Tour Description

Travel deep into the heart of Central America on a journey that reveals the historic cities, coffee highlands, volcanic landscapes and local culture. Begin in Nicaragua, one of the region’s least‑visited countries, exploring the busy streets and creative spirit of Leon before heading into the cooler highlands of Matagalpa. Take part in a hands‑on, traditional cooking workshop and meet the local women who preserve these customary weaving techniques. Take a ferry across vast Lake Nicaragua to reach Ometepe Island, where striking twin volcanoes frame rural landscapes and daily life unfolds at a slower pace. Witness volcanic power up close at the active crater of Masaya Volcano before crossing into Costa Rica to explore one of the country’s most distinctive volcanic regions. Here, steaming fumaroles, forested trails and natural hot springs provide a dramatic and rejuvenating finale.

Priced From:

$ 4070.00pp ^*

Valid From: 01JAN2027

Valid To: 31DEC2027

Start Location: Leon

End Location: San Jose

Countries: Costa Rica, Nicaragua,

Tour Advisors

Beccy Hayes

Travel Specialist

Tiffany McCrea-Lennon

Managing Director

Russell Mein

Travel Specialist

Caitlin Lennon

Travel Coordinator

Gaylyn Murdoch

Administration Manager

Holly Skene

Travel Co-ordinator

Kim Thomas

Broker

Highlights

Journey by ferry across Lake Nicaragua to Ometepe Island, a rare destination formed by two dramatic volcanoes. Spend time soaking up island life, exploring small communities and enjoying peaceful lake and volcano views.

Join a local cooking workshop in the highlands of Matagalpa using fresh market ingredients to prepare traditional dishes, then visit a women‑led weaving demonstration showcasing ancestral techniques and the stories behind the craft.

Witness Central America’s raw geological energy as you visit Masaya Volcano, where you can peer into an active crater and see the glow of the lava lake – this is one of the few places in the world where such a lake is visible.

Visit Costa Rica’s Rincon de la Vieja National Park, where you can explore volcanic landscapes and unwind in the warm mineral waters and volcanic mud baths.

Discover the vibrant city of Leon on a guided walk that brings its revolutionary history, poetry and artistic spirit to life. Visit key landmarks, stroll bustling streets, and gain insight into the city’s role as Nicaragua’s intellectual and cultural heart.

Itinerary

Hola! Welcome to Nicaragua. Your adventure begins in Leon – a city of revolution, poetry and grand architecture. After checking into your hotel, feel free to walk through the historic streets. Admire the striking white facade of Leon Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest cathedrals in Central America. After the welcome meeting at 6 pm, maybe head out for an optional meal with your group at a local restaurant to sample traditional Nicaraguan cuisine. Your leader will have some great recommendations.

Today, join your group on a leader-led orientation walk dedicated to exploring Leon’s rich cultural heritage. Visit local art galleries, revolutionary murals and bustling markets. Learn about the city’s political history and literary legacy. Visit the lively Mercado Central de Leon, a hub of daily life in the city. Wander through colourful stalls filled with local produce and traditional foods and fuel up with a market snack such as quesillo (a soft tortilla filled with fresh cheese, pickled onions and cream) or a refreshing natural fruit drink. In the afternoon, you’ll have free time to explore on your own. Maybe take a kayaking or boat tour at Juan Venado Island Nature Reserve – float along the waterway between the mangrove forest and the island’s coast and watch out for wildlife that live here in abundance. If you’re a history buff, step back in time at Ruins de Leon Viejo, one of the oldest Spanish settlements in the Americas. Located near Puerto Momotombo, these fascinating archaeological ruins offer insight into Nicaragua’s colonial history.

Travel north into the cool highlands to Matagalpa, a region known for coffee production and lush mountain scenery. The change in climate is immediate — fresh air, rolling hills and cloud-kissed forests surround you. When you arrive, maybe take a short walk through town to soak up its relaxed atmosphere. The region’s strong agricultural traditions make it an ideal place to learn about rural Nicaraguan life. If you’d like, your leader can help you arrange a coffee tour, birdwatching in the cloud forest, a visit to a farm or hiking in Apante Nature Reserve.

