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Which airport do I need to fly into? Plus airport code
Fly into and out of Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport (SJU) in San Juan.
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What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?
Before 4 pm ideally. The welcome meeting will be from 5 pm onwards starting at the hotel, which is located approximately 15-20 minutes away from the airport.
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What time should my flight depart on the last day?
There are no activities planned for the last day, so leave any time you wish. The airport is 15-20 minutes away from your final hotel. Your Pack Leader can help you book your transfers the night before if needed.
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Are airport transfers included?
If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you’ve booked yourself a pre-night at the same hotel the adventure starts from, your airport arrival transfer will be included. Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and in groups depending on flight times, so you may have to wait in the airport for a short while.
However, if you’ve booked alternative pre-trip accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.
Please also note: in order to secure your place on the private transfer, you’ll need to provide your flight details to our Customer Experience team no later than 30 days prior to your adventure’s departure date. You’ll get automated email reminders about this, but the team won’t be chasing you. That’s why it’s key to get this information over in good time. If the details are provided later than 30 days pre-departure, you’ll have to arrange your own arrival transfer.
Departure transfers are typically not included due to travellers leaving at varying times. That said, your Pack Leader will happily help arrange departure transfers for you if required.
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Do I need a visa?
Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.
You can also find essential travel advice – including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:
Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.
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What vaccinations and medication will I need?
While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalised medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
1. Consult with a healthcare professional
We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.
2. Up-to-date medical advice
3. Government travel advice
4. Medication tips
If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.
We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.
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What level of fitness do I need for this trip?
This is a relaxed itinerary that should be fine for most levels of fitness. The kayaking on Mosquito Bay is gentle and no previous experience is needed, but please note there is a weight limit of 250 kg per two-person kayak.
We recommend having a read-through of the itinerary above and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness.
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Am I guaranteed to see bioluminescence?
While bio bays worldwide are seasonal, the bioluminescence in Puerto Rico is year-round and it’s one of the most reliable places in the world to see this natural phenomenon. Mosquito Bay is considered the brightest bio bay due to the high quantities of microscopic single-celled organisms that light up bright blue when agitated.
When it comes to experiencing bioluminescence, the less light the better. However, even on a full moon the water will still glow, but you may need to use a tarpaulin over your kayak to block out the moonlight. Using glass-bottomed kayaks give the best chance to see the water light up all around you.
As with anything in nature, nothing is 100% guaranteed.
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Do I need to have kayaked before?
No previous experience of kayaking is necessary. You will be in stable two-person kayaks in a sheltered bay and you don’t have to paddle too far to experience the bioluminescence.
Be aware that, as per the name, there can be mosquitos in Mosquito Bay so you may want to apply insect repellent before setting out.
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What is the island of Vieques like?
Vieques is a rustic, largely undeveloped island with a slow pace of life. You won’t find the glitzy nightlife of San Juan here but it’s ideal for a tranquil Caribbean break. The beaches vary from palm-shaded white sand to sparkling black sand and you might even see wild horses on the beach.
The island is home to around 10,000 residents and you should find everything you need in the towns of Esperanza on the south side and Isabel II on the north.
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Why is this trip more expensive than other short stay trips?
Many travellers are surprised to discover that the cost of living in Puerto Rico is comparable to – or slightly more expensive than – the US. As an island, many products are imported, plus there is an 11.5% tax rate on all goods and services. Add to this a lack of reliable public transport and all-inclusive hotels, and prices can be relatively high.
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How much should I budget per day for extras?
We recommend budgeting around 75-100 USD per day for extras such as meals and drinks. A simple plate of rice and beans can cost 20-25 USD.
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Will this itinerary change?
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Please be aware that the itinerary, activities, and hotels are subject to change. These changes are rare but can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting which we will always try and communicate to you.
