Sample the tranquil life of two tropical nations celebrated for their verdant protected lands, stunning coastlines and vibrant culture. SCUBA dive Belize’s alluring and mysterious underwater walls, snorkel crystalline atolls, and come face to face with schools of brightly colored fish. Sail to one of Belize’s tropical cayes and anchor in a crystal clear lagoon for the night. Plunge down the lush Costa Rican slopes in whitewater rafts. Surf an unforgettable coastline. Follow in the footsteps of the ancient Mayans, listen to the music of the marimbas, and delight in the wild abundance of these two extraordinary countries.
“Hannah had a wonderful time. Just the right mix of independence, adventure and supervision and she loved the water activities. We were thrilled that she would embark on the trip without knowing a soul. She adored the trip leaders and was eager to prove herself a capable camper. Her confidence soared.”
— Parent of Hanna C., Hastings on Hudson, NY
Costa Rica Surfing
We begin our adventure in Miami and then travel to Costa Rica — a legendary eco-playground bursting with an assortment of exotic birds, monkeys, sea turtles, and jungle cats. Our first adventure brings us to Costa Rica’s splendid Pacific coast, home to clean, consistent waves and a flourishing surf culture. We spend four days in surf camp learning from professional instructors how to read the ocean, paddle properly, and create the perfect stance.
Pacuare River Rafting & Zip Line
Considered one of the most scenic rivers in the world, the famed Pacuare River is our home for the next three days. The pristine Pacuare River winds deep into the heart of the rainforest, touring past giant waterfalls and near-vertical jade canyon walls and through non-stop Class III and IV rapids. We hike to hidden swimming holes and natural waterslides, ride a zip line through the jungle, and feast on fresh fruits. Nights we camp at a cabin above the river in a maze of rainforest green.
Belize Barrier Reef SCUBA
Next we travel to Belize, Central America’s only English-speaking nation and host to the world’s second largest barrier reef. We spend four days becoming certified PADI SCUBA divers and we are treated to dramatic underwater canyons and sea caves swarming with a mosaic of colorful fish. Those already certified can upgrade to advanced SCUBA classes. (All students wishing to SCUBA dive must pass a thorough diving physical and cannot have used an inhaler or suffered from asthma in the past three years. For those who do not wish to dive, alternative water activities are available.)
Sailing the Cayes of Belize
We cap this exotic adventure on a sailboat that takes us around Belize’s Caribbean Sea, host to cobalt blue water and a necklace of tiny isles. Coconut palms and elaborate mangroves decorate the shores of deserted islands while others teem with bustling markets, lively fishing villages, and thriving Creole communities. Traveling aboard our sailboat, we may spot red-footed boobies and frigate birds, or if we’re lucky, the endangered hawksbill turtle. We anchor and spend the night on one of Belize’s tropical cayes and squeeze in one more day of diving from our sailboat before heading back to the mainland. Finally, we say goodbye to paradise with an island style celebration, and conclude with a flight back to Miami.