Today, you’ll visit one of the mountain communities surrounding Matagalpa and get a taste of traditional Nicaraguan cuisine. After breakfast, head out of the city to Aguali Biological Station, where you’ll participate in an interactive cooking workshop. Together with local hosts, you'll prepare traditional dishes using fresh regional ingredients while learning about the role of corn, beans and seasonal products in Nicaraguan daily life. To cap it off, enjoy the fruits of your labour for lunch. After, the journey continues into the hills to the indigenous community of El Chile. Here you’ll meet a group of local women artisans who preserve the region’s traditional weaving techniques. They’ll demonstrate how colourful threads are transformed into handmade backpacks, rugs and other textiles using traditional looms. Try the weaving process yourself, if you want! For those craving some time in nature, there’s time to tack on an optional short walk to Cerro El Chile, a scenic viewpoint where you can look out over the mountains surrounding Matagalpa.

Today, journey south to Granada, set on the shores of Lake Nicaragua and brimming with colourful Spanish architecture. On the way, stop in the lively town of Masaya, where you’ll have time for lunch on your own and to walk around the famous Masaya Artisan Market – perhaps picking up a handmade hammock or piece of pottery to take home. In the afternoon, head to Masaya Volcano, one of Nicaragua’s most active and captivating natural wonders. While waiting for entry – which can sometimes involve a longer wait – enjoy the sounds of traditional Nicaraguan music and engaging stories that bring the volcano’s history and local legends to life. Admire a beautiful sunset, then continue to Granada and your hotel for tonight.

Today, you’ll get to know Granada, founded in the 16th century and one of the oldest European-established cities in the Americas. Head out with your leader for a walk through the leafy Parque Central and La Calzada – a busy pedestrian street and dining area. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city at your own pace. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, maybe hire a kayak and paddle around the islets of Lake Nicaragua – stay safely tucked in, as freshwater sharks live in the water! Or, maybe rent a bike and ride to Laguna de Apoyo, or hike through the flora and fauna along the Mombacho Volcano Crater Trail. If you’d like to dive deeper into Granada’s rich history and striking Spanish architecture, consider joining a guided city tour. With a local expert leading the way, you’ll explore bustling streets, visit Casa de los Tres Mundos and the San Francisco Convent, and uncover the stories behind the city’s most iconic landmarks.

Today, travel by road and ferry to Ometepe, a magical island formed by two volcanoes rising from Lake Nicaragua (Ometepe literally means two volcanoes in the Nahuatl language). Life here moves at a slower pace, shaped by agriculture and fishing traditions. When you arrive, take time to settle in and enjoy sunset views over the water. The island’s natural beauty sets the tone for tomorrow.

This morning, explore the natural and cultural highlights of Ometepe on a scenic tour across the island. Visit the lush trails of Charco Verde, stop at the quiet shores of Playa Santo Domingo and see the historic town of Altagracia. Along the way, discover ancient Ometepe petroglyphs that offer a glimpse into the island’s local culture and traditions. The afternoon is yours to explore Ometepe’s landscapes as you wish. Maybe hike to the summit of Maderas volcano – but be warned, at 1394 m (4573.5 ft) above sea level, this trek is no walk in the park. You might prefer to splash around in the natural springs or soak up the sun on the shore. If you like watermelon, banana and citrus fruits, this is the place for you – there’s loads of delicious fresh fruit to feast on.

Depart Nicaragua today and cross the border into Costa Rica, continuing to Rincon de la Vieja. This geothermal wonderland is characterised by bubbling mud pots, volcanic craters and tropical dry forest. When you get there, enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the hot springs, where natural thermal pools flow through the forest. Take time to unwind in the warm mineral waters and experience the traditional and rejuvenating volcanic mud baths, surrounded by the peaceful landscapes of Costa Rica’s tropical dry forest.

