Before you fly
Trip Essentials & FAQs
Everything people keep asking in the group chat, written down once.
Travel & Airport
Packing & Attire
Currency & Payments
Villa Rules & Logistics
Don’t forget
Costa Rica Packing List
1. Activity-Specific Clothing & Gear
White Water Rafting & Water Tubing
- 2–3 quick-dry swimsuits / rash guards
- Water shoes or sandals with an ankle strap (Teva/Chaco style — flip-flops will float away)
- Dry bag (10L–20L) for personal items during water activities
Ziplining & Hanging Bridges
- Light, breathable long pants or athletic leggings (protects legs from harness friction)
- Sturdy sneakers or trail runners with good traction
- Moisture-wicking short or long-sleeved shirts
Volcano Lava Trails & Waterfall Hike
- Breathable athletic socks (bring extra pairs in case feet get wet)
- Comfortable walking/hiking shoes
- Towel (microfiber/quick-dry) for swimming at the base of La Fortuna Waterfall
Hot Springs & Villa Relaxation
- Dark-colored swimsuits (minerals in hot springs can occasionally discolor light fabrics)
- Slip-on sandals / flip-flops
- Cover-ups and casual loungewear for poolside / Villa Xanadú
Private Chef Dinner & Evenings Out
- All-black outfit for the villa chef dinner on October 7
- Light, beachy colors and linens for Paul's birthday dinner on October 10
- Light jacket, cardigan, or rain shell for cooler mountain evenings around La Fortuna
2. Tropical Weather Essentials
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho (rain can happen at any time in the rainforest)
- Eco-friendly / reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Insect repellent (spray or wipes with DEET or Picaridin)
- Sunglasses & hat/visor
- Reusable water bottle (staying hydrated during hikes and activities is key)
3. Documents & Payment Essentials
- Passport (valid for at least 1 day past departure)
- Driver's license & physical credit/debit cards
- Small amount of cash (USD is widely accepted in Costa Rica; crisp, undamaged bills work best for on-site activity payments and tips)
- Printed or digital copies of trip reservations, housing details, and transfer vouchers
4. Electronics
- Phone charger & portable power bank (for long activity days)
- Waterproof camera / GoPro (with helmet mount for ziplining/tubing, if desired)
- Camera gear with extra memory cards
Documents & vouchers
Links go live as bookings are confirmed.