Costa Rica Educational Trips

Costa Rica Tours

Experience the “pura vida” way of life through Costa Rica educational tours with Road Scholar. Explore our diverse selection of top-rated Costa Rica tours and find the perfect adventure. You can explore the depths of the rainforest, identify bird species endemic to Costa Rica, or get a taste of the world’s best coffee and chocolate.

No matter the program you choose, you’ll be paired with lifelong learners from diverse backgrounds eager to discover the world just like you. Take a look at the top Road Scholar destinations in Costa Rica and sign up for your adventure today.

Why Costa Rica Is a Top Destination for Road Scholars

Costa Rica, a Latin American country known for its diverse landscapes and unique wildlife, makes for the perfect exploration getaway. Costa Rica adventures for seniors can be enjoyed at a slower pace to take in all the natural beauty around you without being overly strenuous. As one of the most popular travel destinations, here’s what makes tours of Costa Rica for seniors an excellent option for learning and discovery:

• Diverse ecosystems and natural beauty: Costa Rica is one of the most diverse countries on the planet, home to an estimated 5% of the world’s species within 12 key ecological zones. Costa Rica is home to more than 500,000 species, and approximately 25% of Costa Rica’s land is protected by three UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 27 national parks. At Road Scholar, our trips to Costa Rica provide privileged access to unique experiences that allow you to connect with the culture and environment around you. Whether you’re exploring Costa Rica’s volcanic peaks or walking along the white sandy beaches, you’ll learn from local experts about Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity, healthy lifestyle and more.

• Rich wildlife encounters: Through easy-paced wildlife tours, you can spot everything from sloths and monkeys to toucans and more. Knowledgeable Group Leaders will provide keen insights into the natural habitats of various life forms and what makes Costa Rica the perfect home for many wildlife species.

• Mild climate year-round: What makes Costa Rica for seniors particularly enticing is the year-round mild climate, making it a comfortable destination to visit in any season.

Accessibility, Comfort and Pace on Our Costa Rica Excursions

We understand that comfort and accessibility matter when you're exploring a new destination. Our Costa Rica excursions are thoughtfully designed with our Road Scholars in mind, offering programs at various activity levels so you can choose what works best for you. Whether you prefer leisurely-paced walks through gardens and wildlife reserves or more active hikes through cloud forests or winter getaways, we have options to match your comfort zone.

Each Costa Rica tour itinerary includes time for rest and reflection, so you're never rushed from one experience to the next. Our accommodations are carefully selected for their accessibility features and convenient locations. Transportation is comfortable and well-planned, and our local experts understand how to pace activities to maximize both learning and enjoyment.

You'll travel with fellow lifelong learners who appreciate a thoughtful approach to discovery. We handle all the logistics, from meals to transportation to entry fees, so you can focus on what matters most: immersing yourself in Costa Rica's incredible natural beauty and rich culture.

Top Destinations for Road Scholar Travelers in Costa Rica

Narrowing down the best travel adventures in Costa Rica isn’t easy, but we’ve done the hard part by providing our recommendations of the top destinations in Costa Rica for travel participants. Take a look:

• Arenal Volcano Area: One of Costa Rica's most iconic landmarks, the Arenal volcano offers visitors the opportunity to explore volcanic landscapes with comfortable tram adventures through the rainforest canopy. You can enjoy a relaxing soak in the surrounding hot springs nestled among lush rainforests, or take easy hikes that reveal stunning views of this geological wonder.

• Manuel Antonio National Park: Experience the perfect combination of stunning Pacific beaches and diverse wildlife on guided walks designed for Road Scholar travelers. This accessible park offers relatively easy trails where you can spot monkeys, sloths, colorful birds and marine life, all while enjoying breathtaking coastal views.

• Tortuguero National Park: One of the best Costa Rica tours for Road Scholars brings you to Tortuguero National Park, often called the "Amazon of Costa Rica." Accessible boat excursions along the park's canals let you spot manatees, sea turtles, caimans, monkeys, sloths and diverse bird species as you glide through this network of winding waterways. Wildlife viewing platforms make it easy to observe animals in their natural habitat.

• Coffee and Chocolate Explorations: Learn about Costa Rica's renowned coffee and chocolate production through hands-on experiences at local farms. You'll discover the journey from bean to cup and cacao to chocolate bar, with plenty of opportunities to taste these world-class products and chat with local producers.

• Coastal Visits: Relax on beautiful Pacific or Caribbean beaches in areas like Puerto Viejo and Cahuita. These coastal destinations offer a slower pace where you can soak up the sun, explore tide pools, enjoy fresh seafood and experience Costa Rica's laid-back beach culture.

