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GP

Culture and Ecotourism in Costa Rica

Experience the biodiversity of Costa Rica and its captivating ecosystems.

Costa Rica has been called “The Happiest Place on Earth,” and it’s not hard to see why. With its stunning natural landscape, hearty food, and friendly atmosphere, this tropical country is an ideal place to spend an action-packed summer.

During your two-week Global Prep program, you’ll get to explore rainforests, caves, and beaches, while absorbing Costa Rica’s vibrant culture and history. You and your group will also visit the home of the indigenous Boruca people and take part in some of their traditions.

When you return from this life-changing adventure, you’re bound to have lots of amazing stories, lessons, and photos to share!

Eligibility Requirements

Age
14years 0month(s) to 17years 11month(s)

Language
Medium English will ensure you can enjoy the program and are able to interact with the other multinational participants.
Basic Spanish can be useful

If you want an authentic experience to fuel your passion for social change, culture, nature, or science—make friends while making a real impact through AFS Global Prep!

Start Here!
With a simple formula, your AFS Global Prep will empower you to change your world, engage in hands-on activities, and create benefit for the community.
EXP2

Thrive in an incredible new place, unlike anything you’ve experienced so far, and create authentic connections that will last a lifetime!

Where else can I go?
LEARN2

Pursue your interests, while becoming a real global citizen through an AFS structured intercultural learning program

What is Global Competency?
IMP1

Leave your mark on the communities you touch and work towards impacting your future prospects

Your Program

CRC-Samara

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our investigation into Costa Rican culture will start with a tour of the capital, San Jose. As you walk around the city, you’ll have time to wander through the Jade Museum.

Next, you and your group will learn about the indigenous culture of the Boruca people, who live in the Southwestern part of the country. There you’ll take part in local traditions and attend workshops covering topics like dancing and mask-making. (The Boruca are known for the colorful, handcrafted masks that they wear during their end of the year celebration.)

You and your group will also get to see the famous stone spheres at the Ballena Marine National Park. Several myths surround these ancient stone orbs, and their intricate construction and assembly show that their creators must have been skilled sculptors and mathematicians. In fact, one legend holds that at the center of each sphere is a single coffee bean!

Explore Costa Rica

Exploring the area

As you travel to some of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations, you and your group will get to appreciate the country’s national parks and rainforests.

First you’ll head the Monteverde Reserve, where you’ll take a tour of the spectacular rainforest canopy.

Then you’re off to Guanacaste for an interactive visit at the EcoMuseum.

Another highlight of your trip is bound to be your day at the Barra Honda National Park. There you’ll walk through the forest and venture below the Earth’s surface into the vast natural caves.

After days of cultural exploration, you and your friends will have the chance to relax at the Playa Samara beach on the Pacific Ocean.

Apply now!

Accommodation

Local hostels and Gallo Pinto

During your time in Costa Rica, you’ll be staying in local hostels in rooms reserved exclusively for AFS students.

As you settle in, you’ll get to know the other members of your group as you explore Costa Rican culture together.

You and your new friends can try some local restaurants, where you might taste delicious dishes like gallo pinto(rice and beans) and olla de carne (beef stew with potatoes, onions, and vegetables).

Returning Home

“Life-changing” is hard to describe, yet it’s nearly always the first thing that AFSers say when asked about their experience abroad. “Transformed” is another one. When you return home, if you’re like most AFSers, you’ll bring with you a sense of accomplishment unlike any other. You’ll have gained maturity and independence, discovered new passions, and feel like you can do anything you set your mind to. That transformation isn’t visible only to you, though – others see it as well. AFSers gain critical skills for college and careers, ranging from language fluency to intercultural competence and critical reasoning. “Life-changing” means it’s only the beginning.

Apply now!

AFSers in action:

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