Costa Rica
Big Group Impact
About the Program
Costa Rica for Large Groups, Expertly Designed. Tailor-made for groups of 35+ travelers, this big group trip to Costa Rica thoughtfully accounts for the dynamics and logistics unique to large-group travel. Through structured service partnerships, cultural exchange, and environmental exploration, students experience Costa Rica in a way that is both impactful and personal—ensuring strong group cohesion without sacrificing individual engagement.
Itinerary
Discover the exciting adventures and impactful moments that await each day on this itinerary!
- Group flight arrival to San Jose (SJO). Go through customs, pick up luggage, and meet your stellar Global Works trip leaders
- Transfer via private bus to hotel
- Arrival at the hotel, safety briefing, and snacks
- The group will split into 2 smaller groups and alternative each day’s itinerary:
- Rafting Day: Rafting adventure begins! Navigate class I, II, and III rapids, with lots of unique plant and animal sighting along the way – our rafting guides are also our nature guides! Spend the afternoon souvenir shopping in La Fortuna.
- Cheese Farm and Service Day: Head to a local organic dairy farm for a cheese-making workshop this afternoon – learn about permaculture, local ecology, and micro-business. Then, work side by side with locals while participating in service projects in a nearby community.
- Evenings spent as a full group back at the hotel eating dinner and reflecting on the experience so far.
- Experience a thrilling zip-line tour with Sky Trek Adventures through the stunning Costa Rica canopy
- Lunch at the zip-line
- Transfer to the beach! Check into hotel in Uvita
- Eat a tasty dinner with the group.
- The group will split into 2 smaller groups and alternative each morning’s itinerary:
- Waterfall Hike and Tree Planting Day: Trek into the jungle to explore a local waterfall – if conditions permit, maybe plant a tree in the forest!
- Surf Lessons Day: Surf lessons in the morning with professional instructors. The wave conditions on this beach provide the perfect opportunity for all levels to hang ten!
- Travel back to the Central Valley, with a stop for souvenirs along the way
- Final celebratory dinner in our beautiful accommodations, along with closing reflection.
- Breakfast at the hotel, then pack up
- Depart for the airport according to flight schedules
Educational Focus & Highlights
Big Group Travel, Small Group Connection
In a country known for its biodiversity and warmth, big groups mean shared adventure and lasting impact. Students collaborate on hands-on service projects and discover vibrant ecosystems and culture, all while enjoying moments of reflection and connection within a supportive group setting.
Work with Locals on Impactful Projects
Contribute to meaningful service projects like constructing community centers, planting gardens, or teaching English, leaving a lasting impact on local communities.
White Water Thrills
Experience the adventure of White-Water Rafting along the Pacuare River. It’s the perfect combination of breath-taking scenery and unforgettable excitement.
The Power of Connection
Get immersed in Costa Rican culture through local meals, language practice, and shared activities. Students have the opportunity to connect with Ticos in a meaningful way throughoutthe program.
Gallery
Lodging
Participants
Participants stay in comfortable, dorm-style rooms that typically accommodate 4-12 students per room. These accommodations are carefully selected and often include locally run hotels or lodges that reflect the culture of the area. Each location is selected to have private meeting spaces for group activities, ensuring both a supportive and appropriate environment for our programs.
Chaperones
Chaperones can expect to stay in private rooms, unless otherwise noted by the Global Works operations team. These rooms are located in the same facility as the student accommodations, allowing for a peaceful environment to relax and recharge without compromising proximity to the group. During homestays, chaperones typically have a choice to either stay with a homestay family or in a nearby hotel (location dependent).
Bring Your Classroom to the World
Collaborate with Global Works on an impactful service-learning travel program for your students.
