Day by Day Itinerary

9-Day Teen Travel Program: San José (2), San Carlos (2), Monteverde (2), and Manuel Antonio (2)

Day 1: Flight to Costa Rica

Your journey to Costa Rica begins! Board your flight to San José, the vibrant capital of Costa Rica. Upon arrival, meet your local Travel Director and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, get to know the city on an orientation walk, discovering its rich colonial history, colorful neighborhoods, and lively atmosphere. Gather with your group in the evening for a welcome dinner as you prepare for an unforgettable adventure ahead.

Day 2: Cultural Experiences & Journey to San Carlos

This morning, visit Sarchí, a colorful artisan town famous for its traditional Costa Rican crafts, painted oxcarts, and local artwork. Participate in an interactive art class where you’ll learn techniques inspired by Costa Rica’s vibrant artistic traditions while creating your own piece to bring home.

Later, visit a local orphanage to spend time with children through games, arts-and-crafts, and cultural exchange activities, creating meaningful connections with the local community. Continue north through Costa Rica’s beautiful countryside to the San Carlos region, surrounded by rainforest landscapes and views of Arenal Volcano.

Day 3: Waterfalls, Wildlife & Hot Springs

Start the day with a visit to the breathtaking La Fortuna Waterfall, where a dramatic 230-foot cascade plunges into a crystal-clear pool surrounded by lush tropical rainforest. Hike down through the jungle to the base of the waterfall, taking in the incredible scenery and sounds of the rainforest along the way. Students will also have the opportunity to swim in the refreshing natural waters beneath the waterfall — an unforgettable experience surrounded by Costa Rica’s stunning natural beauty.

Later, board a boat for a scenic Rio Frio boat tour through one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions. Keep an eye out for monkeys, sloths, caimans, iguanas, toucans, and countless tropical birds while learning about the local ecosystem from your expert guide.

In the evening, relax in Costa Rica’s famous natural hot springs, heated by geothermal activity from nearby Arenal Volcano. Surrounded by lush rainforest, this is the perfect way to unwind after an exciting day of adventure.

Day 4: School Visit & Monteverde Cloud Forest

This morning, visit a local Costa Rican school for a meaningful cultural exchange with local students. Spend time learning about Costa Rican education and daily life while participating in activities, games, and conversations with students your age.

Afterward, continue to Monteverde, home to one of the world’s most famous cloud forests. Along the way, stop at an organic farm for an interactive cooking class where you’ll work with fresh local ingredients to prepare traditional Costa Rican dishes while learning about sustainable farming practices and local cuisine.

Day 5: Horseback Riding & Zip Line Adventure

Begin the day with a horseback riding excursion through Monteverde’s beautiful mountain landscapes, forests, and rolling hills. Along the way, learn about local agriculture, wildlife, and rural Costa Rican life.

In the afternoon, experience the thrill of zip lining through the Monteverde cloud forest canopy. Soar high above the treetops while taking in breathtaking views of one of the most unique ecosystems in the world.

Day 6: Journey to the Pacific Coast

Depart Monteverde and travel toward Costa Rica’s stunning Pacific coastline. Along the way, stop at the famous Tarcoles Crocodile Bridge, where you’ll safely observe massive crocodiles in their natural habitat while learning about Costa Rica’s ecosystems and wildlife conservation efforts.

Continue south, taking in views of tropical forests, mountains, and coastal scenery as you make your way to Manuel Antonio on the Pacific Coast. Settle into your hotel and enjoy time to relax, explore the beach area, and experience Costa Rica’s laid-back coastal atmosphere.

Day 7: Pacific Coast Catamaran Adventure

Spend the day aboard a catamaran cruise along Costa Rica’s spectacular Pacific coastline. Sail past secluded beaches, tropical islands, and dramatic coastal scenery while enjoying opportunities to swim, snorkel, and relax on deck. Keep watch for marine wildlife such as dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish as you experience one of the country’s most beautiful coastal regions from the water.

Day 8: Manuel Antonio National Park & Return to San José

Explore the incredible Manuel Antonio National Park, known for its pristine beaches, rainforest trails, and abundant wildlife. Hike through lush tropical forest while spotting monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and exotic birds alongside expert local guides. Spend time enjoying the park’s beautiful beaches before departing for San José.

This evening, gather with your group for a special farewell dinner as you celebrate the memories, friendships, and experiences from your Costa Rican adventure.

Day 9: Departure Day

It’s time to say goodbye to Costa Rica. Transfer to the airport for your return flight home, bringing back unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for Costa Rica’s culture, wildlife, and natural beauty.