Welcome to Costa Rica! Take included transportation with your group to Puerto Viejo. This beachside town is the best place in Costa Rica to experience laid-back vibes, enjoy a unique Caribbean culture, and take in the crystal blue water.
Enjoy your first traditional Costa Rican dinner in town as you get to know your new friends.
Settle into your charming bungalow for some rest before tomorrow’s beach day.
As the sun rises over the Caribbean Sea, visit Cahuita National Park. See the park’s sustainable relationship with the community.
Get to know the best-preserved coral reef in the Costa Rican Caribbean area and enjoy the scenery, culture, and cuisine.
Spend your afternoon soaking in the crystalline waters on the coast on the beach, wandering around town, or indulging in a massage.
Try a delicious ceviche, a traditional cured fish dish, as an appetizer, and enjoy a Caribbean-influenced entree for dinner.
Visit the Gandoca–Manzanillo National Refuge, home to numerous ecosystems along the southern Caribbean Coast.
Enjoy an afternoon exploring Puerto Viejo by bike or catching some waves with an optional surf lesson on Playa Negra.
In the evening, prepare for your upcoming rafting adventure and pack an overnight bag to use in the jungle. Then, relax at the hotel or hang out with your new friends over drinks at a local bar.
Wake up early and embark on a two-day whitewater rafting adventure. Raft Class II, III, & IV rapids through the rainforest to your remote eco-lodge on the Pacuare River.
The lodge is a model of sustainable tourism with hydroelectric power and quaint, rustic accommodations. Enjoy a self-guided walk to nearby waterfalls and natural pools.
Dine in the open air with meals cooked in the wilderness by your rafting guides. Fall asleep to the sounds of the rainforest.
Wake up feeling ready to continue your adventure down the river. Hold on tight as the rapids get bigger and better. Listen carefully to your rafting guide's commands and paddle hard to earn your “Tico” lunch.
End your rafting trip with a shower and take a well-deserved nap in the van on the way to our next destination.
Arrive at Turrialba and spend the evening celebrating a successful rafting adventure with your friends.
Get your adrenaline pumping as you spend the morning rappelling down four different waterfalls.
Explore the lush flora as you fly above the canopy on zip lines and walk across a hanging bridge.
Afterward, tour a local coffee plantation and learn about the seven stages of coffee production. Be sure to taste a freshly made cup of Costa Rican coffee!
Wake up early and enjoy your last gallo pinto breakfast.
Make your way back to San Jose Airport with included transportation, or continue the adventure to the Pacific side of the country on our Costa Rica Trip.
Make plans to keep in touch with your new friends as a member of our Under30Experiences alumni network.
"Choosing to go on the Under30Experience trip to Costa Rica was one of the best decisions I have made in a while-it's honestly difficult to condense all my feelings into a short paragraph. I was so inspired by how the team at Rancho Margot has worked with nature to create a sanctuary that invites guests to think differently about sustainable design. Being surrounded by so many interesting and adventurous individuals revitalized my soul and reenergized my commitment to following my passion. I never thought I would say this, but it was honestly difficult to say goodbye at the airport on Sunday. If you want a trip that alters your idea of what a vacation is-I suggest you sign up. We only get one life, so choose to enjoy, engage, and experience." -Deven G.
"This trip was one of the most amazing and incredible trips and experiences. I am an avid traveler and have done both group and solo travel and this ranks as one of the best trips I have taken. I booked the Costa Rica Rain Forest trip on a whim 2 weeks prior to the trip leaving and I am beyond glad I did...The group is made up of like-minded individuals who share both a love for travel as well as traveling with "strangers" (who quickly become close friends). Don't be fooled by the name, "under30" as the average age on my trip was around 30. I was nervous that I would be on a trip of younger 20 year olds who just wanted to party and drink like some other young adult group travel companies have the reputation for; however that was not the case at all! The trip was made up of young professionals who both wanted to explore the county and culture as well as have a good time. Costa Rica is a beautiful and diverse country with some of the nicest and happiest people... This trip allowed me to disconnect from technology and the "real world" and reconnect with myself. It pushed me outside my comfort zone. I met people where we instantly bonded and become good friends with within the 5 days. I cannot say enough great things about this trip and already have another Under30 trip booked (and am looking at others!). If you're thinking about going...JUST DO IT!" -Sarah F.
"Signing up for my first Under30Experiences trip was one of the best decisions of my life. I saw incredibly beautiful countries (Nicaragua, Costa Rica, my 4th trip is to Peru and the Amazon in the fall!) and met inspiring people who have touched my life and shaped my heart. These trips challenged me to get out of my comfort zone and rethink my perspective of the world. They showed me different ways of life and landscapes. But most importantly they encouraged me to focus on what I want to discover and chase my next adventure. I've met lifelong friends who have added so much joy and happiness to my world. I encourage everyone I meet to go on a trip- you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. It's so nice to be on a trip where all you need to plan is your flight and some lunches- they take care of the rest! The customer service is also genuine and extremely responsive." -Cara M.