Costa Rica
Explore lush jungles and give back through regenerative agricultureCosta Rica Program
12 Days: Puerto Viejo • Gandoca • Pacuare
Enter the lush and diverse landscape of Costa Rica, and embrace “pura vida”: the pure life. This adventure takes you through the rich highland jungles of primary forest to the culturally diverse Caribbean seaside beaches. Live on a jungle farm, immerse yourself in the rich cultures of Southeast Costa Rica. And, you’ll leave a lasting impact on the communities and ecosystems you connect with.
Combine & Save $400:
Nicaragua Volunteer Program I Costa Rica Volunteer Program
Already Applied? Login here
Costa Rica Itinerary
Trip Length: 12 Days (Winter & Summer Break)
See our 8-day Spring Break itinerary here.
Day 1
Welcome to Pura Vida
Touch down in the vibrant heart of Costa Rica, where “Pura Vida” isn’t just a phrase—it’s a way of life. Get ready to embrace the rhythm of the tropics, connect with your travel crew, and kick off the journey of a lifetime. We can’t wait to meet you!
Day 2
Waterfalls & Canopy Flights
Start your day with a refreshing swim in hidden jungle waterfalls, then soar through the treetops on some of Costa Rica’s most exhilarating zip lines. It’s the perfect blend of tranquility and thrill.
Days 3-5
Deep Jungle Living
Venture deep into the rainforest to your new jungle home, surrounded by howler monkeys, dart frogs, and the permaculture lifestyle. Support local food sovereignty by working alongside indigenous communities and learning sustainable farming techniques rooted in harmony with the land.
Day 6
Wildlife Rescue Center
Spend the day at an ethical animal rescue center in Caribbean Costa Rica, where sloths, big cats, and dazzling tropical birds are being rehabilitated for release. Your hands-on help makes a real difference in protecting Costa Rica’s precious wildlife.
Days 7-10
Community Immersion
Become part of the Gandoca community, where your impact will go beyond the surface. From conservation work to cultural exchange, you’ll roll up your sleeves and contribute to meaningful local projects—building connections and leaving a legacy of responsible travel.
Days 11-12
Pacuare River Expedition
End your journey with an unforgettable overnight rafting trip on the world-renowned Pacuare River. Navigate thrilling Class III & IV rapids by day and fall asleep riverside under the stars. This is Costa Rica at its most wild and wonderful.
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
Pretty much everything except your flights, insurance and travel documents, but GIVE will help you organize it all! Dive into what’s included here.
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), & vaccinations (if required)
- Personal souvenirs, snacks and refreshments (drinking water is included 24/7)
- See all that’s included in your GIVE trip here!
* GIVE reserves the right to change program dates
* Winter trips are slightly shorter due to school/holiday breaks
Costa Rica Spring Break Itinerary
Trip Length: 8 Days
Days 1-2
Arrival in San Jose & Wildlife Rescue Center
Day 1: Arrive at Juan Santamaria 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 a scenic journey to Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, with a stop at an Animal Rescue Center to see sloths, monkeys, big cats, and other rescued wildlife. Enjoy a Caribbean lunch in the beach town of Puerto Viejo 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
Whitewater Rafting & Departure from San Jose
Day 7: Bid farewell to your new friends in Gandoca before embarking on an epic class III-IV whitewater rafting adventure down the Pacuare River, navigating stunning canyons and jungles. From there, we’ll head back to San Jose for one final night of reflection and celebration.
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
Pretty much everything except your flights, insurance and travel documents, but GIVE will help you organize it all! Dive into what’s included here.
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), & vaccinations (if required)
- Personal souvenirs, snacks and refreshments (drinking water is included 24/7)
- See all that’s included in your GIVE trip here!
* GIVE reserves the right to change program dates
* Winter trips are slightly shorter due to school/holiday breaks
Trip packages and dates
Mix & match trips, travel for 1-7 weeks, and save big when you combine 2 or more
Nicaragua Volunteer Trip I 12-days
$2,995
Costa Rica Volunteer Trip I 12-days
$2,995
Costa Rica Spring Break Trip I 8-days
$1,995
Nicaragua + Costa Rica I 23-days
$5,990 $5,590 Combine & save $400
Costa Rica Volunteer Trip I 12-days
$2,995
Nicaragua + Costa Rica I 23-days
$5,990 $5,590 Combine & save $400
No Hidden Fees
Your GIVE trip includes everything you need—from meals, guides, and accommodations to local transport, epic adventures, cultural experiences, and funding for the volunteer projects you’ll help bring to life. Just show up ready to make an impact—we’ll handle the rest.
How to Book a Trip
Lock in your spot with a $595 USD trip deposit in your GIVE Profile. For add-ons or multi-trip packages, it's just $295 more per trip. Your deposit counts toward your total cost, never expires, and can be transferred if plans change.
Pay the rest on your own schedule—just be paid in full 80 days before your trip. Need more time? We’ve got you. [Terms & conditions apply.]
Worry-Free Booking
Plans change—we get it. Your deposit is fully transferable, never expires, and lets you switch trips or dates for free. Total flexibility, zero stress. [Learn more about our worry-free booking policy.]
We Got Your Back
We’ve got your back—every step of the way. Before your trip, we’ll help you book flights, secure travel insurance, and handle passport or visa needs without the headache. On the road, our team’s on call 24/7 to help with anything that comes up.[Learn more about our 360° travel support.]
Small Groups, Big Vibes
Travel with a tight-knit crew, guided by a team of local and international GIVE guides. With an average group size of 16-20 people, a 5:1 traveler-to-guide ratio, and 24/7 support, you’ll never feel lost in the crowd.
Don’t see your preferred trip combination or dates? Contact us.
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Voices from the ground
Hear from the locals and leaders who bring GIVE to life:
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Volunteer Projects
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Cultural Immersion
