Which small-group tour companies are best for Costa Rica?
By Richard Jasinski·Updated 11 November 2026
These 39 tour companies sell a group trip in Costa Rica on their own websites, read 11 November 2026. Each card gives what the company says about it, with the trip, place, group size, age band or price where it names one, then what it sells, why to choose it, what to ask for and the limits it publishes.
Which small-group tour companies are best for Costa Rica?
39 tour companies in the Uncompromised Travel table say on their own websites that they sell a group trip in Costa Rica; FTLO Travel, TruTravels and Overseas Adventure Travel have the most Google reviews under their own name.

Adventures in Good Company
- Best for
- Women who want active small-group trips
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica: Exploring the Pacific Coast, 8 days and Costa Rica: From Sea to Mountains, 10 days, both starting in San Jose.
- What it sells
- Is a women-only small-group active travel operator based in Fort Collins, Colorado, founded in 1999, that also plans private and custom trips.
- Group size
- Says it typically runs trips with 10 to 14 participants and limits domestic trips to 12 or fewer with up to 14 in certain cases.
- Why choose them
- Says about 75% of its travellers join its trips on their own.
- Ask for
- Ask for the Trip Summary and the 1 to 5 fitness rating of the trip you are considering and for a roommate in a standard double.
- Not the fit if
- you want a room to yourself without paying extra: you pay a single supplement if you want to be assured of a room of your own.
AdventureWomen
- Best for
- Women aged 45 and over
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica: An Active Exploration of Jungles and Wildlife, 10 days, from $6,595 (2027) per person in double occupancy (US dollars), with rafting, zip lining and kayaking; departures 5 January, 7 March and 4 July 2027.
- What it sells
- Women-only small-group operator based in Watertown, Massachusetts, running scheduled all-women departures for 8 to 15 travellers; it also arranges private trips for small groups.
- Group size
- Says its small groups range from 8 to 15 travellers.
- Why choose them
- Says its small groups range from 8 to 15 travellers on all-women trips.
- Ask for
- Ask for one of the trips listed with no single supplement (Galapagos Wildlife Encounters, Utah Zion & Bryce, Croatia, Slovakia or Poland) or for a roommate pairing.
- Not the fit if
- you may need to cancel late: 60 days or less before departure, 100% of the package price is non-refundable.
- Published price
- Costa Rica: An Active Exploration of Jungles and Wildlife, 10 days, from $6,595 per person in double occupancy (US dollars), departing 5 January 2027. Read 11 November 2026.
- Enquiry
- adventurewomen.com/contact
Backroads
- Best for
- Active biking and hiking trips for adults
- Costa Rica
- Sells a Costa Rica Multi-Adventure Tour for families.
- What it sells
- Active travel company based in Berkeley, California, that runs scheduled biking, hiking and walking and multi-adventure departures, plus Women's Adventures, family, 30s & 40s and Private trips.
- Why choose them
- Says it has pioneered Biking, Hiking & Walking and Multi-Adventure Trips in over 60 countries since 1979. Google: 4.1 out of 5 from 124 reviews; Trustpilot: 2.2 out of 5 from 13 reviews, newest 4 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for Women's Adventures if you want a women-only departure, or for Solo Room Savings dates with reduced private room fees.
- Not the fit if
- you want your own room at no extra cost: prices are based on double occupancy and single occupancy incurs a supplemental fee.
- Enquiry
- backroads.com
Bodhi Surf + Yoga
- Best for
- Surf and yoga weeks in Costa Rica
- Costa Rica
- Runs all its camps in Uvita, Costa Rica, as Bodhi Sessions surf and yoga camps of 7 or 14 days.
- What it sells
- Family-run, B Corp certified surf and yoga camp owner in Bahia Ballena (Uvita), Costa Rica, running its own set-date small-group surf and yoga camps of 7 or 14 days at its own lodge.
- Group size
- Welcomes a maximum of just 10 guests per week.
- Why choose them
- Welcomes a maximum of just 10 guests per week at its lodge in Uvita. Google: 5.0 out of 5 from 309 reviews. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for the Bodhi Sessions 7-day camp, which includes 5 surf lessons, 5 yoga classes, 5 nights at the lodge and airport transport.
- Not the fit if
- you may need to cancel late: there is no refund of deposit for cancellations less than 60 days before arrival and no refund of payment or deposit less than 30 days before arrival.
- Enquiry
- bodhisurfyoga.com/contact
Bold Spirit Travel
- Best for
- Women travelling solo in small groups
- Costa Rica
- Sells a Costa Rica small group tour for women, 8 days, 22 February to 1 March 2027, from US$4,895 per person (Rincon de la Vieja, Monteverde, Puerto Carrillo and Samara).
- What it sells
- Woman-owned women-only small-group tour operator based in the Pacific Northwest (mailing address in Vancouver, Washington, USA) with women tour leaders, which also offers private and custom trips.
- Group size
- Says its tour groups have a minimum of 6 guests and a maximum of 15.
- Why choose them
- Says its all-women groups are intentionally small, with a minimum of 6 guests and a maximum of 15. Google: 5.0 out of 5 from 41 reviews. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask to be paired with a roommate if you want to share: it needs two women requesting this to make a pair.
- Not the fit if
- you are under 21: guests must be 21 or older.
- Published price
- Costa Rica small group tour, 22 February to 1 March 2027, from $4,895 per person. Read 11 November 2026.
Collette
- Best for
- Couples and families on guided group tours
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica: A World of Nature featuring Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano and Manuel Antonio National Park, 12 days, as a small group Explorations tour.
