GIVE @ Boise state

 

 

 

Travel with Purpose

Costa Rica Alternative Break • May 22 – 29, 2027

GIVE and Boise State Alternative Breaks are partnering to offer a meaningful travel experience in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. Students will support local sustainability and education initiatives in the coastal village of Gandoca while exploring Costa Rica’s rainforests, rivers, and culture. Through service learning, environmental education, and cultural immersion, you’ll build leadership skills, global perspective, and real-world experience alongside fellow Boise State students.

Interested in another destination?
Costa Rica is just one of many opportunities available through GIVE.

Explore programs in Thailand, Laos, Tanzania, Nicaragua, Hawai’i, and beyond.

Boise State funding is available only for the Costa Rica Alternative Break program.

Get Started

Complete the short form below to let us know which GIVE program you’re interested in.

If you’re interested in the Boise State-sponsored Costa Rica Alternative Break, we’ll send you the next steps for completing the Boise State Alternative Break application to determine your eligibility for the program and Boise State funding.

In the meantime, you can check out the itinerary and program details below to learn more about the Costa Rica experience, or explore our other programs around the world.

Costa Rica Itinerary

 Trip Dates: May 22 – 29, 2027 (8 Days)

Days 1-2

Arrival in San Jose & Whitewater Rafting

Day 1: Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport, where you’ll meet your GIVE guides before checking into nearby accommodations. That evening, we’ll share our first meal together and go over the exciting journey ahead.

Day 2: After breakfast, embark on an epic class III-IV whitewater rafting adventure down the Pacuare River, navigating stunning canyons and jungles before continuing to the coastal community of Gandoca, your home for the next few days!

Days 3-6

Gandoca Projects & Cultural Immersion

Welcome to Gandoca, where the sound of howler monkeys and the aroma of a Caribbean breakfast greet you each morning. Once a thriving ecotourism hub with a strong sea turtle population, Gandoca’s economy has suffered due to the environmental impacts of nearby agrochemicals. We’re excited to work with the community to revitalize the local environment and livelihoods with organic farming, beach clean-ups and other ecotourism initiatives.

Gandoca residents also recognize the importance of English education for greater economic and educational opportunities. However, limited access to government services has hindered consistent programs. As a GIVE Volunteer, you’ll help to facilitate English classes for youth (ages 6-16) and adults. Outside of teaching, immerse yourself in the community through cooking classes, sports with local kids, cacao ceremonies, lagoon tours, and relaxing on the beach!

Days 7-8

Wildlife Rescue Center & Departure from San Jose

Day 7: Bid farewell to your new friends in Gandoca before beginning the scenic journey back to San José. Along the way, visit an Animal Rescue Center to meet sloths, monkeys, big cats, and other rescued wildlife, then enjoy a Caribbean lunch in the vibrant beach town of Puerto Viejo. Wrap up your adventure with one final evening of reflection, celebration, and connection.

Day 8: All good things must come to an end, but the memories and friendships will last a lifetime. Bid farewell to your GIVE guides and fellow travelers as you begin your journey home.

What's Included

When you travel with GIVE, you won’t be surprised by hidden fees upon arrival. Dive into all that’s included in our all-in-one trip prices.

  • All accommodations
  • Transportation (not including flights)
  • 3 meals per day & clean drinking water
  • 24/7 guide support 
  • All adventures and cultural experiences
  • Funding for volunteer projects & sustainability initiatives
  • Pre-trip & in-transit support from GIVE’s Travel Specialists
  • Access to your personalized GIVE Profile
  • Access to GIVE’s preferred insurance & flight partners
  • Trip preparation tools, guides and checklists
  • Access to GIVE’s Ambassador Community post-trip

Simply put: we care. GIVE goes above and beyond for our travelers before, during and after your trip. See all that’s included in your GIVE trip here!

What's Not Included

We’ve got almost everything covered! You’ll just need to arrange your flights, travel insurance, and travel documents—and we’ll help you every step of the way. Dive into what’s included here.

