We have prepared a list of commonly asked question for your convenience. However, if your specific question is not included, please feel free to contact us directly.
Why a personal or small group tour?
Personal and small groups leave fewer footprints. They are environmentally more friendly and their effect less disruptive to local communities. It also means you get the chance to break away from regimented itineraries and crowded tourist haunts, while taking scenic back roads to places you may not have heard of, but wouldn't want to miss.
How Do I benefit from a personal or small group tour?
Our prices are comparable with tours offered by large coach companies but you have the benefit of traveling with your private party or in a much smaller group. Our door-to-door service will take you wherever you want to go… whenever you want to go. Our mini buses are not restricted to major roads, which mean we can include more "off the beaten track" locations away from the crowds. Choosing OUR small group tours doesn't mean you compromise on comfort or safety.
How many people will be on our bus?
Avispa’s Adventures provides small group or private transportation for all of our services. This means that your party could be the only individuals on the bus.
How do I book?
We like to have direct contact with all of our clients so that we can tailor each tour, private transportation service or travel arrangement commensurate to their needs. Therefore, to book with us, simply send us an email stating your desired service, date and number of persons you wish to book. We will send you a provisional confirmation with payment instructions and further details. For late bookings, please contact us by phone or fax.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We prefer cash, and our rates reflect a 6% discount for cash. (Most small business do.) However, we do not recomend traveling with large amounts of cash. For this reason, we would be happy to stop at an ATM on any of our tours/ transportation services. We can no longer accept travelers checks but we would be happy to stop at a bank where you can cash them directly (The Bank usually charges a fee of 1 to 3%)t We try to avoid credit cards. (Currently the Costa Rican banks are charging up to a 12% fee to process a charge.)
Will I get a discount for paying Cash?
Our rates reflect a 6% discount for paying cash.
Will you pick us up at our hotel? Is there an additional charge?
For the most part, all tours/private transportation services include complementary pick-up and drop off at your hotel. ( Hotels in Playa del Coco, Playa Hermosa-Hotel Playa Hermosa,The Hotel El Velero and the Four Seasons, Grand Papagayo, Allego Papagayo, Giardini di Papagayo ,Sol Papagayo Resort, Hilton Papagayo) Please inform us at the time of your booking if you would like a hotel pick-up.
What time do your tours depart and return?
Your departure from and your return to your hotel depend upon you. We will suggest an appropriate window of time for your departure; however, the decision is yours.
Are we on a strict schedule or will we have time to take pictures along the way?
You are the boss. Our tours are specifically designed around you. This is the advantage of small, personalized tours. We stop when you want to stop and we go when you want to go. We will give you plenty of time to explore, experience and enjoy the places you want to. We want your trip to Costa Rica to be unique and memorable.
Will we have time to pickup some souvenirs?
Upon request, we can stop for souvenirs. Please inform your driver if you would like to stop or if you are looking for something in particular. Our drivers and guides are always happy to point you in the right direction.
I am on a restricted diet. Will I be able to get a meal that meets my needs?
For the most part Costa Ricans will go out of their way to help you in any way they can. However, it is easier to meet the needs of your dietary restrictions if we are informed of them in advance. Please inform us of your special dietary request at the time of your booking.
I am traveling with someone that is physically challenged. Can you accommodate us?
Yes! We pride ourselves on our ability to understand the difficulties that a traveler with physical challenges encounters. Please contact our office for specific arrangements.
I want to save money - can I get to these places cheaper by public transportation?
Many of the places we visit are difficult, even impossible, to reach by public transportation. In fact, large tour companies are unable to reach some of our “off the beaten path” destinations. A few destinations are reachable by public transportation. However, you will waste valuable time waiting for buses and finding your way around unfamiliar places.
For some locations, we can make reservations at the attractions and assist you in renting a car. This can financially be less expensive but you will have to drive yourself and find your way along unmarked roads that are in poor condition. Plus, there isn’t a guidebook that can compare with knowledge and experience that you would receive from our drivers and guides.
Are there any hidden extras?
No.
Do I tip the driver or guide?
Gratuities or tips are not included. If you are satisfied with your tour and the services you received, it is appropriate to tip the driver and guide to show your appreciation.
What if I want to cancel; will I get a refund?
If you do have to cancel your tour or transportation service, please advise us as soon as possible. A handling charge may apply unless we can re-book the vehicle.
Do you cancel tours?
In the event of extenuating circumstances, i.e., weather conditions or closures of attractions, we may need to cancel or alter your tour arrangements. In this rare occasion, we will notify you immediately and provide you with other alternatives or a refund.
I sent you e-mail over an hour ago - when can I expect a reply?
Our goal is to respond to your email within 24 hours. Most of the time, however, it is much quicker. Please keep in mind the international time differences and national holidays in Costa Rica.
We respond to ALL emails. If you have not heard from us with in 72 hours please try and re-contact us. ( As we may be experinncing problems with our internet.)