Day 1: May 31 th

Welcome to Costa Rica — Pura Vida! The PK Yonge group has finally arrived, bringing with them a suitcase full of excitement for all the adventures that await them during these next days. Students are ready for everything they will learn and the people they will meet along the way. This is just the beginning of an unforgettable journey filled with new experiences, cultural connections, and incredible memories.

Day 2: June 1st

Today was a very fun and enriching day. Students had the opportunity to learn how to prepare a traditional Costa Rican dish, the famous arroz con pollo, or as locals like to call it, arroz con siempre. After cooking, everyone got moving to the rhythm of Latin music, learning the traditional swing criollo, which brought lots of energy and laughter to the day. To close the day, students explored the importance of Indigenous communities in Costa Rica and painted traditional masks inspired by the Boruca culture, ending with a meaningful and creative activity.

Day 3: June 2nd

Today we visited one of Costa Rica’s seven beautiful provinces, Heredia. We explored downtown Heredia, where students had the chance to try authentic local food. At the Heredia market, they enjoyed traditional casados and experienced the flavors of Costa Rican cuisine. Afterward, we took a walk through Parque Central, where we admired the town’s beautiful church and learned more about its history. We also visited the famous Fortín, a historic tower built over 100 years ago. It was, without a doubt, a day full of adventure, culture, and new experiences.

Day 4: June 3rd

Today was a day of exploration. After their classes, the students went out to discover San Joaquín. They visited Oxígeno Mall, where they had time to relax and enjoy the rest of the afternoon. It was a nice and calm way to end the day.

Day 5: June 4th

Today was a very exciting day as we visited a wildlife refuge. We saw different animals and learned about their feeding habits. Our favorite part was definitely seeing the sloths, they were adorable! It was a fun and memorable experience for everyone.

Day 6: June 5th

Today, the group explored Costa Rica’s capital, San José. They visited the National Museum, where they learned about the country’s history and culture, and then walked through Paseo de los Estudiantes, where Chinatown is located. Students enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere and experienced a unique mix of traditions. It was a great day full of learning and new experiences.

Day 7: June 6th

Today was a day full of adventure as we immersed ourselves in the rapids of the Pacuare River. We paddled through exciting Class IV and V rapids, enjoying every moment along the way. It was truly an unforgettable experience and the perfect way to end an amazing weekend, living it to the fullest.

Day 8: June 7th

Today, we traveled to Monteverde, where new adventures, places, and people await us. On the way, we made a stop in Sarchí, where the group saw the largest oxcart in the world, a colorful symbol of Costa Rican culture. Everyone is excited and looking forward to all the incredible experiences ahead as we continue our journey.

Day 9: June 8th

Today we visited El Trapiche, where we learned many interesting things about traditional Costa Rican processes. We explored the coffee-making process, including the different flavors and roasting methods. We also learned about cacao, observing its different stages and even tasting it. Finally, we discovered how sugar cane is processed, and we participated in making traditional sobado dulce, prepared from fresh sugar cane juice. It was a fun and enriching experience where we connected with local traditions.

Day 10: June 9th

Today we got our hands to work. We visited the Monteverde recycling center, where we did our part to give back to the community. We spent the morning recycling and sorting plastic materials, all while enjoying the rhythm of Latin music playing in the background.

Day 11: June 10th

Today we visited a coffee farm in Monteverde. We continued learning about the coffee-making process, including the different roasting methods and how each one affects the flavor. At the end of the tour, we took part in a tasting session, trying to guess which type of coffee we were sampling. We also saw farm animals like goats and chickens, which made the experience even more authentic. One of the highlights of the visit was seeing the “Tree of Life,” a beautiful tree that has been standing for over 100 years.

Day 12: June 11th

Today we explored the Santa Elena Reserve, located within a beautiful cloud forest. We learned about the differences between primary and secondary forests and had the opportunity to observe a variety of bird species. We even spotted some snakes along the way. At the end of the hike, we were surprised by a pair of quetzals, which was without a doubt the most magical moment of the day.

Day 13: June 12th

Today was graduation day—an incredible way to wrap up two weeks in Costa Rica. We’ve spent this time learning Spanish, and there’s no doubt we’ve improved a lot. As a reward, we went on a canopy tour, admiring the surrounding nature as we walked and zipped above the treetops. It was a beautiful experience, full of adrenaline and unforgettable views.

Day 14: June 12th

Today was officially our last day in Costa Rica. Time went by so quickly, and we found ourselves developing a deep love for this country, making it hard to say goodbye. However, we left with smiles on our faces, cherishing all the memories we created and hoping to return someday.

Day 1: May 29, 2026

We've arrived! World Strides has landed in Costa Rica. The journey was long, but the experience was worth it: sharing with local families, learning about sustainable agriculture, and of course, enjoying incredible food. But we didn't just come to observe; we've already started taking real action for the environment. We ended the day learning Latin music dancing. This is pura vida from day one!

Day 1: May 23rd

Costa Rica welcomed us with a delicious gallo pinto, fresh papaya, and a cup of coffee. After breakfast, we took the Vara Blanca route — it was winding, but totally worth it. Along the way, we had the chance to get closer to the clouds, a preview of Monteverde, which will host us for the next few days. We saw some very funny monkeys, butterflies, and those amazing jungle cats. There were also lots of steps and beautiful waterfalls to explore. After that, we tried the best strawberries, and everyone got to taste queso palmito. By the end of the day, Doña Mildred welcomed us to her restaurant with lots of spice and a Caribbean touch. Finally, to end the day on a sweet note, we went out for some ice cream at POPS.

