FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Booking & Payment

  • Click the "Book Now" button on any retreat page. You'll be taken to our secure booking system where you can complete your reservation. Click on the Shopping Cart Icon to checkout once you’ve added a Retreat.

    If you are booking for more than 1 person, I will send you an email for the details of your entire party after booking.

    • $500 deposit required at time of booking to secure your spot

    • Final payment due 90 days before the retreat departure date

    • If you join a tour within 90 days of departure, payment is due immediately.

    • We accept major credit cards and bank transfers

  • Please review our cancellation policy:

    • 90+ days before departure: Full refund minus $250 administrative fee

    • 60-89 days before departure: 50% refund

    • Less than 60 days before departure: No refund

    If we are not able to fill the minimum participants by 90 days prior to departure, the tour will be cancelled and your deposit is fully refundable.

    Notice of cancellation must be received in writing.

  • While not required, we highly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and evacuation. We are not responsible for costs incurred due to cancellations, delays, or medical issues.

  • If a retreat doesn't reach the minimum participants, we'll notify you as soon as possible (typically 90 days before departure) and issue a full refund immediately.

Travel & Logistics

  • No, flights are not included. You're responsible for booking your own airfare to and from the designated airport for each retreat.

  • Each retreat page clearly states the meeting airport, arrival time, and departure time. For example, the Costa Rica retreat meets at San José (SJO) airport.

  • Each tour will specify if Airport pickup is included or not.

  • Please notify Rick immediately if you experience travel delays. We'll do our best to accommodate late arrivals, but we cannot guarantee you won't miss Day 1 activities.

  • Absolutely! Many guests extend their trip before or after the retreat. We're happy to provide recommendations for additional destinations, but extended accommodations and activities are your responsibility to arrange.

  • Visa requirements vary by nationality and destination. You are responsible for researching and obtaining any necessary visas, passports, and travel documents. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date.

Who Can Join?

  • Participants must be at least 14 years old. Minors (14-17) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

  • Absolutely not! If you're physically able to participate in the activities described (see each retreat's difficulty level), you're welcome regardless of age.

  • Not at all! We welcome everyone from absolute beginners to seasoned birders. Rick tailors the experience to meet the group where they are.

  • Yes! Many of our guests travel solo. It’s your choice if you’d like to be paired with another solo traveler for room sharing, or you can pay the single supplement for your own room.

  • Please contact us directly to discuss specific accessibility needs. While some trails involve uneven terrain and stairs, we want to work with you to determine if a particular retreat is a good fit.

Health & Safety

  • Vaccination requirements vary by destination. Please consult your doctor or a travel health clinic well in advance of your trip. Check the CDC or WHO websites for current recommendations.

  • Yes! Bring all prescription medications in their original containers, plus a basic personal first aid kit. We recommend carrying medications in your carry-on luggage, not checked bags.

  • Most standard travel insurance includes some medical coverage, but verify this with your provider. Consider coverage that includes emergency evacuation if traveling to remote areas.

  • We follow local health guidelines for each destination. Requirements may change, so we'll provide current policies closer to your departure date.

  • Rick carries a comprehensive first aid kit and has emergency protocols in place. In case of serious illness or injury, we'll arrange appropriate medical care. All medical expenses are the responsibility of the participant (covered by your travel insurance).

  • This varies by destination. Rick will provide specific guidance for each location. We always have bottled or filtered water available.

During the Retreat

  • Rick travels with satellite Wi-Fi, so we aim to stay connected as much as possible even in remote locations. However, we encourage embracing some digital detox! Cell service varies by destination and may be limited or unavailable in remote areas.

  • We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and common food allergies. Please notify us of any dietary restrictions or allergies at time of booking so we can communicate with accommodations and restaurants in advance.

  • These are retreats, not races! If you need to rest, take things slower, or skip an activity, that's completely fine. We build flexibility into every day.

  • Absolutely! Free time is yours to use however you wish—rest, explore, read, photograph, or socialize. We're here to support your ideal retreat experience.

  • Birding is an all-weather activity! Rain often brings out different species and behaviors. We'll adjust plans as needed for safety, but unless there's a national emergency or severe weather warning, the retreat continues. Pack appropriate rain gear and embrace the adventure.

  • Most activities are group-based, but there's flexibility. If you need a different pace or take extra rest time, just communicate with Rick.

Photography & Social Media

  • Yes! We encourage bird photography and capturing memories. Rick is happy to provide tips and help you get great shots.

  • Yes, Rick uses photos and videos from retreats for promotional purposes on social media, the website, and marketing materials. Your participation implies consent unless you opt out.

  • Absolutely. Just let Rick know at the beginning of the retreat, and we'll make sure you're not included in shared content.

  • Of course! We'd love for you to share your experience. Tag us on Instagram @Birding_With_Rick so we can see your adventures!

  • Group photos and candid shots may include other participants. If you prefer not to be in group photos, please let Rick know.

What to Expect

  • Typically: early morning birding (3-4 hours), late morning breakfast, midday rest/free time, afternoon nature or cultural activity, evening relaxation and dinner. Schedules are flexible and adjusted to the group's energy and interests.

  • This varies by retreat and is specified on each retreat page (Easy, Moderate, or Challenging). Generally, expect 2-4 miles of walking per day on uneven terrain.

  • Rick will teach you! Binocular basics are covered on Day 1, and you'll get better throughout the retreat.

  • This varies by destination, season, and luck! Some locations offer 200+ species, others focus on quality over quantity. Rick prioritizes meaningful encounters over checklists.

  • Rick will make every reasonable effort to help you see target species, but nature is unpredictable. That's part of the magic! Sometimes the bird you didn't expect becomes your new favorite.

Gear & Packing

  • Yes, bring your own binoculars. 8x42 or 10x42 are ideal for birding. If you don't have binoculars, try borrowing from a friend or relative. If you’re still coming up short, let Rick know and he can bring one for you to borrow.

  • Not necessary unless you already own one and want to bring it. Rick always brings a scope for the group to share.

  • Optional. Rick has field guides and references available, but many birders enjoy having their own. Digital apps like Merlin Bird ID are also excellent (and free!).

  • Once you book a birding tour, you’ll receive a "What to Bring" email for destination-specific packing lists. Generally: layers, moisture-wicking fabrics, rain gear, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection.

  • We recommend a manageable-sized bag since you may need to carry it on uneven terrain or stairs. Pack smart, not heavy!

After the Retreat

  • Yes! Rick compiles a trip report with the complete bird list (species seen by the group) and shares it with all participants after the retreat.

  • Absolutely! Many lasting friendships form on these retreats. We facilitate contact sharing for those who wish to stay connected.

  • Rick shares select photos on Instagram and the website. Group photos may also be shared privately with participants.

  • We're building a community of Birding With Rick alumni! Follow us on social media and join our newsletter to stay connected with fellow birders.

Still Have Questions?

If your question isn't answered here, we'd love to hear from you!

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