Costa Rica service and volunteer programs offer teens structured travel focused on community development, conservation, and cultural immersion. Students explore diverse ecosystems and connect with local communities. Rustic Pathways provides small-group, supervised programs that promote leadership, learning, and safe adventure for ages 12–18 across our Costa Rica programs.
✔︎ Since 1983✔︎155,829+ Alumni✔︎6:1 Staff Ratio✔︎4.9/5.0 Rating
Students arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose before joining environmental conservation-focused programs across Costa Rica’s villages, beaches, and jungles.
They support local development and environmental efforts, join nature tours, practice Spanish, and gain lifelong memories through immersive adventure.
Spend eight days on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast learning to surf and completing 12 hours of service at a local school. Students rotate between surf lessons, cultural activities, and hands-on projects that meet community goals. The program blends adventure and growth in a safe setting led by experienced staff.
Best for: Teens who want a combination of surfing, culture, and meaningful service.
Students travel Costa Rica’s North Pacific coast to join sea turtle conservation and local service projects. They protect habitats, collect data, and lead environmental education while enjoying ziplining, surfing, and wildlife exploration. Each participant completes 26 service hours supporting long-term ecological efforts.
Best for: Teens passionate about animal conservation and hands-on environmental work.
Students engage in Costa Rica’s culture while completing 16 service hours focused on rural development, sustainability, and local partnerships. The program blends outdoor adventure, cultural learning, and environmental insight in a supportive setting that builds student confidence and connection.
Best for: First-time travelers and service-oriented teens seeking cultural immersion.
| Program | Country | Duration | Ages | Max Students | Cost | Service Hours |
| Costa Rica: Surf and Service | Costa Rica | 8 Days | 14–18 | 15 | $3,495 + Airfare | ~12 |
| Costa Rica: Turtle Conservation Project | Costa Rica | 8 Days | 14–18 | 15 | $2,895 + Airfare | ~26 |
| Costa Rica: Pura Vida Service | Costa Rica | 8 Days | 14–18 | 15 | $2,495 + Airfare | ~16 |
| Costa Rica: Pura Vida Service (Middle School) | Costa Rica | 8 Days | 12–14 | 15 | $2,495 + Airfare | ~16 |
| Costa Rica: Turtle Conservation Program (College) | Costa Rica | 8 Days | 17–22 | 15 | $2,895 + Airfare | ~26 |
Costa Rica blends warm-water adventure with biodiverse ecosystems, giving teens access to beginner-friendly surf, rainforest trails, volcanic landscapes, and wildlife-rich national parks. Programs pair outdoor exploration with community-led service, helping students build confidence, cultural understanding, and real-world skills in a safe, supportive environment.
Students looking for similar adventure-service experiences may also explore our programs in Belize, Peru, or the Dominican Republic.
Students stay in supervised lodges and homestay-style accommodations that offer shared rooms and common spaces for group connection. Meals feature traditional Costa Rican dishes prepared by local cooks, highlighting simple dishes made with fresh regional ingredients.
Daily life follows a steady rhythm shaped by service work, cultural activities, and time to rest and reflect with peers.
Students travel with trained Rustic Pathways staff from arrival through all program activities. Lodging, transport, and activity sites follow strict safety protocols reviewed annually with trusted local partners. Costa Rica’s reliable infrastructure and strong safety record create a secure setting for teen travelers.
Service connects students to community needs identified by long-term partners through conservation, infrastructure, and education projects. Each project has learning goals that show how student contributions support ongoing efforts. Students see how local priorities and the environment influence long-term development.
Teens return with independence, cultural awareness, and verified service hours earned through conservation efforts. Daily work and life in Costa Rica build confidence, teamwork, and adaptability. Programs equip students with practical skills and global perspectives that last beyond the trip.
Students build leadership through shared work, group decision making, and steady collaboration in real settings. They learn that leading well often means listening, adapting, and contributing with intention.
Reforestation, ecological monitoring, and sustainability projects introduce students to how conservation functions on the ground. They see how small, consistent actions support long term environmental health.
Spanish conversations, shared meals, and local traditions help students understand Costa Rican life through everyday interaction. Insight comes through presence and participation.
Shared work creates bonds with peers, mentors, and community partners that often continue after the program. Students return with relationships that shape how they see themselves and others.
I loved my Rustic Pathways experience. Not only did I get to meet new friends from all over the country, but I also got to learn so much about the Costa Rican culture and environment.
Quote by: Samantha, San Mateo, CA From a Recent Participant
Yes, Costa Rica is safe for teen travel programs. Rustic Pathways ensures safety through trained staff, vetted partners, and a 6:1 supervision ratio. Combined with Costa Rica’s strong tourism infrastructure and emergency services, students receive structured support throughout their experience.
Teens in Costa Rica complete service projects like sea turtle conservation, community development, and environmental protection. They work with local partners on tasks aligned with real community needs.
Most Costa Rica programs for teens last eight days, with additional options available during spring break or for extended summer travel. Each program includes structured service hours, cultural activities, and outdoor exploration.
No, students do not need previous experience or special skills. They learn project tasks on site with staff guidance. Curiosity, respect, and a willingness to participate are the key qualities for success.
Accommodations include supervised lodges or homestays with shared rooms and communal spaces. Students eat simple Costa Rican meals made with local ingredients. Daily life follows a structured rhythm of service, exploration, and group connection.
No, speaking Spanish is not required for teens volunteering in Costa Rica. Students learn basic phrases during the program, and staff help with communication. Spanish enhances the experience but is not necessary to participate.
Students should pack lightweight clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection, a reusable water bottle, and rain gear for Costa Rica’s tropical climate. A detailed packing list is sent after enrollment to help families prepare.
Teens gain independence, cultural awareness, and problem-solving skills by volunteering in Costa Rica. Service projects deepen their understanding of local challenges, and group travel builds confidence and connection through shared experiences.