Day 2: May 24th

This was a long day, but we enjoyed it very much. Our first stop was the Santa Ana farmers’ market, which was such a nice start — full of colors, flavors, and aromas. We tried new fruits and discovered apretados (also known as chiriviscos). It was such a lovely place, with music playing, kids playing in the water, and some people attending mass. Overall, we immediately felt the warmth of Costa Rican culture — everyone was so kind and friendly. After that, we made a strategic lunch stop in Puntarenas before heading up into the mountains of Monteverde. As we drove uphill, we were all amazed by the landscapes along the way. When we finally arrived, we met our host families. We felt both very happy and a little nervous to meet them.

Day 3: May 25th

Monday was a great start to the week in Santa Elena. The group enjoyed a cooking lesson at CPI, where they prepared and shared lunch. They made a traditional Costa Rican dish: a potato and arracache picadillo served with corn tortillas. Right after that, the students participated in a dance class. The instructor taught them some Latin rhythms such as bachata, merengue, and salsa, but their favorite was swing criollo, a Costa Rican style of cumbia. Finally, it was a fun way to explore the town and take pictures around Santa Elena.

Day 4: May 26th

The group traveled to the Santa Elena Reserve for an afternoon hike through the beautiful cloud forest. Doña Marcela was the tour guide, and she explained a great deal about Costa Rica's ecosystem and biodiversity. The students enjoyed the fresh mountain air, the incredible scenery, and the opportunity to learn more about Costa Rica’s biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Day 5: May 27th

Wow—officially five days in the “pura vida” country! The days start early, but it’s much easier with fresh fruit and coffee. After their morning classes, the students headed to the Trapiche tour. They learned a lot about sustainable farming practices, including coffee and cacao production. Of course, they also got to try 100% cacao and enjoy a delicious cup of coffee. They couldn’t visit the trapiche without making some sobado, a traditional Costa Rican candy made from cooked sugar cane.

Day 6: May 28th

The group enjoyed a relaxed day in Monteverde, taking the opportunity to explore at their own pace. Most of the group visited CASEM and spent time exploring Monteverde. After lunch at Stella’s, some walked to the Monteverde Cheese Factory for ice cream, while others visited the Bat Jungle, explored Santa Elena, or simply relaxed. It was a quieter day, but still very enjoyable. The extra downtime was perfect to recharge before heading to the beach, with everyone especially excited for Flamingo on Friday, ¡YAY!

Day 7: May 29th

Today, everyone arrived at CPI excited and ready, backpacks in hand, for a weekend exploring Guanacaste and its beautiful beaches. Along the way, they experienced new landscapes, discovering the unique scenery of Guanacaste and passing through several charming towns. Although it was raining upon arrival in Flamingo, it did not dampen their spirits. Everyone is looking forward to visiting the beach, going snorkeling, and enjoying a sailing adventure.

Day 8: May 30th

The day started early after a fun night of singing and swimming, and we recharged with a delicious breakfast of gallo pinto. By 8 a.m., we were on our way to Conchal Beach, where the turquoise waters and peaceful atmosphere made it the perfect spot to spend the morning. After lunch, it was time for one of the most anticipated activities: the catamaran tour. The group enjoyed snorkeling, music, and plenty of dancing, making it one of the highlights of the trip. 

Day 9: May 31st

Today marked our last day in Flamingo. In the morning, everyone enjoyed the beach one final time—some chose to relax, sleep in, or spend time by the pool before heading back. In the afternoon, we made our way back to Monteverde after an amazing weekend along the Pacific coast. Everyone returned happy, refreshed, and full of great memories.

Day 10: June 1st

This morning, students enjoyed some free time and explored Monteverde in different ways. Some went bungee jumping for an exciting adventure, while others walked around town, relaxed, or spent time with their host families. It was a calm and refreshing start to the day before the beginning of another busy week.

Day 11: June 2nd

The day started early and full of excitement. Students kicked off with a zipline tour, flying across seven different cables through the forest. They also enjoyed a sky tram ride, and some challenged themselves with a rappel jump. Although a few felt nervous at first, they quickly overcame their fears and had an unforgettable experience.

Day 12: June 3rd

This morning marked the beginning of our community project in La Guaria at Doña Juanita’s home, in partnership with Siempre Amigos. Students worked hard preparing and mixing cement, helping to pour new floors for the children’s bedrooms and leveling the living room area. It was physically demanding, but everyone contributed with great teamwork and enthusiasm, knowing their efforts would make a real difference. After a rewarding morning, the group enjoyed lunch together

Day 13: June 4th

Today marked the second and final day of our community project. Students completed the living room floor at Doña Juana’s home and continued by plastering the bedroom walls. Thanks to everyone’s hard work and dedication, all planned tasks were successfully finished. As a heartfelt thank-you, Doña Juana prepared homemade tortillas with sour cream for the group, creating a special moment of connection with the local culture.

Day 14: June 5th

Students spent their final morning in Monteverde enjoying free time in their own way—some explored places like the butterfly garden or local viewpoints, while others packed, rested, or simply took in their last moments in town. Later, the group gathered to receive their certificates. It was a meaningful moment to celebrate everything they had learned and accomplished. Although the program came to an end, the friendships, memories, and experiences from these two weeks will surely stay with them.

Goodbye, Monteverde — Pura vida! 

Day 1: March 14, 2026

We arrived in Costa Rica, where our CPI guide met us at the airport. We went to lunch and tried a traditional Costa Rican dish: casado, for the first time. It consists of rice and beans, salad, plantains, and a protein—¡Estuvo muy rico! Then we went to our hotel and jumped straight to the pool. We ended our first day ¡con un delicioso pollo asado para la cena!