Day-by-Day Details

Day 1 - Flight to Costa Rica

Board your flight to San José, the capital of Costa Rica. Upon arrival, meet your local Travel Director and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon, embark on an orientation walk with your Travel Director, delving into San José’s colonial history and Spanish influences. Tonight, connect with your fellow travelers at a welcome dinner.

Day 2 - San Carlos

Depart San José in the morning and drive to the town of La Fortuna. Visit Arenal Volcano National Park for an educational tour that provides a closer look at the active volcano and its geological significance. Explore the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, which cascades nearly 250 feet. Later, relax in natural hot springs, learning about the geothermal activity that heats these waters.

Day 3 - San Carlos

Travel north this morning, passing through plantations of sugar cane, teak, pineapple, and oranges. Cruise by boat on the Rio Frio to the renowned Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. Here, study the diverse migratory birds unique to this region, such as black turtles, whistling ducks, roseate spoonbills, cormorants, and more. Observe local wildlife, including caimans, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, green iguanas, and basilisk lizards.

Day 4 - Monteverde

Begin your day with a horseback ride through the picturesque countryside, gaining insight into the local ecosystem and agricultural practices. In the afternoon, visit a local school to interact with students, learning about the educational system and daily life for teens in Costa Rica. Participate in organized activities such as soccer, arts and crafts, and dancing, fostering cultural exchange.

Day 5 - Monteverde

Explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest, home to over 400 species of birds and 100 species of animals, including jaguars, ocelots, tapirs, and the elusive quetzal. In the afternoon, experience the forest from above on the Monteverde Canopy Tour’s zip line course. Later, participate in an interactive cooking class to learn how to prepare a traditional Costa Rican dinner, understanding local culinary traditions and ingredients.

Day 6 - Manuel Antonio

Visit an orphanage in the morning to spend time with the children, teaching them English and engaging in play. Consider bringing school supplies to donate. Later, travel to Manuel Antonio on the Pacific Coastline, immersing yourself in the local culture and enjoying the beach.

Day 7 - Manuel Antonio

Spend the day exploring Manuel Antonio National Park. Study the small beaches, lush forests, and hiking trails, observing the biodiversity, including Capuchin monkeys that frequent the trees near the beach. This day offers hands-on learning about coastal ecosystems and conservation efforts.

Day 8 - San José

Depart Manuel Antonio for San José in the morning. Stop at the Crocodile Bridge in Tarcoles to observe the large crocodiles that inhabit the area, learning about their behavior and habitat. Tonight, join your farewell dinner!

Day 9 - Return Home

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA.