Description
When Natural Expeditions plans a private student group trip, we devote as much energy as possible to ensure that it will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The knowledge acquired while working with students of different ages has taught us how important it is to develop a combination of education and adventure. Through our partnership with zoos, schools, and other types of youth organizations, we take pride in sharing the cultural richness and natural wonders of Costa Rica with our young travelers.
Request a QuoteItinerary
Day 1 – Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica
Welcome to Costa Rica!
Your tour starts in San Jose by being picked up at the airport by your Natural Expeditions tour director and driver to transfer the group to the hotel. Your tour director will brief the group on different aspects of the tour itinerary and provide everyone with available information for your early departure to the Tortuguero area the following morning.
No meals included today.
Day 2 – San Jose to Tortuguero
The day will begin with an early start towards the Caribbean region of the country. After breakfast, your private ground transportation will take you smoothly across a diverse and misty landscape presented by the Braulio Carrillo National Park. However, the concept of a city will remain behind to initiate an unforgettable tropical adventure.
After passing the National Park, the scenery will be influenced by farming land and ornamental plantations. By midday, ground transportation will switch to water transportation, which will lead you through the different waterways until you reach the remote location of Tortuguero.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 3 – Tortuguero National Park
Explore the beauty of the Tortuguero National Park by cruising through the different waterways. First, keep an eye out for monkeys, iguanas, and caimans, which are plentiful in this country’s area. Then, experience a breathtaking natural wetland established all around the region of Tortuguero. During your stay, you will explore the grounds of your lodge to learn about tropical plants, the red-eye tree frogs, and all the mystical elements around this relaxing paradise.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 4 – Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano Region
Catch the boat again and return to the ground transportation to visit one of the country’s most famous regions – Arenal Volcano. This area is very prosperous due to the active pyroclastic mountain and its effect on the richness of the volcanic soil. You will pass by many small villages along the way, demonstrating the constant movement of an active society and various cultural groups. After getting settled into your hotel, relax at the base of the Arenal Volcano while you enjoy the warmth of the natural hot springs.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 5 – Local School Visit, Waterfall Hike
In the morning, prepare to experience life as a Costa Rican teenager. Visit a local high school and shadow a student throughout their morning schedule. Be sure to ask lots of questions, hang out with your new friends, and participate in your classes to make the most of this exciting cultural experience. After lunch, hike down to the base of a beautiful waterfall and swim in its refreshing waters.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 6 – Zip-lining, Transfer to Central Pacific Coast
In the morning, get ready for the zip-lining excursion, one of the most exciting experiences we have had in Costa Rica. The canopy ride has become a fascinating way of getting to know that specific area of the forest which was limited to scientists for a long time. Swinging through the woods is part of what many students consider the most memorable in Costa Rica.
In the afternoon, drive to the Central Pacific. Enjoy the scenery related to the ornamental plants industry and dairy farming which are the primary industries for those who live in communities on the way. Once at the hotel, enjoy your free time at the pool or the beach.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 7 – Beach day
Enjoy a full day at leisure or choose among the many day trips offered at the front desk of your hotel. You could also go to a market and experience the local culture. No matter how you’d like to spend your last full day in Costa Rica, there are many options according to your preferences. (None of the mentioned activities are included in this tour package)
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 8 – Sarchi, Transfer to San Jose
Say goodbye to the beach as you travel to the northern part of the country. Instead, take a detour to the town of Sarchi, a popular place for its crafts and souvenirs. After arriving in San Jose, prepare yourself to enjoy a farewell dinner.
Breakfast and dinner included.
Day 9 – Depart from San Jose, Costa Rica
It’s time to say goodbye to beautiful Costa Rica! Your guide and driver will transport your group to the airport to take your flight back home.
Breakfast is included (after 7:00 am)
Includes
Activities:
- Braulio Carrillo National Park
- Banana Plantation
- Boat cruise through Tortuguero National Park
- Frog pond visit
- Natural Hot Springs
- Local School Visit
- La Fortuna Waterfall
- Canopy Adventure (zip-lining)
- Beach Time
- Markets of Sarchi
Meals:
- 8 Breakfasts
- 3 Lunches
- 7 Dinners
Transportation:
- **Round-trip airfare between the USA and Costa Rica
- Shuttle from airport to hotel
- Air-conditioned ground transportation throughout the country
- Boat transportation in the area of Tortuguero
- Shuttle from hotel to airport
