Summer 2026 enrollment now open. Limited spots left!
Costa Rica: Pura Vida Service (Middle School) is an 8-day travel program designed for middle school students (ages 12–14) offered by Rustic Pathways. Participants will explore the lush rainforests and vibrant communities of Costa Rica while completing meaningful service projects and unforgettable adventures. Students will contribute to local schools and community initiatives, visit a sloth sanctuary, zip line through the rainforest, go whitewater rafting on the Sarapiquí River, and unwind in natural hot springs.
The total cost is US $2,495 (plus airfare). Included are lodging, ground transportation, meals, activities, and 24/7 in-country support; international flights, souvenirs, and personal snacks are not included. This program is perfect for younger travelers eager to build confidence, develop global awareness, and experience the spirit of Pura Vida with an award winning teen travel company.
2026 Travel Dates
| Middle School (Ages 12–14) | ||
| June 25 – July 2, 2026 | Available | Enroll Now |
Spend a week at Rustic’s Volcano and Rainforest Service Base working on a combination of service projects and enjoying a Costa Rican adventure. You’ll work on service projects that include the reforestation of a sloth conservation area or improving the infrastructure of local schools. You’ll also get the chance to practice your Spanish and make new Tico friends.
After service, experience some of Costa Rica’s best adventure activities like zip lining and whitewater rafting. Visit hot springs and a traditional Costa Rican farm to learn about the local culture. After action-packed days, take a dip in the freshwater pool or relax at the accommodation. This program is great for first-time travelers and students interested in making new friends from across the globe.
| Service projects support UN Sustainable Development Goals |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Students love the zip lining, rafting and the impact they create with the community service!
Program Profile
-
-
Country:
-
-
-
Department:
- Student Travel
-
-
-
Duration:
-
8 Days
-
-
-
Ages:
-
12-14
-
-
-
Cost:
- $2,495 plus Airfare
-
-
-
Service Hours:
-
16
-
-
-
Program Types:
-
-
-
At-A-Glance:
-
Accomodation Amenities
Adventure/Physicality
Educational Activities
On-Program 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 in the indigenous culture of the Bribri, hone your Spanish skills through unique homestays, explore the jungle, and zip line through the rainforest.
Quote by: Ricardo Romero Country Director, Costa Rica
Why Choose the Costa Rica: Pura Vida Service Program?
This Rustic Pathways program is designed specifically for middle school students seeking a fun, safe, and inspiring introduction to international travel. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Contribute to meaningful service projects that support local schools and community development
- Visit a sloth sanctuary and learn about Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity and conservation efforts
- Zip line through the rainforest canopy with breathtaking views of Arenal Volcano and surrounding jungles
- Go whitewater rafting on the Sarapiquí River and relax afterward in natural hot springs
- Experience authentic Costa Rican culture through local exchanges, dance, food, and new friendships
Accommodations for the Costa Rica: Pura Vida Service Program
Students participating in the Costa Rica: Pura Vida Service (Middle School) program will stay in two welcoming locations that provide comfort, safety, and a true taste of Costa Rican hospitality. Each site offers safe, student-friendly lodging with full supervision, comfortable facilities, and access to essential amenities.
La Fortuna Hostel
For the majority of the program, students will stay at a comfortable hostel in La Fortuna, located near Arenal Volcano National Park. Rooms are private and reserved exclusively for Rustic Pathways participants, grouped by gender. Each room has access to bathrooms with hot showers and clean running water. The hostel also features a pool and garden where students can relax and enjoy downtime between activities.
San José Hotel
On the first and last nights, students will stay in a hotel near San José International Airport. These hotels are used for multiple Rustic Pathways programs, providing a smooth transition for arriving and departing groups. Rooms are shared with fellow travelers and include private bathrooms, offering a restful and convenient start and end to the adventure.
Service Projects in Costa Rica
Rustic Pathways partners with local communities and organizations across Costa Rica to create meaningful, hands-on service projects that make a real difference. Each initiative is chosen based on local need and led by community members and professional partners. While we aim to deliver all advertised projects, activities may vary depending on weather conditions and community priorities.