- What it sells
- Runs guided group tours (land tours, river cruises, rail journeys, small group Explorations, family trips and garden holidays) sold direct and through travel agents. Based in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, USA, with operations in Canada and Australia.
- Why choose them
- Says it has run guided tours since 1918 and now offers 170+ guided tours to all 7 continents. Trustpilot: 3.0 out of 5 from 13 reviews, newest 19 October 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for the small group Explorations departures and for the Travel Protection Plan, which has to be bought at the time of booking.
- Not the fit if
- you want flights, visas and tips in the price: land rates exclude air travel, visas and end-of-trip gratuities and prepaid tipping is not available.
Contiki
- Best for
- Social group trips for 18 to 35s
- Costa Rica
- Sells Best of Costa Rica, 8 days, a small group of max 16 people, from £1,058 per person in GBP in a twin room, departing 16 January 2027.
- What it sells
- Operator of its own scheduled group trips for 18 to 35s across seven Travel Styles, led by Trip Leaders with local guides, with some small-group trips.
- Group size
- Gives a group size per trip: a maximum of 16 on Best of Costa Rica, 14 on Maldives Island Hopping, an average of around 20 (30 max) on Japan and Vietnam trips and a maximum of 53 on European Trail.
- Why choose them
- Says it has run trips since 1962, when a young Kiwi took a minivan full of strangers across Europe. Trustpilot: 3.9 out of 5 from 164 reviews, newest 7 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a Travel Style that fits, such as Outdoors for hiking and biking or Local for food and wine and for departures for 27 to 35-year-olds only.
- Not the fit if
- you want a small group on every trip: its Japan and Vietnam trips average around 20 people (30 max).
- Published price
- Best of Costa Rica, 8 days, from £1,058 per person in GBP, twin room, departing 16 January 2027. Read 11 November 2026.
- Website
- contiki.com
Discover Corps
- Best for
- Culture and conservation trips in small groups
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica Culture, Craft & Conservation, 5 days, at $2,995 per person (adult, double occupancy), departing Nov 26 to 30, 2026, plus Cloud Forest to Coast and The Sea Turtle Initiative.
- What it sells
- Is a small-group operator, the family volunteer travel division of Terra Education, running its own scheduled small group departures as well as private departures from a San Diego, California address.
- Group size
- Says group size averages 8 with a maximum of 15, while its festival departures are limited to 16.
- Why choose them
- Says group size averages 8 with a maximum of 15. Google: 5.0 out of 5 from 101 reviews. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a departure marked STS (Solo Traveller Savings), which offers a single room upgrade at no additional cost.
- Not the fit if
- you are a solo traveller booking within 90 days of departure with no other solo traveller to share: you must pay the single room supplement.
- Published price
- Japan Cultural Odyssey, 8 days, $5,595 per person (adult, double occupancy), departing Dec 13 to 20, 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
EF Adventures
- Best for
- Active travellers, including solo travellers
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica Multi-Adventure: Arenal & Guanacaste Coast, 9 days (11 with a Liberia extension).
- What it sells
- Runs its own small-group hiking, biking and multi-adventure tours with a Tour Director on every departure, plus dedicated solo departures. Tours outside the U.S. are operated by EF World Journeys International, Ltd. in Zurich, with a Cambridge, Massachusetts address and EF Adventures launched in 2024 out of EF Education First.
- Group size
- Says its tours are group tours for up to 26 travellers, varying by travel style, destination and enrollment; solo departures list 6 to 20 and 6 to 16.
- Why choose them
- Says its tours are group tours for up to 26 travellers, with group size varying by travel style, destination and enrollment. Google: 5.0 out of 5 from 21 reviews. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a dedicated solo departure such as Spain Biking for Solo Travellers: Mallorca (6 to 16 travellers) and for its private room terms.
- Not the fit if
- you want a roommate matched for you: it says it does not offer roommate matching and adds a private room fee if you do not secure a roommate.
- Enquiry
- efadventures.com
EF Go Ahead Tours
- Best for
- Solo travellers on guided group tours
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica for Solo Travellers: Volcanoes, Jungles & Beaches, 9 days (12 with an extension) and Costa Rica: Rainforests, Volcanoes & Wildlife.
- What it sells
- Operator of guided group tours led by a Tour Director, including Solo Tours, Tours for Women and Small-Group Tours; part of EF Education First, with an operating company in Zurich and a US marketing company in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
- Group size
- Says its regular group tours are capped at 38 travellers and its Small-Group Tours have 22 or fewer.
- Why choose them
- Says its regular group tours are capped at 38 travellers, with Small-Group Tours of 22 or fewer. Google: 4.4 out of 5 from 195 reviews; Trustpilot: 2.0 out of 5 from 20 reviews, newest 14 October 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for one of its Solo Tours, which include a private room.
- Not the fit if
- you want roommate matching: it says it currently does not offer roommate matching for solo travellers.
- Published price
- A Week in Italy: Venice, Florence & Rome, 9 days, departing 13 July 2027, from $3,299 per person on double occupancy (US dollars, flights not included unless a flights package is bought). Read 11 November 2026.
- Website
- goaheadtours.com
EF Ultimate Break
- Best for
- Social group trips, ages 18 to 35
- Costa Rica
- Sells Uncover Costa Rica (10 days) and Costa Rica Adventure: Arenal to Puntarenas (10 days) and College Break Costa Rica (9 days).
- What it sells
- Operator of scheduled guided group tours for travellers aged 18 to 35, part of EF Education First, with a Tour Director on every trip; tours are run from Zurich, Switzerland and marketed from Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA.
