MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
Costa Rica: Leaving My Footprint
From
*
Per Person
7
Nights
Limited Time Special Offer
*
Lend a helping hand while enjoying the vacation of your dreams
So, you want to experience the picture-perfect splendors of Costa Rica, but you've also been looking for an opportunity to volunteer and give back? Good news - this is the trip for you. Dance down the streets of bustling San Jose, hike through jungle grounds, and take tons of photos of Arenal Volcano. Volunteer at a wildlife rescue center, spend a day among the indigenous Maleku tribe, and visit at-risk youth at a local non-profit organization. Experience beauty in every sense of the word and embark on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure that is so much more than "just" a vacation.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 2 nights in San Jose at the Crowne Plaza San Jose Corobici or similar
- Visit to Obras del Espiritu Santo
- Transfer from San Jose hotel to Arenal Volcano area
- 4 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Arenal Springs Resort & Spa, or similar
- Arenal Vida Campesina Tour
- Full-day Maleku Reserve Tour
- Volunteer Program Tour at Proyecto Asis
- Transfer from Arenal Volcano to San Jose hotel
- 1 night in San Jose at the Crowne Plaza San Jose Corobici or similar
- Daily breakfast and 3 lunches
Great Ways to Explore
-
Volunteer at a wildlife rescue center! Feed animals and learn all about local animal behavior.
- Enjoy the best of both worlds: the lush jungle and the buzzing city! Enjoy stays in the capital city of San Jose, then stay near majestic Arenal Volcano.
-
Visit the indigenous Maleku Tribe and immerse yourself in authentic culture!
-
Hike through Arenal Vida Campesina, where you'll partake in traditional activities such as milking cows, making tortillas, and learning dances.
-
Spend time with at-risk youth at a non-profit organization that focuses on health, education, homelessness, and other hardships.
Escape to lush green forests, culture-packed cities, and picture-perfect volcano grounds! On this Costa Rican adventure, you'll experience spectacular natural beauty while doing your part to preserve it. This package delivers a unique mixture of opportunities - you'll have the chance to volunteer at a wild animal rehabilitation center, learn about indigenous tribes, make arrows and tortillas, climb a volcano, explore the capital city of San Jose, and much more!
This 7-night vacation is chock full of tours, special visits, and cultural activities. From a guided journey through breathtaking Arenal Vida Campesina to a full-day tour of the native Maleku Reserve, every day of this trip will be completely different from the next. A memorable highlight of your time in Costa Rica will be your visit to Obras Del Espiritu Santo, a non-profit organization that focuses on local teenagers and children at social risk. Share special time with these children, teach them about your culture and language, and learn about their situations and the hardships they face. You can be sure that these children will never forget you, and you will surely never forget them.
Jump on this opportunity to make a difference while experiencing the beauty of Costa Rica. Enjoy convenient transfers, luxurious accommodations, several included meals, and English-speaking guided tours. So, go ahead. Take tons of priceless photos, feel the reward of giving back, and immerse yourself in the culture and scenic landscapes of this tropical oasis.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to San Jose (SJO)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 2 nights in San Jose at the Crowne Plaza San Jose Corobici or similar
- Visit to Obras del Espiritu Santo
- Transfer from San Jose hotel to Arenal Volcano area
- 4 nights in the Arenal Volcano area at the Arenal Springs Resort & Spa, or similar
- Arenal Vida Campesina Tour
- Full-day Maleku Reserve Tour
- Volunteer Program Tour at Proyecto Asis
- Transfer from Arenal Volcano to San Jose hotel
- 1 night in San Jose at the Crowne Plaza San Jose Corobici or similar
- Daily breakfast and 3 lunches
Great Ways to Explore
-
Volunteer at a wildlife rescue center! Feed animals and learn all about local animal behavior.
- Enjoy the best of both worlds: the lush jungle and the buzzing city! Enjoy stays in the capital city of San Jose, then stay near majestic Arenal Volcano.
-
Visit the indigenous Maleku Tribe and immerse yourself in authentic culture!
-
Hike through Arenal Vida Campesina, where you'll partake in traditional activities such as milking cows, making tortillas, and learning dances.
-
Spend time with at-risk youth at a non-profit organization that focuses on health, education, homelessness, and other hardships.
