Learning Objectives

Each destination is planned for intentionally designed to support and enhance the curricular learning goals of Headwaters Academy. While immersed in local cultures and environments, students will:

• Practice and strengthen emerging Spanish language skills (exception: Iceland) while developing cross-cultural understanding.

• Engage with local experts and guides to learn firsthand about regional flora and fauna, cultural traditions, community values, and local resource management.

• Participate in regionally specific workshops focused on wildlife biology, history, geography, geology, and cultural anthropology.

• Develop teamwork, navigation, and communication skills through age-appropriate leadership and expedition-based learning activities.

• Take part in hands-on regional experiences such as surfing, whitewater rafting, rainforest exploration hikes, nighttime wildlife observation, and visits to volcanic landscapes.

• Learn introductory principles of risk assessment, situational awareness, and thoughtful decision-making in outdoor and travel environments.

• Foster personal growth by building self-confidence, practicing self-advocacy, and cultivating empathy and global awareness.

Mexico

Ancient Civilizations, Urban Culture, Experiential Education and Spanish Immersion

Estimated Cost: $3,625 (includes round-trip airfare from Bozeman, all food, activities and lodging)

Trip Highlights: Teotihuacán and Ancient Aztec Civilizations, National Museum of Anthropology, Frida Kahlo Museum and Coyoacán, Xochimilco Floating Gardens, Historic Exploration of Mexico City and Traditional Culinary Experience

Housing: One centralized private villas and/or centrally located boutique hotels

Program Overview: This immersive educational expedition introduces students to the history, culture, language, food systems, and urban identity of one of the largest and most historically significant cities in the world. Through guided exploration, cultural exchange, reflective learning, and experiential education, students will examine themes of indigenous identity, sustainability, globalization, architecture, art, and modern Mexican society while developing confidence and intercultural understanding through international travel.

Costa Rica

Rainforest Ecology, volcanic geology, experiential Education and Spanish Immersion

Estimated Cost: $3,825 (includes round-trip airfare from Bozeman, all food, activities and lodging)

Trip Highlights: Monteverde Cloud Forest, Arenal Volcano, Wildlife Conservation, Cultural Exchange

Housing: Private Villas and Hostels/Hotels

Program Overview: This expedition introduces students to the incredible biodiversity, ecosystems, and cultural traditions of Costa Rica through experiential education, Spanish language exposure, and hands-on exploration. Students will examine themes of rainforest ecology, conservation, sustainability, volcanic geology, and global citizenship while building confidence, adaptability, and intercultural understanding through adventure-based travel.

Spain

Guadarrama sierra national park exploration, experiential education, hiking, climbing & Spanish immersion in ancient mountain villages, Segovia and madrid

Estimated Cost: $3,775(includes round-trip airfare from Bozeman, all food, activities and lodging)

Trip Highlights: Spanish language immersion, Historic exploration of Madrid and Toledo, Art Exploration and Cultural Landmarks in Madrid/Toledo/Segovia, Spanish cuisine and local market experiences

Housing: Private Villa with Private Chef

Program Overview: This expedition combines outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, and Spanish language exploration throughout central Spain. Students will hike and explore the Guadarrama mountain region while engaging with the history, art, architecture, cuisine, and daily life of Madrid, Toledo, and Segovia, developing a deeper understanding of Spanish culture through hands-on learning and authentic experiences.

Guatemala

Mayan Culture exploration, Wildlife Ecology, traditional cuisine and Spanish Immersion in Antigua, Lake Atitlan and the Surrounding Mayan Villages

Estimated Cost: $3,450 (includes round-trip airfare from Bozeman, all food, activities and lodging)

Trip Highlights: Spanish language immersion in Antigua, Mayan cultural exploration in villages around Lake Atitlán, Colonial history and architecture in Antigua, Traditional Mayan cuisine and artisan traditions

Housing: Ecolodge with Private Casitas and Hotels/Hostels

Program Overview: This expedition invites students to explore the rich history, traditions, and contemporary life of Guatemala through Spanish language exposure, experiential education, and meaningful engagement with Mayan communities. Students will examine themes of indigenous identity, colonial history, sustainability, traditional food systems, and global interconnectedness while developing cultural awareness and confidence through international travel.

Iceland

Volcanic Landscapes, Glacial Exploration, geothermal & Renewable Energy, Nordic Cultural Immersion in Reykjavík and the South Coast of Iceland

Estimated Cost: $4,250 (includes round-trip airfare from Bozeman, all food, activities and lodging)

Trip Highlights: Glacial Visit, Volcanoes and Volcanic Fields, Geothermal and Hydro Power Plant Visits, Thingvellir National Park

Housing: Local Hotels/Hostels

Program Overview: This expedition introduces students to the dramatic landscapes, geology, ecology, and culture of Iceland through experiential education and outdoor exploration. Students will examine themes of volcanism, glaciology, sustainability, climate adaptation, and Nordic culture while hiking, conducting field observations, and engaging with one of the most unique natural environments in the world.