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8577
Costa Rica

A Taste of Costa Rica

Hike cloud forests, explore volcanic trails, learn about biodiversity, study delicate ecosystems and savor the art of coffee making and good conversation as you discover Costa Rica.
Rating (4.96)
Program No. 8577RJ
Length
9 days
Starts at
1,959
Special Offer
Click on Dates & Prices below to see special offer details.
Flights start at
500
Costa Rica

A Taste of Costa Rica

Hike cloud forests, explore volcanic trails, learn about biodiversity, study delicate ecosystems and savor the art of coffee making and good conversation as you discover Costa Rica.
Length
9 days
Starts at
1,959
Special Offer
Click on Dates & Prices below to see special offer details.
Flights start at
500
Program No. 8577 RJ

Your well-being is our #1 priority

To make your experience as safe as possible, we require all participants to be fully vaccinated. See our Safety Roadmap

Enroll with Confidence

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768
airfare
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climate
Plan ahead.
What kind of weather can you expect? Take a look!
itinerary
Please Note:
The itinerary for this program is different on certain dates.
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.

DATES & PRICES

Hotel
Accommodation Details

Comfortable accommodations that meet our high standards.

Feb 19 - Feb 27, 2022
Hotel 2,059
Itinerary Note

This departure can be combined with the Feb. 27 date of Program #20774- Costa Rica: Three Jewels in Paradise

Mar 3 - Mar 11, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,059
Mar 8 - Mar 16, 2022
Hotel 2,059
Itinerary Note

This departure can be combined with the Mar. 17 date of Program #20774- Costa Rica: Three Jewels in Paradise

Mar 14 - Mar 22, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,059
Itinerary Note

This departure can be combined with the Mar. 23 date of Program #20774- Costa Rica: Three Jewels in Paradise

Apr 1 - Apr 9, 2022
Hotel 2,059
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Apr 3 - Apr 11, 2022
Hotel 2,059
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Apr 19 - Apr 27, 2022
Hotel 2,059
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Apr 25 - May 3, 2022
Hotel 2,059
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

May 9 - May 17, 2022
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

May 23 - May 31, 2022
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Jun 1 - Jun 9, 2022
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Jul 7 - Jul 15, 2022
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Aug 7 - Aug 15, 2022
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Sep 13 - Sep 21, 2022
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Oct 11 - Oct 19, 2022
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Oct 17 - Oct 25, 2022
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Apr 12 - Apr 20, 2023
Hotel 2,249
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Apr 18 - Apr 26, 2023
Hotel 2,249
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Apr 25 - May 3, 2023
Hotel 2,249
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

May 17 - May 25, 2023
Hotel 2,099
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Jul 18 - Jul 26, 2023
Hotel 2,099
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Aug 15 - Aug 23, 2023
Hotel 2,099
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Oct 4 - Oct 12, 2023
Hotel 2,099
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Oct 16 - Oct 24, 2023
Hotel 2,099
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Dec 1 - Dec 9, 2023
Hotel 2,249
Itinerary Note

This departure can be combined with the Dec. 9 date of Program #20774- Costa Rica: Three Jewels in Paradise.

DATES & PRICES

Hotel
Accommodation Details

Comfortable accommodations that meet our high standards.

Feb 14 - Feb 22, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,439
Feb 19 - Feb 27, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,439
Itinerary Note

This departure can be combined with the Feb. 27 date of Program #20774- Costa Rica: Three Jewels in Paradise

Mar 3 - Mar 11, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,439
Mar 8 - Mar 16, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,439
Itinerary Note

This departure can be combined with the Mar. 17 date of Program #20774- Costa Rica: Three Jewels in Paradise

Mar 14 - Mar 22, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,439
Itinerary Note

This departure can be combined with the Mar. 23 date of Program #20774- Costa Rica: Three Jewels in Paradise

Mar 19 - Mar 27, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,439
Apr 1 - Apr 9, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,059
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Apr 3 - Apr 11, 2022
Hotel 2,059
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Apr 19 - Apr 27, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,059
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Apr 25 - May 3, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,059
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

May 9 - May 17, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

May 23 - May 31, 2022
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Jun 1 - Jun 9, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Jul 7 - Jul 15, 2022
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Aug 7 - Aug 15, 2022
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Sep 13 - Sep 21, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Oct 11 - Oct 19, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Oct 17 - Oct 25, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 1,959
Special Offer

No added cost for single rooms! Free singles are limited. Please call for details.

