FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
General
What is included in the tour?
We include all activities listed on itinerary, hotel accommodations, transportation, breakfast, lunch, dinner, bottled water and snacks while in transit, airport transfers and gratuities.
What is not included in the tour price?
Mama Llama Tour prices do not include air travel, entry or departure fees, airport porters, visas, phone calls, laundry, gifts, extra food and drinks not on the regular menu, alcoholic beverages, and tips to the Mama Llama Tour director and driver.
How far in advance do I need to book my tour?
We recommend you book at least two (2) months in advance. We have limited space. However, if cancellations occur and space opens up within that two (2) month period, we will try to fill any open space.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept all of our payments thru PayPal. It is simple, safe, and secure. We do NOT accept checks, money orders, or traveler’s checks.
Do you have a travel protection plan?
Yes, we have an optional travel protection plan. Please click here for information.
Do you host private tours?
Contact us for information on a private, customized group tour.
Can your tours be enjoyed by all age groups?
We tend to attract an adventurous adult crowd, but our tours can be enjoyed by all age groups over twelve (12) years old. Most activities require person(s) to be at least twelve (12) years of age.
Are children allowed on tour?
We do not allow children under the age of twelve (12) on the tour. Also, all minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Do your tours include any evening activities?
There is an evening visit to the hot springs near the Arenal Volcano. This is especially great for singles and couples! Besides this, guests are on their own after dinner and are more than welcome to explore the town.
How long will each day be?
Each day varies in length, but we make sure that each tour day begins and ends at a reasonable hour.
How large will my group be?
We limit each tour to 20 people. This allows for each tour to be very personal and interactive.
In what time zone is Costa Rica?
Central Standard Time.
What language is spoken in Costa Rica?
Spanish.
What vaccinations are required to enter Costa Rica?
No vaccinations are required, but you may want to check with your doctor for any minor or major medical concerns.
What electricity voltage is used in Costa Rica?
It is 120 volts. It’s the same as the United States.
Are meals included?
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. This includes your drink (non-alcoholic) and dessert. On the bus, we also provide bottled water and snacks.
Is the water safe to drink?
Yes, the water is safe. We do provide bottled water daily.
What is the food like?
The food is very simple and wholesome. A typical meal consists of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and either beef, chicken, or fish. Vegetarian meals can be made upon request. There are a lot of fresh fruits available, including papayas, pineapple, and mangoes.
Can I rent a car in Costa Rica?
Yes, but you do not need to for this tour. All our tours are guided. We travel in a 24 passenger air conditioned bus, driven by a professional.
Can I use my cell phone on tour?
If you have service, you are more than welcome. However, to respect the other passengers, please limit your cell phone use while in transit.
Activities
Do I have to participate in all of the activities?
No, you do not have to participate in anything you don’t feel comfortable doing, but the activities are part of the tour price and nonrefundable.
What are the volcanic hot springs like?
There are several hot springs in the Fortuna area. We go to Tabacon Hot Springs. It’s a beautiful private establishment that consists of many volcanically heated pools, streams and miniature waterfalls. There are swim-up bars, spa amenities, beautiful gardens and a fine restaurant that we will be dining at that evening.
How much time do we have at Manuel Antonio National Park Beach?
We suggest you attend early in the morning and stay as long as you like.
What activities can I enjoy in Costa Rica if I arrive a day early or stay a day longer?
If you arrive early or stay an extra day, it would have to be something that is fairly close to the central valley. We recommend visiting the cathedral in Cartago (Costa Ricans make pilgrimages to this famous church in October). You can experience the gondola ride in Braulio Carrillo, riding thru the rainforest in hanging baskets. Also, there is much nightlife in the central valley. Golfing is also available.
Can I do zip-lining in Costa Rica?
Yes. We include the canopy zip-line in our tour.
Is there golf in Costa Rica?
Yes, but it is NOT included in the tour.
Hotels
What kind of beds are in Costa Rican hotels?
The beds are comparable to the beds in an American hotel. We stay at different hotels so bed types vary.
Are refrigerators available for private use at the Costa Rica hotels?
Most of the hotels do not have in-room refrigerators, but the hotel concierges are very accommodating.
Do the hotels offer laundry services and internet service?
Most hotels have both, including wi-fi.
Are there laundromats in hotels?
No, but there are self-service laundromats near the hotels that we will be staying at.