After breakfast, venture out to explore the geothermal landscapes of Rincon de la Vieja National Park on a leader-led walk through the Las Pailas Sector. Follow the trails past gurgling mud pots, steaming fumaroles and sulphur springs while learning about the volcanic activity and dry tropical forest ecosystem that define this remarkable park. If you’d like, go birdwatching or take a canopy tour to round out the day.

Today, travel south to San Jose, Costa Rica’s dynamic capital, nestled in the Central Valley and home to over half the country’s population. When you get there, take a leader-led orientation walk to get your bearings. If there’s time, maybe explore the city’s Central Market, where you can buy anything from handicrafts to locally grown fruit. This evening, you may wish to rejoin your group for a farewell dinner to reflect on your journey through two countries rich in culture, history and natural beauty.

Your adventure comes to an end today. Your booking agent can help arrange your transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Dates & prices

Dates

Prices

Availability

Departure Date :

18AUG2027

Return Date :

28AUG2027

4070.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

13OCT2027

Return Date :

23OCT2027

4070.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

03NOV2027

Return Date :

13NOV2027

4070.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

17NOV2027

Return Date :

27NOV2027

4070.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

15DEC2027

Return Date :

25DEC2027

4190.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

29DEC2027

Return Date :

08JAN2028

4190.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

12JAN2028

Return Date :

22JAN2028

4400.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

26JAN2028

Return Date :

05FEB2028

4400.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

09FEB2028

Return Date :

19FEB2028

4400.00NZD

available

Departure Date :

23FEB2028

Return Date :

04MAR2028

4400.00NZD

available

Trip Notes

Trip title

Discover Nicaragua & Costa Rica

Trip code

QBSR

Validity

Validity: 01 Jan 2027 to 31 Dec 2027

Extended validity

27 Dec 2028

Introduction

Style

Original

Themes

Explorer

Transport

Private vehicle, ferry

Physical Rating

Physical preparation

None of the activities featured in this trip require special training or skills, just a reasonable level of fitness and a willingness to participate. Cobblestones and uneven roads are common and you may be required to walk in hot and humid conditions. If you are in any doubt, please share these concerns or issues with your sales consultant so that your leader is aware prior and can pre-empt your needs.

Joining point

Hotel La Posada del Doctor

Parque San Juan, Estatua de la Madre 1/2 cuadra al Oeste, Barrio San Juan

Leon

NICARAGUA

Phone: +505 2311 4343

Finish point

Autentico Hotel

Ave 5 and 7 40 st, East Sabana,

East Sabana,

San Jose

10108

COSTA RICA

Phone: +506 22225266

Important information

1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm on Day 1 in Leon. There are no activities planned for the final day so you may depart at any time. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 3. The closest major airport to Leon is Augusto C. Sandino International Airport [MGA] in Managua, about a 2-hour drive east of Leon. Intrepid offers an optional transfer service. Please be careful when booking flights from San Jose; make sure you fly out of Juan Santamaría International Airport [SJO]. Please do not book flights from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport [SJC] as this is located in California, United States. 4. As per updated Nicaragua entry requirements, customers are currently required to supply a copy of their passport front page to their booking agent no later than 15 days prior to departure. 5. If you plan to travel with high-quality cameras or binoculars, please reference the packing section of your Essential Trip Information for details about Nicaragua's restrictions and regulations on these items.

Group leader

All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leader or local representative. The aim of the group leader or local representative is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced group leader or local representative however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your group leader or local representative is new to a particular region or training other group leader or local representative. Your group leader or local representative 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 places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your group leader or local representative can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.

