Currents of Connection invites students to explore Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast — a region shaped by rich Afro-Costa Rican and Indigenous histories, coastal ecosystems, and warm community life. Students learn directly from culture-keepers, visit national parks and beaches, and experience how local people care for the land and for one another. Under the guidance of experienced educators and bilingual guides, participants build confidence, friendships, and a deeper sense of curiosity about the world.
This is an all-inclusive travel experience, designed to make international exploration easy and safe for first-time travelers. Lodging, meals, transportation, daily excursions, and learning activities are fully coordinated by UbicaTours. Our team supports students every step of the way — so families can feel confident knowing their young travelers are cared for, prepared, and learning in a safe, structured environment.
All hotel stays during the trip (at beautiful, locally-owned, Eco-lodges)
All activities including a waterfall hike, organic farm visit, guided nature experiences, volunteer experiences
Each student receives a custom guidebook to guide their journey, grounded in leadership, sustainability, and cross-cultural understanding
Our team is here to support you with navigating the first-time passport application process
We can book your flights from MSY to San Jose, Costa Rica
Individuals are responsible for obtaining their own travel insurance
Our journey begins with arrival in San José, where students meet their group and UbicaTours guides. We will spend our first night in the capital city, and begin our trip wiht a downtown walking tour.
Mini-Lesson: Opening circle — introductions, goals, and grounding for the week ahead.
Afternoon:
• Group arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)
Evening:
• Settle into lodging and enjoy group dinner + downtime. Walking Tour of San Jose.
After breakfast, we travel east to Cahuita — a vibrant Caribbean-coast community shaped by Afro-Costa Rican history and coastal rainforest. That evening, students enjoy a cultural dinner experience rooted in Black Caribbean foodways and community life.
Morning:
• Private, supervised group transfer to Cahuita (approx. 3–4 hours)
Afternoon:
• Arrival + orientation in Cahuita
Evening:
• Afro-Costa Rican cultural + culinary experience + group dinner
Students begin the day with a guided nature hike through Cahuita National Park, home to coral reefs, sloths, monkeys, and coastal rainforest. In the afternoon, students enjoy leisure time at the beach — a chance to relax, swim, journal, or connect with friends.
Morning:
• Guided nature hike in Cahuita National Park
Afternoon:
• Leisure time at the beach
Evening:
• Reflection + group connection time
Today, students learn about cacao through a hands-on chocolate tour with the local Bribri Indigenous community. Students also spend time with the Bribri to learn about history, cultural traditions, and daily life.
Morning:
• Indigenous community visit with the Bribri people featuring a chocolate and cacao experience
Afternoon:
• Leisure time to enjoy the beach.
Evening:
• Dinner + reflection circle
Students travel back to San José and spend the afternoon in service with Obras del Espíritu Santo, a respected community organization supporting families and youth. Together, students learn from local leaders and contribute through guided volunteer activities.
Morning:
• Private group transfer to San José
Afternoon:
• Service + learning at Obras del Espíritu Santo
Evening:
• Group dinner + trip closing reflections
After breakfast, we head to the airport for the return flight. Students leave with new confidence, friendships, and a deeper understanding of culture, identity, and global community.
Morning:
• Pack + depart lodging
• Transfer to SJO Airport
Afternoon:
• Flight to New Orleans
