Costa Rica Learning Service School Trip
Projects Abroad
Costa Rica stands out as a global leader in sustainability and conservation, making it an ideal destination for experiential learning. The programme offers rare opportunities to work directly with local initiatives - from turtle hatchery monitoring to rainforest biodiversity surveys - while also exploring how indigenous practices and modern approaches intersect to protect ecosystems.This Learning Service programme provides rich links to geography, environmental science, and global citizenship, giving students tangible ways to connect classroom learning with real-world impact. The itinerary balances structured service with exploration and cultural immersion, creating a transformative experience that fosters leadership, resilience, and a deeper respect for the natural world.
Costa Rica offers a unique blend of biodiversity, culture, and meaningful conservation work. Explore lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and pristine beaches while supporting hands-on projects that protect endangered wildlife, restore habitats, and promote sustainable living.
The journey begins in Cartago, where cultural immersion activities and Spanish lessons prepare you for your travels. Work on important projects to protect wildlife and their important habitats - from turtle conservation camps to permaculture farms. Led by expert conservation researchers, you'll play an active role in sea turtle monitoring, wildlife surveys, and habitat restoration
Spend time in indigenous villages, gaining first-hand insight into local traditions and environmental stewardship. Learn from local people as you deepen your understanding of Costa Rica's heritage and community values through cooking, crafting and cultural exchanges.
Along the way, you'll also summit Irazú Volcano, Costa Rica's highest peak. Standing at 3,432 metres, the views from the top reveal vast volcanic landscapes and sweeping panoramas that make this one of the country's most iconic natural highlights.
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Example Itineraries for our 2026 & 2027 trips
Days 1 - 2
Arrive at San José International Airport (SJO), where Projects Abroad staff will welcome you to Costa Rica to transfer you to your hotel in Cartago. After a twohour drive, you'll be able to stretch your legs as you head out on a walking tour to get familiar with the area. You'll then receive a cultural awareness training and engage in a Spanish lesson to help you connect with local communities throughout your journey. Your first day will conclude with a programme briefing and a welcome dinner. Explore the Ruins of Cartago in the morning and gain insight into the country's fascinating history before heading to Irazú Volcano National Park.
Learn about the volcano's impact on the surrounding region, and make your way to the summit of Costa Rica's highest volcano, standing at 3,432 m (11,000ft). During your 45-minute walk, you'll see four of its five craters and, if it's a clear day, take in breathtaking views stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific. You'll then travel to Urpiano Turtle Camp, where you'll settle in for the next stage of your adventure.
Days 3 - 6
Begin with training on turtle species, their life cycles, and the threats they face. While the focus is on Leatherback Turtles, you may also support the conservation of Hawksbill, Green, and Olive Ridley Turtles. You'll help maintain the hatchery, join beach cleanups, and discover how sustainable agriculture promotes both conservation and local economic development, contributing to a healthier environment and community. Embark on a lagoon boat tour to discover the local wildlife. Spot animals, identify bird species, and observe the diverse habitats they call home. After sunset, join night patrols to monitor nesting and reflect on how human actions shape these delicate ecosystems. If you're lucky, you might even witness hatchlings reaching the ocean for the first time.
Days 7 - 8
Travel to Gandoca to visit a permaculture farm and learn about sustainable farming techniques, including water management and eco-friendly design principles. Take part in hands-on activities such as seed planting, and consider how these ideas could be applied at home. Explore Gandoca Lagoon and its rich biodiversity before contributing to a beach clean-up at Playa Gandoca.
After a rewarding day, unwind with a swim in the clear Caribbean waters. Evenings are spent connecting with local communities, share stories and games with young people, enjoy cultural performances, and try your hand at salsa dancing.
Day 8
Visit the indigenous Bribri community and gain insight into their traditions and way of life. Take part in a chocolate-making workshop, learn weaving techniques, and discover traditional skills such as bow-andarrow crafting.
Enjoy the natural surroundings, from f lowing waterfalls to traditional music, and engage in conversations with community members to better understand their cultural heritage. End the day with a locally prepared dinner.
