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Costa Rica Summer Program | Pacific Discovery

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$2,000-$5,000Program Costs
VerifiedProvider
5.0 / 5Overall Rating
2Reviews
2001Year established

Program Overview

Get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure in Costa Rica, one of the happiest countries on earth! This jam-packed program for individuals ages 18-22 throws you into the heart of the action. Hike through lush rainforests in Los Santos, navigate thrilling rapids on the Pacuare River, and kayak through the serene Golfito – no experience necessary, just bring your sense of adventure!

Discover the secret to Costa Rica's happiness: the laid-back "Tico" vibe meets a globally inspiring model of eco-stewardship. Learn about sustainability firsthand at a permaculture ranch, living alongside the local community and immersing yourself in the authentic culture. You'll even have the chance to contribute to conservation efforts at a wildlife rescue center, helping to rehabilitate exotic animals like sloths and howler monkeys. Leave Costa Rica feeling empowered, connected, and with a heart full of happy memories.

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Program Highlights

Surf on the pristine beaches of the Pacific coast with professional surf gurus.
Take a 3-day whitewater rafting trip through rapids and waterfalls on the Pacuare river.
Join a volunteer project rehabilitating sloths, monkeys, and other exotic animals at an animal rescue center.
Sea kayak through the Golfito on a multi-day adventure through secret islets.
Hike the Ruta Sukia, a pristine rainforest with lots of exotic birds and flowing cascades—live under the same roof as local families in homestays along the way.

What's Included

Tuition & Fees
Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
All Program Activity Costs
Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Group Meals
Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
In-Country Transportation To & From Project
Required Equipment
Guide / Chaperone
Pre-Departure Orientation
In-Country Orientation
Cultural Training / Program / Orientation
Certificate of Completion

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • San Jose, Costa Rica

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered
  • 2026

Eligible Nationalities

  • All Nationalities

Education Levels & Language

  • Language
  • English
  • Education
  • University Freshman (1st Year)
  • University Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • University Junior (3rd Year)
  • University Senior (4th Year)
  • High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)

Accommodation Options

  • Group living
  • Guest House
  • Home-stays
  • Other

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Age Requirement

18-25

Duration

  • 2-4 Weeks
  • Summer
  • After College
  • Post High School
  • During College

Starts At

$2,000-$5,000

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about Pacific Discovery

5.0
2 reviews

Rating breakdown

5
2
4
0
3
0
2
0
1
0

Top categories

Volunteer Placement
5.0
Program Administration
5.0
Living Situation
5.0
Community Engagement
5.0
Health & Safety
5.0
Day to Day Life
5.0

Participated in this program? Share your experience now.

Review this Program

Showing 1-2 of 2 reviews

Caroline EdgeDecember 2021

Best Summer experience

I was really able to get back to my best self. I lost some of that during the last year of online school and lots of other challenges, but I was able to see myself and what I want from a different perspective which allowed me to get back on my path of life. This trip was exactly what I needed to get out of my funk. Thank you, Amelia, Justin, and PD.

Nyla HekierUnited States · December 2021

Incredible volunteering experience

I had an incredible experience with Pacific Discovery! I became more confident in myself as a person and my abilities to make friends, meet new people from around the world, travel, cook, be active, and live life how I want to. After the trip, I came home fully ready to go to college. I knew that I could face any challenge that came my way. There will, as expected, be ups and downs throughout the whole trip, but that is how we grow - being outside our comfort zone. Traveling with Pacific Discovery is a truly unique opportunity to explore the world, form close relationships, experience something new every day, and build your confidence.

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Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2025 - Gap Year
2025 Finalist - Innovation in Diversity
GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2024 - Gap Year Abroad
Top Rated Provider 2023 - Gap Year
People’s Choice Award 2023 Finalist
Innovation in Sustainability 2023 Finalist
Innovation in Sustainability 2023 Winner
Top Rated Gap Year Provider 2022
Innovative New Program – Volunteer Abroad Finalist 2022
Innovation in Marketing & Digital Media Finalist 2022
Top Rate Organization 2021 - Gap Year
Innovative Student Video 2021 Finalist
Innovative New Program – Volunteer Abroad 2021 Finalist
Year Out Group
American Gap Association

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