FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

At Rico Tico Tours, we care deeply about your experience. Whether you're visiting for the first time or coming back to explore more of the Costa Rica, we want you to feel informed, relaxed, and excited! Here are answers to the most common questions travelers ask before joining us.

What is the best time to visit the Caribbean coast?

You can visit Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, and Manzanillo any time of year and find something amazing waiting for you. July is one of our favorite months because it’s lush, quiet, and full of life with fewer visitors. September and October usually bring the best snorkeling conditions with calm, clear water that shows off the coral and tropical fish. Even when it rains, mornings are often sunny and fresh. Every season has its own rhythm, and there’s never a bad time to visit the Caribbean coast.

Is snorkeling in Cahuita or Manzanillo worth it?

Yes. Both Cahuita National Park and Manzanillo offer some of the most beautiful snorkeling in Costa Rica. In Cahuita, you’ll explore vibrant coral gardens full of colorful fish and sea fans. In Manzanillo, you’ll find pristine reefs and calm waters tucked inside a protected marine area. Our Epic Cahuita Combo Tour and Manzanillo Tours combine snorkeling with wildlife walks through the jungle, where monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds are part of the journey.

What happens if it rains?

A little rain is part of the Caribbean’s natural charm. Light or moderate rain usually doesn’t stop our tours, and it can make the rainforest feel even more alive. We only cancel or reschedule if the rain is heavy or visibility is too low. For snorkeling, we need at least 70 percent visibility to protect the coral, keep you safe, and ensure you get a great experience. If conditions aren’t right, we’ll reschedule or refund your tour.

Are your tours suitable for kids?

Yes. Most of our tours are family friendly and open to children aged 5 and older. We also offer private tours and gentle nature walks that are great for younger kids. Our guides are patient and fun, and they love helping families discover wildlife, plants, and local stories.

Do you offer transportation?

Yes. We can arrange transportation from Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, or Manzanillo, depending on where you’re staying. Just let us know when you book, and we’ll confirm the details, pickup time, and cost in advance. great for younger kids. Our guides are patient and fun, and they love helping families discover wildlife, plants, and local stories.

How big are your tour groups?

We keep our groups small and personal, usually 10-12 people maximum, so everyone has time to connect with the guides, the nature around them, and each other. Smaller groups create a more peaceful experience and help us protect the environment.

Do you collaborate with other guides and businesses?

Yes. We work closely with local guides, family-run businesses, and sustainable partners across Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, and Manzanillo. Some of our local guides prefer to focus on the experience itself while we help with bookings and organization. This collaboration keeps tourism ethical and helps our community thrive. We are currently expanding to offer tours throughout the country. If you think you are an aligned business that operates with the same values & ethics that we do, please contact us. We would love to chat!

What is your cancellation policy?

We offer flexible cancellations for most tours. Cancel at least 48 hours before your tour for a full refund. If we cancel because of safety or poor conditions, we’ll always reschedule or refund you.

For custom itineraries and retreats, cancellations within 15 to 30 days of the start date are non-refundable, since we prepay for lodging, transport, and local arrangements. You can review our full policy here.

Refund times depend on the payment method. Refunds take 3 to 5 business days.

Do you organize custom itineraries and retreats?

Yes. We design custom itineraries and retreats for travelers who want to experience the Caribbean coast more deeply. Our packages can include lodging, meals, transportation, and exclusive tours in Cahuita, Puerto Viejo, and Manzanillo. Every detail supports local sustainability and highlights the culture and nature of this region.

What should I bring for my tour?

We’ll send you an FAQ list regarding your specific tour before you arrive, but here’s a quick guide:

Comfortable clothes and walking shoes
Swimwear and towel
Reef-safe sunscreen
Reusable water bottle
Hat, sunglasses, and camera

Curiosity and an open heart are always good to bring too!

Do you offer private tours or group discounts?

Yes. Many of our tours can be private, and we offer discounts for large groups or multiple bookings. Tell us your group size and travel dates, and we’ll create something unique for you.