Connect: Costa Rica is a unique educational travel experience that combines meaningful cultural exchange, community engagement, and unforgettable adventure. Designed for students seeking a deeper understanding of the world, this immersive program takes participants beyond the typical tourist experience and into the heart of Costa Rican communities, where authentic relationships, shared learning, and personal growth take center stage. Over ten days, participants explore the diverse landscapes and cultures of Costa Rica through a blend of adventure activities, volunteer projects, school visits, and intercultural experiences. From canyoneering and rafting to visiting Indigenous communities and collaborating with local students, every activity is intentionally designed to build global citizenship, cultural curiosity, and lasting connections.
Location: Turrialba • Guayabo • Cabécar Indigenous Territory • Laguna Lancaster • San José
From the volcanic valleys of Turrialba to the remote Indigenous communities of the Talamanca Mountains, Connect: Costa Rica takes participants through some of the country’s most culturally and ecologically significant regions. Students experience a diverse mix of communities, ecosystems, and landscapes while traveling alongside local guides, educators, and community leaders.
✅ Includes – Three-month guided virtual pen pal program – Airport logistics assistance – Ground transportation throughout the program – Accommodations during the Costa Rica experience – Program leadership and educational facilitation – Cultural exchange activities with Costa Rican students – School visits and community engagement projects Indigenous community immersion experience – Volunteer and service-learning projects – Coffee farm tour – Chocolate farm tour – Guayabo National Monument visit – Whitewater rafting excursion – Canyoneering adventure – Laguna Lancaster lake experience – Global Citizen Hours documentation – Safety equipment for all adventure activities – Program materials and educational resources
Flights not included.
Secure your spot today for this adventure experience.
Starting at: $2,200 per student
Transforming Virtual Connections into Real-World Adventures
Connect: Costa Rica is a unique educational travel experience that brings students together through cultural exchange, adventure, and community engagement. After spending three months building relationships through guided virtual connections, participants travel to Costa Rica to meet their pen pals face-to-face and experience the country beyond the typical tourist path.
Through meaningful interactions with local students, Indigenous communities, educators, and community leaders, participants gain a deeper understanding of culture, communication, and global citizenship while creating friendships that often last far beyond the program itself.
🌎 Built on Connection
Explore new places. Meet new people. See the world differently.
Duration: 10 Days Location: Turrialba, Guayabo, Cabécar Indigenous Territory, Laguna Lancaster & San José Age Group: Student Groups & Educational Travel Programs (16-20 years old) Difficulty: Light to Moderate Focus: Cultural Exchange • Service Learning • Adventure • Global Citizenship • Personal Growth
What to know before you Connect
No previous travel experience or Spanish fluency is required. Participants should come prepared with an open mind, a willingness to engage with new people and perspectives, and a desire to step outside their comfort zone. Activities range from light cultural visits to active outdoor adventures, making this an ideal experience for students seeking both personal growth and adventure.
Cross Cultural Connect (CCC) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering global citizenship through cultural exchanges, educational programming, and immersive travel experiences. Since 2014, CCC has connected students from around the world through meaningful experiences that promote empathy, communication, leadership, and cross-cultural understanding.
Why Choose Us
Discover the reasons that set us apart.
01
“Safety is Sexy”
Our expeditions prioritize safety and sustainability, ensuring your adventure is not only thrilling but also environmentally responsible.
02
Expertise
Our ACA and CR government certified guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge and leading each expedition with care. Your safety and enjoyment are in expert hands.
03
Personalization
We tailor every tour to match your pace, interests, and adventure level—because no two journeys (or paddlers) are the same.
★★★★★
Jungle Flow is the way to go! Kayla and Manuel are awesome people that are extremely passionate about adventure, nature, and providing the best time to the people around them.