Costa Rica January 2026

COR 375 with Professor Bowen and Strong

The small country of Costa Rica is an oasis of tranquility, democracy and education. The oldest democracy in Latin America enjoys an international reputation for its friendly people and the outstanding beauty of its diverse environment and wildlife. Scientists have estimated that close to 4 percent of the Earth's species live in Costa Rica. Explore the wonders of a cloud forest, search for the rare quetzal bird, and learn about the rain forest up close as you become knowledgeable in bio-diversity. Meet indigenous Native Americans and become aware of their unique culture. Costa Ricans call themselves “Ticos.” You will get to know the gracious Ticos through family stays in a small mountain community.

$800 student cost*

*Cost with the CCS Subsidy nonrefundable application fee is not included in this amount. The CCS Subsidy applies to 1st CCS program only.

CCS trips are not guaranteed and are subject to change.

 

Student Testimonial

“Costa Rica is only the size of a pin head compared to the rest of the world but the amount of love, passion and pride that it contains is enormous. This country has such an amazing history with many people who have sacrificed everything to fight for what was right for their home. Costa Ricans are unlike any other: They are kind, selfless, relatable and laid back. Overall, Costa Rica is an extraordinary place with so much to offer and it made a huge impact on my life.”

Rachel Dennison

Education

Interact with students about education, allowing students to compare and contrast cultural and academic expectations.

Family

Students will enjoy a home stay immersion with the coffee farmers. The stay will include meals, family activities, church, and possibly special family gatherings. Students will live life with the hospitable Costa Ricans and may pick coffee.

Government

Visit the national museum and Legislative Assembly. Tour the nation's capital and historic sites. Dialogue with a former press secretary for a Costa Rican president.

Religion

There may be opportunities to meet missionaries in their service areas. Students will examine the role of Catholicism, the official national religion of Costa Ricans and its influence on culture.

Economics

Experience the market in San Jose where bartering and negotiating are the principal methods of exchange. Speak with the farmers and learn about local agricultural cooperatives including the cooperative for the exportation of coffee.

  • View an active volcano. Costa Rica has some of the largest geyser-type craters in the world.
  • Interact with impoverished children in a Nicaraguan barrio project.
  • Visit indigenous Native Americans in their isolated rainforest community and interact with them as they provide several experiences including a walk through the rainforest to identify medicinal plants, hearing their heritage stories, watching a ceremony, and participating with an indigenous craft.
  • Visit Manuel Antonio National Park to encounter wildlife in its natural habitat and experience beautiful beaches.
  • Experience the capital city of San Jose, visiting the Plaza Cultura, bustling city markets, and historical museums.

Departure Dates

January 2026 experiences may leave as early as December 28, 2025 and return before the start of the Spring Semester. Students should not make irreversible plans until their departure date is confirmed by the CCS office in early Fall 2025.

Health & Safety

This experience, like all CCS experiences, is subject to political and safety realities at the time of departure. CCS options can be physically and emotionally intense and stretching. Before enrolling, all participants should consult the disclosures on Physical Hardships of CCS.

Covid shots are not required as of December 2022 for Costa Rica. For more details on required immunizations consult the immunizations chart.

Passport and immunizations required (both at additional cost).

Students are responsible for tuition for COR 374 and COR 375, a $200 nonrefundable application fee, in addition to the $800 travel cost for the 2026 Costa Rica trip.

A current passport is required.