Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in San José & Welcome Dinner

Included Meals: Dinner - Overnight: San José

Bienvenidos! Upon arrival in Costa Rica’s capital city, San José, you’ll be greeted by your Global Citizen Program Director who will be with you throughout your adventure. After settling into your hotel, head out for a relaxed walking tour of the city. Take in the local atmosphere, get a feel for the pace of life in Costa Rica, and see highlights like the National Theater and Central Market. This evening, enjoy your welcome dinner with the group—your first taste of Costa Rican cuisine—while getting to know your fellow travelers and hearing about the exciting days ahead.

Day 2: Sarchí, Arenal Volcano & La Fortuna Waterfall

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner - Overnight: Arenal Area

Today, leave the capital behind and journey into Costa Rica’s lush interior. Your first stop is Sarchí, a charming artisan town famous for its vibrantly painted oxcarts and traditional woodwork. Learn about this iconic cultural craft, meet local artists, and even paint your own mini wooden souvenir in classic Costa Rican style.

From there, continue to Arenal Volcano National Park, one of the country’s most stunning and active volcanic regions. Hike along forested trails while learning about the area’s unique geological history and diverse ecosystems. Later in the day, head to La Fortuna Waterfall, where a short hike brings you to a breathtaking cascade surrounded by tropical jungle. Cool off with a swim in the pool at the base of the falls before returning to town for a relaxing group dinner.

Day 3: Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge & Culinary Experience

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner - Overnight: Arenal Area

This morning, drive through the fertile northern plains of Costa Rica—passing fields of sugar cane, pineapples, bananas, and teak—on your way to Caño Negro, a pristine wildlife refuge near the Nicaraguan border. Board a boat cruise along the Río Frío, one of the country’s richest ecosystems, and search for exotic wildlife including monkeys, iguanas, caimans, and tropical birds like roseate spoonbills and toucans.

Back in the Arenal area, spend the evening immersed in Costa Rican culinary culture with a hands-on cooking class. Guided by local chefs, learn to prepare a traditional meal from fresh, local ingredients. Practice your Spanish in the kitchen and enjoy your homemade dinner with the group.

Day 4: Cultural Exchange & Hot Springs

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner - Overnight: Rincón de la Vieja Area

Start the day with an unforgettable cultural exchange at a local school, where you’ll meet Costa Rican students and connect through games, art activities, and friendly conversation. It’s a chance to practice Spanish in a meaningful setting and build cross-cultural understanding.

In the afternoon, unwind in one of Costa Rica’s natural treasures—the volcanic hot springs of Rincón de la Vieja. Surrounded by lush jungle and steaming mineral pools, you’ll soak in the warm, healing waters while taking in the sights and sounds of the rainforest. It’s the perfect way to relax, recharge, and reflect on the day’s experiences. Don’t forget to try the rejuvenating volcanic mud—it’s a local favorite!

Day 5: Rincón de la Vieja Adventure Day

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner - Overnight: Rincón de la Vieja Area

Start the morning with a scenic horseback ride through the lush landscapes surrounding Rincón de la Vieja. At Oropendola Waterfall, take a swim in the bright blue pools, and engage in a Spanish-guided discussion on the waterfall’s natural history and biodiversity. After lunch, experience the thrill of zip-lining through the forest canopy and learn about Costa Rica’s flora and fauna as you take in the incredible views from above. Then cool off with an exciting river tubing adventure—float your way down a jungle-lined river for the perfect mix of adrenaline and fun!

Day 7: Departure from Liberia

Included Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, pack up and say a heartfelt goodbye to Costa Rica. Your group will transfer to Liberia Airport for the flight home—returning with new perspectives, incredible memories, and stories to share.