Designed as a 7-night, 8-day educational journey, this trip offers an engaging introduction to Costa Rica’s rich culture, remarkable landscapes, and extraordinary biodiversity. Home to an estimated 5% of the world’s biodiversity, Costa Rica is known for its “Pura Vida” spirit, a phrase that reflects a simple, relaxed way of life shaped by a deep respect for wildlife and preservation. Thoughtfully created for students and educators, this tour combines learning, adventure, and comfort for an experience that is both safe and unforgettable.

DAY 1

Begin in San Jose with a visit to the Pre-Columbian Gold Museum, where you’ll see beautiful gold artifacts and gain insight into the people who lived in Costa Rica long before the Spanish arrived.

Continue to the National Museum of Costa Rica, where an exhibit of more than 2,000 works presents both national and international history connected to the country.

DAY 2

Stay right next to the entrance of Manuel Antonio National Park and enjoy a guided group tour through one of Costa Rica’s most celebrated natural areas. Your guide will lead you on a scenic walk while explaining the animal species you encounter and the habitats they depend on.

The park also features a beautiful private beach for guests. After the tour, you may choose a surf lesson with a local instructor, try a boogie board in the warm, gentle waves, or simply relax for the afternoon by the pool or on the beach.

DAY 3

In Manuel Antonio, venture deeper into the jungle on a horseback ride to private waterfalls, where you can swim in the refreshing water and take in the surrounding scenery.

Afterward, enjoy a delicious typical Costa Rican lunch at a farm prepared by a local. The rest of the day is yours to spend by the pool or join the yoga class.

You’ll also have the chance to zipline through the canopy and observe more wildlife from above.

DAY 4

Visit the Boruca People and learn how this indigenous tribe has preserved its native culture, way of life, religion, medicine, food, and language.

The Boruca are also known for their artistry, especially traditional mask-making and weaving. You’ll have the opportunity to see how each piece is created before continuing to Rio Chirripo Lodge.

DAY 5

While staying in Rio Chirripo, visit a local cheesemaker and take part in a hands-on experience that includes milking a cow and learning the cheese-making process. The family will also share the farm’s history and sustainability practices in the region. During your visit, you’ll taste a variety of cheeses from this small family-owned farm.

Nearby, a butterfly dome exhibit offers the chance to see many butterflies and learn more about Costa Rica’s diverse butterfly species.

DAY 6

After breakfast, head to Cloudbridge Reserve for a hike along a river trail that passes two impressive waterfalls. Along the way, you may spot birds and other wildlife while learning about the cloud forest and the restoration work that has taken place over several decades.

On the return to San Jose, stop at a small cacao farm to discover how this fruit becomes chocolate. You’ll learn the full process, taste cacao, and make chocolate yourself before heading back to the capital.

DAY 7

Fly back to the United States and take a moment to reflect on all you have experienced and learned throughout your time in Costa Rica.

Irth Tours has been honored to host you and hopes the journey not only met your expectations, but exceeded them. Safe travels home.

The Educational Tour includes:

Shared rooms
All domestic travel (domestic flights and shuttles/taxis) between the international airport and your accommodations
Museum entrance fees
Breakfast and dinner daily
Visit to the Boruca People (Indigenous Tribe)
Surf lesson
National park entrance
Horseback tour to the waterfall and lunch on the farm
Chocolate tour
Cheese-making tour
Irth Tours support for a smooth, enjoyable trip
All taxes and fees
5% contribution to the Irth Foundation

The Educational Tour does not include:

International flight to and from Costa Rica
Travel insurance
Additional tours not included in this trip

PARTICIPANT SAFETY

Your safety and the safety of your students are our top priority. We carefully select only the safest transportation, locations, lodges, and tour operators for your journey. All Irth Tours partners are thoroughly vetted and maintain exceptional standards, ensuring secure conditions in every setting. You can travel with confidence knowing that any adventure with our trusted tour operators is supported by strong protocols and high standards. Irth Tours is also available throughout the trip should any emergency arise.

Partnerships: We work closely with medical professionals and medical centers throughout Costa Rica. If medical assistance is needed during one of our tours, you can rest assured that professionals are available to help. These trusted experts are based in each town you will visit and are well established within their communities. Your Tour Host and Tour Director will have these contacts on hand if support is required.

Insurance: Irth Tours works exclusively with INS National Insurance Company. Established in 1920, INS is the longest-standing and most reputable insurance company in Costa Rica. Irth Tours also carries additional insurance to cover tour hosts and the schools we partner with.

Surf retreat in San Rafael