Communication
Spanish is widely spoken in both countries. While not mandatory, knowing basic phrases will enrich your experience and help build deeper connections.
Don’t worry, though, you’ll be accompanied by an English/Spanish-speaking team guide to help with communication and ensure a smooth experience.
Phones + Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is available in most hostels and volunteer bases but can be patchy, especially in remote areas.
For better connectivity, buy a local SIM card (Claro or Movistar) on arrival, just make sure your phone is unlocked.
Weather & Travel Times
Colombia: Tropical on the coast, but expect cooler, mistier conditions in higher-altitude jungle regions.
Costa Rica: Rainforest humidity, cloud forest chill, and sun-kissed coastline - pack for diversity.
Visas & Entry Requirements
No Visa Needed: EU and US passport holders can stay in Colombia and Costa Rica visa-free for up to 90 days.
Check-Mig Form (Colombia): Complete the online Check-Mig form 72 hours to 1 hour before travel. Keep the confirmation email to show immigration upon arrival.
Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months.
Proof of Exit: You’ll need to provide proof of onward travel, such as your return ticket or evidence of departure by air or land.
Flights
You’ll fly into Santa Marta via Bogotá, then connect from Cartagena to San José. San José to home. Please don’t book your flights until we've given you the final itinerary, it’s important that your travel plans match up with the schedule we provide. We’ll guide you every step of the way.
We coordinate flights through Trailfinders, the UK’s most trusted travel brand, offering ATOL-protected "flight only" bookings (ATOL number T1458).
Insurance
For UK Residents: We recommend Campbell Irvine Ltd who have designed a policy specifically with our projects in mind. We suggest you purchase your travel insurance at the earliest opportunity, so you are covered for any insurable reasons in the unlikely event you must cancel having committed to your itinerary or paid for flights.
USA Residents: We recommend Inext who can combine with your exiting medical cover. Most Leapers buy the Platinum Policy.
Vaccinations
The following list is a general guide, please consult your GP or a travel health clinic for personalised medical advice based on your health history and travel plans.
Vaccinations commonly recommended for travel to this region may include:
Hepatitis A
Tetanus (ensure your booster is up to date)
Typhoid
Yellow Fever
Money
We recommend bringing a combination of a debit card and a Revolut (or similar) card for convenience and security.
ATMs are widely available, making it easy to withdraw money as needed. We recommend you take both cash and a debit/credit card. Best currencies – US Dollars, Colombian pesos for Colombia and Costa Rican Colon for Costa Rica.
No getting around this, Colombia and Costa Rica are expensive, so you really must be careful and budget. Drinks can really add up, plus all the adventures you may want to include. Most Leapers report that they spend about £200 extra per week, though this may vary based on your weekend activities and dining choices.
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