Young Explorers: Pura Vida

Young Explorers: Pura Vida

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Questions? Call (440) 975-9691 for an admissions counselor

2024 Departure Dates

June 18 – June 25, 2024 Limited Enroll Now
July 2 – July 9, 2024 Available Enroll Now

Rustic Pathways’ Young Explorers programs are for students ages 12 to 13 with a passion for travel. These programs allow the young adventurer to step outside of their comfort zone, make new friends, and learn about the world around them.

Get to know the beauty of rural Costa Rica. Meet with local communities, create real bonds and participate in meaningful community service projects. Get up close with the iconic Arenal volcano and its natural hot springs. Then discover the beauty of Costa Rican beaches and the reason why travelers from all over the world go to Costa Rica to enjoy its warm waves.

Students love the contrast between mountains and beaches

Program Profile
Program Profile

Packing the right gear (and the right amounts) is the first step to an incredible travel experience. Follow these tips to pack like a pro:

Travel light. Pack only the essentials. You’ll need less than you think!
Bring the right clothes. Pack clothes that are culturally appropriate for your destination and acceptable for service projects. This means bringing long shorts (think Bermuda and basketball shorts), t-shirts with sleeves to cover shoulders, and appropriate footwear.
Leave your valuables behind. While traveling, it’s easier for things to get lost, stolen, or damaged. Keep any prized possessions safe at home.
Check with TSA. Make sure your luggage complies with TSA regulations, especially your carry-on. Useful tip: Pack an empty water bottle and fill it up after security.
Extra paperwork? If you need additional forms filled out to get credit for your service hours, no problem! Bring these forms with you so they can be completed in-country.

Rustic Gear. Want to get all your shopping done for your program in one place? We’ve got you covered. Check out Rustic Gear and get all the essentials sent right to your door.
Carry-On

A school backpack or similar sized bag is ideal.

  • Passport
  • Photocopy of passport
  • Wallet/money
  • Book and/or journal
  • Pen
  • Phone
  • Camera
  • Chargers
  • Change of clothes
  • Water bottle
  • Medication
  • Additional community service forms
  • Visa documentation (if applicable)
  • Consent to Travel form
  • Rustic Pathways emergency contacts
Check Luggage

A 50-70 Liter duffel bag or backpack is ideal.

Clothes

  • Socks (5-8)
  • Underwear (6-8)
  • Pants/capris (3-4)
  • Long service shorts
  • Long skirt
  • Tank Tops (5-8)
  • T-shirts (5-8)
  • Long sleeved shirt (2-4)
  • Fleece/hoodie
  • Pijamas
  • Swimsuit
  • Quick dry towel
  • Beach towel/sarong
  • Rain jacket
  • Sandals water/strappy sandals (like Tevas or Chacos)
  • Sneakers/ Hiking boots for Community Service and Adventure Activities
  • Sneakers (Closed-toed comfortable shoes)
  • Work gloves
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat (for sun)

Toiletries

(Travel size bottles in Ziploc bags)

  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner
  • Body wash
  • Face wash
  • Toothbrush
  • Tooth paste
  • Oxybenzone-free sunscreen (reef-safe)
  • Bug spray
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Contacts
  • Contact solution
  • Foam ear plugs
  • Personal med kit
  • Deodorant
  • Wet Wipes
  • Razor/shaving cream

Optional

  • Portable games (Bananagrams, cards, etc.)
  • Power bank (in your Carry-on)
Important Reminders
  • *Community Service Appropriate Attire includes T-shirts and tank tops with no visible undergarments and shorts with a 3” or more inseam.
  • Don’t forget the Big Five: Water bottle, Sunscreen, Bug spray, Rain jacket, Closed-toe shoes.
  • Students will have a chance to do laundry on this trip.