as this is a Classic Basic trip.

Question 15

What are the joining instructions?

Accepted Answer

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

If you would like to book an airport Arrival transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.

If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi.


Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day. 

Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details!

If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.

**Please note that Antigua's nearest airport is Guatemala City, Guatemala. Don't get caught flying into the Caribbean island nation of Antigua; it's nowhere near the start of this tour!52

Question 16

What should I do if I can’t find my airport transfer or experience arrival issues?

Accepted Answer

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.

Question 17

Who do I contact for arrival issues or in the event of an emergency?

Accepted Answer

Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Operator (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. AIRPORT TRANSFER If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that: Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Office San Jose, Costa Rica During Office hours (Weekdays 9am-5pm Local Time): +506 4001 8474 After hours emergency number: +51 997 582 712 If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 09995

Question 18

What details should I be aware of when planning my departure day?

Accepted Answer

If you would like to book an airport Departure transfer for your tour, please contact our Sales Team or your Travel Agent in advance of travel.

Question 19

What are the packing guidelines and luggage restrictions?

Accepted Answer

We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying and handling your own luggage.

Please note Nicaragua restricts certain items. Articles such as drones, professional cameras, and other recording or electronic equipment may require special permits or customs may hold them upon arrival. Travelers should verify current regulations in advance to avoid issues at the border.

Question 20

Where can I do my laundry on this trip?

Accepted Answer

Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

Question 21

What are the visas and entry requirements for my trip?

Accepted Answer

All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements. Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here If you require a visa for Guatemala, please be advised that the group will enter Guatemala twice on this tour and a multi-entry visa may be required. Complete this form at least 2 days prior to crossing into Honduras. You will receive a confirmation in your email once it has been processed. Important Notice for UK Travelers: Visa Requirements for Honduras: Starting August 15, 2024, UK passport holders will need a visa to enter Honduras, this visa must be obtained in person in London, UK. Please check the visa application process and ensure you obtain your visa before departure. For more details, visit the UK Government's Travel Advice for Honduras. Here is some information that will help you to fill out the form Type of transport: Ground transportation Immigration office: El Florido Transport company: Prechequeo SLV Travel date- (2nd day of the tour, depending on what date your tour starts) Travel time- 12:00 Travel reason- Sightseeing Destination address- Copan Brisas Hotel Destination state- Copan Destination city- Copan Ruinas Important note for Nicaragua: New regulations now require visas for certain nationalities, including Australian and New Zealand passport holders. Requirements can change at short notice, so all travelers should check with the nearest consulate or official sources before travel.5

Question 22

What should I consider when planning my personal expenses and discretionary spending for this itinerary?

Accepted Answer

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

Question 23

What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

Accepted Answer

The currency in Costa Rica is the Colon (CRC), in Honduras the Lempira (HNL) and in Guatemala the Quetzal (QTQ).

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are widely available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Latin America. Check with your bank. 

You should be aware that to purchase products or services on a credit card a fee of 5%-10% usually applies. 

Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of US dollars cash and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds. 

We do not recommend you bring travellers cheques, as it is very difficult to exchange them in each country.

CURRENCY EXCHANGE TIP: Please be advised that slightly torn notes, notes that have been heavily marked or are faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than 100USD (or equivalent). 

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates:  www.xe.com

Question 24

What emergency funds do I need access to on this trip?

Accepted Answer

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

Question 25

Do I need to pay a departure tax?

Accepted Answer

Guatemala exit tax: 10Q ($1.25USD)
Honduras entrance tax: $3
Costa Rica entrance tax: free

Question 26

What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?

Accepted Answer

It is customary in Latin America to tip service providers such as waiters, at approximately 10%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use.  Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $5-10 USD per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

Tipping of your G Adventures Chief Experience Officer is very much appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline $6-10 USD per person, per day is our recommendation in the region. However, if you felt your CEO did an especially outstanding job, any additional amount will always be welcome.

Question 27

What activities are optional on this trip?

Accepted Answer

Copán
- Entrance - Copan Ruins (25USD per person)
- Luna Jaguar Hot Springs Visit (50USD per person)

Playa El Tunco
- Surfing Lesson (60USD per person)

Granada
- Masaya Volcano Day Excursion (40USD per person)
- Mi Museo Cultural Museum (5USD per person)
- Hiking
- Laguna de Apoyo Visit (35USD per person)

Masaya
- Market Exploration

Isla de Ometepe
- Swimming (Free)
- Hike Concepcíon Volcano (45USD per person)
- Ometepe Island Cultural and Pre-Columbian Petroglyphs Tour (45USD per person)
- Ojo de Agua (Swimming Hole) (10-15USD per person)

Monteverde
- Monteverde Butterfly Garden Visit (20USD per person)
- Santa Elena Cloud Forest Visit (35-50USD per person)
- Sky Walk (55USD per person)
- Ziplining 
- Monteverde Horseback Riding (45USD per person)
- Monteverde Coffee Plantation Tour (40USD per person)

La Fortuna
- Costa Rica Adrenaline Bundle
- La Fortuna Waterfall Swim (20USD per person)
- Ecotermales Hot Springs (64USD per person)
- Mountain Biking (79USD per person)
- Birdwatching
- Horseback Riding (59USD per person)
- Lost Canyon Adventures Canyoning (90USD per group)
- Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge Tour (65-133USD per person)

Sarapiquí
- Sarapiqui River Rafting (99USD per person)
58:T

Question 28

Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

Accepted Answer

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure. 

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

Question 29

What general safety tips and free-time guidelines should I follow?

Accepted Answer

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately. Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit: www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/

Question 30

Are there any specific safety considerations for this itinerary?

Accepted Answer

Like any city where tourism is on the increase, crime also tends to increase and while San José is not a noticeably dangerous city, there are certain precautions you should take. Make sure that you are aware of your things at all times and don't go out carrying expensive gear or jewelry.

Question 31

What are the mandatory group rules regarding laws and behaviour?

Accepted Answer

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

Question 32

What are the mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?

Accepted Answer

Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation,  curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

Question 33

How can I share feedback about my trip experience?

Accepted Answer

Earn 5% off your next G Adventures Tour (up to $100 USD)*

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us and to thank you for your time, we are pleased to offer a 5% discount (up to a maximum of $100 USD) off your next G Adventures holiday. All you need to do is submit the form within 4 weeks of the completion of your tour, and you'll be able to join the thousands of travellers who have taken 2, 3, 4 or even 10 or more tours with us!

Discount cannot be combined with other offers or applied to 'Independent' style trips. Maximum discount value is $100 USD (or equivalent currency). Valid for new bookings only. G Adventures reserves the right to withdraw or modify this offer at any time without notice. Limited to one discount per person.

Question 34

Does G Adventures have an email newsletter I can subscribe to?

Accepted Answer

Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/ Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.

Question 35

Are international flights included in this trip?

Accepted Answer

No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. 

However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. 

In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

Question 36

Who will be leading the group?

Accepted Answer

Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout.

Question 37

What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

Accepted Answer

The safety and well-being of all of our travelers is a priority at G Adventures and that includes our travelers who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. We recognize that there are specific concerns and questions you may have about your adventure in terms of safety and security. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the duration of your trip. The Equaldex tool linked on this page can be of particular help when deciding where you may want to visit next.

Central America: Guatemala to Costa Rica

What Coordinating This Route Involves

The Route, Day by Day

Antigua Guatemala

Copán, Honduras

Copán, Honduras

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