Skip to content
Check dates
Menu

Before you ride

Getting ready for your BikingCR adventure

A little preparation goes a long way towards making your cycling adventure even more enjoyable. From travel documents and local customs to health, money and what to expect on the road, we've put together some helpful information to make getting ready easier.

Take a little time to discover Costa Rica before you arrive. Learn a few Spanish words, get familiar with the country and its people, and come ready to embrace a different pace of life.

We've got the cycling adventure and logistics covered. This guide will help you take care of the rest.

  1. 1Get to know Costa Rica before you arrive

    Costa Rica is more than beautiful beaches and tropical forests. Take some time to discover its history, culture, geography and people. Learn about the country's rural communities, traditions and the meaning of Pura Vida: a phrase that reflects the relaxed, positive Costa Rican way of life.

    Spanish is the national language, and even a few basic words can make your experience more enjoyable. We encourage you to learn some useful expressions before arriving:

    • Hola: Hello
    • Buenos días: Good morning
    • Buenas tardes: Good afternoon
    • Por favor: Please
    • Gracias: Thank you
    • ¿Cuánto cuesta?: How much does it cost?
    • ¿Dónde está...?: Where is...?
    • Agua: Water
    • Comida: Food
    • ¡Pura Vida!: A friendly Costa Rican expression used to say hello, goodbye or everything is great!

    A little Spanish and an open mind will go a long way.

  2. 2Book your flights and prepare your travel documents

    We recommend booking round-trip flights to and from Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), near San José, allowing sufficient time before and after your cycling adventure.

    Before purchasing your tickets, make sure:

    • Your passport is valid for the required period of travel.
    • You have checked whether your nationality requires a visa to enter Costa Rica.
    • You have a confirmed return or onward flight ticket.
    • You have checked any transit visa requirements for countries where you may connect.
    • Your travel dates allow you to arrive in time for the BikingCR welcome and orientation evening.

    Keep digital and printed copies of your passport, flight details, travel insurance and important contacts.

  3. 3Secure your place on the trip

    Your BikingCR adventure is confirmed once you have completed your online reservation and paid the required US$1,200 deposit.

    Please remember the following payment deadlines:

    • US$1,200 deposit: Required at the time of booking to guarantee your place.
    • Remaining balance: Due no later than 60 days before the scheduled departure date.

    We recommend booking early, arranging your flights and keeping a copy of your booking confirmation and payment receipts.

    Please refer to our Deposits, Payments & Refund Policy for the applicable terms and conditions.

  4. 4Travel health, medical advice and insurance

    Before travelling, consult your personal doctor or a travel-health specialist about any vaccinations, medications or precautions recommended for Costa Rica and your cycling activities.

    Consider discussing:

    • Recommended vaccinations and travel-health precautions.
    • Personal medications and prescriptions.
    • Mosquito protection and insect repellent.
    • Sun protection, including sunscreen and appropriate clothing.
    • Hydration and electrolyte replacement during daily rides.
    • Any personal medical conditions or dietary requirements.

    Comprehensive international travel and medical insurance is mandatory, including coverage for mountain biking on mixed terrain, emergency medical expenses and evacuation.

    Costa Rica has pharmacies, private clinics and hospitals, particularly in larger towns and cities. However, medical facilities may be farther away when travelling through rural areas.

  5. 5Money, currency and daily expenses

    Costa Rica's official currency is the Costa Rican colón (₡). US dollars are also widely accepted, particularly in tourism-related businesses. Credit and debit cards are commonly used, and ATMs are available in most towns.

    We recommend carrying a modest amount of US dollars and some Costa Rican colones for small purchases in rural communities.

    For personal spending, allow approximately US$40 to 60 per day for lunches, dinners, snacks, drinks and occasional personal purchases. You may wish to budget extra for souvenirs, optional activities and evening entertainment.

    Before departure:

    • Check the current exchange rate between your home currency and the Costa Rican colón.
    • Notify your bank that you will be travelling.
    • Check international transaction and ATM withdrawal fees.
    • Bring a backup payment card and some cash.
  6. 6Pack smart for cycling in the tropics

    Costa Rica's climate varies considerably between regions and elevations. You may experience warm tropical conditions, cooler mountain temperatures and occasional rain.

    For your eight-day adventure, we recommend bringing:

    • Comfortable cycling clothing and padded cycling shorts.
    • Cycling gloves and suitable riding shoes.
    • A cycling helmet.
    • Sunglasses and sunscreen.
    • Lightweight rain jacket.
    • Reusable water bottle or hydration pack.
    • Insect repellent.
    • Casual clothing and comfortable footwear for evenings.
    • Personal toiletries and any required medication.

    Remember that your main luggage travels in our support vehicle, so you only need to carry your daily riding essentials.

  7. 7Travel responsibly: give something back

    At BikingCR, we believe that experiencing Costa Rica also means respecting and supporting the country, its people and its environment.

    We encourage our guests to travel responsibly by supporting local businesses, respecting rural communities, protecting wildlife and minimizing waste.

    There are also opportunities to make a positive contribution during your visit. We help raise funds for local NGOs, participate in beach cleanups supporting Costa Rica's Blue Flag initiatives, and visit local schools to deliver educational materials and offer support.

    If you would like to participate in a community or environmental initiative during your stay, please contact the BikingCR team before your departure. We will be happy to discuss opportunities that may be available during your trip.

  8. 8Arrive with an open mind and enjoy the experience

    Travelling through rural Costa Rica is an opportunity to experience a different pace of life. Road conditions, weather, local customs and daily schedules may differ from what you are accustomed to. Be flexible, embrace the unexpected and enjoy the small discoveries along the way.

    Respect local traditions, be considerate of the communities we visit, and take the time to connect with the people you meet.

    Our team will take care of the routes, accommodation, luggage transfers, daily logistics and on-the-road support.

    All you need to do is bring your sense of adventure and be ready to ride.

Pura Vida. See you in Costa Rica!