- Group size
- Says groups are often between 20 and 44 travellers and, on some trips, average around 30; the largest figure it gives is 44.
- Why choose them
- Says more than 60% of EF travellers sign up solo. Google: 3.9 out of 5 from 129 reviews; Trustpilot: 4.3 out of 5 from 204 reviews, newest 23 September 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a private room upgrade if you do not want a same-gender roommate, or for the Ages 25 to 35 trips, which are 1 to 2 travellers per room.
- Not the fit if
- you are over 35: it designs its trips for ages 18 to 35 and points older travellers to Go Ahead Tours or EF Adventures.
- Published price
- Uncover Venice, Florence & Rome, 10 days, from US$2,649 per person, departing 7 June 2027. Read 11 November 2026.
- Enquiry
- efultimatebreak.com
ElderTreks
- Best for
- Small-group adventures for travellers 50 and over
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica, 15 days, from US$5,395 for the 1 to 15 December 2026 departure (waitlist) and from US$5,995 on 2028 dates.
- What it sells
- Is an operator of small-group land and ship-based adventures with fixed departure dates for travellers 50 and over, using its own country directors and tour leaders.
- Group size
- Says the maximum group size on its land adventures is 16, guaranteed.
- Why choose them
- Says it runs trips for travellers aged 50 and over in more than 80 countries. Google: 5.0 out of 5 from 2 reviews. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a guaranteed land departure and whether you can share a room to avoid the single supplement.
- Not the fit if
- you are under 50: its trips are designed for travellers 50 and over, with companions over 18 welcome.
- Published price
- Grand South East Asia, 25 days, from US$9,995, departures 11 January to 4 February 2027 and 12 February to 8 March 2027. Read 11 November 2026.
- Website
- eldertreks.com
Exodus Adventure Travels
- Best for
- Small-group walking, cycling and cultural trips
- Costa Rica
- Sells Discover Costa Rica (15 days) and Costa Rica's Coastal Secrets (15 days) and Costa Rica Adventure Family Holiday (15 days) as guided group trips, excluding flights.
- What it sells
- UK adventure travel company (registered in Surbiton, Surrey) running its own small-group guided departures of eight to 16 travellers, plus self-guided and private group trips; says it is a certified B Corp.
- Group size
- Says small-group tours are typically eight to 16 people with an average of 10 to 12 travellers and that it may occasionally exceed the normal maximum.
- Why choose them
- Says Exodus Expeditions was founded on 4 February 1974 and that it is the UK's longest running adventure travel company. Google: 4.7 out of 5 from 489 reviews; Trustpilot: 4.9 out of 5 from 5,834 reviews, newest 11 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a twin-share booking with a same-sex roommate, or for the optional single supplement where it is offered.
- Not the fit if
- you want a fixed solo price: if no roommate can be found you may be asked to pay a single supplement for the land portion.
- Enquiry
- exodus.co.uk/contact-us
Flash Pack
- Best for
- Solos aged 30-49 or 50-65
- Costa Rica
- Sells Untamed Costa Rica, a small-group trip of up to 16 with river rafting, waterfall rappelling and a remote rainforest lodge.
- What it sells
- Is a London-registered operator that runs its own small-group adventures only for solo travellers, in age groups of 30-49 and 50-65, with its own Pack Leaders.
- Group size
- Runs small groups of up to 16 people and 12 on Tanzania.
- Why choose them
- Says 90% of its travellers arrive solo and 80% leave as friends. Google: 4.6 out of 5 from 207 reviews; Trustpilot: 4.8 out of 5 from 1,759 reviews, newest 11 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for the age group that suits you (30-49 or 50-65) and a questionnaire-matched roommate, or add a single room.
- Not the fit if
- you are travelling with a partner or fall outside its age groups: it says it is only for solo travellers in your age group and life stage.
- Enquiry
- flashpack.com/us/contact
FTLO Travel
- Best for
- Solo travellers aged 25 to 39
- Costa Rica
- Sells a Costa Rica trip of 5 days and 4 nights, up to 16 people, from US$1,999, based at Rincón de la Vieja and Tamarindo, departing 18 to 22 November 2026.
- What it sells
- Small-group operator running scheduled departures with a trip leader for solo travellers aged 25 to 39, with 35+ itineraries. Bookings are made with For The Love Of Travel LLC, a California limited liability company.
- Group size
- Says its trips run with between 4 and 16 people and have an average group size of 10. The Japan trip is up to 12.
- Why choose them
- Says its trips are for ages 25 to 39, with an average age of 30 and 80% of travellers signing up alone. Google: 5.0 out of 5 from 1,585 reviews; Trustpilot: 5.0 out of 5 from 2,076 reviews, newest 11 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a gal spot or guy spot in a shared twin room, or for a private room upgrade, which is first come first served.
- Not the fit if
- you are under 25 or over 39: its trips are designed for ages 25 to 39.
- Published price
- Vietnam, 9 days and 8 nights, from US$2,999 per person, departing 5 December 2026. Includes accommodation, in-country transportation, activities and some meals; international flights are extra. Read 11 November 2026.
- Enquiry
- ftlotravel.com/trips/vietnam
G Adventures
- Best for
- Solo travellers on small-group adventures
- Costa Rica
- Sells Solo-ish Costa Rica, a trip for solo travellers only.
- What it sells
- Toronto-based operator of scheduled small-group departures, including Solo-ish trips for solo travellers only, tours for ages 18 to 39, family adventures, small-ship voyages and private tours.
