Pre-Trip Information: Costa Rica

Booked your cruise and not sure what to do next? Read our pre-trip information below.

Costa Rica

Need to Know

We are so excited for you to join us in Costa Rica! Our expedition team is on the ground exploring the region to make sure we curate the best adventure possible for you. Pre-trip information regarding flights, hotels, what to pack, and more will be available soon.

Please note that laundry services are not available onboard. If you will need to do laundry during your trip, please plan to do so during your land extension

Required Arrival & Departure Times

On the day your cruise begins:

Flights to LIR must arrive no later than 1:30 PM

On the day your cruise ends:

Flights from LIR must depart no earlier than 12:00 PM

For guests who have booked the UnCruise pre-cruise Land Program:

On day 1, flights to LIR must arrive no later than 4:30 PM.

On day 8, flights from LIR must depart no earlier than 12:00 PM.

Guests arriving for a pre-cruise land package will receive a group transfer to Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin. Transfers will occur at 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM. If you arrive before your transfer, you can take a free shuttle to the nearby Hilton Garden Inn and rest there until your pickup. UnCruise transfers from the airport will stop at the Hilton before continuing to the Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin, so there is no need to return to the airport.

Packing List

Clothing

  • Lightweight, quick-dry pants or shorts
  • Moisture-wicking long & short sleeve shirts
  • Lightweight sweater or fleece
  • Casual t-shirts, tank tops, blouses
  • Bathing suits (at least 2)
  • Bring more underwear & socks than you think you’ll need (it’s humid and items can take time to dry)

Outerwear

  • Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
  • Light jacket or windbreaker
  • Sun hat or baseball cap
  • Luggage
  • Collapsible or nesting luggage
  • Daypack or backpack
  • Dry bag

Footwear

  • Sturdy hiking shoes or light hiking boots with good tread
  • Water sandals or closed-toe water shoes
  • Casual shoes or sandals

Travel Documents & Essentials

  • Passport/Photo ID
  • Keep it in a waterproof pouch or secure spot.
  • Small amount of local currency
  • For souvenirs, tips, and small purchases ashore (optional—credit cards are often accepted).

Optional Items

  • Binoculars with safety strap
  • Camera, memory cards, spare batteries/charger
  • Reusable water bottle (also available on board free of charge)
  • Sunglasses & retainer strap (High UV index in Costa Rica; protect your eyes)
  • Sunscreen (reef-safe if possible): Look for biodegradable, reef-friendly sunscreen to help protect the environment
  • Insect repellent (Essential in tropical regions; consider a repellent with DEET or picaridin.)
  • SPF-rated lip protection (Don’t forget your lips when it comes to sun protection.)
  • Lightweight travel towel (Some travelers like having an extra quick-dry towel on hand.)
  • Travel power adapter (Costa Rica outlets are typically US-style, 120V.)
  • Neck strap phone holder or waterproof phone case