Day 9
Travel to Cahuita National Park, a protected area known for its beaches, rainforest, and coral reef. Walk through lush trails and spot wildlife such as toucans, sloths, and Howler Monkeys. Enjoy lunch by the beach, taking in the Caribbean setting, before continuing to the Camaquiri Conservation Initiative (CCI). Settle in, share dinner with your group, and relax in the tranquillity of the rainforest.
Days 10 - 12
At CCI, take part in hands-on conservation research. Explore the rainforest while identifying species and learning how ecosystems function. Set camera traps, carry out bird and primate surveys, and practise field data collection techniques. Through expert-led workshops and evening talks, deepen your understanding of biodiversity, animal behaviour, and habitat monitoring. Your work here contributes directly to ongoing conservation efforts, supporting research, protecting threatened species, and helping to preserve vital ecosystems. This immersive experience offers real insight into the challenges and impact of conservation science.
Day 13
Begin the return journey to Cartago, stopping at the Sloth Sanctuary for a guided tour. Here, you will learn about sloths' unique biology and behaviour, the threats they face, and the conservation efforts underway to protect them. Later, head to the Britt Coffee Plantation in Heredia for a tour. Walk around the gardens and discover the coffee bush nursery, the coffee roaster, and the exhibition of giant puppets inspired by Costa Rican folklore before ending your visit with a coffee-tasting demonstration.
Once back to your hotel in San Jose, pack your bag, rest and prepare for your flight home tomorrow. Take some time to reflect as a group on your time in Costa Rica and everything you've learned.
Day 14
On your final morning, visit a coffee plantation to learn about Costa Rica's coffee trade - and taste some of their famous coffee! Then, it's time to head back to the airport. Reflect on the once-in-a-lifetime journey you've undertaken as you head back to the airport.
Be proud of what you've achieved and think about your newfound confidence, skills, and memories during your journey, these will stay with you for the rest of your life.
Arrive at San José International Airport (SJO), where Projects Abroad staff will welcome you to Costa Rica to transfer you to your hotel in Cartago. After a twohour drive, you'll be able to stretch your legs as you head out on a walking tour to get familiar with the area. You'll then receive a cultural awareness training and engage in a Spanish lesson to help you connect with local communities throughout your journey. Your first day will conclude with a programme briefing and a welcome dinner. Explore the Ruins of Cartago in the morning and gain insight into the country's fascinating history before heading to Irazú Volcano National Park.
Learn about the volcano's impact on the surrounding region, and make your way to the summit of Costa Rica's highest volcano, standing at 3,432 m (11,000ft). During your 45-minute walk, you'll see four of its five craters and, if it's a clear day, take in breathtaking views stretching from the Atlantic to the Pacific. You'll then travel to Urpiano Turtle Camp, where you'll settle in for the next stage of your adventure.
Days 3 - 6
Begin with training on turtle species, their life cycles, and the threats they face. While the focus is on Leatherback Turtles, you may also support the conservation of Hawksbill, Green, and Olive Ridley Turtles. You'll help maintain the hatchery, join beach cleanups, and discover how sustainable agriculture promotes both conservation and local economic development, contributing to a healthier environment and community. Embark on a lagoon boat tour to discover the local wildlife. Spot animals, identify bird species, and observe the diverse habitats they call home. After sunset, join night patrols to monitor nesting and reflect on how human actions shape these delicate ecosystems. If you're lucky, you might even witness hatchlings reaching the ocean for the first time.
Days 7 - 8
Travel to Gandoca to visit a permaculture farm and learn about sustainable farming techniques, including water management and eco-friendly design principles. Take part in hands-on activities such as seed planting, and consider how these ideas could be applied at home. Explore Gandoca Lagoon and its rich biodiversity before contributing to a beach clean-up at Playa Gandoca.
After a rewarding day, unwind with a swim in the clear Caribbean waters. Evenings are spent connecting with local communities, share stories and games with young people, enjoy cultural performances, and try your hand at salsa dancing.
Day 8
Visit the indigenous Bribri community and gain insight into their traditions and way of life. Take part in a chocolate-making workshop, learn weaving techniques, and discover traditional skills such as bow-andarrow crafting.