Nov 2 - Nov 10, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,419
Dec 1 - Dec 9, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,419
Dec 7 - Dec 15, 2022
SOLD OUT
Hotel 2,419
Apr 12 - Apr 20, 2023
Hotel 2,249
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Apr 18 - Apr 26, 2023
Hotel 2,249
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Apr 25 - May 3, 2023
Hotel 2,249
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

May 17 - May 25, 2023
Hotel 2,099
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Jul 18 - Jul 26, 2023
Hotel 2,099
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Aug 15 - Aug 23, 2023
Hotel 2,099
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Oct 4 - Oct 12, 2023
Hotel 2,099
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Oct 16 - Oct 24, 2023
Hotel 2,099
Special Offer

No extra cost for single rooms! Free singles sell out quickly, so be sure to enroll early.

Dec 1 - Dec 9, 2023
Hotel 2,659
Itinerary Note

This departure can be combined with the Dec. 9 date of Program #20774- Costa Rica: Three Jewels in Paradise.

At a Glance

Low-level clouds drift through the sweet cedar and hanging moss. Even in dim sunlight, the orchid’s flowers brighten your path as you hike. In this interdisciplinary introduction to Costa Rica, learn about the nation’s rain and cloud forests and the inseparable bond between the people and the land. Explore volcanic terrain and tropical gardens, as well as culture and history. Meet residents in local communities for an intimate experience of this peaceful nation.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to 1.5 hours a day over uneven trails in hot and humid conditions. Elevations up to 6,000 feet.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Hike through the mystical cloud forest at Monteverde and experience the thrill of whitewater rafting at Sarapiquí.
  • Discover scenic views of Arenal Volcano from up in the rainforest canopy during a walk on a combination of nature trails and hanging bridges.
  • Enjoy an interactive presentation that introduces you to an important gourmet coffee roaster in Costa Rica.
Featured Expert
All Experts
Profile Image
Pedro Bosques
Pedro Bosques is a veteran Road Scholar instructor and group leader, with approximately 20 years of experience in hosting lifelong learners in Costa Rica. Although born in Puntarenas, on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, Pedro grew up in San José. His interest in conservation blossomed when he began working at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve as a field assistant. During this time he colaborated with researchers and biologists in projects including the study of the behavior and migration of the Three-wattled Bellbird and reforestation of the biological corridor in the Monteverde region. Pedro is a certified naturalist leader who enjoys sharing his knowledge with travelers from around the world. He looks forward to hosting you in this program and enhancing your journey in his beautiful country.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Pedro Bosques
Pedro Bosques View biography
Pedro Bosques is a veteran Road Scholar instructor and group leader, with approximately 20 years of experience in hosting lifelong learners in Costa Rica. Although born in Puntarenas, on Costa Rica’s central Pacific coast, Pedro grew up in San José. His interest in conservation blossomed when he began working at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve as a field assistant. During this time he colaborated with researchers and biologists in projects including the study of the behavior and migration of the Three-wattled Bellbird and reforestation of the biological corridor in the Monteverde region. Pedro is a certified naturalist leader who enjoys sharing his knowledge with travelers from around the world. He looks forward to hosting you in this program and enhancing your journey in his beautiful country.
Profile Image of Reimer Palma
Reimer Palma View biography
Reimer Palma is a self-proclaimed “nature guy.” He fondly recalls, at an early age, accompanying his father on walks through the rainforest to go fishing or for work. Those quiet outdoor explorations further fueled his appreciation for and an awareness of his natural surroundings. When Reimer attended a course in ecotourism at his high school, he became intrigued with the idea of becoming a naturalist guide. In 2009, he began attending natural history courses at La Selva Biological Field Station in preparation for his certification. As a naturalist leader, Reimer enjoys introducing visitors to many of Costa Rica’s beautiful protected areas; although the lush Caribbean lowlands, where he grew up, still hold the number one spot in his heart. When Reimer isn’t leading groups or enjoying time with his family, you will most likely find him hitting his college books in pursuit of his bachelor’s degree in biology.
Profile Image of Andrés Ramirez
Andrés Ramirez View biography
