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Costa Rica

Costa Rica: Three Jewels in Paradise

Program No. 20774RJ
Learn the story of Costa Rica’s natural wonders as you explore cloud forest reserves, the Savegre River and world-class Manuel Antonio National Park with plenty of time on your own.

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At a Glance

Absorb the brilliant natural beauty of Costa Rica on this journey that combines special access with plenty of time for independent exploration. Discover Manuel Antonio National Park, the crown jewel of Costa Rica’s renowned environmental protection efforts. Then experience two lesser-known jewels: a private cloud forest reserve protected by a Costa Rican family for decades and a lush rainforest where a South African family welcomes you to their safari lodge.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles daily on city streets and forest paths. River rafting and swimming. Elevations up to 7,200 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

  • Experience Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity at Manuel Antonio National Park, in a private cloud forest reserve and in the Pacific rainforest.
  • Learn about gourmet coffee production in one of the world’s best places to grow coffee beans.
  • Raft down the lower reaches of the Savegre River and look for giant crocodiles during a boat ride on the Tarcoles River.

General Notes

Program includes independent time to explore the city and several meals on your own. Group Leaders will provide directions for self-directed excursions. Suggestions for free-time activities provided in preparatory materials.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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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 this program.

Profile Image of Reimer Palma
Reimer Palma View biography
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.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can 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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