Types of Service Activities
During this program, students will engage in a variety of community and environmental projects designed to promote sustainability and cultural exchange. These may include:
- School Infrastructure Improvements: Support local education by helping repair classrooms, paint walls, and build or maintain learning spaces.
- Community Beautification Projects: Contribute to local parks and gardens through cleanup, painting, and light construction work.
- Reforestation with Millón de Árboles: Plant and care for native trees in a biological corridor that protects wildlife habitats near Río La Danta.
- National Park Maintenance: Assist rangers at Arenal Volcano National Park with upkeep tasks such as painting, woodworking, and trail maintenance.
- Cultural Exchange: Spend time with local students during school visits, sharing games, conversation, and cross-cultural learning experiences.
Each participant contributes about 16 hours of community service during the program. Last summer, students in the Pura Vida Service program collectively provided more than 7,000 hours of service across Costa Rica.
Meals and Water During the Costa Rica Program
Students will enjoy a mix of traditional Costa Rican meals and familiar North American favorites, all prepared with fresh local ingredients. Meals are designed to be nutritious, balanced, and appropriate for middle school travelers, with dietary needs taken into account.
Typical Meals
- Breakfast: Varies daily and may include pancakes, eggs, fruit, cereal, and milk. At least once during the program, students will enjoy the traditional Costa Rican dish Gallo Pinto—a flavorful mix of rice, beans, and salsa Lizano, often served with fried eggs, plantains, cheese, and homemade tortillas. Coffee and fresh juices are available each morning.
- Lunch: Usually served in the communities or schools where students work. Meals typically feature rice, beans, steamed vegetables, salad, and a protein such as chicken. All dietary needs are considered.
- Dinner: More varied, with both local and familiar options such as pasta, barbecue, fried rice with chicken, burgers, vegetables, mashed potatoes, and lasagna.
- Snacks: Fresh fruit or cereal bars are provided during service breaks. Common fruits include pineapple, banana, papaya, and watermelon.
Water and Hydration
Clean drinking water is available throughout the program. Students are encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle to refill during the day and help reduce plastic waste. Tap water is safe for brushing teeth and general use, while bottled or filtered water will be provided at all meals and activities.
Activities
What’s Included in the Costa Rica: Pura Vida Service Program
- Program Leaders & Guides: Rustic Pathways international and local staff, fluent in English and Spanish
- Airport Transfers: Private transportation to and from San José International Airport (SJO)
- Accommodations: All lodging throughout the 8-day program, including La Fortuna hostel and San José hotel
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided daily, plus snacks and fresh fruit
- Ground Transportation: All in-country transportation between service sites, excursions, and accommodations
- Activities & Excursions: All itinerary activities, entrance fees, and cultural experiences such as zip lining, rafting, and hot springs
- 24/7 Support: Continuous supervision and emergency support from Rustic Pathways staff
- Emergency Coverage: Comprehensive medical evacuation and assurance plan included
- Fees & Tips: All airport taxes, departure fees, local donations, and standard tips covered
What’s Not Included
- International airfare
- Souvenirs and personal purchases
- Additional snacks and drinks
- Visa or entry/exit fees (if required)
- Passport application or renewal costs
| Items | Details |
| Program Name | Costa Rica: Pura Vida Service (Middle School) |
| Location | Costa Rica – La Fortuna and San José |
| Duration | 8 days |
| Ages | 12–14 |
| Cost | $2,495 |
| Service Hours | ~16 hours |
| Program Type | Summer, Middle School, Community Service, Adventure |
| Included | Accommodations, meals, in-country transportation, activities, service projects, drinking water |
| Not Included | Airfare to/from Costa Rica, personal spending, travel protection plan, optional insurance |
| Provider | Rustic Pathways |
Ready to Book Your Costa Rica Adventure?
Here’s how to take the next step toward an unforgettable middle school travel experience with Rustic Pathways:
- Check Dates & Program Cost: Review the program details and ensure your travel dates fit your summer schedule.
- Submit Your Application: Complete your application in just a few minutes to reserve your spot.
