13 Foods to Try on Your School Trip to Costa Rica

One of the most memorable parts of any school trip is the food and Costa Rica delivers big time. Known for its simple, wholesome, and locally grown ingredients, Costa Rican cuisine is both student-friendly and full of cultural lessons.

Whether you're stopping at a roadside soda, enjoying a hands-on cooking class, or learning about local agriculture, these 13 traditional foods will help your students experience the heart of Costa Rican culture, one bite at a time.

1. Gallo Pinto

This iconic rice and beans dish is a breakfast staple. Students will find it served with eggs, plantains, and local sour cream (natilla). It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with energy for a day of exploration.

2. Casado

Named after the word for "married," this dish brings everything together - rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat or veggies. It’s the go-to lunch for students and teachers alike, served across Costa Rica’s many sodas.

3. Arroz con Pollo

This one’s a favorite at group dinners: rice mixed with shredded chicken, veggies, and seasoning. Familiar enough for picky eaters, but with a Costa Rican twist.

4. Fried Plantains (Plátanos Maduros)

Sweet, caramelized, and often served on the side, these soft fried plantains are always a crowd-pleaser. A perfect snack or side dish after a long hike.

5. Patacones

These twice-fried green plantain discs are crispy on the outside, soft inside, and usually served with black beans or guacamole. Great for group tastings and cooking workshops.

6. Empanadas

Stuffed with cheese, beans, or meat and wrapped in corn dough, these hand pies are found at roadside stands, bakeries, and markets - great for on-the-go lunch or a lesson in local street food culture.

7. Sopa Negra

This traditional black bean soup is often served with hard-boiled eggs and cilantro. A simple, nourishing option that also allows teachers to talk about nutrition and food access.

8. Chifrijo

This hearty snack (or small meal) is made of rice, beans, fried pork, and pico de gallo. It’s popular at soccer games and local gatherings, and gives students a flavorful intro to Costa Rican comfort food.

9. Tamales

Wrapped in banana leaves and filled with seasoned cornmeal, vegetables, and protein, Costa Rican tamales are often tied to holiday celebrations. They’re also a great talking point for history, migration, and culinary tradition.

10. Olla de Carne

Think of it as Costa Rica’s answer to beef stew—loaded with root vegetables, plantains, corn, and meat. Best enjoyed in the mountains after a hike or service-learning project.

11. Ceviche

Fresh fish or shrimp “cooked” in citrus juice with onions, cilantro, and peppers. Great for teaching about coastal ecosystems and fishing practices. (Mild versions are often available for younger palates.)

12. Agua Dulce

This traditional drink made from boiled sugarcane (raw brown sugar blocks called tapa de dulce) is sweet, comforting, and often served warm at breakfast or with afternoon snacks.

13. Fresh Tropical Fruits

From mango and pineapple to passion fruit and starfruit, Costa Rica is bursting with tropical produce. Visits to local markets or farms are perfect for sampling and learning how food is grown, harvested, and shared.

Why Food Matters on Educational Travel

Trying local dishes gives students a deeper understanding of a country’s traditions, agriculture, economy, and community values. It opens the door to conversations about sustainability, food justice, and global connection - all through the simple act of sharing a meal.

Want to build a culinary and culturally rich school trip to Costa Rica? Evolve Tours can help design an itinerary that gets your students learning, tasting, and connecting every step of the way.

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