High School Study Abroad in Monteverde, Costa Rica

Delve into the science of climate change surrounded by Costa Rica’s lush rainforest. Discover its impact on tropical ecosystems as you explore the world-famous Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and meet with local farmers, scientists, and activists. Quantify tropical tree growth, estimate carbon stocks, and measure environmental effects of greenhouse gases in the living laboratory that is the CIEE Monteverde eco-campus. Join forces with other Global Navigators to propose creative solutions for climate change mitigation. Immerse yourself, too, in the simplicity of farm life. Milk cows, gather eggs, feed pigs, and make compost. Care for seedlings and saplings in our native tree nursery. Eat typical Tico dishes, practice Spanish, and learn folkloric dancing with local teens. Trips away from campus bring you even more of the natural beauty of Costa Rica. Hike through the deep forest to El Tigre waterfalls, climb an overlook of the Pacific slopes to bask in the sunset, and spend a weekend in the Río Celeste area where you will marvel at the picture-perfect Tenorio volcano and magical turquoise river.

Join an agricultural program in the Cloud Forest highlands! This program works with a small farm that supports 14 local families. This farm uses both sustainable and organic farming techniques. As a volunteer on this program, you will be assisting with daily organic farming tasks. Volunteers are expected to work four-six hours per day and may participate in tasks such as planting and pruning coffee trees, packaging, and marketing. The experience is more than agricultural, however. By working daily with local families, you will get to experience authentic Costa Rican culture!

Global Works specializes in teen service trips and educational experiences to Costa Rica for high school and middle school students. These student travel programs have been our most popular over the years for good reason. Incredible biodiversity and a welcoming culture make Costa Rica an awesome choice for a summer adventure. Global Works offers volunteer programs in different focus areas. We offer opportunities for community service, Spanish immersion, cultural exchange, pre-med and public health, wildlife, adventure travel, and a middle school-focused program to this special corner of the globe. Program Options: * Costa Rica: Service & Sand (15 days) * Costa Rica: Wildlife Adventure (17 days) * Costa Rica: Intro to Pre-Med & Public Health (17 days) * Costa Rica: Middle School Service Adventure (10 days)

VN's high school program in northern Costa Rica offers high school students a unique opportunity to engage in personalized, meaningful community service while experiencing Costa Rican culture firsthand. Participants work with rural communities, including schools, conservation projects, and health initiatives. Activities include sports and recreation, after-school programs, arts and crafts, and health initiatives. Students benefit from guided and personalized activites that provide hands-on experience. The program also includes cultural immersion through homestays or accommodations in small family-run hotels, cooking and meals with local communities, Spanish language practice, and guided exploration of local communities and natural sites. This safe and well-supported program allows students to make a tangible impact, develop personal and professional skills, and foster global awareness and empathy. Individual attention, Small group sizes, and experienced staff ensure personalized guidance and meaningful engagement throughout the experience.