Adventure Tours in Costa Rica

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84 Adventure Programs in Costa Rica


Gapforce
4.32
31
The ultimate adventure travel experience, gain high-quality training in Jungle Survival, Expedition Management, Wilderness Medicine, and Expediti...
See All 4 ProgramsMAXIMO NIVEL
4.53
58
The Volunteer Adventure program combines 1 week of volunteering with 6 days of travel and exploration in Costa Rica. This is an excellent option if you're interested in learning more about international volunteering and you want to make sure you visit the most important sites and highlights in beaut
See All 5 ProgramsInternational Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
4.68
828
At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservatio
See All 8 ProgramsGoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
4.76
41
GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and med
See All 17 ProgramsTravel For Teens
4.93
14
Join us in Costa Rica for unforgettable memories and valuable service work! We will have the unique opportunity to perform 20 hours of valuable service work in two different communities. In La Fortuna we will work alongside the local association of Boy Scouts with various projects like planting tree
See All 12 ProgramsGlobal Works
4.7
10
Global Works specializes in teen service trips and educational experiences to Costa Rica for high school and middle school students. These student travel programs have been our most popular over the years for good reason. Incredible biodiversity and a welcoming culture make Costa Rica an awesome cho
See All 2 Programs4.57
7
The Costa Rica: Cloud Forest Community Initiative program offers the perfect mix of adventure and service. Whitewater raft through the lush rainforest of the Pacuare River, spotting wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and toucans along the way. Live in a remote cloud forest village, contributing to impo
See All 3 ProgramsPacific Discovery
4.14
21
Uncover the spirit of Central America on a 10-week journey through Mexico, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. Trek lush rainforests, hike volcanoes, raft wild rivers, and explore ancient Mayan ruins. More than just adventure, this program invites you to live alongside local communities, learn Spanish throug
See All 3 ProgramsRustic Pathways
4.44
36
Costa Rica is where adventure, service, cultural immersion, and the wonders of nature intersect. Our programs focus on turtle conservation, surfing, and connection with the local communities. With programs for high school students, college students, and young explorers, there’s an exciting opportuni
Raleigh International
4.48
23
Joining a Raleigh Costa Rica Expedition is a truly unique experience that allows you to take part in different projects, equip yourself with new skills, create lasting change with the communities we work with and take urgent action on environmental issues. Work with local initiatives and organisati
Nosara Spanish Institute
4.71
7
For those looking to combine training of the body and mind, NSI's Spanish & Yoga program combines the best of what Nosara has to offer. As a world-class yoga teacher training destination, Nosara has an abundance of expert yoga instructors and first-class yoga studios. In this program, students c
See All 3 ProgramsGlobal Work & Travel
0
0
Costa Rica Wild & Free is a 10-day social group trip through San José, Sarapiquí, Arenal, Río Celeste, Monteverde, Esterillos Beach, Uvita and Nauyaca Waterfalls, built for 18 to 35ish travellers who want rainforest, wildlife, beach time and adventure without planning it all themselves. Use code GA
4.86
42
Travel to Costa Rica for a program rich in community service and eco-adventure. Experience the traditional town of Atenas, surrounded by verdant mountains. Immerse fully in the Costa Rican culture by living with a local family and engaging in community service projects and afternoon cultural worksho
Putney Student Travel
0
0
Join a welcoming host community in Costa Rica and take part in hands-on service projects that support local initiatives. Work alongside residents on small-scale construction, environmental efforts, and activities with local children, gaining insight into community life and Costa Rican culture. Betwe
Intercultura Costa Rica
5
6
Ready for the ultimate summer in Costa Rica? Our Teen Summer Adventure Camp is a chance to improve your Spanish while exploring tropical beaches, volcanoes, rainforests, and some of the most incredible places on the planet. After your fun, active Spanish classes (both in the city and at our amaz
4
1
