ToursByLocals
Private guided tours booked through local hosts
About
ToursByLocals is a tour marketplace based in Vancouver, British Columbia, with a website that connects travelers with private guides and local hosts in destinations including Costa Rica. The company’s office is located at 997 Seymour St #250 in downtown Vancouver, and bookings are handled through its website and phone line. For travelers planning time in Costa Rica, the platform is used to arrange guided experiences that are typically organized around local knowledge, flexible itineraries, and direct communication with a guide. Because ToursByLocals works as a directory and booking platform rather than a single tour type, the experiences available can vary by destination and guide. In Costa Rica, travelers may find private sightseeing, city walks, shore excursions, nature-focused outings, and customized day tours depending on the local provider listed through the platform. This setup is useful for people who want a more tailored pace, specific pickup arrangements, or a guide-led itinerary built around their interests. Practical details such as duration, inclusions, and meeting points are confirmed during booking through the individual tour listing or guide.
What to Expect
A typical booking through ToursByLocals begins with selecting a destination and reviewing available guide-led itineraries. In Costa Rica, the experience may include private pickup arrangements, a set meeting point, or a custom plan confirmed in advance with the guide. The exact route and activities depend on the listing, but travelers generally receive a more personal format than a large group tour. Expect practical communication before the tour so details such as timing, inclusions, and any location-specific arrangements are clear. Some tours may focus on city highlights or cultural sites, while others may be built around beaches, viewpoints, or nature areas. Since the platform connects travelers with individual local providers, the itinerary is usually defined by the guide and the traveler’s preferences at the time of booking.
Activities & Tours
Experience Level
Experience level depends on the specific tour and guide selected through the platform. Many listings are suitable for casual travelers who want a guided itinerary without needing special training, while some outings may involve walking, uneven ground, or longer travel times. Because tours are arranged privately, travelers can often choose options that match their pace, mobility, and interests. This format works well for couples, families, small groups, and independent travelers who prefer a structured day with local guidance.
Best Time to Visit
Timing depends on the specific Costa Rica destination and tour type rather than the platform itself. For the smoothest planning, book in advance and confirm tour logistics before arrival, especially during busy travel periods.
Traveler Tips
- Check the individual tour listing carefully, since inclusions, duration, and pickup details vary by guide.
- Confirm whether the tour is private, shared, or customizable before booking.
- Ask about walking distance, vehicle transport, and terrain if mobility is a concern.
- Use the website or phone number to clarify meeting points and timing in advance.
- If you are planning a shore excursion, verify port pickup and return timing.
Reviewed and listed by Travel With Glen.
- Reviewed & listed by Travel With Glen
Trust signals come from Travel With Glen’s own verification — our first-hand curation, not third-party ratings.