- Group size
- Says to expect up to 15 travellers on a trip with an average of 10. Trip maximums run from 16 (Bali, average 12) to 18 (Ladakh) and 22 (Signature Greece) and 128 aboard the Scottish Isles expedition ship.
- Why choose them
- Says you can expect up to 15 travellers on a trip but the average is 10. Trustpilot: 4.9 out of 5 from 17,532 reviews, newest 11 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a Solo-ish trip, sold only to solo travellers aged 18 and up, with a dedicated Me Day and a female CEO (Chief Experience Officer).
- Not the fit if
- you want a single room included on a National Geographic Signature tour: those tours charge a single supplement.
- Enquiry
- gadventures.com
Insight Vacations
- Best for
- Guided coach tours with a Travel Director
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica Rainforest - Small Group.
- What it sells
- Operator of guided escorted tours led by a Travel Director and Driver, including Small Group Tours and Women-Only tours, part of The Travel Corporation, with a US sales company in Costa Mesa, California.
- Group size
- Caps Small Group Tours at a maximum of 18 guests, while standard tours use coaches with 40 to 45 seats for just 40 guests.
- Why choose them
- Runs Small Group Tours with a maximum of 18 guests per departure. Trustpilot: 3.8 out of 5 from 43 reviews, newest 3 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a Small Group Tour, a Women-Only tour, or the twin/double share rate with a same-gender match.
- Not the fit if
- you want a small group on a standard tour: Small Group Tours take a maximum of 18 guests but standard tours use coaches for 40 guests.
- Website
- insightvacations.com
Intrepid Travel
- Best for
- Small-group trips for most ages and budgets
- Costa Rica
- Sells Classic Costa Rica, 15 days, now USD $2,163 (lowest price 05 Dec 2026).
- What it sells
- Melbourne-based operator that says it offers real and remarkable small group trips worldwide, in Basic, Original, Comfort and Premium styles, plus family trips, Women's Expeditions and Tailor-Made trips.
- Group size
- Says most trips usually have 12 to 14 people and that its family trips have a maximum group size of 16 (average 10); its Antarctica ship carries up to 200 passengers.
- Why choose them
- Says it became certified as the world's largest travel B Corp in 2018. Google: 5.0 out of 5 from 10 reviews; Trustpilot: 4.4 out of 5 from 2,539 reviews, newest 11 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a departure in the style that suits you (Basic, Original, Comfort or Premium) and for the single supplement option if you want your own room.
- Not the fit if
- you want your own room at no extra cost: rooming is twin-share and a single supplement is charged on most trips for an individual room.
- Published price
- Highlights of Italy, 8 days, from USD $2,085, lowest-price departure 24 Apr 2027. Read 11 November 2026.
INTRO Travel
- Best for
- Group tours for ages 18 to 40s
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica Adventure, 13 days and includes Costa Rica in its 30-day Central America Adventure.
- What it sells
- Runs its own group tours for ages 18 to 40s across 20+ destinations, with Classic and Premium tours, sold direct online. Has offices in London and Sydney and has operated since 2005.
- Group size
- Says its Premium tours are capped at 16. It gives no maximum for its Classic tours.
- Why choose them
- Says it has run group tours for 18-40s since 2005 and that over 65% of travellers book solo. Google: 4.9 out of 5 from 362 reviews; Trustpilot: 4.9 out of 5 from 684 reviews, newest 4 October 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a Premium tour, which is twin-share throughout with groups capped at 16 and for the free date or tour change more than 30 days before departure.
- Not the fit if
- you are over the age band: tours are for ages 18 to 40s, or 18 to 45 on Australia and New Zealand tours.
- Enquiry
- introtravel.com/contact-us

Just You
- Best for
- Solo travellers in their 40s to 60s
- Costa Rica
- Sells Real Costa Rica, 12 days with 10 nights in 4-star hotels and jungle lodges.
- What it sells
- Is a solo-only operator running escorted group holidays for solo travellers only, based in Market Harborough, Leicestershire and selling direct and through travel agents.
- Group size
- Gives an average group size of 27 that varies from small groups of 8 to groups in their 30s, with a maximum of 20 on its small-group collection.
- Why choose them
- Says all the people in your group will be travelling by themselves. Google: 2.3 out of 5 from 44 reviews; Trustpilot: 4.7 out of 5 from 3,276 reviews, newest 10 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for its small-group collection, where a maximum of 20 solo travellers join.
- Not the fit if
- you want to bring a child: it does not allow children under 18 on any of its holidays.
- Published price
- India in Colour: The Deccan Odyssey, 15 days, from £10,999 per person, new for 2028. Read 11 November 2026.
- Enquiry
- justyou.co.uk/contact-us
Mountain Travel Sobek
- Best for
- Active group adventures, solo or with family
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica Coast to Coast Hiking (10 days, Level 4) and Costa Rica Rainforest and Rivers Multi-Adventure (9 days, Level 3); no price is given.
- What it sells
- Adventure travel operator running its own scheduled small-group departures since 1969, alongside private and custom trips, in hiking, rafting, safari and cultural journeys.
- Group size
- Caps its tours at 12 to 16 or fewer travellers; the exception is its Middle Fork of the Salmon rafting trips, capped at 22.
- Why choose them
- Says nearly 30% of its guests on group trips travel solo. Google: 4.9 out of 5 from 145 reviews. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a confirmed departure from its dates list and the single occupancy supplement listed in the trip itinerary.
- Not the fit if
- you want your own room at no extra cost: guaranteed single accommodation needs a single occupancy supplement, subject to availability.
