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Costa Rica

A Taste of Costa Rica

Program No. 8577RJ
Hike cloud forests, explore volcanic trails, learn about biodiversity, study delicate ecosystems and savor the art of coffee-making and good conversation as you discover Costa Rica.

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Protecting the Environment

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more

At a Glance

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 volcanic terrain and tropical gardens, as well as culture and history. Meet residents in local communities for an intimate experience of this peaceful nation.
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.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • 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.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Pedro Bosques
Pedro Bosques is a veteran Road Scholar instructor and group leader, with approximately 20 years of experience in hosting lifelong learners in Costa Rica. Although born in Puntarenas, on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, Pedro grew up in San José. His interest in conservation blossomed when he began working at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve as a field assistant. During this time he colaborated with researchers and biologists in projects including the study of the behavior and migration of the Three-wattled Bellbird and reforestation of the biological corridor in the Monteverde region. Pedro is a certified naturalist leader who enjoys sharing his knowledge with travelers from around the world. He looks forward to hosting you in this program and enhancing your journey in his beautiful country.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Pedro Bosques
Pedro Bosques View biography
Pedro Bosques is a veteran Road Scholar instructor and group leader, with approximately 20 years of experience in hosting lifelong learners in Costa Rica. Although born in Puntarenas, on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, Pedro grew up in San José. His interest in conservation blossomed when he began working at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve as a field assistant. During this time he colaborated with researchers and biologists in projects including the study of the behavior and migration of the Three-wattled Bellbird and reforestation of the biological corridor in the Monteverde region. Pedro is a certified naturalist leader who enjoys sharing his knowledge with travelers from around the world. He looks forward to hosting you in this program and enhancing your journey in his beautiful country.
Profile Image of William Suarez
William Suarez View biography
While working for the logging industry in Honduras and seeing its negative impact on the environment, William Suarez became interested in conservation. He returned to his native Costa Rica and received training to serve as a leader for groups interested in learning about the country’s flora and fauna. Today, he specializes in the natural history and birds of Costa Rica. William is also a writer who has had three books published, as well as an outdoorsman who enjoys mountain biking, hiking and fishing.
Profile Image of Deynor Alfaro
Deynor Alfaro View biography
Deynor Alfaro is a licensed Costa Rican naturalist group leader. His love of nature and the outdoors took root while growing up on a cattle farm in Puntarenas province. When time came to consider college and career choices, he set his sights on becoming a naturalist. Deynor went on to earn a degree in ecotourism from the Universidad Técnica Nacional in Puntarenas city. Some of his favorite pastimes include hiking, birding, horseback riding, and playing soccer with friends.
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