FAQ – FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS – DAILY TOURS AT PROYECTO ASIS
- Is the tour tailored to beginners or experts?
For everyone (children, teenagers, adults) beginners or experts.
- Does the tour guide speak throughout, or is it an audio tour with headphones or other media?
The guide will talk to the participants in a specific language (either English or Spanish). You are allowed to ask any questions related to the topics.
- Who is your guide?
We have experienced local guides that will help you learn while having fun.
- In what language(s) will the tour be given?
A specific language (either English or Spanish) not both, not mixed. Language must be specified when booking.
- Is it all-inclusive, or will you have to pay additional admission fees?
It includes the entrance fee, a guide and depending on the activity coffee break with some exotic fruits, juice and coffee. Check here for more details: https://www.institutoasis.com/wildlife-tours-arenal-volcano/
- Is food provided?
Depending on the activity we give a coffee break with some exotic fruits, juice and coffee. Check the details of the activity you book to find out.
- What weather can you expect?
There is no way for us to forecast the weather in this area. However, rainstorms rarely happen and that is the only way we stop a tour for a while until it is gone. If the rainstorm takes too long, we might have to cancel.
As we said that is not common at all. It is usually sunny and humid but sometimes rain can also appear.
- How much physical exertion is required?
This guided tour requires you to walk on a flat gravel path.
- Is the tour kid-friendly/handicap-accessible/etc.?
Yes. However, the wheelchair needs to have big wheels.
- Where does the tour pick up and drop off?
Transportation can be requested. This will require an extra cost. The cost depends on where you need to be picked up and the drop-off location.
- How long is the tour?
The shortest version of the tour (wildlife regular tour) takes at least 1.5 hours, up to 2 hours.
The tour + volunteer takes at least 3 hours, up to 3.5 hours.
The full day starts at 8:30 am and finishes at 3:30 pm (including coffee break in the morning , and 1 hour break for lunch which is not included).
The one night homestay starts at 8:30 am and finishes at 3:30 pm (including coffee break in the morning and 1 hour break for lunch which is provided by the local family you will stay with, as well as breakfast and dinner).
- What size is the group?
12 to 15 participants only (including infants)
- Will you get to break off on your own?
No, it is not safe to be on your own. Our responsibility is to keep everyone safe. Rules will be clear on this before starting the activity.
- Are we allowed some looking around before or after the tour?
No. No one is allowed to be on their own. People only go in with their assigned guide.
- Is it safe?
As long as you are with our staff and follow our rules as required you will be safe.
- Does pricing change by the week or day?
The wildlife rescue center keeps prices the same all year round.
- What’s the inclement weather policy?
Rainstorms rarely happen and that is the only way we stop a tour for a while until it is gone. If the rainstorm takes too long, we might have to cancel. If we find another time or date available we will be glad to re-schedule.
- What’s the cancellation policy?
Participants must notify Proyecto Asis at least 72 hours in advance.
- Is the tour well reviewed?
Feel free to check what people say about us on TripAdvisor (link below):
- What animals can I see during the tour?
The variety of animals you can see might change every once in a while. However, you might see some species of monkeys, macaws, parrots and parakeets. You can also see coatis, raccoons, toucans, some species of peccaries and you might be lucky to see many other species that made this place their home such as herons, reptiles, sloths and other birds.
See them here: https://www.institutoasis.com/costa-rican-wildlife/
Could it be a bit noisy ?
Macaws and parrots can be noisy sometimes. If you have young children or anybody with an ASD (Autism spectrum disorder) that is sensitive to loud noises in your group then its worth being prepared for this in advance.
- What to Pack for this Tour ?
Socks, Clothing to suit a variety of weather conditions (raincoat or ponchos), Closed shoes, Camera, Sunscreen, Insect repellent, Wide-brimmed hat.
- How active is it?
There is a journey with very little walking distance stopping in front of every enclosure to see and learn about the animals.
- What is the demographic?
You can expect to meet with all age ranges as this is an activity for everyone.
- What is the exact itinerary of the tour?
You meet us at the front desk to check in, put some bug spray on and wait there for your guide to call you.
You will walk the trails with the guide and the group to visit each enclosure and learn while seeing them up-close. If you opted for the tour and volunteering option then you will have a coffee break and then will help prepare the diet of all animals and help feeding.
- Am I booking with a credible operator?
We have been working as a rescue center for more than 25 years, since 1994.
- What is the entire experience like? Are there any photos and videos of the tour?
You can visit us on Instagram and Facebook and see photos and videos of how this shelter do things. Look up for: Proyecto Asis
- What makes it special?
We provide an educational experience to learn and understand better wild animals.
You provide an up-close opportunity to see wild animals.
We focus on sustainability and conservation efforts.
- Are the tours at Proyecto Asis guided?
Yes | Always
- I have a big group, how can I book one of your daily options?
Contact us by e-mail
- Are kids allowed?
Yes.
- How do child rates apply?
Ages 0 to 4 have complementary entrance.
Ages 5 to 9 pay $20 (regular tour) and $35 (tour and volunteer).
Ages 10 or older pay the regular rate $35 (regular tour) and $58 (tour and volunteer).
- What am I allowed or not allowed to carry on tour?
We allow to take water bottles and any kind of cameras.
We do not allow flip-flops (sandals), alcoholic drinks, cigarettes, any food.
- Do you have any recommendation to have the best possible experience?
Yes. Please bring bug spray (the humidity and river brings some mosquitos around), closed shoes (any you would use for a hiking tour), ponchos or raincoat (it might suddenly rain, we never know here), water bottle (it gets hot here ) and camera (save moments).
Long pants would also provide extra protection against mosquitos though it is usually very hot and humid here.
- Do you recommend booking before?
Yes. As soon as possible (depending on the season it is difficult to find space available).
- Am I being charged for reserving online?
Payment is necessary for all reservations. Our website is totally secured to accept payments; therefore, your transaction will be safe at all times.
- Is transportation included on the tour fee?
No; however, if you contact us we can help you arrange this and will also provide details of cost since this will vary based on where you need to be picked-up at
- Where is transportation provided from?
We can send a driver wherever you are (extra cost) . You would need to contact us for this.
- Is the transportation one-way to the park or roundtrip?
It’s up to you. We can arrange this either one way or round trip.
- Is there parking available in case I drive?
Yes.
- How long will it take to get there from La Fortuna downtown?
It takes about 45 mins, so we recommend coming earlier in case you need more time. You can use google maps, waze or foursquare so that you find it easier to arrive.
- Are there several ways to get to your facility?
Yes. There are two roads, the road 141 (faster) through El Tanque (town) or road 702 through Chachagua (town).
- Will we be allowed to take pictures on our tour?
Yes.
- Is there a Restaurant at your facility?
Not at the moment.