The lively beach town of Santa Teresa is world famous for surf breaks across beaches pristine, uncrowded and seemingly endless. After surfing and sunbathing are over for the day – and Spanish lessons and surfing! – the town comes alive with funky surf shops, cafes, restaurants and nightspots for eve
See All 3 ProgramsWestcoast Connection
5
2
Dive into the perfect balance of meaningful service projects, cultural immersion, and unforgettable adventures in this teen summer program. Travel to Costa Rica and work alongside some of our long-standing partners on projects such as building infrastructure in the Central Valley and helping cook fo
See All 3 ProgramsGoBeyond Student Travel
4.88
8
This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language sk
See All 2 ProgramsBroadreach
4
1
Get your hands dirty on a wildlife adventure! Journey through the amazingly biodiverse rainforests and beaches of Costa Rica. Work with your friends to collect sea turtle hatchling data and contribute to conservation in action. Over the next 14 days, you'll venture across Costa Rica and explore th
Outward Bound Costa Rica
4.5
34
Experience an unforgettable adventure with fellow Girl Scouts from across the United States! Our GSUSA Destinations courses in Costa Rica and Panama will give you an opportunity to visit remote rainforest villages with family homestays, serve local communities, scuba dive among the colorful coral re
See All 4 ProgramsDiscover Corps
0
0
Set in the lush Central Valley, this journey blends creativity, culture, and community all in the span of one long weekend. You’ll explore how Costa Ricans are reimagining sustainability—from artisans giving new life to retired airplane seats, to farmers cultivating cacao through regenerative practi
EWE Tours
0
0
Our Costa Rica Golf Tour offers players age 14-21 the unique opportunity of going abroad for golf at championship courses, along with community service and adventure excursions. Your team can compete in mini-tournaments against Costa Rican youth players. All while immersing you in Costa Rica’s cultu
5
7
This language program includes everything you need to learn, practice, and improve your Spanish in a truly idyllic location. The Standard Spanish Program accepts students aged 18 and above, from complete beginners to advanced speakers. Whether you need to improve your Spanish for professional purpos
5
2
Seeds of Change seeks to train young biology students in comparative microbial bioinformatics to give them a leg up in this burgeoning field. Students study microbial bioinformatics because microbes are central to all environments on the planet, drive biogeochemical cycles, and perform functions vit
0
0
This 17-day journey offers an enriching blend of thrilling adventure, deep cultural immersion, and impactful conservation work in the heart of Costa Rica. Start by immersing yourself in the vibrant local culture in Quepos with Spanish lessons, cooking, dance, and surfing classes. Explore rich biodiv
Oyster Worldwide
4.85
20
Spend some time in the wild coastal areas of Costa Rica, working with a local charity to help protect adult and baby turtles facing extinction and are increasingly at risk. This programme offers you the opportunity to be part of a vital project that aims to ensure that as many turtles as possible ma
0
0
Get ready for six weeks of non-stop adventure in Costa Rica! This program is packed with a variety of activities designed for those who want to travel and spend time in the outdoors. You'll hike through the vibrant jungles, surf epic waves, zip line through lush canopies, and camp under starry skies
0
0
Try your hand at off-grid living in the jungle. Your hosts are two experts at jungle living: Dan is a natural builder who knows how to use materials from the earth to make houses and furniture. He built the wells and electrical systems, and has a creative solution to troubleshoot any problem. Lis is
A Guide to Adventure Travel Abroad in Costa Rica
Most Adventurous Places
Located in Central America between Nicaragua and Panama, Costa Rica is home to over five percent of the entire world's biodiversity.
La Fortuna. A small town located at the base of Volcán Arenal, La Fortuna is the gateway to adventure travel in Costa Rica. Travelers can choose from a variety of activities, including hiking the side of the volcano, rafting the Balsa River, canyoning in the Lost Canyon, kayaking or stand-up paddle boarding on Lake Arenal, and relaxing in the natural hot springs heated by the activity of the volcano.
Monteverde. Nestled between two cloud forests, you'll know you've arrived in Monteverde by the dramatic temperature shift and a change in scenery. Surrounded by lush flora and fauna of a misty rainforest, Monteverde is home to a complex ecosystem of over 100 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, thousands of insects, and plant life that will enhance your Costa Rica adventures.
