Day by Day Itinerary

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 – Sarchí

This morning, we’ll depart San Carlos and begin our journey toward Costa Rica’s capital, traveling through lush countryside and scenic mountain landscapes along the way. Our first stop is the artisan town of Sarchí, known for its beautifully hand-painted oxcarts—one of Costa Rica’s most iconic cultural symbols. Here, we’ll meet local craftsmen, learn about the tradition and craftsmanship behind these intricate designs, and explore the vibrant marketplace filled with colorful souvenirs and handmade goods. After time to browse and take in the local culture, we’ll continue on to San José. Upon arrival, we’ll settle in and get your first glimpse of the energy and culture of Costa Rica’s largest city.

Day 7 – San José and Departure Day

This morning, we’ll explore Costa Rica’s vibrant capital city with a guided walking tour of San José. As we stroll through the historic center, we’ll learn about the country’s colonial past and visit landmarks like the beautiful National Theatre, the iconic Metropolitan Cathedral, and nearby plazas filled with local life. We’ll stop by a bustling local market, where students can sample fresh tropical fruits and experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of everyday Costa Rican culture. We’ll also have time to shop for last-minute souvenirs and gifts. After a final group dinner together, we’ll head to the airport for our overnight flight home, bringing an unforgettable Costa Rica adventure to a close!

Day 8 - Arrival Day

Arrive back in the USA!