Package Overview
Escape to lush green forests, culture-packed cities, and picture-perfect volcano grounds! On this Costa Rican adventure, you'll experience spectacular natural beauty while doing your part to preserve it. This package delivers a unique mixture of opportunities - you'll have the chance to volunteer at a wild animal rehabilitation center, learn about indigenous tribes, make arrows and tortillas, climb a volcano, explore the capital city of San Jose, and much more!
This 7-night vacation is chock full of tours, special visits, and cultural activities. From a guided journey through breathtaking Arenal Vida Campesina to a full-day tour of the native Maleku Reserve, every day of this trip will be completely different from the next. A memorable highlight of your time in Costa Rica will be your visit to Obras Del Espiritu Santo, a non-profit organization that focuses on local teenagers and children at social risk. Share special time with these children, teach them about your culture and language, and learn about their situations and the hardships they face. You can be sure that these children will never forget you, and you will surely never forget them.
Jump on this opportunity to make a difference while experiencing the beauty of Costa Rica. Enjoy convenient transfers, luxurious accommodations, several included meals, and English-speaking guided tours. So, go ahead. Take tons of priceless photos, feel the reward of giving back, and immerse yourself in the culture and scenic landscapes of this tropical oasis.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Departure Airport:
Other...
(Click here to enter a different airport)
Departure Month:
Check availability to see price.
Prices From:
{{ vm.yearMonthOptions[vm.yearMonth].statusLabel || 'N/A' }}
Switch nights
or departure month
*
*
Per Person
Nights
*
Package ID: PK-GC4P-SH-CRLF-SJO
Day 1. Welcome to San Jose!
Arrive in the sunny city of San Jose! Upon arrival at SJO International Airport, you'll be greeted by a Swiss Travel representative who will provide you with all the documentation you'll need during your Costa Rican adventure. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to your first accommodation, then settle in and get to know San Jose!
Spend the afternoon strolling through beautiful La Sabana Park. Smell the freshness of eucalyptus trees, see your reflection in the lake, or wander around the art museum. Treat yourself to dinner in neighboring Sabana Norte or Sabana Sur, two bustling neighborhoods filled with nightlife, restaurants, theaters, and much more.
Transfer to San Jose hotel
San Jose,
Costa Rica
1 of 3 hotels
Kick back and relax at the contemporary Crowne Plaza San Jose Corobici! Feel your eyes widen as you walk through the atrium, which boasts sky-high ceilings, stylish seating areas, and flooding natural light. Check-in with the friendly reception team, then mosey through the halls and find your room. Open the door to plush beds, WiFi, flat-screen TV, sparkling bathrooms, and more. Take a quick nap, then unpack your swimsuit and head for the pool! Take a refreshing dip or lounge in the warm sun with a drink in-hand. Work all your stresses away at the on-site state-of-the-art fitness center, melt your worries away in the sauna, or sink into the steamy Jacuzzi.
When you work up an appetite, decide between El Tucan Restaurant, which serves sophisticated Costa Rican cuisine near the pool, or Fuji Restaurant, which serves traditional Japanese cuisine in a hibachi-table setting. After a delicious dinner, unwind with a drink at the lobby bar!
San Jose,
Costa Rica
2 of 3 hotels
Experience luxurious comfort in the heart of San Jose at this contemporary, convenient hotel. Walk into the lobby and be greeted by bright colors, stylish decor, and a friendly reception team. Open the door to your room and find large, comfortable beds, free WiFi, plasma TVs, and tons of other modern amenities. Feeling a bit hungry? Raid the minibar, call room service, or grab a bite to eat at the elegant on-site restaurant, RBG Bar & Grill.
Unpack your swimsuit and head to the outdoor pool! Jump in and make a splash, then lounge in the warm sun with a refreshing drink in-hand. Work all your stresses away at the gym, or explore the area. At the Park Inn by Radisson San Jose, you'll always feel the perfect balance of entertained and relaxed.
San Jose,
Costa Rica
3 of 3 hotels
Experience elegant luxury at the stylish Radisson San Jose, located less than 4 km from the city's bustling downtown area. Upon arrival, check-in with the friendly reception team, then admire the hotel's trendy decor as you walk to your room. Open your door to free WiFi, flat screen TV, air-conditioning, bottled water, a refrigerator, and much more. Feel secluded in your cozy room that boasts blackout curtains, large comfy beds, and gourmet Costa Rican coffee. Unpack your suitcase and head to the outdoor pool! Lounge in the hot sun with a refreshing drink in-hand or jump in and make a splash. Work all your stresses away in the fitness center, then return to your room and freshen up in your sparkling upscale bathroom.
