Student Fees
DAY ONE – Arrival Costa Rica
Welcome to Costa Rica, nature's wonderland. Interact’s foreign representative greets you in the airport lobby and accompanies to Rancho Lodge, a short drive from the airport. Rancho Lodge is located in La Guacima, Alajuela, a typical, countryside Tico community.
DAY TWO – La Paz Waterfalls Garden
When you think about Costa Rica, you probably imagine lush tropical rain forest, flowing white rivers, spectacular waterfalls, birds, butterflies, frogs, sloth, and monkeys. At La Paz, you are guaranteed to witness all that and more. Plus, your visit also includes the rescued wildlife preserve with over 100 species of animals.
DAY THREE – Arenal Volcano & Hot Springs
Relax on your panoramic drive to Sarchi. Shop at this famous production center for the famous hand-painted oxcarts as well as traditional souvenirs. Continue to Arenal, Costa Rica's most visited volcano. This afternoon, relax in a hot springs recreational area, such as Baldi. Swim in one of nature's therapeutic pools and meander through the botanical gardens.
DAY FOUR – Arrival Granada /Homestay or Hotel
Welcome to Nicaragua. Pay the $10 tax at the border crossing. Arrive in Granada, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel or where you’ll meet the Homestay Director as you’re introduced to your host families.
Granada was founded in 1524. It’s commonly referred to as the “Colonial Jewel” and is widely known for its historical significance and pleasant ambiance.
MIDDLE CLASS HOST FAMILIES are usually relatives, neighbors, or lifelong friends of our homestay directors. Regardless, directors monitor and continually evaluate host families. Host families provide all meals - except those incorporated in the touring. Everyone speaks Spanish in the home. Students normally share with one other group member of the same general language ability.
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DAY FIVE – Conozca Granada & 
Learn about Granada and its culture on your Centro Historico walking tour. Then, enjoy a boat ride on Lake Cocibolca to view some of the 365 isletas, including monkey-island. Later, participate in your humanitarian in a local elementary school. Please bring basic school supplies and baseballs. In addition, Interact provides a financial donation.
DAY SIX – Masaya Market & Volcano Night Tour
Explore the centro this morning or opt for Mombacho zipline, with six zip lines, a walking wire called “Double Cross”, a “Tarzan Swing” and a vertical rappel descent. Following lunch, visit the historic city of Masaya. Masaya has been populated for more than 3,000 years and the arrival of the Spanish in the early 16th century organized the local artisans. The principal item was hammocks, as well as wood, leather and clothing, all created by hand. Practice your Spanish and bargaining skills in the mammoth souvenir market. Late afternoon, transfer to the active cone of Santiago where you’ll witness parrots returning to their nests in the active crater. Then, follow your licensed guide into the heart of the earth through lava tubes, while three different species of bats fly over your head. Weather-permitting, you’ll have an opportunity to actually look inside the crater mouth. The red glow of the lava lightens the whole surroundings, which make the experience truly unforgettable.
DAY SEVEN – & Mombacho Hike
Mombacho is situated in a beautiful cloud forest and home to a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife. Drive to the top (1150 meters) of the volcano in a 4x4 vehicle. After a quick trip to the scientific station, explore this impressive volcano on a guided walk. Pass by several fumaroles and witness spectacular views. Be sure to keep an eye out for the howler and white face monkeys. On your return, visit Albergue Nicaragua Libre, located within a spacious and productive hacienda. Meet the cooperative members as you learn about traditional seeds and the farmer´s homes.
DAY EIGHT – Playa
Travel to San Juan del Sur, for your day at the beach. This tranquil Pacific Beach town is located close to the Costa Rica border. Enjoy the beach and refreshing waters of the bay area, or opt for snorkeling or sailing.
DAY NINE – Return to the USA
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MIDWEEK DEPARTURE
9 days/8 nights |
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NIGHTS
Rancho Lodge
Arenal Region
Granada |
2
1
5 |
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MEALS
All meals included in homestay program
Two meals a day in hotel program.
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