- Speak With an Advisor: Our team is happy to answer questions and help your family prepare for your Costa Rican adventure.
Packing List for Costa Rica: Pura Vida Service (Middle School)
Here’s a recommended packing list based on feedback from past Rustic Pathways students and staff who participated in the Costa Rica: Pura Vida Service (Middle School) program. Adjust it to fit your personal preferences and habits, especially for items like socks, underwear, and toiletries.
Important: Students should be able to carry all their own luggage. Throughout the trip, you’ll be responsible for moving your bag through airports, loading and unloading from vehicles, climbing stairs, and walking short distances on uneven or muddy paths.
Luggage Guidelines
- Personal Item: A small backpack is ideal. You’ll use this as your daily bag for service projects, excursions, and adventure activities.
- Main Bag (carry-on or checked): A 40–50 liter duffel or travel backpack works best. It should be lightweight, easy to carry, and suitable for short transfers between locations.
Weather Considerations
Costa Rica’s weather is warm and humid year-round, with average temperatures between 75–85°F (24–29°C). Expect occasional tropical rain showers, especially in La Fortuna. Quick-dry clothing and light layers will help keep you comfortable.
Packing Tips
- Use packing cubes or plastic bags to keep your items organized and dry.
- Pack lightweight, breathable clothing and a light rain jacket or poncho for rainforest conditions.
- Bring sturdy closed-toe shoes for service days and sandals or water shoes for leisure and water activities.
- Don’t forget your reusable water bottle — it’s required for daily refills.
- Limit bulky items and leave valuables at home; storage space may be limited at accommodations.
Daypack
A school backpack is ideal as it will be used for daily activities and outings.
- Passport
- Photocopy of passport
- Photocopy of flight information
- Wallet/money
- Journal and pens
- Book
- Phone
- Camera
- Chargers
- Change of clothes
- Reusable water bottle
- Ear buds
- Medication
- Additional community service forms
- Visa documentation (if applicable)
- Consent to Travel Letter (for students under 18, recommended by the US State Dept but not required)
- Rustic Pathways emergency contacts
Main luggage
A 40-50 liter duffel bag or backpack is ideal
Clothes
- Socks (4-5) Some should be long socks for boots
- Underwear (6-8)
- Pants/capris (2)
- Long, loose-fitting shorts for service project work. Something that provides coverage and protection while keeping you cool. (5-6)
- Tank Tops (3-4)
- T-shirts (6-8)
- Long sleeved shirt (1)
- Rash guard (Suggested for rafting)
- Pajamas
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Bathing suit cover-up/sarong
- Rain jacket
- Sandals for water (like Tevas or Chacos or water shoes for rafting)
- Sneakers (Closed-toed comfortable shoes)
- Sun glasses
- Hat (for sun)
- Rubber boots (Suggested for service. Try to bring with you as these can be purchased more easily in the US than locally) or extra pair of service sneakers
- Long socks to wear with rubber boots
Toiletries
(Travel size bottles in Ziploc bags)
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Body wash
- Face wash
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Oxybenzone-free sunscreen (reef-safe)
- Biodegradable/natural bug spray
- Feminine hygiene products
- Contacts
- Contact solution
- Foam ear plugs
- Personal med kit
- Deodorant
- Wet Wipes
- Razor/shaving cream
Optional/Other
Portable games–Bananagrams, playing cards, Frisbee
Flash Light or headlamp (suggested)
Pro Travel Tips
Packing Tips for the Costa Rica Pura Vida Service Program
Packing the right gear (and the right amount) is the first step to an incredible experience in Costa Rica. Follow these quick tips to be prepared and travel light:
✅ Travel light. Pack only the essentials. We strongly encourage only a carry on size luggage.
✅ Make sure your luggage complies with TSA regulations, especially your carry-on.
✅ Leave your valuables behind. While traveling, it’s easier for things to get lost, stolen, or damaged. Keep any prized possessions safe at home.
✅ Pack clothes that are acceptable for hot weather. This includes appropriate footwear.
✅ Include a swimsuit, rain jacket, and comfortable casual wear for hot, humid weather (75–85°F / 24–29°C).
Connects Well With...
