WELCOME TO COSTA RICA MED MATTIAS KLUM
This document contains some important information ahead of your trip
Please make sure to read through it carefully.
If you have any questions afterwards, you are most welcome to contact Hans Elmqvist at Zoom Photo Tours by phone at +46 70 180 90 99 or by email at hans.elmqvist@zoomphototours.com
WELCOME TO COSTA RICA MED MATTIAS KLUM
This document contains some important information ahead of your trip
Please make sure to read through it carefully.
If you have any questions afterwards, you are most welcome to contact Hans Elmqvist at Zoom Photo Tours by phone at +46 70 180 90 99 or by email at hans.elmqvist@zoomphototours.com
BEFORE THE TRIP
BEFORE THE TRIP
FLIGHT TICKETS
Make sure that the spelling of your name matches the spelling in your passport.
BAGGAGE
Airlines typically allow each passenger to carry two pieces of luggage: one carry-on and one checked bag. The checked bag usually has a maximum weight limit of 23 kg, while the carry-on is limited to 8 kg with dimensions not exceeding 56 x 45 x 25 cm. For precise information, please refer to the specific airline’s website.
CHECK-IN
Check-in must be completed at least one hour before departure. However, we recommend arriving at least two hours prior to departure to account for potential queues at passport and security controls.
PASSPORT
Do not forget your passport, as airlines will require it during check-in. Without a valid passport, you may be denied boarding.
CURRENCY / EXCHANGE
The currency in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), divided into 100 céntimos. Obtaining colóns can sometimes be challenging since the currency may not be readily available at exchange offices. A practical alternative is to bring U.S. dollars, preferably in denominations of $20, $10, and $5. These should be ordered in advance from Forex or your bank, as higher denominations are more commonly stocked.
In urban areas, ATMs are available, but be aware that fees may apply when using cards abroad. Credit cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas.
VACCINATIONS
We recommend contacting your local vaccination center well in advance of your trip, as some vaccinations require administration ahead of time. For travel to Costa Rica, the following vaccinations are typically advised:
-
Routine Vaccinations: Ensure that your standard vaccinations, such as polio, tetanus, and diphtheria, are up to date.
-
Hepatitis A: Protection against hepatitis A is recommended for travelers to Costa Rica
-
Hepatitis B: Vaccination is advised for long-term travelers or those planning repeated visits to areas with higher risk.
-
Typhoid: Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
-
Rabies: Considered for travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites.
-
Yellow Fever: A vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission
Please consult with a healthcare professional to determine which vaccinations are appropriate for your travel plans.
VISA
Mexican citizens do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica for stays of up to 90 days. They can enter Costa Rica with just a valid passport. However, it’s a good idea to check for any updates or specific entry requirements before traveling, as regulations can change.
FACEBOOK GROUP
We have started a Facebook group for the trip. Here you can communicate, share photos, and other information with other participants and with Mattias before, during, and after the trip. Click the link below to join the group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1423017252444629
If you’re unable to access the page, email Alexander at the address below, and he will let you in.
alexander.elmqvist@zoomphototours.com
LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
Below you will find a link to the participant list for those joining the trip. Please note: If any participant has chosen not to share their information, only their name will be listed.
Information before the trip.
Read more
FLIGHT TICKETS
Make sure that the spelling of your name matches the spelling in your passport.
BAGGAGE
Airlines typically allow each passenger to carry two pieces of luggage: one carry-on and one checked bag. The checked bag usually has a maximum weight limit of 23 kg, while the carry-on is limited to 8 kg with dimensions not exceeding 56 x 45 x 25 cm. For precise information, please refer to the specific airline’s website.
CHECK-IN
Check-in must be completed at least one hour before departure. However, we recommend arriving at least two hours prior to departure to account for potential queues at passport and security controls.
PASSPORT
Do not forget your passport, as airlines will require it during check-in. Without a valid passport, you may be denied boarding.
CURRENCY / EXCHANGE
The currency in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), divided into 100 céntimos. Obtaining colóns can sometimes be challenging since the currency may not be readily available at exchange offices. A practical alternative is to bring U.S. dollars, preferably in denominations of $20, $10, and $5. These should be ordered in advance from Forex or your bank, as higher denominations are more commonly stocked.
