Live and work with members of your host community as you gain a new appreciation for rural life and learn about the critical link between development and environmental protection. With over 20 years of experience working in Costa Rica, we’ve established deep relationships with many communities throughout the nation.
The first words you hear when you arrive in Costa Rica may be “pura vida,” a greeting that expresses the peaceful spirit of a nation with a long tradition of democracy and a commitment to education.
This LIA Costa Rica program is a special version of our Costa Rica program specifically designed for campers who have some prior camp leadership experience (CIT/LIT) and are interested in deepening their leadership skills through service and facilitated activities. Previous attendance of a Global Routes program is not required.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Improve your Spanish as you work alongside community members on your service projects and enjoy a warm meal of gallo pinto with your host community.
- Dive into the heart of the Rainforest. You’ll climb giant trees, forage for medicinal plants, learn Costa Rican homestyle cooking, and zip-line.
- Whitewater raft on the Savegre River, through deep canyons and lush tropical rainforest. Wrap up your program with surf lessons in the Pacific Ocean.
RECENT TESTIMONIALS
"My Global Routes trip was one of the most outstanding experiences of my life so far. It was on my trip that I realized how much of an impact traveling and cultural immersion have on one’s character, and that this impact should be sought by everyone." -Colette, Leaders-in-Action, Student
"We are all very grateful that Jillian was able to have this opportunity. It was the best of all worlds for her - traveling internationally, being with her camp family, and serving others! -Kelly, Leaders-in-Action, Parent
2025: June 29 – July 20
TUITION: $6,495
*International airfare is not included in tuition. In general, roundtrip airfare (from New York, for example) can run from $600 – $1,300.
This LIA program was one of the best experiences of my life so far and I'm not just saying that. Orientation got us all set up with fun activities and even learning a lot when we stayed at the Rainforest Adventure Center. When we got to the town I met my host family and I am still keeping in touch with the people I met there. My host family was amazing and my Spanish improved a lot. I connected with the kids there doing the Friendship Camp even with limited Spanish skills and had a lot of fun. I am so happy I met the people in the town and also broadened my friendships with the other LIAs. Overall, this was an amazing experience and I really do recommend it to any teens who want to connect with a new community and help out as they help out and immerse themselves in a new culture. Especially for Windsor Mountain people, this is a perfect follow up to LIT year but really it would be great for anyone.