You’ll land in San José (SJO), collect your bags, and step into that warm tropical air where your Evolve Tours guide will be waiting to greet you with a big smile. From there, we’ll hop aboard our private bus and head straight to our cozy hotel, the perfect place to settle in and kick off our adventure.

After check-in, we’ll enjoy a light welcome dinner—think fresh local ingredients and a taste of what’s to come—then tuck in for a good night’s sleep. You’ll want to be well-rested for the incredible journey ahead!

In the evening or next morning (depending on arrival time), we’ll come together for our Program Orientation, where we’ll:
– Set expectations for the trip and talk about what it means to be part of a team out here (a little something we call Expedition Behavior)
– Get introduced to Costa Rican culture—its rhythms, values, and pura vida vibes
– And of course, we’ll go over the full itinerary so you know what’s coming up and can start getting stoked.

Rise and shine! After breakfast, we’ll hit the road and head south toward San Isidro, watching the city fade behind us as we get closer to Costa Rica’s lush, untamed heart.We’ll pause along the way for a Program Orientation, where we’ll dive deeper into what this journey’s all about:

– Setting expectations for the adventure ahead
– Talking about how we show up as a group (Expedition Behavior!)
– Getting a feel for Costa Rican culture, and laying out the full itinerary so everyone’s in the loop and ready to roll.

Then, it’s time to go off the beaten path. We’ll hop into rugged 4x4s and make our way to the Brujo trailhead—down a bumpy gravel-and-dirt road that snakes along the river. After about 15 minutes, we’ll reach something unforgettable: a hand-powered gondola that’ll whisk us across the river in just 20 seconds. Welcome to the jungle. On the other side, we’ll be greeted by the Fonseca family and the amazing staff at the Adventure Center, where the real magic begins.

Afternoon Highlights:
– Enjoy a hearty lunch made with local ingredients and love
– Get settled in with a site orientation, bunk assignments, and some time to unpack and breathe in that fresh rainforest air
– Dive into the delicious history of chocolate—you’ll peel, grind, and taste your way through its story (and yes, there will be plenty of sampling!)
– Gear up for a High Elements Orientation & Safety Talk to prep for tomorrow’s action

We’ll wrap up the day with a beautiful dinner on-site at the Eco Lodge, surrounded by nature, new friends, and the sounds of the rainforest.

We’ll kick off the day with a fresh breakfast on site, fueling up with tropical fruit, local flavors, and the sounds of the rainforest waking up around us.

Then it’s time to go up. Way up.
Right in the garden of the Adventure Center stands a massive 300-year-old tree, wrapped in the twisting embrace of a strangler fig. After getting safely geared up with a harness and helmet, you’ll climb your way up the natural fig “ladder” to a 70-foot high platform nestled in the canopy. It’s part challenge, part thrill, and all unforgettable.

Afternoon
We’ll regroup for a delicious lunch on site, then roll into an afternoon of rotating workshops that tap into the spirit and soul of the land. One group will head into the forest with Alvino Fonseca, a trained Shaman of the Cabécar tribe, who’ll lead a hands-on medicinal plant workshop. You’ll learn about local herbs, roots, and plants that have been used for healing for generations.Meanwhile, the other group will head to the kitchen to learn the art of making tortillas and traditional Costa Rican foods from scratch—all guided by local experts and full of delicious discoveries.

Afterward, if time (and energy) allows, you can cool off with a quick swim in the stunning rainforest river nearby—a perfect moment to soak it all in.

Evening
We’ll gather again for a cozy dinner on site, then head into the jungle after dark for our Jungle Nightlife Program. With flashlights in hand, we’ll explore the trails and see the rainforest transform after sunset—glow-in-the-dark fungi, croaking frogs, and rustling leaves all come alive under the stars.

We’ll wrap the night with some free time to relax, journal, hang out, or just listen to the symphony of the jungle before bed.

After breakfast on site, get ready for one of the most exhilarating experiences of the trip: waterfall rappelling. Just a short 10-minute hike from the lodge lies a breathtaking 100-foot waterfall, hidden deep within the forest.

You’ll gear up and, with expert guidance, descend the final 60 feet using a permanent anchor system and a secure backup rope—keeping safety top of mind while still delivering a rush of pure adrenaline. You’ll feel the mist on your face, hear the roar of water beneath your feet, and come away feeling totally alive.

Afternoon
We’ll regroup for lunch on site, then spend the rest of the day engaging in hands-on rainforest learning—the kind you’ll remember for years to come.

– Head out on an ecology hike with our local guides, where you’ll learn to identify and forage for edible plants, roots, and trees
– Collect ingredients and prepare a traditional rainforest meal together—straight from the forest to the fire

It’s a day that connects us deeper to the land and the wisdom it holds.

Evening
As the sun dips below the canopy, we’ll offer a powerful and optional Sweat Lodge Ceremony—a chance to reflect, reset, and absorb everything you’ve taken in over the past few days.

