Outward Bound Costa Rica courses have been specifically designed to be different from other outdoor programs and from any travel experience.

Our Educational Model is based on years of teaching through experiential learning. The pedagogical foundation is one that demands personal reflection, group communication, cultural sensitivity, mental expansion, and physical commitment. Students learn to rely on themselves and each other as they push through long hikes, difficult climbs or whitewater rapids. Service projects and community connection are opportunities to maximize their development as they gain compassion and cultural competency. The absence of computers and cell phones contributes to meaningful interaction and active participation.

We see students coming away from our courses with stronger leadership skills, a greater understanding of the world around them, and having discovered that they are capable of more than they ever thought possible.  

Independent Student Travel

Summer Courses for ages 14-18 can be combined for up to 8 weeks so that students can explore Costa Rica and Panama and engage in hiking, surfing, scuba diving, sea turtle conservation, cultural immersion and service projects. Our Summer Courses for ages 19+ include the best activities and highlights from our 14-18 courses in a shortened one to two-week expedition for adults to Panama and Costa Rica.

Our Gap Year & Semester courses are for ages 17+ high school graduates and are held each fall and spring, focusing on leadership, outdoor educations skills and international outdoor industry certifications. Courses take place in Costa Rica, Panama and Nicaragua. Students are eligible for Academic Credit through independent study or through our relationship with Western State Colorado University.

For more information about our Gap Year & Semester Courses, please contact our Enrollment Manager: [email protected]

Group Trips

We partner with several schools, universities, and groups to design Custom Courses, specifically tailored for their students. These courses can be First Year programs, alternative Spring Break courses, in junction with a course curriculum, Service Learning trips, and more. Some schools have even integrated an Outward Bound Costa Rica course as a part of their curriculum, which students take part in every year!

Our Custom Courses can include outdoor certifications, adventure activities, service projects, and/or a focus on a specific topic, based on students’ interests and educational needs (i.e. Environmental Sciences, Spanish language, Marine Biology, etc.).

For more information, please contact our Custom Courses & Partnerships Manager: [email protected]