When you work up an appetite, indulge in delicious cuisine at either of the hotel's two on-site restaurants: Acuarelas Restaurant or Cafe Tropical. After dinner, dance the night away at buzzing Bar Jobo, the hotel's lively lounge that offers live music and handcrafted cocktails. Take a walk through the lush garden, then take in the pleasant breeze from the outdoor patio.
Day 2. San Jose
Energize with a rejuvenating breakfast, then enjoy your visit to Obras Del Espiritu Santo. Cherish your time at this wonderful non-profit organization that focuses on diverse social aspects such as health, education, and at-risk youth. Spend quality time with amazing youngsters and enjoy learning about each other from a cultural and humanistic standpoint. At the conclusion of the visit, enjoy lunch, then spend your afternoon at leisure in San Jose.
This evening, be sure to check out the renowned National Theater of Costa Rica! See what's showing, or simply marvel at its magnificent architecture. Walk around this buzzing central area and dance the night away in a local bar!
A Tip For Your Trip: Please note you are required to bring a copy of your passport on this tour
Visit to Obras del Espiritu Santo
Visit this non-profit organization, founded by the priest Sergio Valverde, who started feeding homeless people fifteen years ago, and since that moment, people began to join this project, which is now a very well-known organization. Nowadays, the organization has 38 different ministries focused on diverse social aspects such as health, education, and teenagers and children at social risk. This institution also provides counseling and motivational programs to homeless people and to individuals who are currently in prison, among other groups of interest.
Every year around Christmas time, they organize a fun party at the National Stadium in San Jose for approximately 30,000 children! This project does not receive any financial help from the government; all that is achieved is thanks to the contribution of people who want to give an opportunity to children and people at social risk.
During your visit, you will share special time with children and you will also visit the small zoo that priest Sergio has created in the community. You will also have the opportunity to teach these children about your culture and language, as you will always be accompanied by a bilingual guide, who will ensure a great experience for you and for all your new friends who will never forget you. Even though you are on vacation, it's important to treat these children the same way you'd treat your own. Please refrain from any language unsuitable for little ones. Tour includes transportation, guide & lunch.
Day 3. San Jose - Arenal Volcano
After breakfast, embark on your journey toward the northern lowlands of Costa Rica, home of the majestic Arenal Volcano. Climb up the central volcanic mountain range and see agricultural plantations, vibrant plants, and vast cattle ranges. Then, come face-to-face with the mighty Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna! Check-in to your luxurious Arenal hotel, then enjoy the leisure facilities of your hotel and explore the dramatic landscapes of the area.
Transfer from San Jose hotel to Arenal Volcano area
Fortuna,
Costa Rica
1 of 3 hotels
Hotel Arenal Springs is located near natural hot springs in Fortuna, a 20 minutes' drive from the Arenal Volcano site. Soak in rich mineral waters in the middle of Costa Rica's beautiful tropical rainforest! You'll never be bored because this hotel offers a wide variety of activities from zip lining to river rafting to mountain biking.
In addition to the hot springs, the hotel features three outdoor swimming pools including a children's pool. Unwind with a drink at one of the hotel's bars, including a poolside bar and a bar/lounge. Dine on international, Italian, and Japanese cuisine at three on-site restaurants. Bright and airy rooms feature flat-screen cable TV, air conditioning, terraces, private bathrooms and views of the garden and Arenal Volcano and the garden.
Fortuna,
Costa Rica
2 of 3 hotels
Set at the foot of the Arenal Volcano, Volcano Lodge & Gardens offers comfortable accommodations in a lush tropical setting. Float away your stresses in the natural hot springs, then enjoy an adrenaline-packed adventure like white water rafting, hiking, ATV tours, ziplining and more. Easily book a tour from the hotel and explore the richness of this unspoiled region.
Rooms at Volcano Lodge feature a terrace, air conditioning, private bathroom, cable TV, and more. Wake up to the peaceful serenity of the Costa Rican countryside. Choose a relaxing deep massage at the Volcano Spa then enjoy a meal at Sura Bar & Bistro. Volcano Lodge is committed to sustainable tourism, so you can feel good about your stay.
Fortuna,
Costa Rica
3 of 3 hotels
Enjoy spectacular views of Arenal Volcano at the Hotel Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs. Surrounded by gardens, pastures and animals, you will feel one with nature while staying at this hotel. Take advantage of the spacious gardens for walking and meditation and see the daily operations of a typical Costa Rican farm.