Led with care and intention, the ceremony creates space for inner stillness and personal insight—honoring the culture, knowledge, and growth shared so far.

For those not participating in the ceremony, join Doña Rosa for a traditional cooking class, where love and flavor come together in every dish.

Afterward, we’ll all gather for dinner on site, then close the evening with a casual discussion with the Fonseca family—a beautiful opportunity to ask questions, share reflections, and connect even deeper with the people who’ve welcomed us so warmly.

Wake up to the sounds of the rainforest one last time—it’s our final morning at the Adventure Center. We’ll pack up, enjoy breakfast on site, and then make our way by foot and 4×4 back to the trailhead, where our next adventure begins.

Time to switch gears—literally. We’ll change into our rafting gear, stash our bags in the support vehicles, and gather for a Rafting Safety Talk. Our professional local river guides will walk us through paddling techniques, safety instructions, and teamwork strategies—we’ll need to paddle together to conquer the river ahead.

Then, we hit the water!
We’ll raft down the stunning Savegre River, one of Costa Rica’s cleanest and most scenic rivers. With class 2–4 rapids (depending on river levels), the ride is perfect for first-timers and thrill-seekers alike. Along the way, we’ll take a break to hike to a set of cascading waterfalls, where we’ll find out which one makes the best natural rainforest shower. 💦

The journey continues as our rafts wind downriver, all the way to the Pacific coast—a true transition from jungle to ocean.

Afternoon
At the take-out point, we’ll meet our support vehicles, change into dry clothes, and enjoy a riverside lunch catered by the rafting team—fresh, hearty, and well-earned.

From there, we’ll hop on our private coach or coaster buses and head to our next hotel near the coast. Once we arrive, it’s time to get your room assignments, settle in, and enjoy some well-deserved pool time.

Evening
We’ll gather together for a group dinner and a relaxed discussion about what’s next—reflecting on everything we’ve done and looking ahead to the final days of the trip.

Then, crank up the energy one last time with a salsa dancing session right at the hotel. Whether you’re a beginner or ready to show off your moves, it’s a fun way to celebrate the rhythm of Costa Rica—and each other.

We’ll start the day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, then hop on our coach bus and head out to a special part of the journey—our Community Project.

Today’s mission? Support a local school by building and preparing a hydroponic garden system—chemical and pesticide-free—to help supply their kitchen with fresh, healthy vegetables. We’ll roll up our sleeves, get our hands in the soil (and maybe a little wet), and learn how this innovative system works while making a real impact.

Afternoon
After a catered lunch at the project site, it’s time to swap work gloves for surfboards—we’re off to the beach!

We’ll head straight to the sand for private surfing lessons with experienced, certified local instructors. First, we’ll learn the basics—stance, balance, paddling, and wave timing—then head into the warm Pacific waters to ride your first waves. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, this will definitely be a highlight moment.

Evening
After the sun sets on the waves, we’ll return to the hotel for a well-earned dinner and some free time to rest and relax. Lounge by the pool, take a refreshing evening swim, or just hang out with friends and reflect on the day.

Lights out when you’re ready—tomorrow’s our final full day in paradise. Let’s make it count.

We’ll start our day with breakfast at the hotel, then hop back on the coach bus for one last visit to our Community Project site.

This morning, we’ll continue working on the hydroponic garden—adding the finishing touches, planting more vegetables, and making sure everything is ready to thrive. You’ll get to see the progress firsthand and feel proud of the real difference you’ve made for the local school and community.

Afternoon
After a catered lunch at the project, we’ll reward ourselves with a choice of adventure!

Evening
We’ll return to the hotel for a final dinner together, followed by a relaxed group debrief—a time to reflect, share highlights, and celebrate the journey we’ve all been on together.

After that, it’s free time to swim, rest, and hang out, soaking up those last moments in Costa Rica before lights out.

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll board our coach bus and set off for one of the most beautiful and biodiverse spots in Costa Rica: Manuel Antonio National Park.

Wander through lush rainforest trails with monkeys swinging overhead, spot sloths lounging in the treetops, and stroll along white-sand beaches where the jungle meets the sea. Or, if your group is feeling more into flavor and sustainability, we may opt for a visit to Villa Vanilla Spice Farm, where you’ll discover how vanilla, cinnamon, and other tropical delights are grown organically and sustainably.

Afternoon
We’ll enjoy a local lunch, then stop by a colorful artisan market, where you can browse handmade crafts, souvenirs, and artwork—perfect for picking up a piece of Costa Rica to take home.

From there, we’ll make our way back to San José by coach, arriving at our hotel and checking in for our last night together.

Evening
We’ll gather for a farewell dinner at the hotel, followed by a final group debrief—a chance to reflect, express gratitude, and celebrate everything we’ve shared over the past week.

Then, it’s time to relax, or simply enjoy your last evening with the group.

After breakfast depart to airport for our journey back home.