THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE

Arrive in San José (SJO), where GLA staff will greet you. Meet fellow travelers and head to Home Base in Heredia. Unpack, settle in, and get to know your new friends and team. Enjoy the city views from your mountain home on your first night and get ready for the program ahead.

Wake up to the sounds of the mountains and prepare for an orientation covering group goals, service expectations, and cultural tips. Break into Mentor groups for icebreakers and Spanish introductions. After lunch, explore Heredia’s town center, learn about its colonial history, and experience authentic “Tico” life as you stroll past local shops and residents.

Get ready for an exciting day at Barva Volcano National Park! Hike through cloud forests, surrounded by lush greenery and nature’s sounds. Discover the park’s unique landscapes and geological features while spotting vibrant birds. As you ascend, reach the dormant crater and, if the clouds clear, enjoy panoramic views of both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. It’s the perfect moment to reflect on the landscape’s beauty and the importance of conservation. Capture unforgettable memories in the serene cloud forest!

Get ready for the ultimate adrenaline rush on an unforgettable overnight rafting trip down the Pacuare River! After a scenic drive from San José and a hearty breakfast, meet your expert guides and gear up for Class 2 and 3 rapids, surrounded by lush rainforest. Reach your cozy lodge in the jungle with private bathrooms and hot showers, then enjoy guided hikes, birdwatching, or swimming in waterfall pools. After a delicious dinner under the stars, prepare for thrilling Class 3 and 4 rapids the next morning, gliding past waterfalls and spotting exotic wildlife. This adventure will create lasting memories!

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure at La Fortuna Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder flowing down Arenal Volcano’s lush slopes. Surrounded by vibrant greenery and wildlife, it’s a must-see. Afterward, explore the charming town of La Fortuna, soaking in local culture and enjoying scenic views of the majestic Arenal Volcano.

Today, we’ll embark on a road trip to Guanacaste’s famous Blue Zone, known for its natural beauty and the longevity of its residents. Along the way, we’ll stop at scenic lookouts to admire breathtaking views and diverse ecosystems. After settling into our new Home Base, head to the beach to enjoy the Pacific Ocean. Relax with beach volleyball and soccer as the sun sets, painting the sky with stunning colors—an ideal way to unwind and embrace the magic of the coast.

Today, we’ll meet local community leaders to discuss the environmental challenges facing Guanacaste’s coastal regions. Then, we’ll dive into a hands-on service project, addressing the community’s current needs—whether it’s a beach clean-up for Olive Ridley sea turtles, collecting mangrove seeds, planting native trees, or assisting in a community garden. After lunch, unwind by the pool or head to the beach to listen to howler monkeys in the tropical dry forest. As evening falls, reflect on your experiences with new friends and get ready for more unforgettable moments.

Get ready for another thrilling day in Costa Rica, renowned for its world-class surfing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, expert instructors will help you catch the best waves and embrace the Pura Vida vibe. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in local culture by learning to prepare traditional Guanacaste dishes at a community member’s home. Enjoy your homemade snacks with freshly brewed coffee made the traditional chorreado way or refreshing tamarind juice. As you relax, listen to stories about life in this charming coastal town, deepening your connection to the local way of life.

Today, we return to our community service projects, focusing on the importance of giving back in a sustainable way. As we work, we’ll reflect on the impact of responsible volunteering and how thoughtful efforts can create lasting change. Engage in discussions about the effects of tourism on small rural towns in Costa Rica and other countries facing similar challenges, helping you make more responsible travel decisions in the future. In the afternoon, unwind at a nearby beach with a refreshing swim and a friendly game of beach soccer, blending relaxation with reflection to wrap up the day.

It’s time to hit the waves again! Whether you’re perfecting your technique or chasing the perfect ride, your instructors and friends will be there to cheer you on. Feel the excitement of catching the wave of the day and share the stoke that draws surfers from around the world to Costa Rica. Afterward, relax with a soothing yoga session to stretch tired muscles—some you didn’t even know you had! This gentle class will leave you refreshed and ready for the next adventure.

Today’s adventure kicks off with an exhilarating zipline tour, soaring through the treetops above the lush forest canopy. Feel the adrenaline rush as you take in stunning views from above. Afterward, we’ll head to Tamarindo, the most famous beach town in Guanacaste. After checking in, unwind with a relaxing evening at the beach and pool, while enjoying the beautiful sunset.

Celebrate your final day with a scenic catamaran tour along Costa Rica’s stunning coastline. Feel the ocean breeze as you sail through crystal-clear waters, stopping to snorkel and explore vibrant marine life. Swim with colorful fish and coral reefs, creating lasting memories of the underwater world.

In the afternoon, enjoy one last sunset together and your final Costa Rican dinner. Then, we’ll wrap up with closing activities, reflecting on the friendships and unforgettable experiences shared. Time flies when you’re having fun, and this has truly been the ultimate adventure.

After a final breakfast and heartfelt goodbyes, we’ll head to the airport, where GLA staff will assist with check-in for your journey home. You’ll leave with improved Spanish skills, unforgettable memories, and countless stories to share. And who knows? With Costa Rica in your heart, you might find yourself dreaming of returning one day soon. ¡Adiós y nos vemos pronto!