Sample Itinerary for Atenas
Activity Level
VERY EASY (click to see rating scale)
Day 1: Welcome to Costa Rica
Upon arrival at San José International Airport (SJO), you’ll be greeted by friendly faces and transported to your home for the week: Casa Hermosa Vista, nestled in the hills of Atenas. After a warm welcome and light refreshments, enjoy a guided tour of the property and time to unpack and unwind. In the evening, the group will gather for a casual dinner at a local restaurant in town—your first taste of Costa Rican hospitality. This is a day to settle in, adjust to the pace, and begin to take in the beautiful surroundings. Intensity: Relaxed
Day 2: Wildlife Connection at the Animal Rescue Center
After a traditional Costa Rican breakfast, we’ll head to the Costa Rica Animal Rescue Center in Guácima. There, you’ll meet rescued sloths, monkeys, birds, and other wildlife while learning about local conservation efforts. Lunch will be provided on-site, and we’ll return to Casa in the early afternoon—with an optional stop for ice cream at POPS. Enjoy the rest of the day by the pool or relaxing on the terrace before gathering for dinner in downtown Atenas. Intensity: Moderate Alternate Option: Stay at the Casa for a peaceful day of rest, journaling, or quiet reflection.
Day 3: Coffee, Culture, and Free Time
This morning, we venture to El Toledo, an organic family-run coffee farm committed to sustainable practices. You’ll learn about permaculture, walk the hillside farm, and enjoy a hands-on tasting experience. Lunch will be hosted at “Aunt Cecilia’s,” offering a delicious home-cooked meal in a rustic, welcoming setting. We’ll return early afternoon for free time at Casa Hermosa Vista. Relax, swim, read, or nap before heading to dinner back in Atenas. Intensity: Moderate Alternate Option: Enjoy a slow day at the Casa instead of the excursion.
Day 4: Waterfall Adventure Near Volcán Poás
After breakfast, we take a scenic drive toward the Volcán Poás region to visit a local waterfall recommended by our friend Pablo. The walk is gentle and the views spectacular, with rest spots along the way for those who prefer a slower pace. We’ll enjoy a picnic or local restaurant lunch before heading back for a restful afternoon at the Casa. A light dinner will be served at home for those who wish to keep the evening low-key. Intensity: Active Alternate Option: Stay at the Casa and enjoy a slower, restorative day.
Day 5: Pacific Coast Beach Day
Today we make a day trip to the Pacific coast with a visit to Jaco Beach. Whether you prefer strolling the shore, shopping, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun under a shady umbrella, the beach offers something for everyone. Lunch will be enjoyed seaside, and we’ll return to the Casa mid-afternoon for some rest before a relaxed dinner at home. Intensity: Active Alternate Option: Stay at the Casa and take advantage of local spa options or personal quiet time.
Day 6: Explore Atenas + Farewell Dinner
After a leisurely breakfast, we’ll head into Atenas for a relaxed morning exploring the town. Walk the plaza, visit local markets, or sip coffee in a nearby café while taking in small-town life. Lunch will be casual, either in town or back at the Casa. The afternoon is open for packing, reflecting, or perhaps enjoying a massage. In the evening, we’ll gather one last time for a special farewell dinner at a scenic restaurant to celebrate a week of connection, service, and rest. Intensity: Relaxed Alternate Option: Spend the day at the Casa with optional light activities.
Day 7: Departure Day
Our final morning begins with breakfast at Casa Hermosa Vista and time for group reflections. After heartfelt goodbyes, private transfers will take guests back to San José International Airport for their journeys home—departing with new friendships, meaningful memories, and a deeper appreciation of Costa Rica’s natural beauty and culture. Intensity: Relaxed
UNITED NATIONS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
Goal 4: Quality Education
Teach about the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and global citizenship to students at the local primary school.
Goal 15: Life On Land
By volunteering with our local animal rescue partner, you will learn about the challenges due to trafficking and poaching that face Costa Rica’s exotic wildlife.
EDUCATIONAL AND CULTURAL CONNECTIONS
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Agriculture – The El Toledo coffee tour demonstrates organic farming, permaculture, and sustainability, making real-world agricultural practices come alive for learners.
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Hospitality & Tourism – Throughout the week, participants experience Costa Rica’s tourism infrastructure—including local restaurants, guided experiences, and lodging—highlighting hospitality careers, eco-tourism, and destination management.
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Culinary Arts – A home-cooked meal at Aunt Cecilia’s and meals at local establishments introduce participants to regional cuisine, ingredient sourcing, and food presentation—relevant for culinary students and enthusiasts.
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Conservation – Visits to the animal rescue center and natural sites like Volcán Poás and waterfalls connect directly to careers in wildlife management, environmental education, and ecotourism.
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World History – Cultural immersion in Atenas fosters understanding of Costa Rican heritage, Latin American identity, and global interconnectedness, aligning with social sciences and humanities education.
