Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 - Flight to Costa Rica

Board your flight to Liberia on the west coast of Costa Rica. Upon arrival, meet your local Program Director and transfer to your hotel. This afternoon, visit and learn about the local volcanic hot springs, which are naturally heated by the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, the largest and most active volcano in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Engage in a discussion about geothermal energy and volcanic activity. Tonight, join your welcome dinner and get to know your fellow students.

Day 2 - Rincón de la Vieja

Start the morning with a horseback ride to the Oropendola Waterfall. The falls cascade into a stunning blue pool in the canyon of the Blanco River, creating an incredible tropical oasis. Learn about the local flora and fauna during the ride. In the afternoon, hike in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, where rare ecosystems provide homes to endangered or rare plant and animal species. Discuss conservation efforts and the importance of biodiversity.

Day 3 - Rincón de la Vieja

Today focuses on team-building activities. Begin with river tubing, which includes opportunities to swim and appreciate the tropical scenery along the banks of the river. Discuss the river’s ecosystem and its role in the local environment. In the afternoon, experience the forest from a different perspective by zip lining through the canopy. Learn about the forest layers and the species that inhabit each layer.

Day 4 - San Carlos

Travel to San Carlos in the morning. Along the way, visit a local school and interact with Costa Rican students. Participate in activities to learn about each other’s cultures and daily lives. In the afternoon, visit Arenal Volcano National Park to study the active volcano and its impact on the surrounding environment. Also, visit La Fortuna Waterfall, which drops almost 250 feet. In the evening, visit an organic farm to learn about sustainable agriculture and participate in a cooking class to make a traditional Costa Rican dinner.

Day 5 - San Carlos

Take a boat ride on the Rio Frio to the Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, a haven for migratory birds. Study the diverse bird species and other wildlife such as caimans, howler monkeys, spider monkeys, green iguanas, and basilisk lizards. In the afternoon, visit an orphanage to spend time playing with and teaching English to the children. Discuss the social challenges and support systems for children in Costa Rica. Consider bringing school supplies or toys to donate.

Day 6 - San José

Visit Sarchi in the morning, an artisan town known for its colorful and vibrant oxcarts. Learn about the history and cultural significance of these handcrafted items. Meet local artisans and explore the colorful marketplace. In the afternoon, continue to San José for your farewell dinner. Reflect on your experiences and what you’ve learned about Costa Rica’s culture, environment, and people.

Day 7 - San José

Depart San José for your return flight home, enriched with new knowledge and experiences.