Day by Day Itinerary

San José • San Carlos • Monteverde • Puntarenas • Manuel Antonio

March 6: Welcome to Costa Rica!

Your Costa Rican adventure begins with your flight from Boston to San José! Upon arrival, meet your local Program Director, who will welcome you to Costa Rica and accompany you to your hotel. Settle in, enjoy a welcome dinner, and get to know your fellow travelers as you prepare for the exciting week ahead. Get a good night's rest—tomorrow, your Costa Rican adventure begins!

March 7: Whitewater Rafting & Hot Springs | San Carlos

After breakfast, depart San José and travel toward the lush landscapes of San Carlos. Along the way, get ready for an exciting whitewater rafting adventure! Paddle through tropical scenery as experienced guides lead you down the river. Afterward, continue to your hotel and settle into your new surroundings. This evening, unwind in natural volcanic hot springs, surrounded by the beauty of Costa Rica's rainforest.

March 8: Cultural Exchange & Rainforest Exploration | Monteverde

Today, travel to the beautiful cloud forests of Monteverde, known for their incredible biodiversity and cooler mountain climate. Begin with a visit to a local school, where you'll meet Costa Rican students and participate in a cultural exchange. Connect through music, dancing, soccer, and conversations while learning about daily life and education in Costa Rica.

Later, experience the rainforest from above on a guided hanging bridges tour, offering incredible views of the forest canopy and opportunities to spot local wildlife. Tonight, roll up your sleeves for a hands-on Costa Rican cooking class, preparing traditional dishes and learning about local ingredients and culinary traditions.

March 9: Horseback Riding & Ziplining | Monteverde

Get ready for a full day of adventure in Monteverde! Start with a guided horseback riding excursion through the region's scenic countryside, taking in views of rolling hills, lush forests, and beautiful landscapes.

Later, take your adventure to new heights with an exciting zipline experience through the cloud forest canopy. Soar above the treetops and experience Monteverde's incredible natural surroundings from a completely different perspective. Enjoy the evening relaxing and reflecting on the day's adventures.

March 10: Sustainable Coffee & Pacific Coast | Puntarenas

After breakfast, depart Monteverde and begin your journey toward Costa Rica's Pacific coast. Along the way, visit a sustainable coffee farm to learn how one of Costa Rica's most important agricultural products is grown, harvested, and produced. Discover the farm's environmentally responsible practices and the role coffee plays in the country's economy and culture.

Continue to the Puntarenas region, where you'll settle into your accommodations and enjoy the warm tropical atmosphere of Costa Rica's Pacific coast.

March 11: Manuel Antonio National Park & Catamaran Cruise

Today, explore one of Costa Rica's most famous natural treasures, Manuel Antonio National Park! Join a guided nature walk through tropical rainforest trails, keeping your eyes open for monkeys, sloths, colorful birds, and other incredible wildlife. Learn about Costa Rica's biodiversity and conservation efforts while exploring this unique ecosystem where the rainforest meets the Pacific Ocean.

After your guided walk, enjoy time relaxing and swimming at one of the area's beautiful beaches. Then, take to the water for an exciting catamaran cruise along Costa Rica's stunning Pacific coastline! Soak in the spectacular coastal views while keeping an eye out for dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life that call these tropical waters home. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the warm Pacific waters before heading back to shore. It's the perfect day of wildlife, adventure, and fun in the sun!

March 12: Explore San José & Farewell Dinner

After breakfast, begin your scenic journey back to San José, taking in Costa Rica's beautiful landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, explore the capital city and visit its bustling local markets, where vendors sell fresh tropical fruits, vegetables, local specialties, and everyday goods. Experience a slice of daily Costa Rican life as you wander through the markets, sample fresh tropical fruits, and enjoy a traditional empanada. You'll also have time to browse local shops and pick up a few souvenirs to bring home.

Later, settle into your hotel and enjoy some time to relax before gathering for a farewell dinner. Celebrate the friendships, cultural connections, and adventures you've shared throughout the week in Costa Rica!

March 13: Hasta Luego, Costa Rica!

Enjoy breakfast before transferring to San José International Airport for your return flight to Boston. Head home with new friendships, greater confidence, and a deeper appreciation for Costa Rica's culture, people, and natural beauty. ¡Pura Vida!