Costa Rica

Alumni, Friends and Family Trip

Trip Dates: January 3-9, 2025

overview

Join us on an unforgettable GT Alumni, Friend and Family Adventure Trip to Costa Rica! This exciting journey will take us to some of the country’s most spectacular destinations, including Tamarindo, Monteverde, and La Fortuna. In Tamarindo, soak up the sun and explore the vibrant Pacific coastline, where we can surf and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, spotting colorful fish and marine life, and relaxing on stunning beaches. We will also visit Las Baulas National Park by kayak to explore the ancient sites and spot some monkeys in the trees above. In Monteverde, immerse yourself in the mystical cloud forest, where we’ll hike through lush canopies filled with exotic wildlife like howler monkeys, sloths, and vibrant toucans. Finally, in La Fortuna, we’ll hike the legendary Arenal Volcano, and get our adrenaline pumping with a thrilling whitewater rafting adventure through jungle-lined rivers. This trip is all about reconnecting with friends (old and new), enjoying thrilling outdoor activities and discovering the incredible biodiversity of Costa Rica. Whether it’s hiking, wildlife watching, surfing, snorkeling or simply unwinding, this is a trip you won’t want to miss!

What will we be doing

The week will be spent exploring beautiful landscapes of Costa Rica by land and sea. We will spend days hiking both the interior of the island and along the Pacific Coast, swimming in the beautiful coastal waters, exploring the cloud forest of Monteverde and hiking the Arenal Volcano outside the gorgeous La Fortuna region.

Beach Relaxation: Costa Rica boasts beautiful beaches like Tamarindo and Conchal Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Tamarindo Water Adventures — Surfing or Snorkeling Tours: Enjoy a surfing lesson on the majestic Tamarindo Beach or venture out by boat to a nearby snorkeling paradise to a gorgeous variety of marine species and coral.

Cultural Exploration: After kayaking to Las Baulas National Park, we will hike off the beaten path discovering local wildlife such as howler monkeys and iguanas and hiking to an archaeological site built by the local indigenous peoples.

Delicious Local Cuisine: Indulge in Costa Rican cuisine, featuring fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and traditional dishes like gallo pinto and casados, all infused with rich local spices and ingredients.

Hike the Arenal Volcano: Hiking through lush rainforests, past ancient lava flows, with stunning views of the majestic, active volcano towering above the landscape.

Whitewater Rafting in the Jungle: Navigate through thrilling rapids surrounded by lush rainforest with breathtaking views of the Arenal Volcano in the distance.

Cloud Forest by Day and Night: with daytime treks revealing vibrant birds and exotic plants, while nighttime hikes unveil the hidden world of nocturnal creatures like frogs, bats, and elusive jungle cats.

Lodging

You will be staying in several locations throughout our expedition - both at hostels and local lodges. They’re located in Tamarindo, Monteverde and La Fortuna. The rooms will be shared, some with private bathrooms and some shared. Everyone will have their own bed, of course. All hostels will be near villages to explore and provide incredible ambiance for the Costa Rican experience — including opportunities to connect with other travelers. There’s a mega highlight for each housing location. In Tamarindo, we have epic sleeping pods for 2 nights! In Monteverde, we’re sleeping in the rainforest! And in La Fortuna is located right next to the volcano! Check them out…everyone raves about these places.

For transport, our team will have our own private van to cruise Costa Rica. Get your playlists ready!

Who is Eligible?

Any Global Treks Alumni and their friends or family that wish to join. We figure we know YOU and you’re awesome. So, your people must be awesome, as well! Invite your people and build the GT community. All are welcome here!

Travel Cost: $2,250

(early enrollment: Enroll by Oct 15th for $150 off!)

*Airfare is not included. We will gladly help to arrange your flights. A great place to start looking for flights is Google Flights. You will fly into Liberia Airport arriving on January 3 and departing from San Jose Airport on January 9th. Flights look like they cost between $200 - $600 depending on where you live. If you need some support, let us know!

What’s Included: Days will be spent hiking and swimming and exploring Costa Rica. All activities (surfing or snorkeling tour, kayaking, hiking day and night in the cloud forest and whitewater rafting) and transportation within Costa Rica are included. Breakfast, lunch, snacks will be covered.

What’s not Included: International airfare, passport fees, dinners, souvenirs and spending money. Dinners are inexpensive in Costa Rica (around $15 - 25) and we will be in villages offering many options to enjoy with friends.