In urban areas, ATMs are available, but be aware that fees may apply when using cards abroad. Credit cards are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas.
VACCINATIONS
We recommend contacting your local vaccination center well in advance of your trip, as some vaccinations require administration ahead of time. For travel to Costa Rica, the following vaccinations are typically advised:
-
Routine Vaccinations: Ensure that your standard vaccinations, such as polio, tetanus, and diphtheria, are up to date.
-
Hepatitis A: Protection against hepatitis A is recommended for travelers to Costa Rica
-
Hepatitis B: Vaccination is advised for long-term travelers or those planning repeated visits to areas with higher risk.
-
Typhoid: Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.
-
Rabies: Considered for travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for animal bites.
-
Yellow Fever: A vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission
Please consult with a healthcare professional to determine which vaccinations are appropriate for your travel plans.
VISA
Mexican citizens do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica for stays of up to 90 days. They can enter Costa Rica with just a valid passport. However, it’s a good idea to check for any updates or specific entry requirements before traveling, as regulations can change.
FACEBOOK GROUP
We have started a Facebook group for the trip. Here you can communicate, share photos, and other information with other participants and with Mattias before, during, and after the trip. Click the link below to join the group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1423017252444629
If you’re unable to access the page, email Alexander at the address below, and he will let you in.
alexander.elmqvist@zoomphototours.com
LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
Below you will find a link to the participant list for those joining the trip. Please note: If any participant has chosen not to share their information, only their name will be listed.
PROGRAM
ITINERARY
APRIL 23 – MAY 2, 2025
During the trip, Mattias, who has visited Costa Rica many times, will give lectures on topics such as species conservation and human impact on nature.
On several evenings, we will also review and evaluate each other’s photos. We will work with photo editing and discuss everything from camera techniques, gear, image composition and lighting, to timing the perfect shot and how to build a story through words and images.
There will also be time for personal sessions where you and Mattias go through your photos together. The exact schedule for these activities will depend on the weather and other local conditions.
ARRIVAL THE DAY(S) BEFORE
If you’re booked a hotel through Zoom Photo Tours, a representative from our local partner will meet you outside the customs area at the airport with a sign bearing your name or the Zoom Photo Tours logo. You will then be transferred and checked in at the first-class Doubletree Cariari Hotel, located near the airport.
DAY 1 (April 23) – WELCOME TO COSTA RICA
For those arriving in the afternoon or evening, a local agent will meet you outside the customs area at the airport with a sign bearing your name or Zoom Photo Tours. You will then be transferred to and checked in at Doubletree Cariari Hotel near the airport.
At the hotel, you’ll be welcomed by Mattias and Zoom Photo Tour’s tour host David Iglesias. As most flights from Europe arrive in the late afternoon or evening, and due to the time difference, the only planned activity this evening is an informal gathering in the hotel bar for those interested.
DAY 2 (April 24) – SAN JOSÉ TO TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast and check-out, we’ll travel by bus to Pavona or Caño Blanco, where we’ll board a boat for a 1.5-hour canal journey to Tortuguero National Park. Upon arrival at Aninga Lodge, lunch will be served followed by check-in.
In the afternoon, we’ll embark on our first photo walk around the lodge, experiencing the incredible nature and wildlife of the surrounding rainforest, home to species such as caimans, wild cats, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, two- and three-toed sloths, raccoons, toucans, aracaris, and macaws.
After dinner, we’ll do a night walk to spot nocturnal animals. Our nature guide will introduce us to creatures like tarantulas, bats, moths, crickets, sloths, porcupines, and nocturnal birds. We recommend bringing a flashlight.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 3 (April 25) – TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK
Early morning boat ride to experience the sunrise and capture rainforest wildlife in the soft morning light. After a late breakfast back at the lodge, you’ll have time for photo editing or relaxing by the pool.
In the afternoon, we’ll head out again along the canals of Tortuguero National Park, which features 11 different ecosystems including rainforest, mangroves, swamps, beaches, and lagoons. With 6,400 mm of annual rainfall, the humidity is high. Species found here include various monkeys, sloths, jaguars, caimans, 320 bird species, and a variety of reptiles.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 4 (April 26) – TORTUGUERO TO SAN GERARDO
After an early canal trip and breakfast, we check out and return to Pavona or Caño, where our bus awaits to take us to San Gerardo.
