Costa Rica 2027

Wildlife, Waterfalls, and Whitewater Rafting
 
Get ready for an unforgettable journey through Costa Rica's rich biodiversity, where environmental sustainability, cultural exchange, and adrenaline-pumping adventure come together for a week of discovery and connection. 

The trip begins in La Fortuna with a visit to a local bilingual school committed to environmental education, where students will share breakfast with their Costa Rican peers and join classroom and outdoor activities for an authentic glimpse into school life. An afternoon swim beneath the cascading La Fortuna Waterfall sets the tone, followed by a hands-on day at the Asis Wildlife Rescue Center, where students will work alongside staff to prepare food and support the rehabilitation of native species while learning about Costa Rica's conservation challenges.

Next, we'll walk the rainforest canopy at Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park with panoramic views of Arenal Volcano, then unwind in natural mineral hot springs. The adventure continues in Sarapiquí, where students will soar through the treetops on a zipline canopy tour and navigate the rapids of the Sarapiquí River, keeping an eye out for toucans, iguanas, and monkeys. The journey wraps up at the breathtaking La Paz Waterfall Gardens before a farewell dinner in San José.

Students must be comfortable swimming and with heights for this trip.

Trip Leader: Katherine Poulson 
 
Essential Questions
  • How does the ability to communicate in Spanish enhance the overall learning experience during the trip? What can cross-cultural exchanges with local students teach us about perspective and global citizenship?
  • How do wildlife rescue centers contribute to wildlife conservation efforts in Costa Rica, and what are the challenges they face in protecting native species?
  • What is ecotourism? Why is it important to the economy of Costa Rica? How does engaging in activities like zip lining, whitewater rafting at Sarapiqui River, and visiting the La Paz waterfalls promote environmental awareness and appreciation for Costa Rica's natural ecosystems?
  • What does it mean to be a responsible traveler? How can our choices positively or negatively impact the communities and ecosystems we visit? What ethical responsibilities do humans have when interacting with wildlife, especially in contexts like rescue, rehabilitation, and tourism? 
  • How have Costa Rica’s investments and lessons learned in education and environmental protection shaped its development and global leadership in ecotourism and conservation?

Brimmer and May School

69 Middlesex Road
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
617-566-7462
As an inclusive private school community, Brimmer welcomes students who will increase the diversity of our school. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, gender, gender identity and expression, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, or any other characteristic protected from discrimination under state or federal law, in the administration of our educational policies, admissions practices, financial aid decisions, and athletic and other school-administered programs.