Andrés Ramirez is a Costa Rican naturalist leader and wildlife photographer. The natural world has always been a part of his life, starting in his early years growing up in a rural town and visiting his grandfather's farm. Andrés has a degree in ecological tourism from the University of Costa Rica and trained at the National Learning Institute to become a certified guide. A love and talent for photography led him to study digital photography at Fundatec and turn a hobby into a career.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Costa Rica Butterflies & Moths
by James Kavanagh
A handy, laminated fold-up card with color illustrations of Costa Rica’s more visible species of butterflies and moths. Includes the distinguishing markings or behaviors of each species.
Costa Rica, A Traveler's Literary Companion
by Barbara Ras
These 26 well-chosen stories by Costa Rican writers introduce the people, culture and land.
Nature of the Rainforest, Costa Rica and Beyond
by Adrian Forsyth, E.O. Wilson (Introduction), Michael Fogden (Photographer)
Our favorite biologist-writer returns to the Neotropics in this beautifully illustrated, oversized overview of the rainforest. With chapters on Monteverde and Guanacaste, plants, frogs and snakes, birds, monkeys and jaguars, the sloth, peculiar insects and biodioversity; A marvelous, anecdotal introduction to ecology, evolution and conservation.
Volcanoes, Crucibles of Change
by Richard Fisher
A complete primer for the volcano lover, this heavily illustrated book covers types of volcanoes and eruptions, worldwide distribution and the physics of their formation.
Costa Rican Wildlife
by Pocket Naturalist
Put it in your pocket! This handy, fold-up card includes color illustrations of dozens of typical birds, mammals and reptiles. We also carry plastic cards for Costa Rica Birds (Item CRC56) and Costa Rica Butterflies & Moths (Item CRC57), $5.95 each.
The Wildlife of Costa Rica, A Field Guide
by Twan Leenders, Robert Dean, Jim Zook, Fiona Reid
This guide includes 450 of the most common, interesting and charismatic mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and arthropods that you are likely to encounter. Each has exquisite full-color illustrations.
Costa Rica, The Complete Guide
by James Kaiser
From pristine beaches and jungle waterfalls to high-altitude coffee plantations, award-winning author and photographer Kaiser shows readers the best of Costa Rica, including the country's stunning collection of national parks.
Costa Rica Birds
by James Kavanagh
A handy, laminated fold-up card with full-color illustrations of birds commonly found in Costa Rica. Great for kids, too.
Costa Rican Spanish
by Lonely Planet
A pocket guide to understanding idioms, slang and Spanish as it is spoken by the Ticos.
National Geographic Costa Rica
by Christopher P. Baker
This stylish and informative travel resource features 200 photographs, many maps and good information on the country's history, nature and culture.
Costa Rica Adventure Map
by National Geographic
A double-sided map at a scale of 1:500,000.
The Birds of Costa Rica
by Richard Garrigues, Robert Dean (Illustrator)
This new edition covers 903 species of birds with hundreds of new, supplemental or revised color illustrations by Robert Dean and revised color-coded range maps.
The Ticos
by Richard Biesanz
This insightful, fact-filled portrait of the Costa Rican people details their culture, history and society.
Costa Rica, A Journey Through Nature
by Adrian Hepworth
Dividing the book by ecosystem and geographic area, BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year Hepworth's color photographs showcase the diversity of Costa Rica's wildlife and habitats.
Tropical Nature
by Adrian Forsyth, Ken Miyata
Two uncommonly observant and thoughtful field biologists offer a lucid portrait of the tropics through 17 marvelous essays that introduce the habitats, ecology, plants and animals of the Central and South American rainforests.
Aroma of the World: A Journey into the Mysteries and Delights of Coffee
by Santo Versace (Foreword), Elisabetta Illy
A beautiful book for the coffee lover, this heavily illustrated compendium is equal parts history and travel journal, detailing the passage of the coffee bean from origination to current status as an icon of modern living.
Wild Costa Rica
by Adrian Hepworth
This beautiful, informative survey of the habitats, wildlife and protected areas of Costa Rica features 200 color photographs and chapters on natural history and conservation.
The World Atlas of Coffee, From Beans to Brewing
by James Hoffmann
A global history of the addictive brown bean organized by country, with a look at regional techniques and traits, fair trade efforts and the role of colonialism. Includes colorful maps and photos.
Costa Rica Reader: History, Culture, Politics
by Steven Palmer (Editor), Ivan Molina (Editor)
A lively, literate sourcebook on the politics, economy and society of Costa Rica
Culture Smart! Costa Rica
by Jane Koutnik
History, religion, daily life, food, health and safety are all covered in this accessible pocket guide to Costa Rican customs, etiquette and culture.





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If you want to attend the live lecture, please do not wait until the last minute to enroll.
If you enroll after a lecture is complete, we’ll send you a recording of the event.