Safety

TRAVEL ADVISORIES & ALERTS We recommend that you check your government's foreign travel advisory for the latest information about the destination before you travel. You will also need to ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. We also recommend saving the phone number for emergency consular assistance for your government’s consulate in the destination/s you’ll be travelling. Links to travel advisories and any current travel alerts for our trips can be found here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts PERSONAL SAFETY Ensure you have a secure method of carrying your passport, phone, credit cards and cash while travelling such as a money belt. Leave all other high value items, including jewellery, at home Use safety deposit boxes at hotels to store your valuables when available and ensure your luggage is lockable. Be aware of the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft. Exercise caution when walking at night, don’t walk alone and stick to well-lit streets wherever possible. Be vigilant on public transport and look out for your fellow travellers. Take precautions such as carrying your bag in front of you and never leaving personal items unattended. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS Intrepid welcomes all LGBTQIA+ customers on our trips, however we operate in parts of the world that are less accepting. We support LGBTQIA+ customers to travel to these destinations and are committed to ensuring they face no discrimination on any part of the trip we control. We recommend you visit Equaldex (https://www.equaldex.com/) and your government's foreign travel advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers when choosing your trip.

PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

MONEY WITHDRAWAL: In order to avoid fraud and theft, it is advisable that you withdraw money from ATMs located inside banks or guarded shops during business hours only.

LOCAL LODGINGS: On this trip you will be staying in some restored houses and local lodges - these are one of the charms of this journey, but their staircases, balconies and passages etc may not always comply with western safety standards. Please do not expect elevators in these properties as they are preserved to their original state.

FIRE PRECAUTIONS Local laws governing tourism facilities in this region may differ from those in your home country and accommodation we use may not have a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.

SEAT BELTS: Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.

WATER SAFETY: Please take care when taking part in any activities in the ocean, river or open water, where waves and currents can be unpredictable. It's expected that anyone taking part in water activities is able to swim and have experience in open water. All swimmers should seek local advice before entering the water.

Communications

WhatsApp is a popular way to communicate in Latin America. We recommended downloading WhatsApp prior to departure to communicate by text with your group leader or local representative and group members during the tour. Once downloaded, please validate your phone number before leaving home as you will not be able to do this once you arrive unless you have international roaming enabled. Connections for making phone calls through WhatsApp are not reliable, so please do not use this app to make calls to our emergency phone line.

Visas

PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS You are responsible for obtaining relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip.  We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements, NICARAGUA We require a copy of your passport bio page no later than 15 days prior to departure. If, by profession, you are a human rights or political activist, journalist, academic or member of the clergy, you may be denied entry to Nicaragua. Please verify whether you meet Nicaragua's entry requirements, prior to travel, by contacting your local consulate or embassy. High quality binoculars and photography equipment (especially cameras with long zoom lenses) are restricted in Nicaragua and may be subject to inspection or seizure by the Nicaraguan customs authorities. Please refer to the Packing section for more information. Entry to Nicaragua requires a physical international yellow fever vaccination certificate, if you have visited an at-risk country in the previous 10 days (including transiting these countries for 12 hours or more). Your vaccination must have occurred more than 10 days before entry to Nicaragua. Physical certificates, printed in Central America, won't be accepted. Occasionally, border agents have requested this certificate even when it isn’t officially required. If you have one, carrying your certificate can help avoid delays, requests for fees or additional questioning at the border. Please see the 'Medical and health information' section for more details., NICARAGUA VISA INFORMATION (For customers who require a visa): If a Nicaragua visa is required for your trip, please use the following information when filling in your application: Address in Nicaragua: Hotel Posada del Doctor Parque San Juan, 50 metros al oeste León, Nicaragua Exit Border crossing point from Nicaragua to Costa Rica: Peñas Blancas, ENTRY AND EXIT FEES You may be required to pay a fee when entering or exiting a country, particularly if travelling via a land border crossing. Your leader will assist you with the process at the border. Having small bills in USD to pay fees in exact change will expedite the process. The below country-specific information was correct at the time of writing; however, please visit the relevant consular websites of the countries you’re visiting for up-to-date information., NICARAGUA If you enter Nicaragua by air, you must purchase a Tourist Card for USD 10. If you enter Nicaragua overland, the fee is USD 13. If you exit Nicaragua overland, there is a USD 4 departure tax. If you exit by air, a departure tax of USD 35 is normally included in the cost of your ticket., COSTA RICA There is no entry fee. If you exit Costa Rica overland, there is a USD 9 departure tax. If you exit Costa Rica by air, departure tax typically included in the cost of your ticket.