On the way, we stop to photograph hummingbirds at a feeding station. You’ll be able to capture these fast birds in action, using various shutter speeds for creative effects. After a few hours of shooting, we continue to Savegre Hotel in San Gerardo, where we check in and enjoy dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 5 (April 27) – SAN GERARDO TO NICUESA RAINFOREST LODGE
Early morning hike in San Gerardo Forest Reserve, home to over 170 bird species. With the help of skilled guides, we’ll look for the stunning quetzal, one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful birds, as well as species like emerald toucans, golden-browed chlorophonias, and tanagers.
Mattias will be present to give photo tips and share his deep knowledge of the local wildlife.
Afterward, we travel to Golfito, where we stop for lunch before taking a boat to Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge—a luxury eco-lodge in Piedras Blancas National Park, accessible only by boat. Late afternoon check-in and dinner while soaking in the rainforest sounds. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAYS 6–9 (April 28–May 1) – PLAYA NICUESA RAINFOREST LODGE
Over these days, we will explore the Piedras Blancas National Park, photographing its rainforest animals, birds, insects, and reptiles by day and during night walks.
The lodge is nestled deep in the rainforest and offers photographers opportunities to capture parrots (like scarlet macaws and yellow-cheeked amazons), toucans, snakes (fer-de-lance, boas), basilisks, glass frogs, poison dart frogs, monkeys, coatis, sloths, peccaries, butterflies, and more.
Evenings will include night walks, photo editing, and listening to Mattias’s stories from his many assignments in Costa Rica.
The final night includes a special farewell dinner, where Mattias will summarize the experience. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 10 (May 2) – DEPARTURE
Early breakfast and check-out, followed by a boat trip back to Golfito. We then travel by bus toward San José, stopping at a rainforest reserve with great photo opportunities. We’ll walk on hanging bridges through the treetops, photograph waterfalls, and maybe even take a swim in natural pools.
We’ll arrive at San José Airport in time for check-in for those flying home the same day.
For those staying an extra night, the bus will continue to Doubletree Cariari Hotel, our hotel from earlier in the trip. (Breakfast, Lunch)
FOLLOW-UP MEETING & “PHOTO OF THE TRIP” CONTEST
A few weeks after the trip, Mattias will host a follow-up meeting where we share and review each other’s photos. Before the meeting, you’ll submit your two best photos from the trip. Mattias will select the “Photo of the Trip,” which automatically qualifies for the final in the “Photo of the Year 2025” contest and the chance to win great prizes.
The itinerary for the trip
Read more
APRI 23 – MAY 2, 2025
23 APRIL – 2 MAY, 2025
During the trip, Mattias, who has visited Costa Rica many times, will give lectures on topics such as species conservation and human impact on nature.
On several evenings, we will also review and evaluate each other’s photos. We will work with photo editing and discuss everything from camera techniques, gear, image composition and lighting, to timing the perfect shot and how to build a story through words and images.
There will also be time for personal sessions where you and Mattias go through your photos together. The exact schedule for these activities will depend on the weather and other local conditions.
ARRIVAL THE DAY(S) BEFORE
If you’re booked a hotel through Zoom Photo Tours, a representative from our local partner will meet you outside the customs area at the airport with a sign bearing your name or the Zoom Photo Tours logo. You will then be transferred and checked in at the first-class Doubletree Cariari Hotel, located near the airport.
DAY 1 (April 23) – WELCOME TO COSTA RICA
For those arriving in the afternoon or evening, a local agent will meet you outside the customs area at the airport with a sign bearing your name or Zoom Photo Tours. You will then be transferred to and checked in at Doubletree Cariari Hotel near the airport.
At the hotel, you’ll be welcomed by Mattias and Zoom Photo Tour’s tour host David Iglesias. As most flights from Europe arrive in the late afternoon or evening, and due to the time difference, the only planned activity this evening is an informal gathering in the hotel bar for those interested.