- Enquiry
- mtsobek.com/contact-us
Much Better Adventures
- Best for
- Solo-friendly outdoor adventures in small groups
- Costa Rica
- Sells the 250km Coast to Coast Expedition through Costa Rica, 11 nights, Level 5, available November to August.
- What it sells
- Sells scheduled small-group adventures and private group trips run by independent, locally owned partner businesses, covering hiking, cycling, kayaking and more. Says it is a B Corp.
- Group size
- Shows a maximum group size of 12 on Thailand Premium, Rajasthan Premium and Madeira Premium and 14 on China and Nicaragua. No average is given.
- Why choose them
- Shows a maximum group size of 12 on its Thailand Premium trip and 14 on its China trip. Google: 4.6 out of 5 from 23 reviews; Trustpilot: 4.8 out of 5 from 1,547 reviews, newest 8 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a small group trip with a maximum of 12 such as Thailand Premium and for the solo room upgrade if you want a private room.
- Not the fit if
- you want a private room included: the solo room upgrade is a supplement, limited and on request, for example £439 (2026) per person on China with a maximum of two per trip.
Natural Habitat Adventures
- Best for
- Small-group wildlife travel, including women-only trips
- Costa Rica
- Sells Natural Jewels of Costa Rica: Women's Journey, 10 days, 8 to 17 February 2027, from $11,495 per person plus air.
- What it sells
- Wildlife-focused small-group operator running its own scheduled departures, plus private and custom trips and women-only Women's Journeys; it also books National Geographic-Lindblad expedition cruises as an agent.
- Group size
- Says its groups average just nine guests. The largest of its own trips listed carries 29 guests (Tundra Lodge Adventure).
- Why choose them
- Says its trips average just nine travellers. Google: 4.9 out of 5 from 307 reviews; Trustpilot: 4.9 out of 5 from 3,027 reviews, newest 10 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a Women's Journey such as Natural Jewels of Costa Rica, 8 to 17 February 2027.
- Not the fit if
- you may need to cancel late: 60 calendar days or less before departure, the cancellation fee is 100% of the trip price.
- Published price
- Natural Jewels of Costa Rica: Women's Journey, 10 days, 8 to 17 February 2027, from $11,495 per person plus air. Read 11 November 2026.
- Website
- nathab.com
Odysseys Unlimited
- Best for
- Escorted small-group tours of 12 to 24
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica's Natural Heritage, 11 days, Winter/Spring 2026/2027, from $4,781 per person in US dollars, with a Tortuguero National Park pre-tour option.
- What it sells
- Operator of its own escorted small-group tours led by Odysseys Tour Directors, with more than 45 tours across six continents for 12 to 24 guests, plus Private Departures on its own tours.
- Group size
- Says its tours carry just 12 to 24 guests.
- Why choose them
- Says it offers more than 45 tours across six continents for just 12 to 24 guests. Google: 4.2 out of 5 from 100 reviews; Trustpilot: 2.9 out of 5 from 17 reviews, newest 21 September 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a Private Departure of one of its tours, which welcomes children and grandchildren from age 10.
- Not the fit if
- you travel alone and want a guaranteed private room: it offers a limited number of single accommodations on each tour, at a single supplement.
- Published price
- New Zealand Adventure, 16 days, Spring 2027, from $8,574 per person in US dollars on double occupancy, airfare from your departure city included. Read 11 November 2026.
- Website
- odysseys-unlimited.com
One Life Adventures
- Best for
- Travellers aged 18 to 40, small groups
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica Classic, 12 days, San José to San José, with a volcano, cloud forest and beaches.
- What it sells
- Is a small-group adventure tour operator, founded in 2016, that runs its own tours in four styles (Snapshots, Essentials, Classic and Expedition) across Japan, Bali, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Morocco, Vietnam, South Korea, India, Nepal and Costa Rica.
- Group size
- Caps its groups at 22 travellers and on very rare occasions up to 24 for logistical reasons.
- Why choose them
- Says its groups are capped at 22 people maximum. Google: 4.8 out of 5 from 52 reviews; Trustpilot: 4.8 out of 5 from 383 reviews, newest 22 October 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a Snapshot, Essentials, Classic or Expedition tour and whether a single room upgrade is available on it.
- Not the fit if
- you are over 40 and want an Essentials trip: Essentials trips are capped at a maximum age of 40.
Other Way Round
- Best for
- Solo travellers in their 30s and 40s
- Costa Rica
- Sells a 9-day Costa Rica trip that includes a beginner-friendly surf lesson at Iguanita Beach.
- What it sells
- London-based small-group operator for solo travellers aged 30 to 49, running its own scheduled departures with a local tour operator partner in each country.
- Group size
- Says there will be between 4 and 15 people on every trip, with an average of 10.
- Why choose them
- Says there are between 4 and 15 people on every trip, averaging 10. Google: 5.0 out of 5 from 306 reviews. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask early for a private room, which is optional and paid for, as private rooms are limited and allocated first come, first served.
- Not the fit if
- you are under 30 or over 49, as its trips are for solo travellers aged 30 to 49.
- Enquiry
- otherwayround.travel/contact
Overseas Adventure Travel
- Best for
- Solo travellers aged 50 and over
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica: Pura Vida & Rainforest Discoveries, with departures from 24 January 2027 at US$2,699 per person excluding airfare.
- What it sells
- Is a Boston-based operator (Grand Circle LLC) that runs its own small group adventures by land and small ship for travellers aged 50 and over and also sells private adventures and group travel programmes.
