FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A small luxury eco-resort Copa De Arbol is specifically designed and located to cater to the traveler seeking an “off-the-beaten-path” rainforest and ocean experience. The resort is accessed by boat only, with wet beach landings that can be challenging at times. We also remind guests that we are in the jungle – which means there is a lot of wildlife, some dangerous, most magnificent. Copa De Arbol is a total escape from the outside world. Once you arrive, you will be immersed in your own private, tropical wilderness – no roads, cars, discos, shopping malls or supermarkets. Just you, the ocean, the wildlife, and the rainforest. Are you ready to escape?

PASSPORT

All foreign citizens entering Costa Rica must have a passport that is valid for at least six months after the date they leave the country.  Citizens of the United States, Canada and many other countries do not need visas to enter Costa Rica. Citizens of countries other than the United States, Canada and the European Economic Community should check with the nearest Costa Rican Embassy or Consulate.

Most guests fly into Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose, Costa Rica. From there, you can take a short 45-minute domestic flight with Sansa Airlines to the airstrip in Drake Bay. Upon arrival, we’ll pick you up for a 30-minute taxi ride to the shoreline, where our boat will be waiting to bring you directly to Copa De Arbol—just a 10-minute ride away.

Depending on your international flight’s arrival time, you may need to spend a night in San Jose before your domestic connection. We’re happy to recommend a hotel and arrange airport transfers. Baggage on domestic flights is limited to 30 pounds, but additional luggage can be accommodated for a fee—please contact us if you have questions.

Another option is to rent a car at SJO and drive approximately 5.5 hours to the river port town of Sierpe. From there, you can catch a boat through Central America’s largest mangrove system—an incredibly scenic route we call the Adventurer’s Route. The boat ride takes about 1 to 1.5 hours and brings you right to our shoreline.

As complex as it may seem, arrival is quite simple—and we’re here to help every step of the way. Feel free to contact us anytime at info@copadearbol.com

Departing is just as simple as arriving. You’ll take a 10-minute boat ride from the resort to the shoreline of Drake Bay, followed by a 30-minute taxi ride to the Drake Bay airstrip. From there, you’ll board your Sansa Airlines flight back to San Jose. Depending on your international flight time, you may need to stay overnight in San Jose—we’re happy to recommend hotels.

If you originally arrived via the Sierpe route, your departure will follow the same path: a scenic 1 to 1.5 hour boat ride back through the mangroves to the port of Sierpe, where you’ll pick up your rental car and drive approximately 5.5 hours back to San Jose Airport.

All ground and boat transportation can be arranged through the hotel for an additional fee. Please note that flights have a 30-pound baggage limit, though extra luggage is permitted for a fee through the airline.

For any assistance or custom travel coordination, feel free to contact us at info@copadearbol.com

Copa De Arbol is an all-inclusive resort, and while gratuities are not required, they are always deeply appreciated. Our award-winning staff—from our exceptional restaurant team to our boat captains, grounds crew, and housekeeping—go above and beyond to ensure your stay is unforgettable.

At checkout, we offer a convenient tipping form that allows you to leave gratuities for different departments or specific individuals who helped make your experience special. U.S. dollars are always welcome and widely accepted.

Your generosity goes a long way in supporting the people who make Copa De Arbol such a warm and welcoming place. Thank you for helping us honor their dedication and service.

MONEY MATTERS

We accept US dollars, Costa Rican colones, and most credit cards for all payments at the resort.  We do not accept travelers’ checks.

There are no ATMs in Drake Bay, and your last opportunity to exchange or withdraw cash will be at the airport in San Jose unless you are traveling to other parts of the country prior to your trip to Drake Bay.

In most small towns as well as throughout San Jose you will find Costa Rican banks with ATM machines.

INSURANCE

We recommend all travelers to purchase travelers insurance prior to your trip to cover you in the event you need to cancel.

• Sturdy sandals or water shoes
• Lightweight clothing
• Long-sleeve rash guard or sun-protective shirt
• Bathing suits
• Lightweight rain jacket
• Hat and sunglasses
• High-SPF sunscreen (the sun near the equator is strong)
• Bug repellent
• Flashlight, binoculars, and a reusable water bottle

WEATHER

Drake Bay has two seasons, the rainy season and the dry season.  The rainy season runs from May through November and tends to bring daily afternoon showers and at times thunder, lightning and heavy rain, usually the heaviest rains fall in September and October.

December – April is the dry season with sunshine almost every day and very little rain.

The water temperature is between 82-88F degrees (perfect!) year-round. 

The air temperature fluctuates between low to high 80s depending on the time of year.

For your health and safety, we provide fresh, filtered drinking water throughout the resort. Both cold and hot water are available at designated stations, and your villa will be stocked with safe drinking water daily.

While the surrounding rivers and springs may appear clean and natural, we do not recommend drinking from any untreated sources or the tap. Please use the filtered water provided.

Of course, you’re also welcome to enjoy a selection of refreshing beverages and custom-crafted drinks from our bar during your stay.

WILDLIFE INSECTS

Please remember Copa De Arbol is situated on the edge of a flourishing rainforest. Our property is home to many different Plants, Animals, Insects, Reptiles, and Birds.  With proper caution, and by following our guidelines, your trip will be enjoyable and comfortable.  Luckily we are located on the beach which usually provides us with an ocean breeze to keep the insects at bay, but it is still a good idea to bring bug repellent if insects usually find you especially tasty.

Copa De Arbol offers standard U.S. two-prong outlets throughout the resort, including in your villa and in the restaurant—perfect for charging phones, laptops, and other devices. In the event of a power outage, our eco-friendly backup generator ensures continued service during storms.

Most cell phones work well from the resort. However, we recommend checking with your provider about international travel plans or SIM card swaps, which can also be arranged at the airport.

We provide reliable Starlink Wi-Fi across the property, with satellite coverage throughout the resort. While speeds may vary slightly due to weather and our remote jungle location, the connection is strong and consistent—wifi is good for guests working remotely or staying connected while traveling.