Hotel features include a full-service spa, outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzi, fine dining restaurant, and more. Book one of several tours offered at the hotel including a visit to a nearby dairy farm, ziplining, hikes, canopy tours, and river rafting. Each of the rooms feature floor to ceiling windows and terraces for unparalleled views of the majestic volcano.
Day 4. Arenal Volcano
Grab your camera and get ready for a guided journey through Arenal Vida Campesina, a self-sustained cultural area, where you'll partake in activities such as milking cows, making tortillas, gathering vegetables, learning traditional dances, and more! Enjoy a day filled with cultural immersion, friendly locals, tasty food, and beautiful scenery.
Arenal Volcano
Day 5. Arenal Volcano
Become part of the history and culture of the Maleku Tribe today! Visit the beautiful natural reserve of these indigenous people and get a taste of their daily lifestyle. Learn about authentic Costa Rican culture, stroll through a medicinal plant garden, and enjoy some local snacks and foods along the way.
Full-day Maleku Reserve Tour
Become part of the history, culture and traditions of “The Maleku” Tribe. The Maleku indigenous people are very open to visitors and enjoy sharing with tourists a piece of their cultural roots, and main traditions, letting you learn about and experience some of the authentic Costa Rican heritage.
Although most Malekus speak Spanish, they hold their native “Maleku Jaica” language near to their hearts, teaching young children this language even at elementary school. You will be also delighted by a fresh glass of “chicha,” a lesson on Maleku history, a language class, and a tour through a medicinal plant garden to learn about the close interaction between the members of the tribe and their surrounding ecosystem.
Before enjoying lunch, you will have the opportunity to participate in an arrow making lesson. A theatrical representation that shows some Malekus’ ancient customs, such as weddings or duels will be the conclusion of the visit.
Day 6. Arenal Volcano
Unleash your wild side at Proyecto Asis, a wild animal rescue center! Enjoy a guided tour that takes you through different enclosures and habitats. Once you learn all about the animals, you'll be able to interact with them! Prepare food, feed the animals, and more.
After an awesome animal-filled day, explore the Arenal area. You might want to check out La Fortuna Waterfall, various local hot springs, and hanging bridges!
Volunteer Program Tour at Proyecto Asis
Visit Proyecto Asis “Wild Animal Rescue Center, Volunteer Programs and Spanish School” for a tour that will allow you to experience a unique opportunity to not only be near wild animals, but also help in their rehabilitation! During the tour, you will walk around the property, accompanied by a tour guide, to visit each of the enclosures. You will learn important information of every specie: the habitat in which they live, their source of food, their social behavior, as well as information about if the animal is listed as endangered (national and international) and why.
When this activity ends, enjoy a refreshment break, including coffee, natural juice and tropical fruits. After that, you'll begin volunteering! Prepare food, feed the animals, and more.
Day 7. Arenal Volcano - San Jose
Snap your last photos in the Arenal area, then wave goodbye to the colorful jungle and head back to city life. Enjoy a scenic ride to capital San Jose, where you will spend your last night in Costa Rica. During the drive, gaze out the window at rolling agricultural plantations, vibrant plants, cattle ranches, mountains, and more. Spend your last night soaking up the lively culture of the city!
Transfer from Arenal Volcano to San Jose hotel
San Jose,
Costa Rica
1 of 3 hotels
Kick back and relax at the contemporary Crowne Plaza San Jose Corobici! Feel your eyes widen as you walk through the atrium, which boasts sky-high ceilings, stylish seating areas, and flooding natural light. Check-in with the friendly reception team, then mosey through the halls and find your room. Open the door to plush beds, WiFi, flat-screen TV, sparkling bathrooms, and more. Take a quick nap, then unpack your swimsuit and head for the pool! Take a refreshing dip or lounge in the warm sun with a drink in-hand. Work all your stresses away at the on-site state-of-the-art fitness center, melt your worries away in the sauna, or sink into the steamy Jacuzzi.
When you work up an appetite, decide between El Tucan Restaurant, which serves sophisticated Costa Rican cuisine near the pool, or Fuji Restaurant, which serves traditional Japanese cuisine in a hibachi-table setting. After a delicious dinner, unwind with a drink at the lobby bar!
