Pura Vida with Service Learning: Spring Break in Costa Rica
Program Overview
Costa Rica is an exceptional destination for a program in cultural studies, offering participants the opportunity to explore a rich blend of biodiversity, Indigenous heritage, and community-centered traditions. Through meaningful engagement with local communities and educational institutions, participants gain a deeper understanding of the country's cultural diversity, sustainability, and commitment to social and environmental stewardship.
This 7-day program explores San José, La Fortuna, and Cahuita through immersive academic and cultural experiences. Highlights include an intercultural exchange and cultural lecture at Universidad Técnica Nacional (UTN), visits to a local school, Reserva Azahar, and a Bribri Indigenous community, as well as excursions to Arenal Volcano, Arenal Thermal Hot Springs, Cahuita National Park, and the Bribri Jungle Waterfall, showcasing Costa Rica's vibrant cultural and natural landscapes.
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Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.
Program Highlights
What's Included
Exclusions
Quick Details
- 1-2 Weeks
- Community Centers
- Community Development
- Conservation
- Eco-Tourism
- Marine Conservation
Updated Oct 28, 2026
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Costa Rica
Types & Subjects
- Causes
- Community Centers
- Community Development
- Conservation
- Eco-Tourism
- Marine Conservation
Available Terms / Availability
- Years Offered
- 2027
Eligible Nationalities
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Couples, Families, Group
Education Levels & Language
- Language
- English
- Education
- University Freshman (1st Year)
- University Sophomore (2nd Year)
- University Junior (3rd Year)
- University Senior (4th Year)
- University 5th Year or More
- Some college credit, no degree
- Trade/technical/vocational training
- Associate degree
- Bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree
- Professional degree
- Doctorate degree
Accommodation Options
- Group living
Application Procedures
- Online Application
Age Requirement
18+
Duration
- 1-2 Weeks
Starts At
- 1 week: $1,785
Payment Terms
- Upfront Deposit
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all the most common questions about Study Abroad Association.
When is the program, and how long is it?
It runs 7 days, from Saturday, March 6 to Friday, March 12, 2027, with 6 nights in Costa Rica.
How much does it cost?
The on-ground price is $1,785 per person in a double or triple room. A single room is $2,385. International airfare is not included.
What’s included in the price?
- 6 nights of accommodation with ensuite bathrooms, Wi-Fi, and daily breakfast
- All ground transportation
- Meals and activities listed in the itinerary
- Tips and gratuities
- A 24/7 on-site Program Director
- Mandatory international health insurance
What’s not included?
- International airfare
- Meals not listed in the itinerary (about $20 per meal)
- Passport and visa fees
- Optional activities
- Trip insurance
- Personal expenses
When should I book my flight?
Wait until SAA confirms the program has reached its 10-participant minimum. SAA will then share the arrival and departure windows. SAA is not responsible for flights booked before that confirmation.
What are the key deadlines?
All payments will be made in SAA’s “WeTravel” enrollment system and are due no later than the following dates: Deposit of $400 is required 101 days before departure (November 25, 2026) Second installment of $500 is due 70 days before departure (December 26, 2026) Final balance of $885 is due 40 days before departure (January 25, 2027)
You can register until December 26th, 2026.
Where will I stay?
You’ll stay in top-rated hotels in San José, La Fortuna, and Cahuita, sharing a room with 1–2 others. Each participant gets their own bed and an ensuite bathroom. Final hotels are confirmed about two months before departure.
How physically demanding is the trip?
The program involves a lot of walking and hiking, changes in elevation, and some remote areas. Many sites aren’t accessible for travelers with disabilities. Email [email protected] with any questions before registering
Do I need vaccines or medication?
Review the CDC’s travel health guidance for Costa Rica and see your doctor at least a month before departure. The CDC recommends malaria prevention medication for certain areas, including Alajuela province, which is on this itinerary.
What is the refund policy?
If written notice of cancellation or withdrawal is received more than 70 days prior to departure, the initial deposit shall be refunded per participant. In cases of cancellation or withdrawal on or after 70 days of departure, no refund of fees will be issued. Refunds of payments made to SAA may take up to three months or more, depending on timing of refunds made to SAA from contractors
Recognitions & Awards
Awards and accreditations earned by this provider
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