Exploring Costa Rica

Your overseas adventure has begun as you travel to San Jose, Costa Rica. As you descend, take a look out of your window to see expansive jungles and crystal clear waters. A local guide will be waiting to transfer you to your jungle lodge. 

The afternoon is yours to explore your environment, look for wildlife on a nature path, jump into the hotel infinity pool, or get a massage at the hotel spa. In the evening, you’ll meet with your guide for a traditional Costa Rican dinner, which is a great opportunity to get to know your guides and ask questions about your upcoming adventures!

Today you will explore the city of San Jose’s urban treasures while learning about its past and current politics. Stop at Costa Rica University to walk along its tree-lined paths, see jade and gold artifacts at the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, admire the country’s National Theatre, and visit the parliament. Similar to the United States, Costa Rica has a presidential, democratic, and multi-party political system in which legislative assemblies are elected for four-year terms. Ask questions to a professional on the subject of Costa Rica’s greatest political successes and challenges. As you get to know the nature and people of the country in the next week, keep in mind how the country politics could positively or negatively impact sustainability. 

Get ready for an adventure as you travel to Arenal Volcano National Park to hike around the base of the volcanic cone. The trail you will trek is called Mirador Arenal 1968 in remembrance of the last year the volcano had erupted. Indeed, this is one of the most active volcanoes known in the Western Hemisphere, so keep a look out for smoke puffing from its cone. As you hike, take in spectacular views of the surrounding jungles and valleys. Next, you will enjoy lunch at the Tabacon resort before jumping into its natural hot springs. Explore more extensive lagoons and waterfalls in the surrounding area, as well. After a couple of hours enjoying the natural spa, you’ll enjoy dinner. Next, head back to your hotel. 

Climate change is a very serious topic among Costa Rican politicians, who are greatly concerned about its impact on the country’s wildlife. Today you will visit the San Jose Wildlife Rescue Center, where you will help to make a positive impact on Costa Rica’s environment. A guide will lead you to various animals, such as turtles, sloths, and monkeys. Get a personal experience with them and learn about why they are at this facility. Take some photographs before enjoying an exotic lunch and Costa Rican coffee. Next, the volunteer work begins. Help staff prepare the animals’ food and assist the veterinarians tending to animal wounds. You’ll leave with a sense of pride from the work you did to make the world a better place. Well done!

Calling all adventurers, today is for you! Begin with a drive to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, which is a distinct ecosystem in Costa Rica. The vegetation here thrives on a constant stream of moisture and is home to hundreds of plant at animal species. Enjoy the adrenaline of zip-lining through this forest from treetop to treetop on 15 different cables. If you are feeling brave, end the adventure with a Tarzan swing. Enjoy a picnic lunch before heading toward the hanging bridges adventure. Walk along the treetop clouds from suspended bridges. What an incredible experience!

For your final full-day in Costa Rica, cruise to the island of Tortuga. Sit on the top deck of the yacht to feel the wind in your hair, enjoy a delicious cocktail, and look for dolphins, sea turtles, and whales. When you arrive at the white beach, enjoy a snorkel tour followed by a four-course lunch (what luxury!) Next, you can choose to go for a Banana Boat ride, play beach volleyball, or nap in a hammock. Enjoy views of the sun setting over the horizon on your cruise back.

It has been both an adventurous and educational week. We hope you had lots of fun, but it’s now time to leave. Enjoy a final breakfast with your group and guides before departing for your flight home.