10-Day Costa Rica Service & Adventure Volunteer Program for Teens

Course Description: 10-Day Costa Rica Service & Adventure Volunteer Program for Teens

Costa Rica Volunteer Program for Teens 🇨�*

Travel to Costa Rica this summer for a teen community service program you won’t forget! Work alongside long-standing local partners on meaningful community projects such as supporting infrastructure improvements in the Central Valley. This student program uses a service-learning framework tailored for high schoolers, with staff guiding reflection on service impact and promoting empathy and cultural sensitivity. When not volunteering, you’ll enjoy classic Costa Rican adventures—learning to surf, zip-lining above the forest canopy, soaking in mud baths, whitewater rafting, and relaxing on the Pacific coast. It won’t be long until you fall in love with all things Costa Rican and the Pura Vida lifestyle. 🌿✨

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Program Highlights ✨

• Work on a community project such as helping build homes.

• Enjoy a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure.

• Participate in a local beautification project.

• Learn to surf with professional instructors.

• Zip-line over the canopy in Rincon de la Vieja National Park.

• Cover yourself in mud at soothing natural mud baths.

• Learn how to salsa at a Latin dance class.

• Enjoy the refreshing waters of Tamarindo Beach.

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Service Projects �*

Refugio Animal – Central Valley

Volunteer at an animal sanctuary where rescued Costa Rican wildlife is rehabilitated and, when possible, released back into their natural habitat. Your work helps support the physical and emotional recovery of endangered animals.

Siempre Amigos – Flamingo Beach

Support one of Costa Rica’s beloved coastal communities through projects such as building and painting homes, improving local facilities, classroom renovations, and beach preservation. Your contribution directly enhances quality of life for local families.

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Activities �*

Central Valley, Costa Rica

Kick off the program with an exciting whitewater rafting adventure and begin exploring Costa Rica’s lush landscapes.

Rincon de la Vieja, Costa Rica

Zip-line over the canopy, relax in natural mud baths, unwind by the pool at a forest eco-resort, and cool off in the waterfall pools after a scenic hike.

Flamingo Beach, Costa Rica

Head to Tamarindo Beach for professional surf lessons, enjoy the warm Pacific waves, and relax during an evening beach bonfire with friends.

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Accommodations �*

Central Valley, Costa Rica

Stay at carefully selected hotels such as Hotel Adventure Inn or Hotel Autentico. All offer air conditioning, internet access, and a swimming pool.

Rincon de la Vieja, Costa Rica

Stay at either Hacienda Guachipelin or Rinconcito Lodge. Both properties include a pool, hammocks, air-conditioned rooms, Wi-Fi, and recreation spaces.

Flamingo Beach, Costa Rica

Stay at Hotel Casas del Toro Hacienda with air-conditioned rooms, internet access, and a swimming pool.

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What It’s Like �*

A balanced blend of meaningful service work, cultural immersion, and exciting adventure. Travel in a small, tight-knit group supported by dedicated leaders and local guides.

• Cultural Sensitivity: An open mind is essential for embracing new foods, customs, and surroundings.

• Certificate: Includes 30 hours of documented community service.

• Local Guide: A professional Costa Rican guide supports and educates the group throughout the journey.

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Key Details �*

Accommodations: Hotels & lodge

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner daily

Activities: All listed recreation & adventures

Transportation: Chartered, air-conditioned motor coach

Group Size: Up to 24 participants

Dietary Options: Most dietary needs and allergies can be accommodated

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Program Specifics ✈️

Flight to San José, Costa Rica

Chaperoned flights are offered from South Florida, and sometimes New York depending on enrollment. Participants from other areas may connect to the chaperoned flight or arrive within designated time windows. Staff greet you upon clearing customs and immigration.

Return Flight Home from Liberia, Costa Rica

A chaperoned flight is offered back to South Florida, with potential routing to New York. Participants from other regions may join the chaperoned flight and arrange onward travel afterward, or fly home independently within the approved time frame.

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Meals & New Cuisines 🍽️

Enjoy a mix of Costa Rican traditional dishes—rice, beans, meats, plantains, and fresh fruit—along with North American options. Dining helps you connect with local culture, and all meals are planned to ensure comfort and variety.

Most dietary needs (vegetarian, lactose-free, allergies, gluten-free, kosher-style, etc.) can be accommodated.

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Drinking Water �*

Tap water is generally safe in most areas, but purified water will always be provided in large containers so travelers can refill their bottles throughout the day.

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Health, Vaccinations & Laundry �*

• Vaccinations: Follow CDC guidance and consult your doctor. Updated info is shared closer to departure.

• Laundry: Once a week, you’ll drop off laundry at a local wash-and-fold service and pick it up clean and folded.

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What’s Included / Not Included ✅

Included:

• All lodging

• Breakfast, lunch & dinner daily

• All listed activities & recreation

• Airport transfers at designated times

• Gratuities & taxes

Not Included:

• Transportation to/from Costa Rica

• Snacks & souvenirs

• Laundry

• Optional travel insurance