Health & Safety Plan

At The Traveling Monkey, the health, safety, and well-being of every participant is our highest priority. We recognize that international travel involves inherent risks, and we take a proactive approach to identifying, preparing for, and managing those risks throughout every faculty-led program.

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1. Pre-Departure Preparation

Before departure, we work with faculty and program leaders to identify the specific health and safety considerations associated with their itinerary. Participants receive information and guidance on:

• Travel and health recommendations

• Local customs, laws, and cultural considerations

• Emergency procedures and important contact information

• Recommended packing and personal health supplies

• Transportation and activity-specific safety guidelines

• Weather and environmental considerations

• Travel documentation and insurance requirements

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Faculty and participants are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider regarding individual health needs and recommended vaccinations or medications before traveling.

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2. International Health Insurance

All participants must have valid international health and emergency coverage for the duration of the program.

Groups may choose to have insurance included as part of their Traveling Monkey program package, or participants may provide proof of their own qualifying coverage prior to departure. Coverage should include appropriate medical care and emergency assistance while traveling internationally.

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3. Emergency Medical Support

The Traveling Monkey maintains local emergency support throughout the program. If a participant becomes ill or is injured, our team will assist with accessing appropriate medical care and coordinating the response with faculty and program leaders.

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When necessary, we can assist with:

• Locating appropriate medical facilities

• Coordinating transportation to medical care

• Communicating with medical providers

• Contacting emergency assistance or insurance providers

• Supporting faculty and students during a medical emergency

• Coordinating additional logistical arrangements as needed

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Participants remain responsible for providing accurate medical and emergency information and following the guidance of their healthcare providers and insurance companies.

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4. 24/7 Emergency Support

A Traveling Monkey emergency contact is available throughout the program to assist with urgent situations. Faculty are provided with emergency contact information before arrival and have access to local support throughout their stay.

Our goal is to ensure that faculty are never left to manage a significant emergency alone.

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5. Transportation Safety

Transportation is coordinated through trusted, appropriately licensed local providers. We carefully consider road conditions, travel times, vehicle capacity, driver experience, and the nature of each itinerary when arranging group transportation.

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Participants are expected to follow all transportation safety requirements, including wearing seat belts whenever available and following instructions from drivers and program staff.

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6. Activity & Excursion Safety

Each activity included in a program is evaluated based on the nature of the experience, the location, the provider, and the needs of the group. We work with established local partners and communicate relevant safety requirements to participants in advance.

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Depending on the activity, participants may receive specific instructions regarding appropriate clothing, footwear, equipment, physical requirements, weather conditions, and other considerations.

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The Traveling Monkey reserves the right to modify or cancel an activity when weather, environmental conditions, operational concerns, or other circumstances create an unacceptable level of risk.

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7. Environmental & Natural Hazards

Costa Rica's diverse environment—including mountains, rainforests, rivers, beaches, and volcanic areas—can present unique conditions and hazards. Our itineraries take local weather, terrain, seasonal conditions, and activity-specific risks into consideration.

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Programs may be adjusted when necessary due to severe weather, flooding, road conditions, natural events, or other environmental concerns.

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8. Participant Responsibilities

Health and safety is a shared responsibility. Participants are expected to:

• Follow instructions from faculty, Traveling Monkey staff, guides, and activity providers

• Respect local laws, customs, and safety requirements

• Use appropriate caution during free time and independent activities

• Inform faculty or Traveling Monkey staff of health or safety concerns

• Carry required medications and personal medical supplies

• Maintain valid insurance coverage

• Provide accurate emergency contact and relevant health information

• Follow all program rules and behavioral expectations

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Participants should never hesitate to report a concern. Early communication allows our team to respond more effectively.

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9. Student & Faculty Emergency Information

Before the program, we recommend that faculty and program administrators maintain an up-to-date list of participants, emergency contacts, and relevant information necessary to respond to an emergency.

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Any personal or medical information shared with The Traveling Monkey will be handled responsibly and used only as necessary to support participant safety and program operations.

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10. Communication During an Emergency

In the event of an emergency, The Traveling Monkey will work closely with faculty and program leaders to assess the situation, determine appropriate next steps, and coordinate local support.

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Depending on the circumstances, this may include communication with:

• Medical providers

• Emergency services

• Insurance or assistance providers

• Faculty and university administrators

• Families or emergency contacts, as appropriate

• Local authorities

• Program partners

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Our approach is to remain calm, communicate clearly, and prioritize the safety and well-being of participants.

11. Risk Management & Continuous Assessment

Safety planning does not end once the group arrives in Costa Rica. Our local team continuously monitors conditions throughout the program and remains in communication with faculty and service providers.

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If circumstances change, we may recommend modifying transportation, activities, schedules, or other aspects of the itinerary to maintain a safe and appropriate experience.

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Our Commitment

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Our goal is not simply to respond to emergencies—it is to prepare for them before they happen. Through careful planning, trusted local partnerships, appropriate insurance, experienced in-country support, and ongoing risk assessment, The Traveling Monkey works to provide faculty and universities with confidence and peace of mind throughout their Costa Rica program.