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Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code
Fly into and out of Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José.
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What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?
At 5pm you will meet your guide and and the other Flashpackers before our welcome dinner at a top local restaurant. We recommend arriving no later than 3pm.
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What time should my flight depart on the last day?
On your final day, you’ll travel from Manuel Antonio to San José Airport – a journey of about four hours, depending on traffic. Due to the long transfer time, and the need to be at the airport at least two hours before your flight departs, you should book a flight after 2pm if you wish to join one of the two included group transfers (see next FAQ for more info).
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Are airport transfers included?
If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you’ve booked yourself a pre-night at the same hotel the adventure starts from,your airport arrival transfer will be included. Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and in groups depending on flight times, so you may have to wait in the airport for a short while.
However, if you’ve booked alternative pre-trip accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.
Please also note: in order to secure your place on the private transfer, you’ll need to provide your flight details to our Customer Experience team no later than 30 days prior to your adventure’s departure date. You’ll get automated email reminders about this, but the team won’t be chasing you. That’s why it’s key to get this information over in good time. If the details are provided later than 30 days pre-departure, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.
This adventure includes a departure transfer from Manuel Antonio to San José Airport. To use this service, please book a flight that departs after 2pm on your last day.
There will be two shared transfer times, chosen to best match the group’s departure flights. Typically:
Due to the limited transfer options, you may arrive at the airport earlier than you would typically prefer.
If your flight departs earlier than 2pm, you will need to arrange and pay for a private transfer (approximately 300 USD). Your Pack Leader can arrange this for you, and you may be able to share the cost if others are in the same situation. Similarly, if you extend your stay in Manuel Antonio, a departure transfer will not be included.
If you extend your stay in San José, you can take one of the shared transfers to the airport on the last day of the tour and continue independently to your hotel from there.
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Are tips included?
Please note that tips are not included in the cost of this adventure. Suggested amounts per person are:
- Pack Leader: 7-12 per day
- Drivers: 3 USD per day
- Local tips: your Pack Leader will be able to advise on how much to tip local guides, restaurants, etc. Some Pack Leaders will collect a tipping kitty at the welcome meeting to take care of local tips.
However, all tips are at your discretion depending on what you feel comfortable with.
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Do I need a visa?
Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.
You can also find essential travel advice – including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:
Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.
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What vaccinations and medication will I need?
While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalised medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
1. Consult with a healthcare professional
We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.
2. Up-to-date medical advice
3. Government travel advice
4. Medication tips
If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.
We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.
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What fitness levels do I need for this trip?
We recommend having a read through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness. This is a fairly relaxed trip that should be comfortable for most fitness levels.
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Will the itinerary change?
These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.
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This adventure is part of Flash Pack's 'Balanced' range. So how does it differ?
Think classic Flash Pack – but at a more relaxed pace and with a more affordable price tag. Here’s what to expect from each trip style, in a nutshell:
Classic: Active and fast-paced with internal flights, excursions and most meals included.
Balanced: More affordable, slower-paced itineraries with added free time, minimal physical challenge and no internal flights. There’ll be fewer excursions and meals out, but no compromise on quality.
No matter the style, our adventures are always friendship-focussed, full of immersive activities, led by the world’s best local guides and guarantee handpicked three-to-four-star accommodation.
