Explore Costa Rica with Stetson Academy

Teacher-Leader: Sarah Stetson

Program Dates: June 29-July 9, 2026

Program Tuition: XXXX

Book Now: XXXX

Continue reading below for day-to-day activities!

Day by Day Itinerary

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 and Spanish influences. Gather with your group in the evening for a welcome dinner, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure.

Day 2: Exploring San Carlos

Leave San José behind as you travel to La Fortuna, a charming town near the iconic Arenal Volcano. Begin your day with an educational tour of Arenal Volcano National Park, learning about its geological significance and the surrounding rainforest ecosystem. Hike through lush trails to reach La Fortuna Waterfall, where the cascading water provides the perfect backdrop for group photos. End the day with a relaxing soak in natural hot springs, as you learn about the geothermal activity that makes this region unique.

Day 3 – School Visit & Rio Frio Safari Float

Spend the morning visiting a local school—play soccer, collaborate on art projects, and learn a traditional dance. Later, take a scenic cruise on the Rio Frio, leading to the renowned Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge. Spend the afternoon spotting an array of wildlife, including howler monkeys, caimans, green iguanas, and colorful migratory birds such as roseate spoonbills and cormorants. It’s a hands-on biology lesson in one of Costa Rica’s most biodiverse regions.

Day 4 – Travel to Monteverde: Horseback Riding & Cooking Class

This morning travel into the misty heights of Monteverde. This afternoon, go horseback riding through cloud forest trails, soaking in views of farm valleys and distant peaks. End the day with an interactive cooking class, where you’ll prepare and savor a traditional Costa Rican meal, learning about the ingredients and traditions behind the cuisine.

Day 5 – Cloud Forest & Ziplining

Dive into the wonders of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you’ll encounter unique plant and animal species like the resplendent quetzal, jaguars, and tapirs. In the afternoon, experience the thrill of the Monteverde Canopy Tour as you zip line through the treetops, taking in breathtaking views of the lush forest below, then walk along a series of large hanging bridges—150 to 500 feet long and elevated up to 180 feet—offering a bird’s-eye view through the high forest canopy!

Day 6 – Transfer to Manuel Antonio & Beach Team-Building

Travel to the Pacific coast and arrive in Manuel Antonio. Once settled, join your group for team-building activities and beach games on the sand—mixing exercise, teamwork, and friendly competition.

Day 7 – Manuel Antonio National Park & Catamaran Tour

Today, explore Manuel Antonio National Park, where rainforest meets the shore. Keep an eye out for sloths, monkeys, and vibrant wildlife. In the afternoon, board a catamaran cruise to snorkel, spot dolphins or sea turtles and take in the ocean breeze.

Day 8 – Drive to Uvita & Whale’s Tail

Journey deeper down the coast to Uvita. Visit Marino Ballena National Park and walk the Whale’s Tail, a sandbar shaped like a whale’s tail that emerges at low tide—an ideal spot to observe tide pools and marine life.

Day 9 – Boat Trip and Snorkeling at Caño Island

Take a full-day boat trip to Caño Island, a protected marine reserve with crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling. Expect to see reef fish, sea turtles, and coral ecosystems! Later, travel back to Uvita for the evening!

Day 10 – Return to San José

Begin your journey back to San José, with a stop at the famous Crocodile Bridge in Tarcoles. Here, observe the massive crocodiles that inhabit the river and learn about their behavior and habitats. In the evening, join your group for a farewell dinner to celebrate the friendships and memories you’ve made throughout this incredible experience.

Day 11 – Departure Day

It’s time to say goodbye to Costa Rica. Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the USA, bringing home unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the culture and nature of this beautiful country.

What’s Included:

 
  • Roundtrip Airfare

  • Accommodations (2 nights in San Jose, 2 nights in San Carlos, 2 nights in Monteverde, 2 nights in Manuel Antonio, and 2 Nights in Uvita.

  • Stetson Academy Teacher Leaders

  • Full Time Local Program Director

  • Transportation to Included Activities

  • Breakfast and Dinner Daily

  • All Attractions and Activities

  • Guided Sightseeing by Local Expert Guides

  • All Tips and Gratuities

  • 24-Hour Support

  • All Taxes and Fees

  • Global Citizen Certificate

  • Pre-Travel Preparation Meetings and Seminars

Questions?