San Jose,
Costa Rica
2 of 3 hotels
Experience luxurious comfort in the heart of San Jose at this contemporary, convenient hotel. Walk into the lobby and be greeted by bright colors, stylish decor, and a friendly reception team. Open the door to your room and find large, comfortable beds, free WiFi, plasma TVs, and tons of other modern amenities. Feeling a bit hungry? Raid the minibar, call room service, or grab a bite to eat at the elegant on-site restaurant, RBG Bar & Grill.
Unpack your swimsuit and head to the outdoor pool! Jump in and make a splash, then lounge in the warm sun with a refreshing drink in-hand. Work all your stresses away at the gym, or explore the area. At the Park Inn by Radisson San Jose, you'll always feel the perfect balance of entertained and relaxed.
San Jose,
Costa Rica
3 of 3 hotels
Experience elegant luxury at the stylish Radisson San Jose, located less than 4 km from the city's bustling downtown area. Upon arrival, check-in with the friendly reception team, then admire the hotel's trendy decor as you walk to your room. Open your door to free WiFi, flat screen TV, air-conditioning, bottled water, a refrigerator, and much more. Feel secluded in your cozy room that boasts blackout curtains, large comfy beds, and gourmet Costa Rican coffee. Unpack your suitcase and head to the outdoor pool! Lounge in the hot sun with a refreshing drink in-hand or jump in and make a splash. Work all your stresses away in the fitness center, then return to your room and freshen up in your sparkling upscale bathroom.
When you work up an appetite, indulge in delicious cuisine at either of the hotel's two on-site restaurants: Acuarelas Restaurant or Cafe Tropical. After dinner, dance the night away at buzzing Bar Jobo, the hotel's lively lounge that offers live music and handcrafted cocktails. Take a walk through the lush garden, then take in the pleasant breeze from the outdoor patio.
Day 8. Depart Costa Rica
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and enjoy a convenient transfer to SJO International Airport. On your relaxing flight home, reflect on the unforgettable cultural experiences you've had and the differences you've made.
Transfer from San Jose hotel to SJO Int'l Airport
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.
Vacation packages include round-trip economy class airfare on valid international carriers as noted in specific package inclusions and as indicated on booking engine calendar, which may also include code share flight agreements between carriers as indicated during the booking process. Carriers may vary based on city of origin.
Air fares are based on a 14-day advance purchase and include round-trip economy class airfare, including carrier and government-imposed taxes and fees, and the September 11th Security Fee of $5.60 per enplanement originating at a U.S. airport. Fluctuations in exchange rates may affect some taxes or fees. Other departure dates and origins are available at slightly higher rates. Fares apply to North American originating passengers only, and are not eligible for accrual of frequent flyer points/mileage. Seats are limited and fares may not be available on all flights. Child/infant discounts are not available, and stopovers are not permitted. Advance seat selection is controlled by the carrier(s), and may not be available on all flights. Baggage fees may apply; please check with carrier for specific policies.
Vacation packages are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date or on all flights, and may be restricted to certain hotel room and car categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required at the time of reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only. Bookings made through our call center may incur a concierge fee of up to $25 per person.
Escorted vacation packages are per person based on two travelers (unless otherwise specified), and typically include hotel accommodations; transportation with professional driver/guide; sightseeing as listed, some meals, local taxes, hotel service charges and porterage of one (1) suitcase per person, due to limited capacity on motor coaches. Space is limited and prices may be restricted to certain travel dates, length of stay or room type. Driver and guide gratuities are not included, and are at the discretion of the traveler. Terms and conditions apply. Minimum child ages and handicapped traveler restrictions may apply on escorted tours; please call for details.
Promo Code Offer Details: All promotions are subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, cannot be combined with any other promotion, discount, voucher or any other offers, and are not redeemable for cash. Offers are available for phone bookings via our reservation agents as well as online. This promo code can be input online on the payment screen. The call center is open Monday through Friday 9AM – 9PM ET, Saturdays 10AM – 6PM ET. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for airfare only, or any other products or services. If a flight reservation is changed or cancelled, the original fare basis rules apply (plus any increase in fare). Additional restrictions may apply.
Cancellations/Changes: Rates are non-refundable. Substantial restrictions apply for cancellation/change, and depend upon the package type. Trip protection is recommended.
Call 1-800-896-4600 or go to https://www.greatvaluevacations.com/travel/terms-and-conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy.
San Jose, Costa Rica
Crowne Plaza San Jose Corobici
Comfort and serenity near San Jose's city center
Next spot
On a full map
Fortuna, Costa Rica
Hotel Arenal Springs
Resort and spa with natural hot springs
Start over
On a full map