Manuel Antonio. Home to Manuel Antonio National Park, this Pacific Coast town is your best bet for spotting curious spider monkeys and sleepy sloths. If you want to learn to surf, Manuel Antonio's coastal beaches are known for being some of the best places in the world to do just that.
Popular Adventure Types
Adventure travel programs in Costa Rica lure people of all ages to create their perfect vacation, whether it be enjoying a relaxing stay on a picturesque beach or an adrenaline-pumping tour through the mysterious mountains.
From bungee jumping over the edge of a bridge to spelunking, there is no shortage of adventure in this small Central American country. Of all the adventure tours in Costa Rica, the most popular adventures are zip lining through the jungle trees and surfing the endless waves along the coast.
Eco-tours are amongst the best Costa Rica adventures out there. They will vary from adrenaline-packed activities, like extreme hiking and whitewater rafting to the more relaxing options, like night tours through the jungle and sunset catamaran cruises on the open waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Other adventure travel programs in Costa Rica include traversing the hanging bridges suspended high in the canopy of the jungles surrounded by clouds, or horseback riding along the rocky cliffs of the majestic mountains. Bird watching and night tours are also popular activities, offering visitors unique opportunities to glimpse several species of animals, some of which exist only within Costa Rica's enchanting cloud forests.
Anticipated Costs
Costa Rica is one of the more expensive countries in Central America, but can easily be traveled to on a budget. Both the local currency, called colones, and the U.S. dollar are widely accepted and dispensed via ATMs throughout the country. Be mindful of the current exchange rate as Ticos tend to use a standard 500 colones to $1 regardless of the actual market rate. It may, therefore, not work in your favor to spend U.S. dollars.
For the foodies on adventure travel in Costa Rica, cheaper meals can be found at sodas, a common inexpensive local eatery. A typical casado dish, consisting of rice, beans, plantains, salad, and your choice of meat, will likely set you back $5 to $10. Tipping is not common in Costa Rica, unless you receive excellent service.
Adventure tours in Costa Rica will generally cost between $40 and $50, including transportation, a snack, beverages, and a guide. Public transportation is cheap, with an average bus ride within town costing less than $1. If you’re still worried about your potential travel expenses, consider creating a FundMyTravel campaign to raise extra money for your trip!
GoAbroad’s Inside Scoop
During adventure travel programs in Costa Rica, travelers receive the best of both worlds with its rich biodiversity and range of thrills. Adventurers can spend one day relaxing beachside with a warm Caribbean breeze blowing through their hair, fresh coconut in hand, and the next day zipline through the canopies, soaring above the trees with epic bird's-eye views. There aren't many other countries that can offer you quite the same range and beauty as Costa Rica.
Instagram photos and traveler stories often paint an idyllic picture of Costa Rica, but the country does have its challenges. One unexpected challenge for all accommodations is the poor plumbing throughout the country. Visitors and locals alike are expected to dispose of any used toilet paper in the bathroom wastebasket rather than the toilet, a habit that is hard to break when not accustomed to it.
With an ambitious goal of being carbon neutral by 2021, Costa Rica has raised the bar for global ecotourism and is the ideal destination for eco-friendly adventure travel. The unique biodiversity and vast variety of adventure activity options within this small Central American country provide the perfect backdrop for your next international adventure.
Latest Program Reviews
Excelente experiencia
July 23, 2026by: Teddy Bermúdez - Costa RicaProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
Hola. Yo soy el papá de Isabella Bermúdez. Ella quedó encantada con la experiencia que tuvo durante la semana del campamento de verano en Manuel Antonio. Me dijo que la mamá anfitriona fue excelente. Las actividades y la puntualidad no puede ser mejor. Gracias
My trip
July 22, 2026by: Nate Bradley - United StatesProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
I had an amazing time in Costa Rica. It is a beautiful country and Maximo Nivel enabled me to see all of it at its peak. I also racked up community service hours while having a great time with my friends. Would recommend to anyone.