Why we love it

Visit Costa Rica’s Rincon de la Vieja National Park, where you can explore volcanic landscapes and unwind in the warm mineral waters and volcanic mud baths.

Is this trip right for you

Central America is generally hot and humid year-round. It can get chilly at nighttime and in locations at higher elevations. Protect yourself from the sun, bring light clothing you can layer and a waterproof jacket, and stay hydrated., This trip can involve a lot of walking. Please bring sturdy walking shoes and comfortable clothes. To make the most of the trip, it’s best to have at least a moderate level of fitness., There will be times when you must walk with your luggage. Pack light and use a backpack or something easy to carry., Costa Rica is a popular place and can sometimes be expensive. Expect to pay more for many things than you would in other Central American countries.

Health

GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. , ZIKA VIRUS: There have been reports of transmission of the mosquito-borne Zika virus in this region and we advise all travellers to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Given possible transmission of the disease to unborn babies, and taking a very cautious approach, we recommend all women who are pregnant or trying to get pregnant to consult with their doctors before booking their trip., MALARIA: There is no commercially available vaccination against malaria, which is transmitted by mosquito bites and is a risk in many less-developed tropical areas in Africa, Latin America and South East Asia. Protection against mosquito bites is essential and where the risk is considered high, anti-malarial medications are recommended. Anti-malarial medications should be discussed with experts as there are different medications available and not all medications suit all people or all destinations. Where malaria is considered prevalent in mountainous regions we prefer that trekkers to altitude try to avoid the use of mefloquine (Lariam) if possible., DENGUE FEVER: Dengue Fever is common in Latin America and can occur throughout the year. Argentina, Bolivia, Uruguay, Brazil, and parts of Mexico are currently suffering from a serious outbreak. This virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. There is no vaccination against it, but there are preventative measures that you can take such as wearing long clothing, using repellent, and being indoors particularly around dusk and dawn., YELLOW FEVER Many countries require a physical international yellow fever vaccination certificate at point of entry, if you have visited an at-risk country recently, and will deny entry if you can’t provide adequate proof of vaccination. Please speak to your doctor, early, about what vaccinations are required for the countries you’re visiting. You can also visit the World Health Organisation website for up to date information about at-risk countries: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/yellow-fever

Food and dietary requirements

While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in this region. Your group leader or local representative will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule, our groups tend to eat dinner together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There's no obligation to do this though. DIETARY REQUIREMENTS Please let us know your diet requirements before your trip starts. Generally speaking, in bigger cities/towns vegetarians can expect a reasonable range of vegetarian venues and/or vegetarian options within tourist restaurant menus. However, vegetarianism is not the norm in this part of the world so options can be limited when eating at homestays, small local restaurants, street stalls, markets, etc. More restrictive diet requirements (vegans, coeliac, gluten intolerance, fructose intolerance, lactose intolerance, etc.) can also be accommodated along this trip but you should expect a lesser variety than what you can expect at home. We recommend that, if possible, to bring your own supply of snacks with you. For those on strict Kosher or Halal diets, we understand your dietary requirements are important, however, sometimes due to cultural and language differences these are not always easy to convey when you are travelling. Your guide will do their best to assist you in translating your needs when eating out, but please be aware that these diets are almost unheard of in much of the continent and the best they may be able to accommodate is no pork and shellfish. If this will be a concern for you you may need to consider opting for vegetarian or vegan meals for the included meals in your itinerary. We recommend researching kosher or halal options in your destination country prior to travel to see if you are able to buy snacks once there, otherwise consider bringing some from home.

