Sustainability and Leadership in Costa Rica

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Monday June 30: San Jose

Embark on your journey from the USA to a destination celebrated for its commitment to sustainability, where social and environmental initiatives thrive. Upon arrival, if time permits, your Tour Manager will warmly welcome you and guide you through an immersive cultural experience—exploring the city’s vibrant streets, bustling central market, and historically significant landmarks. (D)

Day 2, Tuesday July 1: San Jose

Visit the Costa Rican Humanitarian Foundation (CRHF), which is dedicated to supporting immigrant families through education as a means to overcome poverty. During your morning leadership workshop, you will explore the impactful work of the foundation's female founder and director. Her initiatives have empowered one of San José’s most vulnerable communities and enabled local collaborators to share their skills and knowledge in other areas, fostering sustainable change. In the afternoon, participate in a Global Exchange at a unique NGO that uses soccer to inspire and uplift Costa Rican youth. This non-profit organization connects young athletes with essential resources and mentorship, turning their passion for soccer into a vehicle for leadership development. It’s a great opportunity to practice your Spanish conversation skills and improve your soccer technique! (B,L,D)

Day 3, Wednesday July 2: Monteverde

Travel to the Gulf of Nicoya for your next leadership workshop at a responsible fishery, where a local fisherman and his wife lead sustainable fishing efforts in their hometown. Gain insight into marine conservation initiatives and engage in meaningful discussions withcommunity leaders working to address economic development challenges. This experience offers a firsthand look at the intersection of environmental stewardship and social resilience. Afterward, continue your journey to Monteverde. (B,L,D)

Day 4, Thursday July 3: Monteverde

Monteverde, a pioneering sustainable community in Costa Rica, was originally settled in the 1950s by Quakers from Alabama. Home to more than 400 bird species, 100 mammals, and 2,500 plant varieties, it offers a rich ecological backdrop for immersive leadership experiences. Join a local woman leader whose mission to empower children revolves around wildlife rescue tactics and first aid response in the jungle—prove yourself worthy of earning her patch! Later, ascend into the cloud forest canopy for a challenge course designed to test both your climbing skills and teamwork in the heart of the wilderness.(B,D)

Day 5, Friday July 4: Guanacaste Coast

Leave the mountains behind as you enter the tropical dry forest of Guanacaste province, where today's leadership workshop introduces you to a young female entrepreneur pioneering an award-winning sustainable honey production program. Her initiative not only supports local farmers and protects vital pollinators but also safeguards the delicate ecosystem that sustains them. A graduate of one of the world’s top universities in her field, she harnesses the power of education—alongside your visit—to inspire children in her rural community, proving that meaningful change is always within reach. (B,L,D)

Day 6, Saturday July 5: Guanacaste Coast

Set sail on the Pacific Ocean for a STEM-focused leadership workshop with an NGO dedicated to connecting global citizens to marine conservation and sustainable fishing. As you explore the open water, dive into hands-on learning—snorkeling, data collection, and an introduction to laser photogrammetry, where researchers use 3D laser scanning to measure sharks and rays as part of critical studies on endangered elasmobranch species. In the afternoon, take time to discover more of this remarkable region at your own pace (B,L,D)

Day 7, Sunday July 6: Guanacaste Coast

Spend your final day at the beach immersed in conservation efforts, joining a biologist in her mission to protect five of the seven marine turtle species. Participate in a sea turtle workshop, gaining firsthand insight into preservation strategies before meeting a local Blue Zone family and its elder matriarch. Learn about their sustainable way of life, their contributions to environmental conservation, and how happiness is deeply influenced by both nature and mindset. In the afternoon, assist biologists in the field—if fortune favors you, you may even experience the unforgettable moment of releasing baby turtles. Conclude the day with a farewell dinner and a turtle patrol, celebrating the meaningful connections and efforts shared throughout your journey. (B,L,D)

Day 8, Monday July 7: Departure

Take time to revisit the leadership skills you’ve developed—from community empowerment to environmental stewardship—and explore how you can meaningfully apply these insights back home. Whether through advocacy, mentorship, or personal growth, your experiences have equipped you to create positive change beyond the trip itself. Depart for the USA. (B)