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Costa Rica
Pack your swimsuits and escape the holiday madness by heading south for a thrilling getaway to explore diverse ecosystems.
Overview
A truly unforgettable adventure
The perfect blend of adrenaline, nature and relaxation time is waiting for you in Costa Rica! Look for monkeys, sloths, iguanas and numerous bird species on guided nature hikes and boat rides; speed through the rain forest canopy on a thrilling zip-line adventure; and enjoy panoramic views from an open-air gondola in Arenal-La Fortuna.
This trip gives farm-to-table a new meaning where we will explore different farms and learn about (and eat!) local cuisine. In Monteverde, climb a mountain where you can touch the clouds and discover the unique wildlife of the cloud forest. Enjoy the wetland ecosystem of Palo Verde National Park by boat, then head to the artisan village of Guatil to learn to make pottery in the pre-Columbian way. Each area we explore has its own diverse set of ecosystems—ideal for taking photos and observing wildlife in its natural element.
Dates
December 20–29, 2023Duration
10 daysPrice
From $6,995 per person
Trip size
28 participantsMinimum age
6 yearsFaculty leader
A different kind of classroom
With renowned Stanford faculty and scholars leading the way, every Travel/Study trip is a one-of-a-kind educational experience.
Rodolfo Dirzo
Biology
Associate Dean of the Doerr School of Sustainability, Professor Dirzo examines the study of species interactions in tropical ecosystems from California, Latin America, and other tropical areas of the world.
Itinerary
Lush rain forests and outdoor adventures
Spend three days on the Gulf of Papagayo, enjoying water activities, relaxing on the beach and touring one of the most biodiverse parks of Costa Rica. Travel inland and see the majestic Arenal Volcano, zipline across tree canopies and explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve.
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Liberia, Costa Rica
Arrive in Costa Rica and transfer to our luxurious beach hotel located on the northern Pacific coastline, the Gulf of Papagayo. Relax and enjoy a welcome dinner and reception.
Accommodations:El Mangroove
Included meal: DinnerPalo Verde National Park
Start off our day exploring the area with a boat tour around Palo Verde National Park, one of the most biodiverse areas in Costa Rica. Visit the artisan village of Guatil where we learn to make pottery in the traditional, pre-Columbian way. Enjoy an evening at leisure.
Accommodations:El Mangroove
Included meals: Breakfast and lunchGulf of Papagayo
Spend a free morning at the beach with options to surf, fish, kayak or paddle board. This afternoon head out on a catamaran tour with guided snorkel and water activities. Toast to our adventure ahead as we watch the Costa Rican sunset aboard the catamaran.
Accommodations:El Mangroove
Included meals: Breakfast and dinnerLiberia / La Fortuna and Tenorio Volcano National Park
Today we travel inland to Tenorio Volcano National Park, where we see the remarkably turquoise Río Celeste waterfall. Its blue-green hue comes from the volcanic emissions infusing the water with sulfur. After the park we head to the quaint village of La Fortuna, with the majestic Arenal Volcano as its backdrop. Our last outing of the day is a trip to an organic farm. Learn about Costa Rican culture and sustainable farming, and gather herbs and spices for our dinner this evening.
Accommodations:Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerArenal Volcano
Our day of adrenaline starts with an open-air gondola ride to a lookout spot with 360 views of Arenal Volcano. Zipline down the mountain course over canyons and through the forest. Afterwards visit Místico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, home to hundreds of species of animals, for a canopy view of the wildlife taken in from its 15 hanging bridges.
Accommodations:Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerLa Fortuna / Monteverde
Travel by boat this morning across Lake Arenal to the small town of Rio Chiquito before transferring by bus to Monteverde, one of the most well-known cloud forests in the world. This evening enjoy a night walk through the forest, hearing sounds and seeing sights only accessible in the evening.
Accommodations:El Establo Mountain Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerMonteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve
This morning take a trip to the beautiful Monteverde Reserve to experience the unique ecosystem of the cloud forest. Here in Monteverde, or “green mountain,” we find over 400 species of bird, verdant vegetation and moist air. This afternoon, visit a family farm to learn about the history of coffee and to participate in the chocolate making process.
Accommodations:El Establo Mountain Hotel
Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerMonteverde / San José
Depart this morning for San José, stopping to visit the Greek Ark Herb Farm on the way. This botanical garden features different terraces, including a medicinal garden, a culinary garden, a tropical food garden, an essential oils garden, and a natural colorants garden. See and taste plants from all over Costa Rica and the world while overlooking views of the Central Valley and the hills of Carara.
Accommodations:Gran Hotel Costa Rica
Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerSan José
Today choose between white water rafting on the Pacuare River or a city tour of San José. The rafting trip includes a lunch stop with breathtaking views of the Pacuare and ends in the town of Siquirres. Those opting to stay in town visit some of the city’s highlights, including the Central Market, National Theatre and the Gold Museum. Enjoy a farewell dinner together.
Accommodations:Gran Hotel Costa Rica
Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinnerSan José / Home
Transfer to the San José airport for our flights home.
Included meal: Breakfast
Trip details
Start preparing for the trip of a lifetime
From top to bottom, we’ve taken care of all the details, so you can enjoy a no-stress, worry-free travel experience.
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Pricing
Secure your spot today
The price of your trip covers a comprehensive educational program in addition to meals, accommodations, tours and excursions. Continue reading for a full list of what’s included.
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