Usefull Information
Welcome to our tour information page! Here you will find all the essential information you need to prepare for your upcoming adventure. We've gathered everything from photography equipment recommendations to weather forecasts to help you make the most out of your experience.
You'll also find details about the cost of the tour and what is included, so you can plan accordingly. We want you to feel confident and excited about your trip, and that's why we've taken the time to provide all the necessary information in one place. Read on to discover everything you need to know before embarking on your photography tour with us.
What Includes?
We are excited to offer you an all-inclusive photography tour experience! Our package includes everything you need to have a successful and enjoyable trip, except for flights in and out of San Jose and shuttle service to and from the airport on the first and last day of the tour.
This means that you'll have private transportation to all the destinations on the itinerary, a certified Costa Rican tour guide to lead you on your adventure, and professional photography assistance to help you capture the best shots possible. You'll also be provided with 11 nights of comfortable accommodation in a double shared room, and delicious meals throughout the day. Each meal includes one main plate and one drink per person.
We do offer private rooms upon request, but please note that there is an additional cost and we cannot guarantee their availability. We want to ensure that everyone on the tour has a great experience, so please let us know ahead of time if you would like a private room and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
Our goal is to make your photography tour as stress-free and enjoyable as possible, so you can focus on capturing amazing photos and creating unforgettable memories.
What Kind of Tour Is It?
This tour is designed to offer unique experiences in rural areas, away from the crowds and parties. While some areas may be more popular than others, our main goal is to provide an opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in nature and local culture.
We believe that this approach allows for a more meaningful and authentic travel experience. Our itinerary includes activities such as birdwatching, whale and dolphin watching, coffee tours, and waterfall visits, all carefully selected to showcase the natural beauty and diversity of Costa Rica.
We aim to provide a balance between active exploration and relaxation, with opportunities to enjoy stunning landscapes and take beautiful photographs. Our team of certified Costa Rican tour guides and professional photography assistants will ensure that you have an unforgettable trip.
Am I Too Old or Too Young?
The tour is suitable for youth, adults, and families who want to explore the culture and natural beauty of Costa Rica at a relaxed pace. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or it's your first time in the country, this tour is designed to offer unique experiences that you won't find on a typical tourist itinerary.
All the activities included in the tour are easy and accessible for everyone, regardless of physical condition or age. We want to ensure that everyone can fully enjoy and participate in each experience without any difficulties or limitations.
From birdwatching to coffee tasting, each activity is designed to be enjoyable and informative for all participants. Our expert guides will be on hand to provide any necessary assistance and ensure that everyone is comfortable and safe throughout the tour. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Costa Rica, we are confident that you will find the activities both engaging and accessible.
Cost and Reservation
The price for the tour is 5790 dollars, and a non-refundable first down payment is required to reserve a spot for a participant. Please note that the down payment will only be refunded if the tour is canceled due to a lack of minimum participants, which is set at four.
We recommend booking early to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. The remaining balance is due 60 days before the tour start date.
We accept payment through major credit cards, wire transfer or bank transfer. If you have any questions or concerns about payment or booking, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are happy to assist you in any way we can.
How Many Participants
To ensure a personalized experience, the maximum number of participants for the tour is eight. This allows us to focus on providing individual attention and ensuring everyone gets the most out of their experience. So, if you're looking for an exclusive and tailored tour, this is the one for you!
This limited group size also allows us to maintain our values of sustainable tourism and supporting the local economy. By keeping the group small, we can ensure that our activities have minimal impact on the environment and the communities we visit, and we can focus on working with local businesses and individuals to create an authentic and meaningful experience for our participants.
Photography Level and Equipment
The tour is designed for anyone with a camera that accepts manual mode and changing lens, regardless of their photography level. Beginners will gain valuable knowledge and turn into experts by the end of the tour, while experts will have the opportunity to capture stunning pictures that will last a lifetime.
Our experienced photography guide will be available throughout the tour to provide assistance and help participants take their photography skills to the next level.
Certainly, participants who do not have the necessary photography equipment, such as a telephoto lens (200 - 600mm), can rent one in San Jose for around 300 dollars for the entire 12-day tour. However, it is recommended that participants bring their own equipment if possible, as it will allow them to become more familiar with it and be better prepared for the tour.
It's important to note that the specific gear needed may vary depending on personal preference and shooting style. However, bringing a versatile zoom lens like a 24-70mm and a telephoto lens like a 70-200mm or 200-600mm is a great way to cover a wide range of photographic situations. Additionally, having extra batteries and memory cards is always a good idea. And of course, a sturdy tripod is essential for getting those steady shots.
Weather and Clothing
Costa Rica is a land of diverse and stunning natural beauty, with an equally diverse climate to match. While you can expect warm and sunny days throughout your trip, the weather can change rapidly, particularly in mountainous areas, which can become cooler in the evenings.
You may also experience some rainfall during your stay, particularly in the rainforest regions. We encourage all participants to come prepared for these varying weather conditions, with appropriate clothing and equipment.
We recommend bringing comfortable, sturdy trekking shoes, as well as waterproof clothing and accessories, to ensure that you stay dry and comfortable throughout your tour. With the right gear and a spirit of adventure, you'll be ready to take on any weather and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Costa Rica.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is a mandatory requirement for all participants of the tour. We highly recommend obtaining comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
Please ensure that your insurance policy is valid for the entire duration of the tour and that it covers all the activities you will be participating in.
It is important to note that medical expenses in Costa Rica can be very high, and without adequate insurance, you may face significant financial burden in case of an emergency. Therefore, having appropriate insurance coverage can give you peace of mind and protect you from unexpected expenses. Additionally, we recommend carrying a copy of your insurance policy with you at all times during the tour.
Transportation and Transfers
All the transportation during the tour will be done with a private mini bus, exclusively for the participants of the tour. This means you can sit back, relax and enjoy the journey through the stunning landscapes of Costa Rica, without worrying about transportation arrangements. You will be able to travel in comfort and style, without the hassle of crowded public transportation.
Additionally, having a private bus will give us the flexibility to make stops along the way for photo opportunities or to explore hidden gems that are not on the typical tourist trail. Our experienced and certified tour guide will be with you at all times, providing information and insights about the areas you are visiting, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.
Possible Changes to the Route
Due to the unpredictable weather conditions in Costa Rica, some activities in the itinerary may be subject to change. However, rest assured that our tour guides will do their best to accommodate and satisfy the requests and preferences of all the participants, while prioritizing safety and ensuring the best possible experience.
Our team will keep you informed of any changes and work with you to make alternative arrangements if needed. We believe that flexibility is key to creating a truly enjoyable and memorable experience, and we strive to provide the highest level of service and care throughout the tour.
Wild Life Experiences
As much as we strive to provide unforgettable wildlife experiences, we cannot guarantee sightings of specific animals like quetzals or mammals like dolphins and whales, as their behavior and presence in their natural habitats are beyond our control.
Nonetheless, our tour guides are experts in the region and will do their best to maximize the chances of spotting wildlife during the tour, using their knowledge and experience to find the best spots and timing. Our goal is to offer a unique and enriching cultural and natural experience, and we hope that you will enjoy the beauty and diversity of Costa Rica even if you don't see every specific species you may be hoping for.
Why Choosing Us
BAWO Travels is a sustainable and locally-operated tour company that supports local businesses and holds nature in the highest regard. Our tours are founded on respect and love for Costa Rican traditions and its environment.
We love sharing our passions and the beauty of Costa Rica with the rest of the world!