Frequently Asked Questions

All expeditions will be led in English but many people you meet along the way will only speak Spanish. We will teach you key phrases in Spanish at the beginning of the trip, but it may be useful to use a translator like Google Translate. It’s not a problem if you don’t speak Spanish as long as you are respectful and make an effort to communicate in other ways. It’s all part of the learning experience!

Yes you can! Some of our expeditions require a minimum number of participants, while others can be tailored to individuals. Contact us for more information.

Accommodations vary depending on the expedition but may include hotels, eco-lodges, research stations and homestays.

What are homestays?

Participants of the Rainforest Research Expedition and the Reserve Hopping Expedition have the opportunity to live in homestays with local families. Two or three individuals will stay with each family. Homes may be rustic, but you will have all the basics, including internet. All participating homestay families have experience hosting people from abroad and are excited to share their customs with you.

Yes we can! Mondo ensures meal options are available for everyone. Please let us know your dietary restrictions in advance.

Each expedition includes a health and safety orientation, ensuring participants are aware of the hazards of the area and the steps we take to mitigate risk. While out in the field, participants will always be accompanied by experienced guides trained in Wilderness First Aid.

Mondo Eco-Expeditions takes every effort to prevent injury and illness, but accidents may still happen. For the Rainforest Research Expedition, the nearest hospital is in the city San Isidro de El General, which is a 20-30 minute drive from the different private reserves we work with.

Please let us know in advance if you have any allergies or other medical conditions that we should be aware of.

Expedition itineraries tie in with both high school and university curricula. Our discussion series can be tailored to meet specific learning requirements. We are happy to work with you and your school to make an expedition count towards your diploma.

We also offer an Academic Add-on Expedition in partnership with York University. Earn credit through York University's Summer Abroad Program, then take part in a short Mondo expedition to explore the rainforest and take part in ecological monitoring. Learn more about York University's Study Abroad Program here: https://lasnubes.euc.yorku.ca/education/programs/

Cost varies depending on expedition length or type of tour and if there are any special requests. Base prices are available for our set 2026 expedition dates. Contact us for more information, including details on our incentive program for group organizers.

Costa Rica accepts both CRC and USD, so local vendors and staff are paid accordingly. Prices for expeditions and tours in other currencies are subject to the exchange rate on dates of payment.

The cost of each expedition includes accommodation, food, transportation and activities for the length of the itinerary. It does not include airfare, visas, insurance, or anything you choose to do on your own before and after the expedition. Each participant must provide proof of emergency medical insurance for the duration of the expedition.

Let us know if you or your group needs assistance in purchasing airfare and insurance.

Even if you can't join an expedition or tour, we're always looking for researchers, experienced field guides and program ambassadors. Please contact us for more information.