DAY 2 (April 24) – SAN JOSÉ TO TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast and check-out, we’ll travel by bus to Pavona or Caño Blanco, where we’ll board a boat for a 1.5-hour canal journey to Tortuguero National Park. Upon arrival at Aninga Lodge, lunch will be served followed by check-in.
In the afternoon, we’ll embark on our first photo walk around the lodge, experiencing the incredible nature and wildlife of the surrounding rainforest, home to species such as caimans, wild cats, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, two- and three-toed sloths, raccoons, toucans, aracaris, and macaws.
After dinner, we’ll do a night walk to spot nocturnal animals. Our nature guide will introduce us to creatures like tarantulas, bats, moths, crickets, sloths, porcupines, and nocturnal birds. We recommend bringing a flashlight.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 3 (April 25) – TORTUGUERO NATIONAL PARK
Early morning boat ride to experience the sunrise and capture rainforest wildlife in the soft morning light. After a late breakfast back at the lodge, you’ll have time for photo editing or relaxing by the pool.
In the afternoon, we’ll head out again along the canals of Tortuguero National Park, which features 11 different ecosystems including rainforest, mangroves, swamps, beaches, and lagoons. With 6,400 mm of annual rainfall, the humidity is high. Species found here include various monkeys, sloths, jaguars, caimans, 320 bird species, and a variety of reptiles.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 4 (April 26) – TORTUGUERO TO SAN GERARDO
After an early canal trip and breakfast, we check out and return to Pavona or Caño, where our bus awaits to take us to San Gerardo.
On the way, we stop to photograph hummingbirds at a feeding station. You’ll be able to capture these fast birds in action, using various shutter speeds for creative effects. After a few hours of shooting, we continue to Savegre Hotel in San Gerardo, where we check in and enjoy dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 5 (April 27) – SAN GERARDO TO NICUESA RAINFOREST LODGE
Early morning hike in San Gerardo Forest Reserve, home to over 170 bird species. With the help of skilled guides, we’ll look for the stunning quetzal, one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful birds, as well as species like emerald toucans, golden-browed chlorophonias, and tanagers.
Mattias will be present to give photo tips and share his deep knowledge of the local wildlife.
Afterward, we travel to Golfito, where we stop for lunch before taking a boat to Playa Nicuesa Rainforest Lodge—a luxury eco-lodge in Piedras Blancas National Park, accessible only by boat. Late afternoon check-in and dinner while soaking in the rainforest sounds. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAYS 6–9 (April 28–May 1) – PLAYA NICUESA RAINFOREST LODGE
Over these days, we will explore the Piedras Blancas National Park, photographing its rainforest animals, birds, insects, and reptiles by day and during night walks.
The lodge is nestled deep in the rainforest and offers photographers opportunities to capture parrots (like scarlet macaws and yellow-cheeked amazons), toucans, snakes (fer-de-lance, boas), basilisks, glass frogs, poison dart frogs, monkeys, coatis, sloths, peccaries, butterflies, and more.
Evenings will include night walks, photo editing, and listening to Mattias’s stories from his many assignments in Costa Rica.
The final night includes a special farewell dinner, where Mattias will summarize the experience. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
DAY 10 (May 2) – DEPARTURE
Early breakfast and check-out, followed by a boat trip back to Golfito. We then travel by bus toward San José, stopping at a rainforest reserve with great photo opportunities. We’ll walk on hanging bridges through the treetops, photograph waterfalls, and maybe even take a swim in natural pools.
We’ll arrive at San José Airport in time for check-in for those flying home the same day.
For those staying an extra night, the bus will continue to Doubletree Cariari Hotel, our hotel from earlier in the trip. (Breakfast, Lunch)
FOLLOW-UP MEETING & “PHOTO OF THE TRIP” CONTEST
A few weeks after the trip, Mattias will host a follow-up meeting where we share and review each other’s photos. Before the meeting, you’ll submit your two best photos from the trip. Mattias will select the “Photo of the Trip,” which automatically qualifies for the final in the “Photo of the Year 2025” contest and the chance to win great prizes.
PHOTOGRAPHER
PHOTOGRAPHER
Mattias Klum • National Geographic photographer
Mattias Klum is one of the world’s most renowned photographers and filmmakers.
