Discover the Authentic Culture of Costa Rica
Are you ready to experience the real Costa Rica?
Have you ever wondered what it's like to live in a tropical paradise? Do you want an authentic opportunity to practice your language skills and experience living with a local family? Our cultural immersion program in Costa Rica might be just what you're looking for! Our programs typically last 7 to 10 days, but can be longer depending on your preference, and we can accommodate up to 25 people in each program. Below is a description of our typical base program in Costa Rica, which can be customized depending on the experiences you want.
What’s Included:
- Private transportation
- Homestay lodging in the San Carlos (north central) region
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily
- Cultural and language immersion experiences
- Visits to local schools and universities
- Tours of local businesses and popular attractions
- Travel insurance
- Pre-Travel Orientation Virtual Meeting with the Costa Rican program coordinator
What’s Not Included:
- Airfare to/from Costa Rica
- Transportation, lodging, and meals in airports or in another country while traveling to/from Costa Rica
- Snacks and beverages outside of the included meals
- Souvenirs or other discretionary purchases
- Additional activities added by your request
- Any other product or service not specifically mentioned in the “What’s Included” section above
What To Expect On Our Costa Rican Cultural Immersion Program
Homestay Experience
La Fortuna Ecotourism Adventures
Cultural and Language Immersion
Embrace the unforgettable experience of living like a local in San Carlos, Costa Rica. Practice your Spanish skills and learn about daily life in this beautiful agricultural region of the country. Breakfast and dinner will be provided by your host family while staying in their home.
Cultural and Language Immersion
La Fortuna Ecotourism Adventures
Cultural and Language Immersion
Meet local students and participate in interactive learning sessions and conversations around a variety of cultural topics. Visit area schools, universities, and popular hang-out spots and dive into the unique culture of this part of the country.
La Fortuna Ecotourism Adventures
La Fortuna Ecotourism Adventures
La Fortuna Ecotourism Adventures
Enjoy the ecological beauty of Costa Rica's lush rainforests and active volcanoes around the area of La Fortuna. Explore the forests from above on a walk through a series of hanging bridges. Keep your eyes open for all kinds of wildlife that may appear in the trees or along the path! Later, relax in the natural hot springs warmed by the volcanic activity in this part of the country.
Agricultural Insights
Rainforest Exploration
La Fortuna Ecotourism Adventures
Agriculture, alongside ecotourism, is one of the dominant industries in the San Carlos region of Costa Rica. You will get to learn about local agricultural efforts by visiting a coffee and strawberry farm as well as a livestock farm to learn about the importance of agriculture to the local economy and as a way of life for many of the local residents.
Rainforest Exploration
Rainforest Exploration
Rainforest Exploration
The rainforests of the Montaña Sagrada Natural Reserve are calling you! Enjoy a walk through the reserve and keep an eye out for wildlife at all times. Breathe deeply as you connect with nature and relax into the tranquility that the beautiful surroundings provide.
Latin Dance Class
Rainforest Exploration
Rainforest Exploration
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to dance the night away with salsa, merengue, and bachata music? This is your chance to try out your dancing skills as you participate in a Latin dance class!
Sample Itinerary
Experience Beautiful Costa Rica with Cross Cultural Discovery - 8 days / 7 nights Sample Itinerary
Day 1: Travel to Costa Rica / Transfer to San Carlos Region
- Your cultural adventure begins! Fly to the Juan Santamaría International Airport in San Jose, Costa Rica and be greeted by our Costa Rican coordinator.
- Transfer to the San Carlos region and settle in to your Costa Rican home and spend time getting to know your host family.
Day 2: High School Visit
- It’s time to experience Costa Rica as a high school student! Attend a local high school and participate in classes.
- Learn about student life and the country's universal education system.
Day 3: La Fortuna Eco-Tourism
- Visit La Fortuna, one of the most popular areas in Costa Rica due to its picturesque Arenal Volcano and beautiful natural surroundings.
- Explore the rainforest from high up in the trees as you walk through the forest on a series of hanging bridges. Be sure to keep your eye out for wildlife!
- In the evening, relax in the natural hot springs warmed by the volcanic activity deep under the ground.
Day 4: La Fortuna Eco-Tourism and Agriculture Discovery
- Gain firsthand knowledge of the importance of agriculture in this part of the country as you learn about growing and harvesting coffee and strawberries by visiting a local farm.
- Dairy is also an important part of the local economy, and you will have the opportunity to visit a dairy farm and sample the cheese made on the farm and sold in the local market.
Day 5: University Visit
- Explore a local university and interact with college students as you participate in classes and walk the campus.
- Learn about the history of the university and the types of classes and degree programs they offer to their students.
Day 6: Montaña Sagrada Natural Reserve Hiking Tour / Latin Dance Class
- Explore the luscious rainforests of the Montaña Sagrada Natural Reserve, where you will disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. Enjoy a traditional lunch while in the reserve.
- In the evening, put on your dancing shoes and let loose as you try out your Latin moves during a social dancing class.
Day 7: Farmers Market / Host Family and Community Time
- Visit the local Farmers Market and learn about the variety of items produced by local farmers and artisans.
- Help prepare a traditional meal with items purchased during your time at the Farmers Market and enjoy the delicious food you have learned to prepare!
- Spend the rest of the day with your host family and in the community, enjoying your final moments in the beautiful San Carlos region of Costa Rica.
- You will have time in the evening to prepare for your return home the following day.
Day 8: Return Home
- Your private transportation will take you from your homestay accommodations in San Carlos and will drop you off at the Juan Santamaría International Airport in San José.
- Say goodbye to your host family and bid farewell to this tropical paradise as you fly home, full of wonderful memories of your exciting adventures and cultural discoveries in Costa Rica.
