Grassroots Costa Rica

This itinerary is the starting point for your tour, but it’s not set in stone. If there are days you would like to change, or specific places you’d like to go, we can work with you to create a personalized program that fits the needs of you and your students.

Day 1: San Jose

Depart from the USA. Arrive in the Costa Rican capital of San José, meet your ACIS Tour Manager, and begin to discover the country's famous Tico hospitality.

Day 2: San Carlos

Journey to Sarchí, Costa Rica's unofficial artisan capital, noted primarily for its intricately decorated ox-carts. Discover your inner artisan during a craft workshop, where you'll learn about the history of these brightly colored pieces and how they're built, then paint a small souvenir to take home. Continue to the San Carlos region in the shadow of Arenal Volcano. In the afternoon, enjoy a thrilling zip-line ride through the rainforest canopy near the volcano, followed by a soothing soak in the area's famous natural hot springs.

Day 3: Sarapiqui

Travel to the lush surroundings of Sarapiquí, known for its rich biodiversity. Arrive at the Sarapiquí Conservation Learning Center and begin your community development service project. Projects will vary according to the greatest need, but activities may include painting or grounds maintenance at local schools, helping with public improvements or building a bus stop. You’ll have the opportunity to form friendships and share customs as you volunteer alongside residents and interact with local school children.

Day 4: Sarapiqui

In the morning continue your volunteer work by helping with a reforestation service project at an area farm. You’ll learn about local agriculture as you help plant native trees, required to sustain the area’s diverse ecosystem. In the afternoon perhaps explore the small town and sample local culture or relax at the hotel pool.

Day 5: Limon

Depart Sarapiquí and travel to exotic Cahuita, known for its black-sand beach, on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. Upon your arrival, put on your walking shoes for a pleasant hike through the breathtaking Cahuita National Park, famous for its lovely beaches, lush rainforests and colorful coral reefs.

Day 6: Limon

Enjoy a beach day by the azure waters of this port town, founded in the mid-1800s as a center for exporting bananas and grain. Filled with open-air markets and interesting architecture, Limón’s culture is heavily influenced by Afro-Caribbean customs and heritage.

Day 7: San Jose

After time to explore the beach in the morning, return to San José, the country’s largest city. Founded in the early 1700s, San José is considered Costs Rica’s most cosmopolitan city, home to attractions such as the Museum of Contemporary Art and Design and the popular Mercado Central, a large market. Enjoy dinner in San José to celebrate your final night abroad.

Day 8: Departure

Depart for the USA.



Optional Extensions and Extra Nights:

Further immerse yourself in the culture and wonders of Costa Rica with an extra night in San José, including the services of your ACIS Tour Manager.