Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Costa Rica

Fly into San José, Costa Rica’s vibrant capital, and meet your local Program Director upon arrival. After transferring to your hotel, head out on an introductory walking tour through the city’s historic neighborhoods. Explore lively streets, discover colonial architecture, and gain insight into Costa Rica’s culture, education system, and commitment to sustainability.

In the evening, gather for a welcome dinner to connect with your Program Director and preview the exciting days ahead.

Day 2: Arenal Volcano, Waterfall & Hot Springs

Depart San José and travel north to the breathtaking region of La Fortuna, home to the iconic Arenal Volcano.

Begin your day with a visit to La Fortuna Waterfall, where a short hike leads through lush rainforest to a dramatic cascade. Continue with a guided exploration of the Arenal region, learning about the volcano’s history, geothermal activity, and the surrounding ecosystem.

After a full day of adventure, unwind in natural volcanic hot springs, relaxing in warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by tropical forest—a highlight of the Costa Rican experience.

Day 3: Canopy Adventure, Ropes Course & Cooking Class

Begin with an exhilarating zip-line canopy tour, soaring through the treetops and taking in panoramic views of the rainforest and surrounding landscape. This experience offers a unique perspective on the ecosystem while highlighting Costa Rica’s leadership in sustainable tourism.

Continue with a high ropes course, where you’ll challenge yourself on suspended bridges, climbing elements, and obstacle courses set high above the forest floor. This activity emphasizes teamwork, confidence, and problem-solving in a fun and supportive environment.

In the evening, take part in a hands-on Costa Rican cooking class. Learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, local ingredients, and enjoy the meal you’ve created together—an engaging way to connect with the country’s culture and cuisine.

Day 4: Culture, Community & Return to San José via Sarchí

Spend the morning in the San Carlos region with a meaningful visit to a local school. Engage with students through games, conversation, and shared activities, gaining insight into daily life, education, and community in Costa Rica.

Afterward, begin your journey back to San José.

Stop in the artisan town of Sarchí, known for its colorful hand-painted crafts and traditional oxcarts—an important symbol of Costa Rican heritage. Take time to explore local markets and shops, browsing handcrafted goods and supporting local artisans.

Continue to San José, arriving in the evening. Gather for a farewell dinner, celebrating your experiences and the connections made throughout the journey.

Day 5: Departure Day

This morning, transfer to the airport for your return flight home. Depart with lasting memories of Costa Rica’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and the meaningful experiences shared along the way.