He has worked as a photographer, filmmaker, and director on numerous film and television projects since 1994. Mattias is known for his unique ability to portray animals, plants, environments, and cultures through articles, books, films, lectures, and exhibitions.
In 1997, his photographs were published for the first time in National Geographic Magazine. At the time, Mattias was one of the youngest photographers ever to be published in the magazine and the first Swede to have a cover photo.
Since then, he has had no fewer than 13 cover images and numerous articles featured in National Geographic Magazine.
Mattias has also published 16 books, produced 12 films, and held photography exhibitions all over the world. His work has been published in many of the world’s leading newspapers and magazines.
Read more
Mattias Klum • National Geographic photographer
Mattias Klum is one of the world’s most renowned photographers and filmmakers.
He has worked as a photographer, filmmaker, and director on numerous film and television projects since 1994. Mattias is known for his unique ability to portray animals, plants, environments, and cultures through articles, books, films, lectures, and exhibitions.
In 1997, his photographs were published for the first time in National Geographic Magazine. At the time, Mattias was one of the youngest photographers ever to be published in the magazine and the first Swede to have a cover photo.
Since then, he has had no fewer than 13 cover images and numerous articles featured in National Geographic Magazine.
Mattias has also published 16 books, produced 12 films, and held photography exhibitions all over the world. His work has been published in many of the world’s leading newspapers and magazines.
HOTEL & LODGES
HOTEL & LODGES
WORTH KNOWING
USEFUL INFORMATION
TIPS (GRATUITY)
Tips for the local head guide, drivers, and hotel staff are not included in the tour price. The general rule is to tip 1 USD per suitcase handled by a porter. At bars and restaurants, it is customary to leave 10% of the bill. For housekeeping, 1 USD per day is standard.
For the main guide accompanying the entire trip, a tip of 10 USD per person per day is customary, to be given directly on the last day. A group tip for the driver is usually collected and handed over on the final day as well.
Note: Tipping is not mandatory, but a way to show appreciation if you feel the staff has done a good job.
ELECTRICITY
Costa Rica uses 110/220 volts, with two-prong ungrounded plugs or three-prong grounded plugs. We recommend bringing a universal adapter.
CLIMATE
Costa Rica has a tropical climate year-round, but the country experiences many microclimates depending on altitude, rainfall, topography, and region.
CREDIT CARDS
MasterCard and Visa are accepted at most hotels and many stores. However, we recommend bringing USD in cash and exchanging at the airport for local currency.
STOMACH ISSUES
Due to different bacterial flora in Costa Rica, it’s important to be cautious. Most stomach issues are caused by poor water and food hygiene.
-
Do not drink tap water – buy bottled mineral water, which is inexpensive and safe.
-
Brush your teeth with bottled water.
-
Wash fruit before eating and do not use ice in drinks.
-
Bring plenty of disinfectant from Sweden and use it before meals or when putting anything in your mouth.
-
Bring anti-diarrhea medicine like Bifiform Travel or Imodium Plus (available over the counter).
-
To avoid dehydration, stay hydrated. Oral rehydration tablets like Resorb are recommended.
MOSQUITOES
Mosquitoes become active after sunset, so it’s wise to wear long pants and long sleeves in the evening and at night. Use mosquito repellent on ankles, wrists, hands, and neck.
LANGUAGE
The only official language in Costa Rica is Spanish. There are two main dialects: standard Costa Rican and Nicoyan, the latter being similar to Nicaraguan Spanish due to geographical proximity.
SAFETY
Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America, but crime is still higher than in most European countries.
Areas with higher risk include San José and some tourist regions along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.
Safety tips:
- Keep passports, credit cards, and valuables in a secure place. Carry a passport copy instead.
- If traveling with a temporary passport through the U.S., a visa is require
- Be generally cautious.
- Avoid empty or isolated areas, especially after dark.
- Do not display jewelry, money, mobile phones, cameras, or valuables.
- If you’re the victim of theft or robbery, do not resist or chase the perpetrator. Weapons are sometimes used, and resisting could be dangerous.
PHONE
Costa Rica has a fully functioning telecommunications system.
-
To call Costa Rica, dial +506.
-
To call Mexico from Costa Rica, dial +52.
