Study Abroad: Environment & Culture in Costa Rica

Our Costa Rican adventure began in San José, where we eased into the trip with a relaxed afternoon exploring a local market, taking in the sights, sounds, and energy of the capital.

From there, we headed to the Arenal region, stopping along the way for lunch at Finca Ecológica Don Juan, a self-sustaining farm offering fresh, locally sourced food. In the afternoon, we hiked through Arenal Volcano National Park, following the 1992 lava flow trail. The landscape featured hardened lava fields, secondary forest, and a variety of wildlife, including insects and snakes. We capped the day with a restorative soak in the thermal waters of Baldí Hot Springs.

“Study abroad was not just a fun time but perhaps the best professional development opportunity I’ve ever had as faculty! The immersion of live teaching in the field takes learning about biology & geology to a whole other level. This experience has inspired new ideas of what I can bring to a traditional classroom. Students are not the only ones who have immensely learned. Through study abroad, I’ve picked up a new photography hobby and increased my confidence in communicating in another language, which can contribute towards further DEI in my courses.” Faculty & Program Chair, Mark Letherman

Continuing north, we visited the Caño Negro Wildlife Reserve for a boat tour on the Río Frío, a haven for biodiversity. Students observed an impressive array of tropical wildlife, including caimans, monkeys, and a wide variety of birds and insects. That evening, a guided night tour offered a rare chance to see nocturnal animals in action—an experience that became a favorite among the group.

"Seeing the creatures and environments that I have been learning about for so long was like meeting celebrities in real life! The interactions between organisms and the earth and seeing how Costa Ricans have turned their country away from ecological collapse gives me a lot of hope for the rest of the world." Student, Hannah

Our journey then took us to Monteverde, with a scenic detour to the La Fortuna Waterfall for hiking and wildlife observation. Traveling around Lake Arenal, we stopped for lunch at Macadamia Restaurant, known for its panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

In Monteverde, the thrill of a canopy tour at 100% Adventures introduced us to the cloud forest from above, as we zipped over the treetops. Later, we explored the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, guided by a local expert who provided insight into this rich and fragile ecosystem—a highlight for those passionate about conservation and biodiversity.

"I’ve most appreciated simply being in a different country with a different language, all while learning things relevant to my studies in biology. Seeing monkeys up close or observing how plants and fungi grow together in the forests was just as impactful as navigating a local grocery store. These moments are incredibly valuable for my future goals in international biology work."  Student, Lucy

As we made our way toward the Pacific Coast, we embarked on a thrilling safari boat tour, where we saw crocodiles, monkeys, and a variety of birds up close. This was followed by the Dry Forest Aerial Tram, a peaceful glide through the treetops of one of Costa Rica’s rarest ecosystems.

At Manuel Antonio National Park, we explored rainforest trails and relaxed on white-sand beaches while spotting sloths, toucans, and other wildlife along the way. The park’s blend of beach and biodiversity offered a perfect balance of adventure and reflection.

Our final day included a cultural stop in Sarchí, renowned for its vibrant, hand-painted oxcarts and traditional artisan craftsmanship—a practice that dates back to the mid-1800s and remains a proud national symbol of Costa Rican culture. We enjoyed a guided demonstration of the detailed painting process before heading to the Britt Coffee Tour, where we learned how Costa Rican coffee is cultivated, harvested, and expertly roasted for global distribution.

We wrapped up our program with a memorable farewell dinner at Tiquicia Restaurant, set against sweeping views of the Central Valley. Traditional music, dance, and folklore performances made for a festive and fitting close to an unforgettable experience.

This unforgettable journey through Costa Rica offered students from the Biology, Geology, and Photography departments a truly immersive educational experience. From exploring volcanic landscapes and biodiversity-rich rainforests to capturing the natural beauty of the region through their lenses, students engaged deeply with their fields of study in a real-world setting. The program not only enriched their academic understanding but also fostered cross-disciplinary connections, cultural appreciation, and personal growth. As a study abroad experience, it provided memories, insights, and inspiration that will last a lifetime.

A special thank you to our amazing faculty, Dr. Jenai Rutledge and Mark Leatherman, and our outstanding Tour Manager, Marissa Person. Their leadership, educational insights, and enthusiasm created a truly engaging and enriching experience for everyone on the tour.

Visit their immersive exhibition featuring art and photography inspired by the tour.

"Across the Globe: Costa Rica Exhibition"

A special study abroad showcase featuring art and photography from student travelers.

• Dates: October 2-30
• Reception & Celebration: October 2, 5–7pm
• Location: ACC Colorado Gallery of the Art, located in the Annex, A1300
• Gallery Hours: Monday - Friday from 9am-5pm | Thursday from 9am-7pm

What Study Abroad trips are next?

College Trips

• London, York and Edinburgh, May 28 – June 4, 2026
  • Enrollment closes December 1, 2025
  • If you are a Business designated student, you are eligible for an additional $500 scholarship towards your trip.
  • This trip is open to all students, graduates and alumni.
  • Learning more about the upcoming Study Abroad opportunities and funding?
• London’s Legacy of Healthcare, Spring Break, March 14-21, 2026
  • This trip is open to all Heathcare students.
  • Learning more about the upcoming Study Abroad opportunities and funding?
• Explore France and Italy, May 31, 2027 - June 9, 2027
  • Early enrollment discount available through September 2025.
  • This trip is open to all students, graduates and alumni.
  • Learning more about the upcoming Study Abroad opportunities and funding?

Community Trip

• Budapest, Vienna & Prague, October 9-19, 2026
• Learn more about this Community Travel Program with upgraded options and experiences. 

Contact trish [dot] sangelo [at] arapahoe [dot] edu (Trish Sangelo), Study Abroad Director to learn more about the trips, discounts, scholarships and fundraising.