- Group size
- Says its small groups are 16 by land and 25 by ship, with no more than 16 travellers on land trip pages; no average is stated.
- Why choose them
- Says 50% of O.A.T. travellers come on their own. Google: 4.4 out of 5 from 667 reviews; Trustpilot: 4.3 out of 5 from 159 reviews, newest 11 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for same-gender roommate matching, or a departure with a free single supplement, on a Small Group Adventure.
- Not the fit if
- you are under 50: its trips are designed for travellers aged 50 and over.
- Published price
- Egypt & the Eternal Nile by Private, Classic River-Yacht, 16 days, from US$2,995 per person, departing 14 December 2026, excluding airfare. Read 11 November 2026.
Road Scholar
- Best for
- Learning travel for adults over 50
- Costa Rica
- Names Jungle Eyes: Amazing Wildlife in Costa Rica as one of its learning adventures.
- What it sells
- Not-for-profit educational travel organisation for adults 50 and over, running its own small-group learning adventures with expert instructors, plus family, grandparent and solo programmes.
- Group size
- Sets a maximum group size of 35 on programmes in the US and 24 on international programmes.
- Why choose them
- Has been a not-for-profit organisation ever since its founding in 1975. Google: 4.0 out of 5 from 52 reviews; Trustpilot: 1.9 out of 5 from 76 reviews, newest 10 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a programme with 'Singles at no Extra Cost', or for roommate matching if you travel alone.
- Not the fit if
- you may need to cancel: fees apply to transfers and cancellations and it says it cannot waive cancellation fees.
- Published price
- Wild About Alaska: Glaciers & Wildlife With Your Family, 7 days, from US$5,299 per adult and US$3,199 per child, 2027 dates from 5 June. Read 11 November 2026.
- Website
- roadscholar.org
Smithsonian Journeys
- Best for
- Expert-led cultural trips with scholars
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica Treetops and Trails: An Active Journey, 8 days, from US$3,999 per person, with multiple departures in 2026 and 2027.
- What it sells
- Is the travel programme of Smithsonian Enterprises, the commercial division of the Smithsonian Institution, selling small-group land journeys, cruises and active journeys organised by professional tour operators hired as independent contractors.
- Group size
- Says almost all land trips are small groups of 12 to 24 travellers and active journeys are 12 to 18, while cruises range from 102 to 265 travellers with a few slightly larger.
- Why choose them
- Says almost all its land trips feature guaranteed small groups of 12 to 24 travellers.
- Ask for
- Ask for a trip with a Smithsonian Journeys Expert, who joins on most trips, or an Active Journey if you want a group of 12 to 18.
- Not the fit if
- you want a guaranteed room of your own: single rooms are limited and carry a single supplement.
- Published price
- Legendary Peru: Andean Culture and Inca Treasures, 11 days, from US$6,487 per person with airfare included, multiple departures in 2027. Read 11 November 2026.
Surf With Amigas
- Best for
- Women learning to surf, mostly travelling alone
- Costa Rica
- Runs retreats in Costa Rica, including a Southern Costa Rica Longboard Surf House.
- What it sells
- Is a women-only surf and yoga retreat operator running its own all-inclusive retreats at smaller resorts in Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama.
- Why choose them
- Says 90% of the women who have taken part so far came alone.
- Ask for
- Ask for its coaching programme, designed by professional surfer Holly Beck, with beach lessons, in-water one on one assistance, classroom sessions and video coaching.
- Not the fit if
- you may need to cancel late: within 4 months of the retreat date it cannot refund your deposit unless your spot is filled.
- Enquiry
- surfwithamigas.com/book-now
Tauck
- Best for
- Upscale guided travel, including family trips
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica: Jungles & Rainforests, a Tauck Bridges family trip of 8 days with on-tour air included.
- What it sells
- Family-owned upscale guided travel operator based in Wilton, Connecticut, running its own scheduled land journeys, river and small ship cruises, Tauck Bridges family trips and Small Group and Even Smaller Group journeys; it also arranges private departures.
- Group size
- Says its Small Group journeys average 24 guests and its Even Smaller Group journeys average 15. Tanzania family safari departures are limited to 30 guests.
- Why choose them
- Says it was founded in 1925 and is a family-owned, fourth-generation company. Google: 3.4 out of 5 from 41 reviews; Trustpilot: 2.7 out of 5 from 93 reviews, newest 13 October 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for an Even Smaller Group journey (average 15 guests) or a Category 1 cabin on a European river cruise, which carries no single supplement.
- Not the fit if
- you travel alone on a land journey: rooms for one person cost more and its solo savings apply only to select departures and cruises.
- Enquiry
- tauck.com/contact-us
Trafalgar
- Best for
- Guided tours led by a Travel Director
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica Adventure, 7 days from San José to San José via Monteverde and Arenal.
- What it sells
- Operator of guided tours, Small Group tours, River Cruises and Rail Journeys, led by a Travel Director. Its head office address is in St Peter Port, Guernsey and it belongs to The Travel Corporation family.
- Group size
- Says its Small Group itineraries have an average of just 16 guests. No maximum is given.
- Why choose them
- Says it has guided travellers since 1947. Google: 3.3 out of 5 from 19 reviews; Trustpilot: 3.8 out of 5 from 304 reviews, newest 8 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a Small Group tour, which averages 16 guests and for same-sex room matching at the twin share price.
- Not the fit if
- you want your own room without paying more: it says single room supplements apply across its worldwide trips.