However, international calls can be expensive, so we recommend using FaceTime, WhatsApp, or similar apps when connected to WiFi.
TIME DIFFERENCE
There is on time difference between Mexico and Costa Rica.
WIFI
WiFi is available in the common areas of all hotels and lodges, but speed and stability may vary.
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
-
Zoom Fotoresor (Daniel Iglesias): +46 72 311 66 16
-
Mattias Klum: +46 70 818 26 59
-
Local guide (Armando Obando): +506 8434 7899
-
Emergency number (Police, Ambulance, Fire): 911
WHAT TO BRING
Below are some tips on equipment. These are not requirements, but rather guidelines.
Note: Most photo opportunities will take place either on foot or from a boat. Try to limit the number of cameras and lenses you bring, as there are weight restrictions on the flight.
BAGS
-
We recommend packing in a soft large duffel bag instead of a hard-shell suitcase. Soft bags are much easier to load onto buses and boats and take up less space in the rooms.
-
One camera bag
SHOES AND CLOTHES
- A pair of hiking boots for rainforest walks.
- A pair of sandals or lighter shoes.
- Summer clothing such as shorts, lightweight trousers, and light polo shirts or t-shirts.
- Optionally, a long-sleeved shirt/sweater and a pair of long trousers (for protection against mosquito bites).
- Swimwear.
- Cap or other headwear.
- Sunglasses
OTHER EQUPIMENT
- Mobile phone
- Binoculars
- Power adapter
- A flashlight or headlamp
- Sewing kit for emergency repairs
MEDICAL EQUPIMENT
- Band-aids
- Mosquito repellent stick
- Antiseptic cream
- Paracetamol or equivalent
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen
- Hand sanitizer
CAMERA EQUPIMENT
- A DSLR or mirrorless camera
- Zoom or telephoto lens up to 600mm
- Preferably also a shorter zoom, such as a 70–200mm
- Teleconverter, 1.4x or 2.0x
- Memory cards as needed, and a portable hard drive (or transfer directly to your laptop)
- Universal power adapter, as Costa Rica uses different plugs than Sweden
- Power strip with 2–3 outlets so you can charge camera batteries, phones, and other gear at the same time
- Battery charger for your camera and other electronics
- Monopod or tripod
- Polarizing filter – useful for enhancing color saturation in your photos
- Rain protection for your camera
- Laptop for photo editing with software such as Photoshop or Lightroom
- Spare batteries, if needed
- Cleaning equipment such as lens cloths, compressed air, and other cleaning tools
TIPS (GRATUITY)
Tips for the local head guide, drivers, and hotel staff are not included in the tour price. The general rule is to tip 1 USD per suitcase handled by a porter. At bars and restaurants, it is customary to leave 10% of the bill. For housekeeping, 1 USD per day is standard.
For the main guide accompanying the entire trip, a tip of 10 USD per person per day is customary, to be given directly on the last day. A group tip for the driver is usually collected and handed over on the final day as well.
Note: Tipping is not mandatory, but a way to show appreciation if you feel the staff has done a good job.
ELECTRICITY
Costa Rica uses 110/220 volts, with two-prong ungrounded plugs or three-prong grounded plugs. We recommend bringing a universal adapter.
CLIMATE
Costa Rica has a tropical climate year-round, but the country experiences many microclimates depending on altitude, rainfall, topography, and region.
CREDIT CARDS
MasterCard and Visa are accepted at most hotels and many stores. However, we recommend bringing USD in cash and exchanging at the airport for local currency.
STOMACH ISSUES
Due to different bacterial flora in Costa Rica, it’s important to be cautious. Most stomach issues are caused by poor water and food hygiene.
-
Do not drink tap water – buy bottled mineral water, which is inexpensive and safe.
-
Brush your teeth with bottled water.
-
Wash fruit before eating and do not use ice in drinks.
-
Bring plenty of disinfectant from Sweden and use it before meals or when putting anything in your mouth.
-
Bring anti-diarrhea medicine like Bifiform Travel or Imodium Plus (available over the counter).
-
To avoid dehydration, stay hydrated. Oral rehydration tablets like Resorb are recommended.
