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Costa Rica Surf, Adventure, Service & Turtle Programs logo

Costa Rica Surf, Adventure, Service & Turtle Programs

by: Rustic Pathways

8.96 (26)Verified

Costa Rica is where adventure, service, cultural immersion, and the wonders of nature intersect. Our programs focus on turtle conservation, surfing, and connection with the local communities. With programs for high school students, college students, and young explorers, there’s an exciting opportunity to live the ‘pura vida’ lifestyle for all explorers. Turtle Conservation Project – Embark on a j...

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Program Highlights

Protect Costa Rican sea turtles, join beach cleanup projects, and help construct a hatchery while learning how to surf!

Join the college turtle program for ages 18-21!

Spend a week at Rustic’s Volcano and Rainforest Service Base, practice your Spanish, and enjoy zip-lining and whitewater rafting—this program is perfect for first-time travelers.

Surf, service, and adventure in Costa Rica—get surf lessons from expert instructors and relax at the bungalow or play soccer or volleyball.

Join Young Explorers for students ages 12-13— this program allows young adventurers to step out of their comfort zone, make new friends and learn about the world around them.

Quick Details

Locations
  • Costa Rica
Availability
Year(s) Offered2025, 2026, 2027Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • Summer
  • Alternative Spring Break
Age Requirement:Varies
Types & Subjects:
  • Animal Welfare
  • Building & Construction Projects
  • Community Centers
  • Community Development
  • Conservation
  • See more
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details

Recognitions

Communitas Award | Leadership in Community Service and CSRTravel Weekly Magellan Awards | Best Health & Safety InnovationsInternational Travel Awards | Best Tour OperatorSkift IDEA Award: Industry Innovators | Tour Operator

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

9.4

Total Reviews

26

I would recommend this program

by: Col Peigne - FranceProgram: Costa Rica Surf, Adventure, Service & Turtle Programs
9

All of the activities were well chosen and everyone could have fun enjoying them. The base house was very clean and the meals good. Had a very good time with people that I met in this trip. One of the best summer camp in my life.

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Rustic Pathways responded to this reviewAugust 17, 2024

Hi Col! We're thrilled to hear you were happy with our accommodations and meals. We're glad we could make this one of the best summers of your life. Thanks for joining us and hope to see you next summer!

Enjoyable, Exciting, Eye opening experience

by: Chloe Staikos - United StatesProgram: Costa Rica Surf, Adventure, Service & Turtle Programs
9

I had a good time on this trip. Coming from someone who was extremely nervous, not once here did I really get nervous, and I had been distracted the entire time with different service options and also fun activities.

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Rustic Pathways responded to this reviewAugust 17, 2024

Hi Chloe! Thank you so much for joining us in Costa Rica! Traveling alone can be nerve-wracking, but we're so happy to hear you had a great time and weren't nervous. We hope you join us next summer too!

Pura Vida! My Unforgettable Rustic Pathways Costa Rica Adventure

by: Brayden Reiner - United StatesProgram: Costa Rica Surf, Adventure, Service & Turtle Programs
10

A truly amazing experience I had! First off, the counselors at the program are so nice, inclusive, and accommodating to your needs. They really make you feel comfortable and at home during this experience. Next the activities and community service you take part in is really amazing once you understand its cultural impact. Finally, cherish the moments you have with the amazing friends you meet on this trip. Be fearless, outgoing, and open, and you will have an amazing time! Thank you rustic pathw...

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Rustic Pathways responded to this reviewAugust 2, 2024

Hey Brayden! You really cracked the code to having an amazing time. Being fearless, outgoing and open will guarantee you have a great time, not only while traveling with us, but in life in general! We're glad you had an unforgettable experience, and ...

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Costa Rica

Types and Subjects

  • Adventure Types
  • Hiking
  • Nature Tours
  • Rafting

Availability

Years Offered: 2025, 2026, 2027

Gap Year Timing:
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • Alternative Spring Break

Age Requirement

Age Requirement Varies

Guidelines

  • All Nationalities
  • This Program is also open to Solo, Group

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • All Program Activity Costs
  • Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Accommodation Options

  • Group living
  • Guest House

Qualifications & Experience

  • Some high school, no diploma
  • Some college credit, no degree

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

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