Money matters

SPENDING MONEY When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling. , NICARAGUA The official currency of Nicaragua is the Nicaraguan gold córdoba (NIO). USD cash is widely accepted, but for smaller items NIO is cheaper and easier. ATMs are available and NIO can be withdrawn. NIO isn’t exchangeable outside the country, so withdraw carefully and spend before departing. You can pay with major credit and debit cards at many hotels, restaurants and stores., COSTA RICA The official currency of Costa Rica is the Costa Rican Colón (CRC). ATMs are available and CRC can be withdrawn. USD cash (small bills) is widely accepted, but not for taxi fares. You can pay with major credit and debit cards at many hotels, restaurants and stores., MEALS NOT INCLUDED For this trip we recommend USD 25 to USD 50 per day., TIPPING Tipping can be an appropriate way to recognise great service when travelling. While it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many of our destinations and is greatly appreciated by the people who take care of you during your travels. It is always best to avoid tipping with coins, very small denomination notes, or dirty and ripped notes, as this can be regarded as an insult rather than the goodwill gesture it is intended to be., We recommend budgeting approximately USD 85 per person to tip drivers and service providers for activities included in this trip. This doesn’t include a tip for your leader., YOUR GROUP LEADER OR LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE Tipping your group leader or local representative is highly appreciated if you feel they’ve provided outstanding services throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline, the recommended amount is 4-7 USD or EUR per traveller per day (in a currency relevant to your destination). Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your group leader or local representative on your trip., CONTINGENCY FUNDS We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. We are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred because of changes to itineraries, including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra USD 500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of all travellers; however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs. Please confirm with your leader on Day 1 if you need to carry this in cash, or whether access via card or electronically is sufficient.

What to take

Most travellers prefer to take a small to medium wheeled suitcase, which is a great size for the packing capacity in our private vehicles. You will need to be able to carry your own luggage, handle it at airports, take in/out of accommodation and perhaps even walk short distances. We recommend you pack as lightly as possible. You'll need to bring a day pack/bag for activities and day trips. In terms of weight, airlines generally allow a maximum of 15-20kg for check in luggage and a maximum of 5kg for carry on. Check with your airline for baggage allowances. Other than the items and clothing you always need on a trip, below we have listed packing suggestions specific for this trip: ESSENTIAL: - Sun protection – sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen (reef-safe sunscreen for swimming). The UV index can be very high in this region, therefore it is essential you protect yourself adequately from the sun. - Clothing for hot and humid weather: Lightweight, breathable quick-drying clothing. - Clothing for cool nights/high altitudes, rainy days, and to protect against bugs: A lightweight waterproof jacket, pants, clothing you can easily layer. - Closed-in walking/hiking shoes. Closed-in shoes will help to protect your feet from mud, cuts and scratches and bug bites. - Personal travel documents which may include a passport, visa, driver's license, travel insurance, flight tickets and your Essential Trip Information. Photocopies of these documents stored separately from the originals will be handy. While not valid, a photocopy of your identification makes it much easier to obtain replacements if necessary. RECOMMENDED: - Water bottle. We recommend at least a 1.5 litre capacity. Clean, filtered water is available for free in many hotel lobbies. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. In addition to the water in bottles, the production of a 1 litre plastic bottle takes 2 litres of water and 200ml of oil. A large proportion end up in limited landfill or discarded in waterways and natural environments -Electrical adapter plug (Central American countries use plug types A & B which are standard throughout North America) -Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolyte powders and Band-Aids. -Watch/Alarm clock or phone that can be used for both -Swimwear -Travel beach towel -Water-proof bag for your phone -Tissues &/or toilet paper &/or wet wipes -Insect repellent -Camera with a spare memory card, charger &/or batteries OPTIONAL: -Earplugs to guard against a potential snoring room-mate -Phrasebook VALUABLES: Please try to avoid bringing unnecessary valuables, and use your safe if available. It’s also a good idea to purchase a money belt or pouch that is easily hidden. LAUNDRY: Laundry is available at many hotels and towns during this trip, although you might need to wait for a two-night stop in order to make sure you get it back in time. While laundry at hotels is usually charged by the item, laundromats usually charge by the kilo, which is generally inexpensive (about USD 2 per kilo).

