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Coast to Coast Expedition: Costa Rica & Panama

by: Outward Bound Costa Rica

Add first reviewVerifiedSince 1994

What’s the best way to explore two Central American countries? Go on a cross-country expedition with OBCR and trek from the Caribbean to the Pacific! Our Coast to Coast Expedition Semester is an 85-day course with an immersive journey on foot through valleys and lush rainforests for 26 days. You will have the opportunity to brush up on your Spanish and immerse in Costa Rican traditions while through a homestay with a family in a rural area. Boost your leadership and raft-guiding skills through challenging and exhilarating whitewater rafting excursions. Explore remote tropical islands on a kayak and catch some waves on world-renowned beaches. Then, travel to Panama to earn your NAUI scuba certification in tropical waters and try your hand at sailing, wakeboarding, and snorkeling. At the end of the program, you will earn First Aid and CPR certifications, as well as up to 12 academic credits. *Please note that, for the health and safety of our participants, OBCR has made program adjustments to these courses. Please visit our website to view our COVID-19 considerations.*

Program Highlights

Enroll in an exciting semester course that enlightens you of Central America’s beautiful outdoors and rich cultures.

Experience the diversity of two picturesque Central American countries: Costa Rica & Panama

Become truly immersed with the environment and distinct cultures of these countries.

Take part in exhilarating outdoor activities, such as kayaking, scuba diving, and surfing.

Earn CPR/AED/First Aid and Scuba Diver or Advanced Scuba Diver certifications, as well as academic credits.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Cartago, Costa Rica
  • Guanacaste, Costa Rica
  • Limon, Costa Rica
  • Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
  • Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
  • Quepos, Costa Rica
  • Rural Areas, Costa Rica
  • San Jose, Costa Rica
  • Talamanca, Costa Rica
  • Turrialba, Costa Rica
  • Bocas del Toro, Panama
Availability
Gap Year Timing:
  • After College
  • Post High School
  • During College
  • During High School
  • Career Break / Mid-Career
Age Requirement: 18+
Types & Subjects
Types:
  • Adventure Travel
  • Experiential Learning
  • Scuba Diving
  • Self-Discovery
  • Spanish
  • Study Abroad
  • Volunteering
  • Wilderness
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details
Last Updated: Apr 22, 2025

Awards

Innovative New Program – Intern Abroad Finalist 2022Top Rated Organization 2021 - Gap Year

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Cartago, Costa Rica
  • Guanacaste, Costa Rica
  • Limon, Costa Rica
  • Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica
  • Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica
  • Quepos, Costa Rica
  • Rural Areas, Costa Rica
  • San Jose, Costa Rica
  • Talamanca, Costa Rica
  • Turrialba, Costa Rica
  • Bocas del Toro, Panama

Types and Subjects

  • Types
  • Adventure Travel
  • Experiential Learning
  • Scuba Diving
  • Self-Discovery
  • Spanish
  • Study Abroad
  • Volunteering
  • Wilderness

Availability

Gap Year Timing:
  • After College
  • Post High School
  • During College
  • During High School
  • Career Break / Mid-Career

Age Requirement

18+

Guidelines

All Nationalities

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Home-stays

Qualifications & Experience

      Accepted Education Levels

    • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

    Application Procedures

    • Online Application

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