In a country of abundance such as Costa Rica, with rich rainforests, untouched beaches, and a rainbow of exotic wildlife, we find there are also many people in need. Dive into the heart of Costa Rican culture by working with school children and rural farmers on community service projects designed to positively affect their lives. See the beauty of the country by whitewater rafting one of its rivers, surfing its unspoiled coastline, and getting to know its people. Focus on conservation and ecological preservation, come together with a rural community to build a shelter, plant a vegetable garden, or educate its youth. Take pleasure in contributing to one of Latin America’s most peaceful countries.
“The Costa Rica Service Two Week trip is a whirlwind of excitement and new experiences. Nothing can prepare you for the amount of fun you will have or the new things you will experience. Most of all, this trip will help you learn more about yourself and the type of person you want to be.”
— Sarah G., ARCC Student
San Jose and Spanish Language School
Our introduction to Costa Rica begins in its capital city, with an orientation and a day of Spanish language classes. Here we are able to adjust to “Tico time” while touring lively markets and sampling typical local fare, before traveling east to the Pacuare river.
Pacuare River Rafting & Rainforest Zip Line
The volcanoes and mountains of the Andean-Sierra Madre chain form the spine of Costa Rica, from which pour gorgeous rivers to whitewater raft. The Pacuare River is arguably the best. As we paddle the Class II-IV rapids of this pure and pristine river, we pass silvery waterfalls, a wilderness of dense vegetation, and the calls of tropical birds and monkeys. We overnight at a jungle river lodge, which offers an exhilarating ride by zip line through the rainforest canopy, as well as a trip to a natural rock waterslide.
Teaching English & Cultural Exchange with Costa Rican School Children
Our first community service project brings us directly into the lives of Costa Rican youth. We bring much needed supplies to their simple school and for two days we offer our help by teaching English to the village’s children. There will be less of an emphasis on a strict curriculum; the experience will be more of a cultural exchange as we engage them through activities, songs and play. Our efforts are rewarded by the smiles and laughter of our new Costa Rican friends.
Service in Rural Costa Rica
Next we travel to the coffee-growing high country of Savegre, where ARCC groups have visited every summer for 14 years. The families in this region live quietly and humbly, yet annually welcome us with open arms. For three days, we peek into another world where life is blissfully simple and pure. Side by side with our village hosts, we lend a hand in any way we can to make improvements to their modest village. We may paint and repair communal buildings in the village or work on a greenhouse project to grow saplings of native plants. The joy and gratitude of the village for our efforts is something we will not soon forget.
Surfing the Pacific Coast
Our final taste of Costa Rica takes us to the Pacific Coast, known for its superb surf and “undiscovered” feel. Here we learn the art of surfing along beaches lined with coconut palms. After three days of surf camp, we are practically guaranteed to be standing on our boards and riding waves with confidence. Our final day on the coast allows us time to shop for souvenirs such as hammocks and handicrafts before returning to San Jose