NICARAGUA - RESTRICTIONS ON CAMERA EQUIPMENT Nicaragua enforces strict regulations regarding professional-grade camera equipment. High-quality DSLR/SLR cameras with long zoom lenses are often flagged at the border even if they are not "professional grade". Videography equipment, large high-power binoculars, and night-vision binoculars are also restricted. We recommend you leave your high-quality cameras with zoom lenses at home. If you do choose to travel with photography equipment, carrying receipts may help demonstrate that items were purchased for personal rather than professional or commercial use, though we cannot guarantee this will prevent complications at the border. Drones of any kind are banned in Nicaragua. NICARAGUA - RESTRICTIONS ON PRINTED READING MATERIAL Nicaragua may confiscate any physical printed reading material such as books, newspapers and magazines at the border.

Climate and seasonal

NICARAGUA Nicaragua’s Pacific destinations – Leon, Granada and San Juan del Sur – are hottest from March to May, with highs of 32–35°C (90–95°F). Rain is light from December to April and more frequent from May to November, usually in brief afternoon showers. Highland areas like Matagalpa are cooler, with daytime temperatures of 20–26°C (68–79°F) and nights dropping to 14–17°C (57–63°F)., COSTA RICA Costa Rica’s Pacific coast – including Manuel Antonio – is driest from December to April and warmest from March to August, with highs of 30–33°C (86–91°F). Brief afternoon showers are common from May to November. On the Caribbean side, Tortuguero gets more even rainfall, with drier spells in February, March, September and October. Inland, La Fortuna is warm and humid with heavier rain from May to November, while Monteverde stays mild at 20–24°C (68–75°F) with cool nights of 10–13°C (50–55°F).

A couple of rules

Intrepid won't tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams or local communities. To ensure the wellbeing of everyone on the trip, decisions made by your group leader are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leader or local representative are not permitted while on trip. Any behaviour that prevents your leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines may result in Intrepid denying your booking or removing you from the trip. If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your group leader immediately. Alternatively, you can contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact Information section of this Essential Trip Information.

Feedback

Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

Emergency contact

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time., For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us, In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below: , Intrepid local operator: Available for phone call on +506 4600 6000

Responsible travel

Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip leaders and local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel

The Intrepid Foundation

Our non-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, gives travellers more opportunities to make a positive impact in the places they visit. We have over 50 Intrepid Foundation partners across the globe addressing four key focus areas: protecting the environment, taking a stand for wildlife, addressing inequality and empowering communities. Intrepid matches all post-trip donations dollar for dollar and takes care of the admin fees – this doubles your impact and ensures every cent goes to our partners on the ground. Visit our website for more info: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/

Accommodation notes

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that, at a minimum, you are covered for medical expenses, including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region, please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance, your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number, rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or the USA, the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However, the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and each country you visit may have its own specific entry requirements. For example, some mandate travel health insurance for all foreign travellers, regardless of their nationality. Travellers from the European Union, Switzerland or the USA who decline travel insurance when travelling outside their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: , https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services

Your fellow travellers

As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure., SOLO TRAVELLERS On our trips, rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender, as per the gender marker on each of their passports. We also offer an optional single supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. This only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will always be on a single-room basis. On a small selection of trips some accommodation will be open-gender and multishare, such as a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam. Please review the Accommodation section of the Essential Trip Information for details about your trip. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. If your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

Itinerary disclaimer

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Accommodation

Hotels (11 nights)

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