Costa Rica - Rincón de la Vieja, San Carlos and San Jose

Program Dates: Summer 2026

Scroll below to read day-by-day itinerary!

Day by Day Itinerary

7-Day Teen Travel Program: Rincón de la Vieja (3), San Carlos (2), San Jose (1)

Day 1 – Arrival in Costa Rica

Board your flight to Liberia, Costa Rica, on the stunning west coast. Upon arrival, meet your local Program Director and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon, explore Rincón de la Vieja National Park on a guided hike. Discover rare ecosystems and look out for endangered plants and animals unique to this region. In the evening, join your group for a welcome dinner as you prepare for the exciting days ahead!

Day 2 – Rincón de la Vieja

Start your morning with a scenic horseback ride to the Oropendola Waterfall. Marvel at the stunning blue pool nestled in the canyon of the Blanco River—a true tropical oasis. In the afternoon, unwind at the volcanic hot springs, naturally heated by the nearby Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, the largest and most active volcano in Guanacaste.

Day 3 – Rincón de la Vieja

Today is all about adventure and teamwork! Begin the day with an exhilarating river rafting excursion. Along the way, enjoy quiet pools for swimming and take in the lush tropical scenery along the riverbanks. In the afternoon, experience the thrill of a zip line course as you soar through the forest canopy, gaining a new perspective of the jungle.

Day 4 – Journey to San Carlos

Travel to San Carlos this morning, with a special stop to visit a local school. Spend the afternoon connecting with Costa Rican students, learning about their daily lives, and sharing your own experiences. Later, visit Arenal Volcano National Park for breathtaking views of the active volcano and the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, which cascades nearly 250 feet. In the evening, visit an organic farm to learn traditional Costa Rican cooking techniques and prepare your own delicious dinner.

Day 5 – San Carlos Wildlife and Community Service

Embark on a boat ride along the Rio Frio to the world-renowned Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. Keep an eye out for a diverse array of wildlife, including caimans, howler monkeys, iguanas, and colorful bird species like roseate spoonbills and cormorants. In the afternoon, visit a local orphanage, where you’ll spend time teaching English, playing games, and connecting with the children. Bring along school supplies or small toys to donate and brighten their day.

Day 6 – San José and Sarchí

This morning, head to the artisan town of Sarchí, famous for its colorful, hand-painted oxcarts. Meet local craftsmen, explore the vibrant marketplace, and shop for unique souvenirs. Later, continue to Costa Rica’s capital, San José, for a festive farewell dinner and your final overnight stay.

Day 7 – Departure Day

Say goodbye to Costa Rica as you depart from San José. Board your flight home, bringing with you incredible memories of adventure, service, and connection in this beautiful country.

Join the Adventure!

Teens aged 13–18 can sign up for this program on their own or with friends. They’ll join a group of like-minded students from across the United States, led and chaperoned by experienced, passionate, and globally-minded U.S.-certified educators.

 

What’s Included:

  • Roundtrip Airfare

  • Accommodations

  • Teacher Leaders

  • Full Time Local Program Director

  • Transportation to Included Activities

  • Breakfast and Dinner Daily

  • All Attractions and Activities

  • Guided Sightseeing by Local Expert Guides

  • All Tips and Gratuities

  • 24-Hour Support

  • All Taxes and Fees

  • Global Citizen Certificate

  • Pre-Travel Preparation Meetings and Seminars

Learn More!

We know choosing the right program is a big decision, and we’re here to help every step of the way. Whether you have questions about destinations, activities, or anything else, we’d love to connect with you!

Call or text us at 978-255-4601 or simply fill out the form below.

Don’t wait—start your teen’s adventure today!