Road Scholar Educational Adventures in Costa Rica

Whether you’re looking for Costa Rica tours for seniors or Costa Rica family travel packages, Road Scholar has you covered. We offer an expansive collection of educational travel programs that people of all ages and abilities can partake in. As the land of endless opportunities, you can hike cloud forests and down volcanic trails, study delicate ecosystems and go birding with experts who can help you identify some of the rarest winged animals on the planet.

As you browse through our Costa Rica educational tours, you’ll be able to filter based on your interests, desired activity level, length of stay and price, so you can find an experience that suits your interests. We’re committed to providing engaging and memorable educational travel experiences, so you can learn more about the people, cultures and environments around you.

Featured Costa Rican Tours

Our diverse Costa Rican tours match the different interests and travel preferences of our travellers. Nature and wildlife programs focus on Costa Rica's incredible biodiversity, with expert naturalists guiding you through rainforests, wetlands and coastal ecosystems. You'll learn to identify endemic species and understand the delicate balance of tropical environments.

Cultural immersion programs allow you to connect with local communities, visit family-run farms and participate in traditional activities. You'll gain insight into the "pura vida" lifestyle and discover what makes Costa Rican culture so welcoming and vibrant.

Multi-sport adventure programs offer more active experiences for those who want to combine learning with physical activity. Think river rafting, kayaking, hiking and ziplining — all led by expert Group Leaders who ensure your safety while sharing their knowledge of the landscape.

Family programs create opportunities for grandparents and grandchildren to explore together, with activities designed to engage learners of all ages. These intergenerational adventures create lasting memories and shared discoveries.

Whatever style you choose, our Costa Rica adventures emphasize small group settings, expert instruction and meaningful connections with the places and people you encounter. 

The Best of Costa Rica

Experience rafting, birding, crocodiles, farm visits, hiking and more on the Road Scholar 12-day Costa Rica tour, exploring its natural wonders. This Road Scholar Costa Rica program offers travelers the chance to explore and learn about the country’s iconic ecosystems. Naturalists take travelers through rainforests, wetlands and transition zones. Visit local farms and participate in cultural activities in rural communities. Hike through the Punta Leona cloud forest and marvel at the Arenal volcano. This tour sells out quickly, so enroll now! 

Three Jewels in Paradise

Road Scholar’s nine-day exploration takes travelers through the magical rainforest of Manuel Antonio National Park, into a private cloud forest reserve, and through the Pacific rainforest. On these tours through the jewels of Costa Rica, guests will learn about gourmet coffee production in one of the world’s best places to grow coffee beans, raft down the Savegre River and look for giant crocodiles on a boat ride on the Tárcoles River.

Colorful Costa Rica with Family

Costa Rica is a paradise for children, with its abundance of unusual animals and colorful scenery. Marvel at the Scarlet Macaws flying overhead. Search for slow sloths and howler monkeys in the rainforest. Zipline through the jungle and sail along the rivers. On this weeklong journey to Costa Rica, your family will explore and learn together about the spectacular ecosystems of Costa Rica. 

Multi-Sport Adventure

Swim in the warm emerald Pacific waters, meander through lush tropical rainforests, and even learn an authentic Latin dance on this 11-day Costa Rica tour that focuses on activity. From hiking to river rafting, swimming to kayaking, this immersive Costa Rica tour is physical and educational. Travelers will learn about tropical conservation and explore pre-Columbian ruins in Turrialba. Road Scholar has planned an unforgettable tour of adventure and learning on this multi-sport adventure.

Best Time to Visit Costa Rica

Costa Rica has amazing offerings every month of the year, depending on what your goals are for your trip. September is a great month to snorkel the ocean waters and visit the volcanoes and cloud forests.

The wet months last from May to October, which can be a beautiful time to see wildlife and rainforests. Waves are good year-round for those who want to learn to surf or are already avid surfers. Sea turtles are nesting and hatching year-round, and the ziplines are open, rain or shine. You can’t go wrong visiting during any season in Costa Rica! 

Essential Tips for Road Scholar Travelers in Costa Rica

Whether you’re embarking on group or solo travel as a senior traveling in Costa Rica, preparation is key. Here are some useful tips to ensure you’re ready for your big adventure: 

• Packing essentials for comfort and ease: Costa Rica’s temperature can be hot and humid or wet and rainy, depending on the time of year. Make sure to pack accordingly with various layers and breathable clothing to stay comfortable.

• Health and mobility considerations: Go at your own pace as you explore Costa Rica’s top attractions. Through senior-friendly travel, you can enjoy easy-paced itineraries that have various accommodations for different ability levels for a safe and comfortable experience.

• Travel tips for a relaxed experience: Traveling can be stressful. However, taking time for rest breaks and immersing yourself in Costa Rica’s culture by indulging in local cuisine can keep you rested and energized for days of exploration.