Luggage and Packing
What kind of clothing should I pack?
Bring clothing that is casual and comfortable. We recommend comfortable shoes with tread that aren’t likely to slip on wet surfaces (e.g. walking shoes, hiking boots, sneakers). Bring a couple of swimsuits. Instead of sandals and flip flops, we recommend wearing water socks for activities where water is involved (e.g. caves, white water rafting, waterfalls). Though you want to dress for the sun, humidity and possible rain, you should also have a warm sweatshirt or jacket handy. You might want to bring some formal wear in case you want to go out to dancing or go to an upscale restaurant.
What else should I pack?
-Toiletries
-Sunscreen
-Bug spray
-Plastic bag for wet items
-Sunglasses
-Hat
-Small backpack for outings
-Photocopies of your passport, credit carts, medications, prescriptions, and anything else of importance (carry photocopies separately from actual items).
What size suitcase can I bring on the tour?
Due to limited space, we encourage clients to keep it simple. There is a 2 bag per person maximum. The main suitcase should be no larger than 27’’ in length. You can also bring a personal bag, like a backpack, that is small enough to fit on your lap when seated.
Should I pack my medical supplies in my main suitcase?
Please keep all medical supplies, passports, cameras, wallets other important items in your carry-on bag. Try to avoid checking any bags, and we encourage you to pack lightly.
Money
What is the exchange rate for Costa Rican currency?
It fluctuates. Please refer to the following link for up to date currency conversion rates: http://www.xe.com. Costa Rica’s currency is the colon (CRC).
Where is a good place to exchange money?
We will not stop at a bank so please exchange your money in the U.S. or at the airport in San Jose Costa Rica. Money can also be exchanged at the hotels, but that is no guarantee.
Where do you find ATM machines?
ATM machines are found in most of the larger cities attached to a bank. Do not rely on being able to access money in this manner as the weather and tour schedule make it difficult.
Do most Costa Rican stores accept U.S. dollars and credit cards?
Almost all establishments accept US dollars. You will most likely receive the change in Costa Rican colones. The rate of exchange differs per business. Credit cards are not accepted everywhere and they do attach a service fee.
Are traveler’s checks accepted?
Do not bring travelers checks as they are rarely accepted and they need to be exchanged at a bank.
Are customs duties charged in Costa Rica for my personal items?
No.
Airport Information
What happens at Costa Rica immigration?
Passengers pass thru Immigrations with their valid passports and filled tourist card (airlines provide these on the flight).
What about the San José airport’s baggage claim?
Passengers pick up their checked bags from the carousel and continue to the customs area.
What happens at Costa Rica customs?
Passengers must place all their belongings on the x-ray scanner and hand the agents their filled out customs form.
Where is the Mama Llama Tours greeter at the airport?
We will have your personal greeter meet you outside of the customs area. The greeter will have a bright Mama Llama Tours sign.
How do we transfer if we arrive a day early?
As long as you confirm your arrival date with us on time, you will be greeted at the airport as usual.
How does Costa Rica’s departure tax work?
The departure tax is paid at the airport prior to checking in for your flight. The sum is $26 per person and they accept payment with dollars and/or colones.
Are airport porter tips included in my Mama Llama tours price?
No. However, all tips are included once the tour begins.
Does Mama Llama Tours arrange airline transportation?
No. Mama Llama Tours is a land tour only. Every party is responsible for their own airline transportation.
Motorcoach
What type of motorcoach will we travel in?
We travel in a 24 passenger coaster bus.
Does the coaster have a restroom?
The coaster is very wide and spacious and has large viewing windows. However, it does not have a restroom.
How long do we travel in the coaster?
Driving time varies. The trips, on average, are between 2-3 hours.
Passport
Do I need a passport to visit Costa Rica?
Yes. Costa Rica requires U.S. citizens to possess a passport which is valid for at least 6 months after entry date into Costa Rica. It is vital that you check the expiration date of your passport. For information about applying for a passport, call the U.S. Passport Office at 1-877-487-2778. Non U.S. citizens should check Costa Rica passport requirements for their country.
Do I need to carry my passport with me at all times in Costa Rica?
Yes, your passport needs to be available at all times.
Other
How long has Mama Llama Tours been in business?
Mama Llama Tours has been in business for 17 years.
Do you have any advice on purchasing real estate or timeshares?
We can refer you to professional real estate agencies.