Amazing
July 22, 2026by: Harlowe Schneider - FranceProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
I had a wonderful 2 weeks at the summer camp. I enjoyed discovering new cultures through the host families. The volunteer part was also rewarding seeing communities and helping them in Quépos and San Jose. The activities didn’t leave any time for boredom. I loved exploring Costa Rica’s beautiful nature with a bunch of visits. We did surfing, cooking classes, scuba diving and a lot more great activities! The group was also the perfect size with between 20-14 campers and was great for a warm atmosphere. I made friends I definitely have to visit. The staff was also professional and friendly. Would recommend to any teenager who likes travelling and meeting people! Loved it.
A unique experience
July 21, 2026by: Brooke Bennett - United StatesProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
I enjoyed a deep immersion in the the culture and history of Costa Rica. The counselors were very knowledgeable and helpful. I especially enjoyed Zip-lining in San Jose and and hiking with Rainmaker. I highly recommend coming with a friend as I think it greatly improves your overall experience.
Great experience
July 21, 2026by: Ben Blaxk - United StatesProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
Very fun and eye opening experience, with lots of great immersion and opportunity to make new friends. The program felt very smooth and was fun day to day with new things to learn and experience as the days goes on.
A trip i’ll never forget!!
July 20, 2026by: Brooke Schneider - FranceProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
During these two weeks, i made so many new friends and new memories i will cherish forever. I really enjoyed spending time with them and experiencing new things together. The counselors were always there to make sure we were okay and were very supportive. I will miss Nico and Rosa a lot as well as all the friends i have made these past two weeks. Time went by too fast and i wish it lasted a little longer. The hardest part of this trip was saying goodbye. I’m very thankful for everyone who made these two weeks what they were and everything we experienced together will stay with me for a long time. Costa Rica will always have a special place in my heart and i hope our paths will cross again someday. Thank you for everything.
Best week ever!
July 20, 2026by: Kathleen Gayle - Costa RicaProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
I had an amazing time at camp. I got to try so many new things, like surfing and scuba diving, which I had never done before.I made friends from different places. The instructors were awesomethey were really fun, supportive, and made every activity even better. It was such a great experience, and I’m really glad I was part of it
I had so much fun!
July 20, 2026by: Cambelle Fawell - United StatesProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
The trip was very fun, I felt really immersed in the culture. I learned a lot and made a lot of friends, and counselors were really fun. Taking the spanish classes taught me a lot and I feel like the experience was even better because we were with locals.
Best time ever
July 20, 2026by: Mary Marley - United StatesProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
I made so many new friends and I was very immerse in the culture there I had the best time ever. I love this game so much even if it has a few bumps the smooth bumps outweigh the bad bumps. Nico is the best.

Great experience
July 19, 2026by: Alejandro Romainville - PeruProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
This summer camp was honestly one of the best experiences of my life. I came here expecting to have a good time, but I left with so much more than that. I met incredible people from different parts of the world, made friendships I’ll never forget, and created memories that I’ll carry with me forever. Every day was filled with fun activities, new experiences, and moments that pushed me out of my comfort zone in the best way possible. The staff and counselors were amazing, always supportive, welcoming, and genuinely dedicated to making sure everyone had an unforgettable experience. What made this camp truly special wasn’t just the activities, it was the atmosphere. It felt like one big family where everyone looked out for each other, laughed together, and made every moment count. The two weeks went by way too fast, and saying goodbye was much harder than I ever imagined. I’m incredibly grateful for everything this camp gave me. It helped me grow, meet amazing people, and create memories I’ll treasure for the rest of my life. I would recommend this experience to anyone without hesitation, and if I had the chance, I would come back in a heartbeat. Thank you for an unforgettable summer.
Fantastic experience for a first time solo traveller
July 17, 2026by: Michelle Betty - United KingdomProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
My 17 year old daughter joined this camp from the UK. It was the first time she had travelled on her own. I was extremely pleased with how she was looked after right from arriving at the airport to when she left to come home. She has made some great friends and had some wonderful experiences. I would thoroughly recommend for a teenager wanting to experience travel and volunteering.