Safety, Health and Entry Information You’ll Need for Costa Rica Tours

Traveling to Costa Rica is as easy as it is exciting with Road Scholar, and a little preparation helps you feel confident and carefree once you arrive. As you prepare for any of our Costa Rica tours, keep this safety, health and entry information in mind:

• Safety: Costa Rica is one of the safest countries in Central America, but it’s still wise to keep your belongings secure with items like a money belt, as well as stay aware when exploring busy areas or markets.

• Health: There are no special vaccinations needed for travelers coming from the U.S., Canada or Europe, though it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor before any international trip. When exploring, make sure to stay hydrated in the tropical climate and wear sunscreen, insect repellent and comfortable walking shoes.

• Entry: Entering Costa Rica is simple for many travelers, as a visa isn’t required for stays up to 90 days, but you’ll need a valid passport with at least one blank page. Additionally, travel insurance is recommended, as it offers peace of mind in the event of unexpected medical events or trip interruptions.

Wildlife Encounters on Animal Expeditions in Costa Rica

Few places on earth match Costa Rica’s incredibly diverse wildlife. On our Costa Rica adventures, you’ll have the opportunity to step into lush rainforests, mangroves and cloud forests that beam with color and sound. From scarlet macaws flying across the sky to a family of howler monkeys swinging through the treetops and iguanas basking in the sun on a riverbank, you’ll enjoy a truly immersive and unforgettable travel experience.

Additionally, Costa Rica is renowned for its sea turtles, which nest on protected beaches, an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experience if you time your Costa Rican tour just right. Animal tours in Costa Rica also provide a unique opportunity to get close and personal with sloths, perhaps some of the country’s most beloved residents, often found nestled in branches, moving at their own leisurely pace. Our expert naturalists will guide you on where to look and how to spot the magnificent creatures who call Costa Rica home, so you won’t miss a thing.

FAQs

How fit do you need to be to enjoy our Costa Rican tours?

At Road Scholar, you can find a range of Costa Rica tours with varying activity levels to accommodate the needs of different travelers. From easy-paced and relaxed adventures to more heart-pumping excursions like hiking tours, you can find a program that suits your preference.

How do Costa Rican tours support Road Scholar travelers with different mobility levels?

Our touring Costa Rica programs are designed with flexibility in mind. Each program clearly indicates its activity level, from easy and leisurely to moderate and active, so you can select the right fit for your abilities. Many of our excursions include optional activities, allowing you to participate at your own comfort level. Our group leaders are experienced in working with travelers of varying mobility, and we arrange transportation and accommodations with accessibility features whenever possible. If you have specific concerns about mobility, our advisors are happy to discuss your needs and help you find a program that works for you.

What should you pack for your Costa Rica adventure?

For a comfortable Costa Rican adventure, it’s important to pack the right gear. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended to protect you from the hot sun and humid, tropical climate. Other essentials include good walking or hiking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent and a rain jacket for unexpected afternoon showers. Don’t forget a reusable water bottle, swimsuit and binoculars for spotting wildlife.

How far in advance should you sign up for a Costa Rica adventure?

It’s recommended to secure your spot on a Costa Rica tour at least six to nine months in advance, especially for peak travel times like winter and spring. This ensures the best availability for accommodations and special wildlife excursions

Are Road Scholar Costa Rica tours good for first-time travel participants?

Absolutely! Our Costa Rica excursions are perfect for first-time travel participants looking for a supportive and enriching experience abroad. You'll travel with a small group of like-minded learners and be guided by expert instructors who know the country intimately. Our international group excursions are specifically designed to make travel accessible and comfortable, even if you've never ventured beyond the U.S. before. Many first-time travelers find that a Road Scholar program is the perfect introduction to international travel, offering the right balance of structure, support and adventure.

Discover Costa Rica with Road Scholar’s Learning Adventures

To prepare for travel to Costa Rica, make sure to read through our Costa Rica travel guide. Here, you’ll find a collection of travel tips, such as what to pack, information about Costa Rica, its history, geography and the top must-see destinations.

Why go with us? We have some of the best Costa Rica tours for seniors, led by local experts who enhance your adventure with their knowledge of Costa Rican culture and nature. Become a Road Scholar today through one of our Costa Rica educational adventures that will allow you to explore crystal-clear waters, local cuisine, lush rainforests and more.

In addition to learning about the lush landscape and various animal species that inhabit this Central American country, you’ll also learn about the people around you while enjoying senior-friendly itineraries crafted for a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities for rest and reflection. Our Costa Rica tours for seniors allow you to travel with like-minded seniors to create a community feel in a small-group setting. On each trip to Costa Rica, you’ll engage in spirited conversations, returning with lifelong memories and friends. 

Enroll in a program and find an adventure to visit Costa Rica today!