Teen Travel Programs in Costa Rica
Since opening Costa Rica operations in 2003, Rustic has expanded to include the most spectacular regions of this Central American paradise. From the Pacific to the Caribbean, from rainforests to rivers, from service to adventure, our programs here encompass the breadth of what Costa Rica has to offer. Our team of talented local staff members challenge veteran travelers with new experiences and introduce more novice adventurers to the joys of travel.
Discover the warmth and laid-back Tico culture in the beaches, towns, and jungles of Costa Rica. Experience for yourself the power of sustainable environmental development programs. Contribute to sea turtle conservation efforts, immerse yourself in the indigenous culture of the Bribri, hone your Spanish skills through immersive homestays, explore the jungle, and zip line through the rainforest. – Ricardo Romero, Costa Rica Country Director
Quote by: Ricardo joined Rustic Pathways in 2005 after working in Costa Rica’s rafting industry for a decade. Ricardo has worn many hats on our team, from community service coordinator to sales representative and just about everything in between. He is an avid outdoorsman and holds a degree in business from the University of Costa Rica.
Meet the Rest of Team Costa Rica
Wainer Ocampo
Costa Rica Country Manager
Since he joined Rustic Pathways in 2008, Wainer’s patience and constant smile have won him a special place in the hearts of our students. A Costa Rica native, Wainer has also spent time in the U.S., where he completed a cultural exchange at Hiram College in Ohio. Always the first person on the dance floor, he can often be found teaching salsa to our students. the Costa Rica team.
Marianela Garcia
Costa Rica Office Administrator
A native of the small coastal town of Pérez Zeledón, Nela brings her calming presence and kindness to our administrative team. After receiving her MBA from the University of Costa Rica, Nela’s bilingual skills and sense of organization keep our Costa Rica office running smoothly. Nela has been ensuring successful operations within our team since 2012.
Felipe Hernandez
Program Manager
Felipe has a bachelor’s degree in Sustainable Tourism Management. He joined RP in 2017 as a program leader, but his experience as vice president of a non-governmental environmental organization in Costa Rica made him a great fit to manage our Turtle Conservation programs. He has worked on projects with protected wild refuges and in rural areas in different parts of Costa Rica. In addition to that, he has been part of different wildlife issues commissions and projects. If not working he can be found enjoying his two main passions nature and wildlife.