Surrounded by the Caribbean Sea to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west, Costa Rica is a dream destination for a student trip. The richness of biodiversity will allow students to discover volcanoes, paradisiacal beaches as well as lush forests and their large number of animal species! You will be charmed by the welcome from Costa Ricans and you will quickly get a taste of this relaxed pace of life. Pura Vida!
Trip plan
Day 1
Flight to San José.
On arrival, board your coach and get to your accommodation to settle in. San José is more than the capital of the country: it is also the city where almost half of the population of Costa Rica lives. Located in the heart of the central valley, it is therefore a very important commercial and cultural crossroads for the country. To th.e delight of travelers, San José offers a year-round spring climate due to its location and altitude. Bienvenidos! Meal included: dinner.
Day 2
After a good breakfast, depart by coach for La Fortuna, one of Costa Rica’s most important tourist destinations. Surrounded by grandiose nature, La Fortuna offers landscapes of great beauty and a great variety of activities. In the afternoon, visit the Volcán Arenal National Park, where you can admire a remarkable volcano 1633 meters above sea level. Image of the perfect volcano slicing the horizon, Arenal Volcano was one of the most active in the world for almost 42 years, until 2010 when it entered a resting phase with less activity. Today, ancient lava flows can be admired, as well as occasional steam and gas emissions. In the park, it is also possible to see some of the 500 species of birds and a very wide variety of plants and animals such as monkeys and felines. Check into your La Fortuna accommodation in the evening. Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Day 3
In the morning, visit the Catarata del Rio Fortuna, an approximately 75-meter-high waterfall located a few kilometers from the city. The waterfall is fed by the Fortuna River which flows through the rainforest, before pouring in steps along the walls of the dormant Chato volcano. By taking a small path, you will find yourself at its feet. It is possible to swim, with caution, at the foot of the falls. After lunch, the geothermal waters of Arenal Springs await you for a moment of relaxation in an enchanting setting. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon. Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Day 4
Get back on the road and head towards Monteverde. As its name suggests (“green mountain”), Monteverde is a true paradise of green hills and valleys. Its lush tropical forests are constantly refreshed and nourished by clouds covering the canopy, allowing them to keep their rich green color. This is the ideal place for botany enthusiasts, but also for ornithology. In the afternoon, reach the heights of the canopy with Original Canopy Tour in Santa Elena de Monteverde. This activity allows the aspiring “Tarzan” to swing from the top of one tree to another, securely attached. Students will first have to climb on a platform perched at the top of a huge tree, then slide along the cables, breathtaking landscapes! Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Day 5
After breakfast, now visit the Monteverde Biological Reserve, a private reserve belonging to the Centro Científíco Tropical de San José, located in the cloud forest. At the heart of this reserve, the non-profit organization is engaged in scientific research and ecological education, in addition to welcoming visitors with the aim of raising awareness of the need to protect tropical rainforests. Enjoy a hike to observe some 2,500 species of plants and, if luck is in your favor, a few animals among the 100 species of mammals and 400 species of birds. Then transfer to Tamarindo, on the Pacific coast, where you will stay for the next two nights. Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Day 6
On this new day, enjoy the pleasures of the Pacific coast and spend the day at the beach. Playa Grande is one of the most beautiful beaches in the country and offers incomparable sunshine. With its waves of perfect height for surfing and swimming at the same time, you can get the best of the Pacific. Depending on the time of year, it is possible to encounter a few leatherback turtles since Playa Grande is a prime location for the species, and a protected area for its eggs. Add a surf lesson to your day to fully experience life on the coast. Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Day 7
A little drive awaits you this morning for the return to the San José region. You will arrive at the Britt Coffee Plantation just in time for lunch. In the afternoon, learn about the history of coffee, in addition to touring the facilities and tasting this popular nectar. Britt has been one of Costa Rica’s best-known coffeehouses for over 30 years and the nation’s premier gourmet coffee roaster. Check into your accommodation at the end of the day and enjoy the swimming pool. Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Day 8
This morning, get to the historic city center of the capital. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of the central avenue and discover the different buildings in the center of San José; the Post Office, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Theater and the Melico Salazar Theater. A great way to take the pulse of the city and explore the world of “Ticos” life. In the afternoon, enjoy free time at the Mercado central, a colorful and picturesque market where you can buy fruits, typical dishes and of course, your souvenirs from Costa Rica! Meals included: breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Day 9
Coach transfer to San José airport for your return flight home. Meals included: breakfast (to be confirmed according to your flight schedule).
Trip details
What’s included
- Round trip flight as well as airport transfers and taxes
- Coach transportation as indicated in your itinerary
- Local tour guide services
- Activities, visits and meals mentioned on your program
- 2-3 stars hotel accommodation depending on the cities
- 24/7 emergency phone service
What’s not included
- Meals that are not mentioned on your program
- Insurance
- Personal expenses
- Optional activities
- Gratuities
- Exit tax of $ 29 USD, to be confirmed by airline company
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