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Costa Rica

A Taste of Costa Rica

Program No. 8577RJ
Hike cloud forests, explore rainforest trails, learn about biodiversity, study delicate ecosystems and savor the art of coffee-making and good conversation as you discover Costa Rica.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
9 days
Program Begins
San José
Program Concludes
San José
Meals
22 ( 8B, 6L, 8D )
Activity Level
Low-level clouds drift through the sweet cedar and hanging moss. Even in dim sunlight, the orchid’s flowers brighten your path as you hike. In this interdisciplinary introduction to Costa Rica, learn about the nation’s rain and cloud forests and the inseparable bond between the people and the land. Explore farmlands and tropical gardens, as well as culture and history. Meet residents in local communities for an intimate experience of this peaceful nation.
Best of all, you'll...
  • Hike through the mystical cloud forest at Monteverde and go whitewater rafting at Sarapiquí.
  • Discover scenic views of Arenal Volcano from up in the rainforest canopy during a walk on a combination of nature trails and hanging bridges.
  • Enjoy an interactive presentation that introduces you to an important gourmet coffee roaster in Costa Rica.
General Notes
This program offers Micro Group options--with 12 or fewer participants--on some departures. Please refer to program date notes.
Profile Image
Reimer Palma
Reimer Palma is a self-proclaimed “nature guy.” He fondly recalls, at an early age, accompanying his father on walks through the rainforest to go fishing or for work. Those quiet outdoor explorations further fueled his appreciation for and an awareness of his natural surroundings. When Reimer attended a course in ecotourism at his high school, he became intrigued with the idea of becoming a naturalist guide. In 2009, he began attending natural history courses at La Selva Biological Field Station in preparation for his certification. As a naturalist leader, Reimer enjoys introducing visitors to many of Costa Rica’s beautiful protected areas; although the lush Caribbean lowlands, where he grew up, still hold the number one spot in his heart. When Reimer isn’t leading groups or enjoying time with his family, you will most likely find him hitting his college books in pursuit of his bachelor’s degree in biology.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Profile Image of José Amador
José Amador
José Amador is a certified naturalist and expedition leader who grew up in Turrialba in Costa Rica's Central Valley. José was studying architecture in college when he got a job as a rafting guide. He quickly discovered he loved interacting with people and working outdoors. This “aha” moment led him to switch his academic efforts into becoming a naturalist leader. When not at work, José enjoys hiking, birding, and mountain biking. He has traveled throughout the Americas, Europe, and southern Africa.
Profile Image of Greivin Araya
Greivin Araya
Greivin Araya Vega, “Dalua”, has been passionate about the outdoors since his childhood in Guacimo, an agricultural town in eastern Costa Rica. With a family legacy in education, he planned to teach science. He eventually found himself teaching English, while spending his free time as a naturalist. After six years of teaching, he was unable to ignore the call of the outdoors and became a certified Costa Rica Naturalist. Dalua particularly enjoys entomology, travel, and learning what he can from the experiences of others.
Profile Image of Alex Alvarez
Alex Alvarez
Alex Alvarez began his career as an expedition leader in the early 1990s, after completing his naturalist training at OTS La Selva Biological Station in Costa Rica. His early appreciation for the natural world stemmed from a childhood spent in Costa Rica's Caribbean Lowlands, an area known for its diversity of plant and animal species. Alex enjoys spending his free time hiking, cycling, running or diving (he is PADI certified). He is studying natural resources management and conservation at UNED.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to 1.5 hours a day over uneven trails in hot and humid conditions. Elevations up to 6,000 feet.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (20 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
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Call 800-454-5768
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Assurance Plan

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Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.