Enjoy the natural surroundings, from f lowing waterfalls to traditional music, and engage in conversations with community members to better understand their cultural heritage. End the day with a locally prepared dinner.
Day 9
Travel to Cahuita National Park, a protected area known for its beaches, rainforest, and coral reef. Walk through lush trails and spot wildlife such as toucans, sloths, and Howler Monkeys. Enjoy lunch by the beach, taking in the Caribbean setting, before continuing to the Camaquiri Conservation Initiative (CCI). Settle in, share dinner with your group, and relax in the tranquillity of the rainforest.
Days 10 - 12
At CCI, take part in hands-on conservation research. Explore the rainforest while identifying species and learning how ecosystems function. Set camera traps, carry out bird and primate surveys, and practise field data collection techniques. Through expert-led workshops and evening talks, deepen your understanding of biodiversity, animal behaviour, and habitat monitoring. Your work here contributes directly to ongoing conservation efforts, supporting research, protecting threatened species, and helping to preserve vital ecosystems. This immersive experience offers real insight into the challenges and impact of conservation science.
Day 13
Begin the return journey to Cartago, stopping at the Sloth Sanctuary for a guided tour. Here, you will learn about sloths' unique biology and behaviour, the threats they face, and the conservation efforts underway to protect them. Later, head to the Britt Coffee Plantation in Heredia for a tour. Walk around the gardens and discover the coffee bush nursery, the coffee roaster, and the exhibition of giant puppets inspired by Costa Rican folklore before ending your visit with a coffee-tasting demonstration.
Once back to your hotel in San Jose, pack your bag, rest and prepare for your flight home tomorrow. Take some time to reflect as a group on your time in Costa Rica and everything you've learned.
Day 14
On your final morning, visit a coffee plantation to learn about Costa Rica's coffee trade - and taste some of their famous coffee! Then, it's time to head back to the airport. Reflect on the once-in-a-lifetime journey you've undertaken as you head back to the airport.
Be proud of what you've achieved and think about your newfound confidence, skills, and memories during your journey, these will stay with you for the rest of your life.
Which Curriculum Subjects do we cater for?
Conservation Wildlife Animal Care
Environmental Science
What size groups do we cater for?
All group sizes of 5 or more. Free staff place with every 9 students.
Access for visitors with disabilities?
Disabled facilities can be offered on request.
Visitors with Special Educational Needs (SEN)?
Visitors with special educational needs can be catered for on request.
Anything else?
Projects Abroad provides an individualised service and schedule planning, which is backed up by excellent pre-departure preparation and by a dedicated and highly experienced local team in each destination.
We aim to provide a challenging and rewarding experience for every student, promoting self-belief, resilience, leadership, teamwork, reflection, and a new perspective on the world.
Get in touch today! Our partnerships team is happy to answer any queries and guide you through the process of booking the school trip of a lifetime!
We aim to provide a challenging and rewarding experience for every student, promoting self-belief, resilience, leadership, teamwork, reflection, and a new perspective on the world.
Get in touch today! Our partnerships team is happy to answer any queries and guide you through the process of booking the school trip of a lifetime!
Who are Projects Abroad?
Since 1992, Projects Abroad has helped young people step beyond the familiar and discover what they're truly capable of. As a global leader in educational travel, we've partnered with over 500 schools to deliver transformative school trips that help shape students' passions, careers, and futures.
We realise that each school has its own goals and interests, and the students have their own interests. We work with every school to develop a tailored itinerary that reflects their values and allows the students to make a connection with the community in which they serve.
We're proud of our dedicated in-country staff whose diverse skill sets, local knowledge and love of their community allow us to develop relevant, immersive and worthwhile schedules for school trips. These experiences give the students responsibility and teach them to see the world through a different lens.
The result is a trip that students remember long after they've left school, and one that reflects well on the school that made it possible!
Teacher Checklist
Risk Assessments Inspection Visits Free Places for Teachers Resource Packs LOtC Quality Badge Expedition Providers Association Tailor your trip Help promoting your trip Offset your trip carbon footprint
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