This 22-day Costa Rican adventure is designed for middle school students (grades 7-8) seeking an unforgettable combination of thrilling outdoor activities and meaningful community service. You'll experience the natural wonders of Costa Rica while making a real difference in local communities, striking the perfect balance between adventure and giving back.

Your journey begins in Rincón de la Vieja, where you'll stay at a stunning ecotourism hacienda surrounded by lush gardens and exotic wildlife, with views of the volcano and Pacific coastline. Here you'll participate in canyoning adventures through jungle waterfalls, rappel down 210-foot cascades, ride horses through scenic trails, tube down the Río Negro spotting monkeys and birds, zipline through the canopy, and relax in natural hot springs heated by the volcano. The first week is packed with adrenaline-pumping activities that showcase Costa Rica's incredible natural playground.

The second week takes you to Tamarindo Beach, one of the best surf spots in Central America. You'll take surf lessons from expert instructors, explore the famous Conchal Beach with its crystal-clear waters and shell-sand shores, visit the hidden Pirate Bay, and enjoy a sunset sailboat cruise with snorkeling opportunities. This leg balances beach relaxation with water sports and coastal exploration.

In week three, you'll head to Turrialba for an overnight whitewater rafting expedition on the Pacuare River—rated one of the world's top rafting rivers. You'll spend the night in a comfortable jungle lodge on the riverbanks, take hikes to waterfalls and natural pools, and spot exotic wildlife including monkeys, colorful birds, and sloths. A quick stop in La Fortuna includes ziplining over the rainforest canopy, visiting a spectacular 210-foot waterfall for swimming, and soaking in natural hot springs at the foot of Arenal Volcano.

Your final days are spent in Sámara Beach, where the real community service begins. You'll work directly with a local association serving youth with limited resources, participating in group art projects, teaching English, and environmental tasks—earning up to 20 hours of service hours. You'll also enjoy beach time, surfing lessons, and kayaking to Chora Island for snorkeling. Throughout the trip, you'll eat authentic local cuisine at family-run establishments, stay in safe, centrally-located accommodations, and be supported by experienced chaperones and guides who provide daily photo updates and communication with parents.

This program is perfect for young travelers ready to safely explore the world, catch the travel bug, and develop independence while building lifelong friendships with fellow students from around the world.