- Enquiry
- trafalgar.com/en-us
Travendly
- Best for
- Young professionals aged 25 to 45
- Costa Rica
- Sells a Costa Rica trip of 5 days for 4 to 14 people, based in La Fortuna, with white water rafting, a waterfall hike and zip lining. It departs 12 December 2026 at $1,399 and 13 January 2027 and 24 February 2027 at $1,499.
- What it sells
- Small-group operator running scheduled departures of 4 to 14 people led by a group leader, only for young professionals aged 25 to 45. Contracts are with Travendly LLC and trips are planned around US holidays.
- Group size
- Says it will never allow more than 14 participants on any trip and targets a minimum of 4.
- Why choose them
- Says over 85% of its participants travel solo, in groups of 4 to 14. Google: 3.0 out of 5 from 4 reviews. Read 11 November 2026.
- Not the fit if
- you are under 25 or over 45: you must be at least 25 by the final day of the trip and 45 or younger in the year it begins.
- Published price
- Morocco, 9 days, $1,999 per person, departing 27 December 2026, in US dollars. Includes transportation, double occupancy accommodation, activities and meals; flights are extra. Read 11 November 2026.
- Enquiry
- travendly.com/how-it-works
TruTravels
- Best for
- Solo travellers wanting group adventure trips
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica: San José to Puerto Viejo, 11 days.
- What it sells
- Small group adventure tour operator registered in England, with a registered office in Kingston Upon Thames. Runs scheduled departures in groups of 10 to 20 led by local guides called Local Legends.
- Group size
- Says its small groups are 10 to 20 like-minded travellers.
- Why choose them
- Says it guarantees that every single one of its trips will run. Google: 4.9 out of 5 from 1,413 reviews; Trustpilot: 4.9 out of 5 from 3,626 reviews, newest 30 October 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a Local Legend led trip in a group of 10 to 20, such as Morocco Uncovered, 9 days.
- Not the fit if
- you may need to cancel late: within 60 days of departure the charge is 100% of the trip cost.
- Published price
- Peru Inca Adventure, 10 days, from U$1,795 now U$1,077 per person, departing 22 January 2027. Read 11 November 2026.
- Enquiry
- trutravels.com
Under30Experiences
- Best for
- Group travel for ages 21 to 35
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica trips, including a Costa Rica adventure with two days of whitewater rafting and optional surf lessons.
- What it sells
- Small-group operator running scheduled departures for ages 21 to 35 in 30+ countries, founded in 2012, with a separate Over30Experiences range for travellers in their 30s and 40s. Sold direct with a $195 (2026) deposit.
- Group size
- Says its small groups are 8 to 16 people.
- Why choose them
- Says it has led small group trips since 2012 for travellers aged 21 to 35, in groups of 8 to 16. Google: 4.9 out of 5 from 416 reviews. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for single-room pricing by email, or for an Over30Experiences trip if you are in your 30s or 40s and want a different travel community.
- Not the fit if
- you are under 21: the minimum age is 21 at departure and trips are geared toward ages 21 to 35.
- Enquiry
- under30experiences.com/faq
WeRoad
- Best for
- Social group trips with people your age
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica 360°: Monteverde, Manuel Antonio & a Pura Vida Road Trip, 13 days.
- What it sells
- Milan-headquartered operator running its own scheduled small-group departures with a Group Leader, for people who love to travel but do not want to do it alone; it also sells weekend city escapes, WeRoadX trips and team offsites.
- Group size
- Says its trips have a group of max 12 to 16 people and that groups average 11 people.
- Why choose them
- Says 90% of its travellers join as solo travellers. Google: 3.9 out of 5 from 87 reviews; Trustpilot: 4.7 out of 5 from 20,657 reviews, newest 11 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a departure marked Confirmed or Final spots, which it says is guaranteed, in an age range that matches yours, such as 18 to 25 or 25 to 35.
- Not the fit if
- you are over 53: its trips are open to travellers aged 18 to 53.
- Website
- weroad.com
Wilderness Travel
- Best for
- Small-group hiking and wildlife trips worldwide
- Costa Rica
- Sells Costa Rica Wildlife as a small group trip, 8 days, Level 2.
- What it sells
- Family-owned adventure operator founded in 1978 and based in Berkeley, California, running its own scheduled Small Group Adventures plus Private Journeys; it also books small-ship and river cruises operated by others as an agent.
- Group size
- Says its average group size is 10 and never more than 16 on Small Group Adventures.
- Why choose them
- Says its average group size is 10 and never more than 16. Trustpilot: 4.9 out of 5 from 193 reviews, newest 6 November 2026. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for an Area Specialist as your single point of contact and for the single supplement noted in the Detailed Itinerary of your trip.
- Not the fit if
- you want your own room at no extra cost on most trips: those who request single accommodation pay a single supplement.
Women Travel Abroad
- Best for
- Solo women wanting their own room
- Costa Rica
- Lists Costa Rica Wellness on August 10 to 15, 2027.
- What it sells
- Is a women-only small-group operator founded in 2014, with single-occupancy rooms by default, that is also an IATA-certified agency.
- Group size
- Caps all its trips at a maximum of 10 travellers and describes groups of 6 to 10 women.
- Why choose them
- Says it caps all its trips at a maximum of 10 travellers. Google: 4.8 out of 5 from 24 reviews. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a place on one of its 2027 small group, women-only departures and for the weekly Saturday community call at 12pm ET.
- Not the fit if
- you want a lower price per person by default: all published prices are for single occupancy.
- Published price
- Egypt New Year Celebration, 8 days (7 nights), US$6,495 per person single occupancy, Dec 29, 2026 to Jan 5, 2027. Read 11 November 2026.