MOSQUITOES
Mosquitoes become active after sunset, so it’s wise to wear long pants and long sleeves in the evening and at night. Use mosquito repellent on ankles, wrists, hands, and neck.
LANGUAGE
The only official language in Costa Rica is Spanish. There are two main dialects: standard Costa Rican and Nicoyan, the latter being similar to Nicaraguan Spanish due to geographical proximity.
SAFETY
Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America, but crime is still higher than in most European countries.
Areas with higher risk include San José and some tourist regions along the Caribbean and Pacific coasts.
Safety tips:
- Keep passports, credit cards, and valuables in a secure place. Carry a passport copy instead.
- If traveling with a temporary passport through the U.S., a visa is require
- Be generally cautious.
- Avoid empty or isolated areas, especially after dark.
- Do not display jewelry, money, mobile phones, cameras, or valuables.
- If you’re the victim of theft or robbery, do not resist or chase the perpetrator. Weapons are sometimes used, and resisting could be dangerous.
PHONE
Costa Rica has a fully functioning telecommunications system.
-
To call Costa Rica, dial +506.
-
To call Mexico from Costa Rica, dial +52.
However, international calls can be expensive, so we recommend using FaceTime, WhatsApp, or similar apps when connected to WiFi.
TIME DIFFERENCE
There is on time difference between Mexico and Costa Rica.
WIFI
WiFi is available in the common areas of all hotels and lodges, but speed and stability may vary.
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
-
Zoom Fotoresor (Daniel Iglesias): +46 72 311 66 16
-
Mattias Klum: +46 70 818 26 59
-
Local guide (Armando Obando): +506 8434 7899
-
Emergency number (Police, Ambulance, Fire): 911
WHAT TO BRING
Below are some tips on equipment. These are not requirements, but rather guidelines.
Note: Most photo opportunities will take place either on foot or from a boat. Try to limit the number of cameras and lenses you bring, as there are weight restrictions on the flight.
BAGS
-
We recommend packing in a soft large duffel bag instead of a hard-shell suitcase. Soft bags are much easier to load onto buses and boats and take up less space in the rooms.
-
One camera bag
SHOES AND CLOTHES
- A pair of hiking boots for rainforest walks.
- A pair of sandals or lighter shoes.
- Summer clothing such as shorts, lightweight trousers, and light polo shirts or t-shirts.
- Optionally, a long-sleeved shirt/sweater and a pair of long trousers (for protection against mosquito bites).
- Swimwear.
- Cap or other headwear.
- Sunglasses
OTHER EQUPIMENT
- Mobile phone
- Binoculars
- Power adapter
- A flashlight or headlamp
- Sewing kit for emergency repairs
MEDICAL EQUPIMENT
- Band-aids
- Mosquito repellent stick
- Antiseptic cream
- Paracetamol or equivalent
- Lip balm
- Sunscreen
- Hand sanitizer
CAMERA EQUPIMENT
- A DSLR or mirrorless camera
- Zoom or telephoto lens up to 600mm
- Preferably also a shorter zoom, such as a 70–200mm
- Teleconverter, 1.4x or 2.0x
- Memory cards as needed, and a portable hard drive (or transfer directly to your laptop)
- Universal power adapter, as Costa Rica uses different plugs than Sweden
- Power strip with 2–3 outlets so you can charge camera batteries, phones, and other gear at the same time
- Battery charger for your camera and other electronics
- Monopod or tripod
- Polarizing filter – useful for enhancing color saturation in your photos
- Rain protection for your camera
- Laptop for photo editing with software such as Photoshop or Lightroom
- Spare batteries, if needed
- Cleaning equipment such as lens cloths, compressed air, and other cleaning tools
NYHETSBREV
Bli först med att höra om nya resor, erbjudanden och reseinspiration från Zoom.
KONTAKTA OSS
E-post: info@zoomfotoresor.se
Telefon: +46 (0)470 – 466 40
Följ våra fotoäventyr på sociala medier!
Foto: Serkan Günes
NYHETSBREV
Bli först med att höra om nya resor, erbjudanden och reseinspiration från Zoom.
KONTAKTA OSS
E-post: info@zoomfotoresor.se
Telefon: +46(0) 470 – 466 40
Följ våra fotoäventyr på sociala medier!
Foto: Hans Strand