Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Get the adrenaline pumping on this immersive, high-energy exploration of Costa Rica. Your class will enjoy a dip in the natural hot springs at Arenal, learn about native species on a crocodile safari, and soar through jungle canopy on a zipline tour. Students will also learn more about Costa Rican history and culture as they paint a traditional ox cart wheel and volunteer at a local wildlife sanctuary.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive in San José
Groups flying from the West Coast may be required to depart on Day 0.
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Day 2
Coffee Plantation visit
World-renowned Costa Rican coffee has grown to be an emblem of local culture. Join a local tour to learn how the country's elevation, eco-system and volcanic history have all contributed to its unique taste.
Travel to Arenal
Arenal is famous for its volcano, an unavoidable presence while traveling within this part of the country. It is tall, imposing, perfectly symmetrical shape makes it instantly recognizable.
Day 3
1968 Volcano View and Lava Trails
Lake Arenal kayaking tour
Glide along the still waters reflecting the perfect cone of Arenal Volcano and the surrounding rolling hills. Lake Arenal, the country's largest, is also among its most scenic, and the area has become popular area to kayak, windsurf, sail, fish, and hike. For safety reasons, weight restrictions apply to this activity.
Hot springs visit
Let the volcanoes take you away. At Arenal’s hot springs, bubbling lava fields heat the waters to make nature’s own jacuzzi.
Day 4
Travel to Coastal Puntarenas
Volunteer at a wildlife rescue center
Volunteer at Santuario de Lapas, a sanctuary for local wildlife. Groups will participate in a variety of activities to assist staff with animal care before they are released into their natural habitat.
Free time at the beach
Day 5
Optional
Yoga class by the beach (optional)
Settle into a peaceful and relaxing slow-flow yoga class, designed to help you unwind and reconnect with yourself. Move through gentle stretches and mindful breathing exercises, creating a sense of grounding and calm. Suitable for all levels, this practice focuses on fluid movements and deep relaxation, allowing you to release tension and restore balance. Wear comfortable clothes you can move in, and embrace the tranquility of the moment, wherever your journey takes you.
Crocodile safari
Enjoy getting your adrenaline pumping again on your tour through a crocodile safari. There are two native species of crocodiles in Costa Rica: the American crocodile and the Spectacled Caiman. American crocodiles can grow up to 20 feet in length and weigh over 1,000 pounds. Caimans are much smaller, around 8 feet in length, and weigh less than 100 pounds.
Day 6
Manuel Antonio National Park visit
Combining white sandy beaches with lush tropical forest, Manuel Antonio is the perfect place to see a variety of Costa Rican wildlife, from white-faced monkeys and sleepy-faced sloths, to green turtles and orange-and-black-shelled land crabs.
Day 7
Travel to San José
Ox Cart art class
Spend some time learning how to paint a national symbol of Costa Rica, the wheel of an Ox Cart. While we are painting there will be contests, games and little dances. All fees and materials for this opportunity are included.
Optional
Folklore evening (optional)
Costa Rica’s culture draws on African, Caribbean, and Spanish roots to create a unique and lively blend. Sit back and surround yourself with this colorful culture during an evening of fine food and fiesta. Brightly costumed locals serve up a typical Costa Rican meal of beans, rice, white cheese, fruit, and a main dish of fish, chicken, or beef, and a performance of traditional music follows.
Day 8
Return home
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theater tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Meals (unless otherwise noted on your itinerary)
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Free high school credit for students who choose to complete WorldStrides free online coursework post-program
Professional development credits (CEUs) for educators
Scenes from Costa Rica
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
WorldStrides provides over $2.5 million in financial assistance each year to thousands of families. Families with annual adjusted gross incomes of less than $85,000 may qualify. One simple call to Customer Service and you’ll know how much may be available for your trip even before signing up. Please note: financial assistance is given on a first-come, first-served basis.
Payment Plans
Advantage Payment Plan
At program sign-up you can opt to pay in full, or break up the cost of your trip with the Advantage Payment Plan. This plan allows you to pay a small initial deposit, then have your remaining payments spread out into affordable monthly amounts.
EZPay
We offer an EZPay option, which is a simple way to pay for your WorldStrides program by scheduling hassle-free, automatic drafts from your checking account. With EZPay, you'll never be late or miss an installment.
Fundraising Tools
Our easy-to-use tools put students in the driver's seat of their own fundraising efforts. Students can send e-cards, share links on social media, and even send out printed letters through WorldStrides' Gift of Education program. In one click friends and family members can make a direct donation to the trip - with 100% of the money raised going to offset their trip price. Thousands of students pay for their entire trip each year through the Gift of Education.
Also, WorldStrides makes program-specific scholarships available as well as other scholarship resources. Ask your Account Manager for more information about scholarships and fundraising tools.