- Enquiry
- womentravelabroad.com
Women Who Explore
- Best for
- Women-only adventure trips with a host
- Costa Rica
- Lists Costa Rica Wildlife, Culture & Waterfalls, 16 to 24 January 2027, shown as sold out.
- What it sells
- Women-owned company (Women that Adventure LLC, an Oregon LLC) running small-group adventure trips with a trip host, mostly women-only (about 10% of Getaways are coed), alongside free local chapters and events.
- Group size
- Says groups average 8 to 12 attendees, with maximums such as 9 women in the Maldives and 7 in Mallorca; the coed Egypt trip allows up to 20 people.
- Why choose them
- Says its group sizes average 8 to 12 attendees. Google: 4.9 out of 5 from 112 reviews. Read 11 November 2026.
- Ask for
- Ask for a roommate on request, the pre-trip Q&A Zoom call and the private WhatsApp or Facebook group for your trip.
- Not the fit if
- you are under 21: you must be at least 21 to use its trip services.
- Published price
- Northern Vietnam adventure, 8 days, 15 to 22 August 2027, $3,495 USD per person double occupancy ($4,495 single). Read 11 November 2026.
- Website
- womenwhoexplore.com
Which of these show a dated price on this page?
19 of the 39 cards show a published trip price with its year, in the currency the company writes it. Ask every company for a written quote for your departure, with the single supplement if you travel alone.
- AdventureWomen
- Bold Spirit Travel
- Contiki
- Discover Corps
- EF Go Ahead Tours
- EF Ultimate Break
- ElderTreks
- FTLO Travel
- Intrepid Travel
- Just You
- Natural Habitat Adventures
- Odysseys Unlimited
- Overseas Adventure Travel
- Road Scholar
- Smithsonian Journeys
- Travendly
- TruTravels
- Women Travel Abroad
- Women Who Explore
Who to contact first
Start with the 25 companies on this page that publish their prices and cancellation charges, then add any other card that fits your dates and budget.
- Adventures in Good Company
- AdventureWomen
- Backroads
- Bold Spirit Travel
- Collette
- EF Ultimate Break
- Exodus Adventure Travels
- Flash Pack
- FTLO Travel
- Insight Vacations
- Intrepid Travel
- INTRO Travel
- Mountain Travel Sobek
- Much Better Adventures
- Odysseys Unlimited
- One Life Adventures
- Other Way Round
- Overseas Adventure Travel
- Road Scholar
- Smithsonian Journeys
- Surf With Amigas
- Travendly
- TruTravels
- Wilderness Travel
- Women Who Explore
What to ask each one to set out in writing:
- The total price per person in writing and what it includes: hotels, meals, transport, activities, entrance fees and any internal flights.
- The single supplement on your departure, or whether the company will pair you with a roommate and what happens if no roommate is found.
- The largest group on your departure, how many are booked so far and whether the departure is guaranteed to run.
- The deposit, when the balance is due, the cancellation charges by date and how your payment is protected (ATOL, ABTA, USTOA or a trust account).

Small-group tours of Costa Rica: the questions people ask
What should I ask a tour company before booking?
The total price per person and what it includes; the single supplement or whether it will pair you with a roommate; the largest group on your departure and whether it is guaranteed to run; the deposit, the cancellation charges and how your payment is protected.
Can I book with these companies directly?
Yes. Each card links the company's own website or enquiry page; ask for a written quote for your departure that lists what the price includes and the cancellation charges.
Do these companies all sell the same kind of trip?
No. Some run small-group departures open to everyone; some run trips only for solo travellers, women or an age band; others run surf, yoga or sailing weeks. Each card says what the company sells, so compare the cards before you ask for quotes.
What is a single supplement?
The extra a solo traveller pays for a room alone. Some companies charge none on some departures; others pair solo travellers with a roommate instead; ask each company for its figure on your departure.
Which of these have the most Google reviews?
FTLO Travel, TruTravels and Overseas Adventure Travel, in that order. A count says how many people reviewed a company, not whether it fits your trip; each card gives the rating and count, read 11 November 2026.
Which of these publish their single supplement?
22 of the 39 publish their single supplement terms on their own websites. Ask each for the figure on your departure.
Which of these publish their cancellation charges?
32 of the 39 publish their cancellation charges on their own websites. Ask each for the full terms in writing before you pay a deposit.
Which of these say how your payment is protected?
11 of the 39: Backroads, Collette, EF Adventures, Flash Pack, Insight Vacations, Intrepid Travel, INTRO Travel, Just You, Much Better Adventures, TruTravels and Wilderness Travel. Check each scheme or licence with its issuer before you book.
Where can I check these facts myself?
Each card links the pages of the company's own website its lines were read from, with the date they were read.
How were these companies chosen?
Each one is in the Uncompromised Travel solo and small-group tour operators table, built from the companies ChatGPT names most often when asked about solo and small-group travel. On its own website it sells a group trip in Costa Rica. A company is on the page because its published facts fit the question, never because it paid.
Is any company on this page paying to be here?
No. No company on this page is a partner of Uncompromised Travel; none paid to be on it.
Read next
Built to answer the question in the main heading. What is shown: what each company published on its own website, read on 11 November 2026, with links to the pages read, with its Google and Trustpilot figures where the listing carries the company's own name, from the Uncompromised Travel solo and small-group tour operators table. Cards are in alphabetical order. Photos show the places named in their captions, not any company's trips. No company on this page is a partner of Uncompromised Travel. How this site earns · How we work.