Day by Day Itinerary

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

Day 1 – Arrival in Costa Rica & Rincón de la Vieja

Board your flight to Liberia, gateway to Costa Rica’s stunning Pacific region. Upon arrival, meet your local Program Director and begin your journey into the lush landscapes of Guanacaste.

This afternoon, head into Rincón de la Vieja National Park for a guided hike through one of the country’s most unique volcanic ecosystems. Along the trails, students will discover bubbling mud pots, volcanic steam vents, tropical dry forest, and an incredible variety of wildlife and plant species found only in this region. Your guides will introduce students to Costa Rica’s commitment to conservation and biodiversity while exploring the natural forces that continue shaping the landscape today.

This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your group as you settle into Costa Rica and prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Day 2 – Waterfalls, Horseback Riding & Hot Springs

Begin the morning with a scenic horseback ride through the forests and countryside surrounding Rincón de la Vieja. Along the way, take in sweeping views of the tropical landscape before arriving at the stunning Oropendola Waterfall, where bright turquoise water flows into a canyon carved by the Blanco River. Students will have the opportunity to swim, relax, and experience one of Costa Rica’s hidden natural gems.

In the afternoon, unwind in naturally heated volcanic hot springs fed by the geothermal activity of nearby Rincón de la Vieja Volcano. Surrounded by tropical forest, students will learn about the volcanic systems that create these mineral-rich waters while enjoying one of Costa Rica’s most relaxing traditions.

Day 3 – Whitewater Rafting & Zipline Adventure

Today is all about adventure, teamwork, and exploring Costa Rica’s incredible natural environment.

This morning, embark on an exciting whitewater rafting excursion through tropical river landscapes surrounded by rainforest scenery. As students navigate rapids together, they’ll build teamwork and communication skills while keeping an eye out for wildlife along the riverbanks, including monkeys, tropical birds, and iguanas.

In the afternoon, continue the adventure high above the forest floor during a thrilling zipline canopy tour. Soaring through the treetops, students will experience Costa Rica’s rainforest from an entirely different perspective while learning about the ecosystems that make the country one of the most biodiverse places on Earth.

Day 4 – Journey to San Carlos & Cultural Exchange

Depart Guanacaste this morning and travel toward the lush northern plains of San Carlos, home to rainforests, farms, and the iconic Arenal Volcano.

Along the way, visit a local Costa Rican school for a meaningful cultural exchange experience. Students will have the opportunity to meet local students, participate in games and activities, practice language skills, and gain insight into everyday life and education in Costa Rica. These interactions often become one of the most memorable and meaningful parts of the program.

Later, arrive in the Arenal region and visit La Fortuna Waterfall, where water cascades nearly 250 feet into a tropical canyon surrounded by lush rainforest scenery.

This evening, head to a local organic farm for a hands-on cooking experience. Students will learn traditional Costa Rican cooking techniques while preparing local dishes using fresh ingredients grown on-site. Together, the group will enjoy the meal they helped create while learning about sustainability, agriculture, and Costa Rican food culture.

Day 5 – Wildlife Exploration & Community Service

Begin the day with a boat safari along the Rio Frio through the famous Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, one of the country’s most important wetlands and wildlife habitats. As you cruise through winding waterways surrounded by tropical vegetation, students will search for caimans, monkeys, sloths, iguanas, turtles, and countless bird species including herons, roseate spoonbills, and cormorants.

In the afternoon, participate in a meaningful community service experience at a local orphanage or community organization. Students will spend time connecting with local children through games, activities, conversation, and cultural exchange while learning about the importance of community support and global citizenship.

This experience offers students the opportunity to build connections, practice empathy, and gain a deeper understanding of life in Costa Rica beyond the tourist experience.

Day 6 – Arenal Volcano Hike & Sarchí

This morning, begin the day with a hike through the trails surrounding Arenal Volcano, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic natural landmarks. As students walk through lava fields and tropical forest landscapes shaped by past eruptions, they’ll learn about volcanic activity, ecosystems, and biodiversity while taking in incredible views of the volcano and surrounding countryside.

After the hike, depart the Arenal region and begin the journey toward Costa Rica’s capital, traveling through scenic mountain landscapes, farms, and small villages along the way.

Stop in the artisan town of Sarchí, known throughout the country for its beautifully hand-painted oxcarts and traditional crafts. Students will meet local artisans, learn about the history and symbolism behind Costa Rica’s famous oxcarts, and explore colorful markets filled with handmade souvenirs, woodwork, coffee, and local products.

Continue on to San José for your final evening in Costa Rica and your first glimpse into the energy and culture of the country’s capital city.

Day 7 – Exploring San José & Departure

Today, explore the vibrant culture and daily life of San José during a guided sightseeing tour through the historic center of the city. Along the way, students will learn about Costa Rica’s history, government, and culture while visiting important landmarks such as the National Theatre, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and lively public plazas filled with local life and street performers.

Continue to one of the city’s bustling local markets, where students can sample tropical fruits, browse artisan goods, and experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of everyday Costa Rican culture. There will also be time for last-minute souvenir shopping and exploring local shops and cafés.

This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner together as a group while reflecting on the friendships, experiences, and memories created throughout the journey.

Later tonight, transfer to the airport for your overnight flight home, bringing an unforgettable Costa Rica adventure to a close.

Day 8 – Arrival Home

Arrive back in the United States with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for Costa Rica’s people, culture, wildlife, and commitment to sustainability.