A small country in Central America, Costa Rica, with its mild subtropical climate, is bounded by the Pacific on the west and the Caribbean on the east. While small, Costa Rica is rich in diversity, with an unusual variety of ecosystems including rainforests, cloud forests, active volcanoes and hot springs.

Although Costa Rica makes up only .03% of the earth’s surface, it is home to 5% of all existing vegetation and animal species including over 1,400 orchid species, 1,500 species of butterflies, 850 species of birds, including toucans and parakeets, the quetzal and the scarlet macaws—some of the most beautiful birds in the world.

Unlike most of its neighbors, Costa Rica has a peaceful government, no army, and over 95% literacy rate, one of the highest in the world. You can enjoy the many opportunities for rafting, fishing, canopying, diving, horseback riding, kayaking, hiking, or just hanging out at the beaches.

Our programs in Costa Rica include language study, birding, outdoor adventures, hiking, volunteer and internship opportunities, and individually designed trips.