Great opportunity and wonderful experience
July 15, 2026by: Dirk Nielsen - CanadaProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
My 16 year old daughter was part of this program and had a wonderful time. A great balance of good food, great adventure and a nice safe environment for travel and exploration. Nico the guide was very helpful and a great communicator. This was a great program.
the best experience
July 14, 2026by: Lucy Betty - United KingdomProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
My experience was honestly unforgettable and one of the best experiences I have ever had. From the moment I arrived, I felt welcomed by both the staff and the other people on the programme. The activities and trips were definitely some of the highlights of the camp. Every day felt different and exciting, and I had the opportunity to experience a new culture, explore amazing places and try things that I probably wouldn’t have done at home. The programme was well organised, and the staff were supportive, approachable and always made sure everyone felt safe while still allowing us to have fun and be independent. One of my favourite parts was meeting people from different places and creating friendships and memories that I will never forget. The experience helped me become more confident, independent and open-minded. I learned so much about the local culture, but I also learned a lot about myself. Overall, I would definitely recommend to any teenager who loves travelling, meeting new people and experiencing new things. It was an incredible experience filled with fun, adventure and unforgettable memories, and I would happily do it all over again.
Unforgettable Experience
July 12, 2026by: Maya Blumin - CanadaProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
**Unforgettable Experience** This Costa Rican summer camp was an unforgettable adventure filled with exciting activities and amazing memories. The counsellors were caring, supportive, and always made everyone feel welcome. I’d highly recommend this camp!
I had a good trip
July 12, 2026by: Timmy Wood - United StatesProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
I had a great time meeting new people and going and doing fun activities and volunteering. I liked eating the costa rican food and practicing my spanish. I would recommend this program to my friends and i will tell people about jt
I made some good memories
July 12, 2026by: Oliver Cisneros - United StatesProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
it was good there were a lot of long bus rides but also a lot of good memories made such as playing soccer with the kids or talking to the local girls at paddle ball. The kids were really nice and so were the instructors
The best 2 weeks.
July 12, 2026by: Giana Rive - United StatesProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
This summer, I joined a summer program in Costa Rica. It was a very fun and exciting experience. I met many new people from different countries, and we became good friends. Everyone was kind and friendly, so I felt welcome from the first day. The program had many interesting activities. We learned about the culture, practiced our language skills, and worked together on different projects. We also visited beautiful places like beaches, forests, and small towns. Costa Rica has amazing nature, and I loved seeing the animals and plants. One of my favorite parts was spending time outside because the weather was warm and the views were beautiful. The teachers and staff were very helpful. They always answered our questions and made sure everyone felt comfortable and safe. I learned many new things from the people around me. This program helped me become more confident and independent. I improved my communication skills and learned how to work with people from different backgrounds. I also made memories that I will never forget. I think this summer program is a great choice for students. It is a wonderful way to learn, make new friends, and enjoy the beautiful country of Costa Rica. I would recommend it to anyone
I had the best two weeks
July 12, 2026by: Sophie Ribeiro - United StatesProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
Two unforgettable weeks in Costa Rica, lush rainforests, stunning beaches, incredible wildlife, and the kindest people. Every sunset, adventure, and moment made this trip truly unforgettable. Pura Vida!
A great time!
July 08, 2026by: Lucy Nielsen - CanadaProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
I had such a fun time during my stay in costa rica! I would recommend this program to anyone wanting to travel aboard for the first time alone it’s a great experience! All the activities were so fun and it was so cool experiencing the culture!
Lots of fun
July 05, 2026by: Charlie Benson - United StatesProgram: Summer Camp in Costa Rica | Spanish Camp & Volunteer Camp
This program was so much fun. I did so many things I’ve always wanted to do but never did before. I got to see things like I have always wanted to see. The host family’s were so nice and the food was so good.
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Michaela Rubenstein
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My parents really pushed me to go abroad because they knew it would make me a well-rounded individual and they regretted not doing it themselves. I al...

Sydney Harned 2011
Broadreach
I’d always been interested in traveling abroad, especially to study marine science. I thought it would be a great experience for me to learn more abou...
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