Voices from the ground

Hear from the locals and leaders who bring GIVE to life:

Rake Jimenez

Lead Guide

“I first connected with GIVE in 2023 on a permaculture farm in Costa Rica, where I felt deeply aligned with their purpose: living consciously, honoring the land, and creating positive impact. Today, I’m grateful to share my culture and passion for mindful living as a local guide. But what makes this role truly meaningful is the people, being part of their journey and creating change together is an incredible gift and privilege.”

 

Dylan Wilbar

Education Coordinator

“My journey with GIVE began in fall 2013 with sandboarding down Cerro Negro and shredding some volcanic gnar. Currently, I work as the educational coordinator and guide for the Costa Rica program, and I love sharing my passion for permaculture design. The most meaningful part about working with GIVE travelers is sparking a curiosity that empowers the travelers to continue learning once they are home.”

 

Mia Denhart

Lead Guide

“My GIVE journey began in Thailand in 2022, where my perspective on life completely shifted. I left with a deep sense of purpose and belief that I could help make a difference. Now I guide our Costa Rica program, where I feel most alive, connected to the land, the people, and every traveler. The most meaningful part is watching volunteers leave empowered to lead change in their own lives, schools, and communities.”

 

Hear what recent travelers have to say

Trustpilot

Program Details

  • Program Dates: May 22 – 29, 2027
  • How it Works:
    1. Submit the GIVE Interest Form
      Complete the short form above so we know you’re interested.
    2. Complete the Boise State Alternative Break Application
      We’ll send you instructions to complete the Boise State application. Students accepted into the program are eligible for at least $600 in university funding.
    3. Reserve Your Spot with GIVE
      Once accepted by Boise State, you’ll receive instructions to create your GIVE Profile and reserve your spot with a $450 deposit. The deposit is nonrefundable, but good for life and transferable if plans change.
    4. Get Ready to Travel
      GIVE and Boise State will guide you through flights, passports, travel insurance, pre-trip preparation, and everything else you’ll need before departure.
    5. Attend Pre-Trip Meetings
      GIVE and Boise State will host pre-trip meetings to help participants start to explore how service, education, and reflection can work together to create meaningful change in communities near and far. These sessions will also provide an opportunity to get to know fellow trip participants and the staff trip leader.
  • What You’ll Pay: $765–$1,095 + Flights & Travel Insurance
    • This includes your $450 deposit to reserve your spot. The deposit is not an additional cost.
    • The full GIVE program cost is $1,695, but students accepted into the Boise State Alternative Break program are eligible to receive $600–$930 in university funding, reducing your cost to $765–$1,095.
    • Eligibility: This program is available to students who will be enrolled at Boise State during the Fall 2027 semester. If that doesn’t apply to you, we’d still love to help you explore GIVE’s other programs around the world.
  • Boise State Funding:
    • Every student accepted into the program will receive at least $600 in Boise State funding toward their GIVE program cost.
    • Additional stipends are available for students with demonstrated financial need. Eligible students may receive up to $930 toward their GIVE program cost.
    • Additional stipend consideration is included as part of the Boise State Alternative Break application.
  • Application Process:
    • Start by submitting the GIVE Interest Form above.
    • We’ll send you instructions to complete the Boise State Alternative Break application.
    • Boise State reviews applications on a rolling basis and typically responds within two weeks.
    • If accepted, you’ll receive instructions to create your GIVE Profile and reserve your spot with a $450 deposit.
    • Your spot is not confirmed until your deposit has been paid.
    • Applications will be accepted until the program is full.
    • Apply early to secure your spot and get the best pricing on flights.
  • Flights:
    • You are responsible for booking your own round-trip flights to San José, Costa Rica (SJO).
    • GIVE will connect you with our partner flight agents or provide schedule guidelines if you prefer to book independently.
    • Click here to learn more about the flight booking process.
  • Passport & Travel Insurance:
  • Academic Credit (Optional):
    • Students also have the option to enroll in LEAD 225 to earn academic credit for the experience.
    • Participation in LEAD 225 is completely optional and is not required to receive Boise State funding.