Sustainable Action Costa Rica

The trip to Costa Rica was full of vibrant, unique experiences. From learning about the culture of indigenous people to seeing the beautiful animals of the jungle, there was never a dull moment on this journey. Aside from the exciting excursions, the group members also made the trip super fun. It was refreshing to meet new people and to go on so many adventures. The program also creates awareness of environmental restoration efforts through engaging young adults with hands-on activities. This experience has given me great friends, wonderful memories, and a renewed interest in environmental conservation! I am very thankful to have been able to go on this trip.

It was really nice, especially seeing the tribes and seeing the way they live and getting off our phones to connect to the world. U learn a lot during this trip while having a lot of fun. The amount of wildlife you get to experience was also very nice. Not only did the tour guides help give more info on the animals, but then seeing them in the wild on ur own knowing certain facts about them was very fun. Also you can’t forget the beaches, the waters were so warm and the views were so pretty. Would definitely recommend this trip to others

In the beginning I was very nervous about going on this trip because I have never been to Costa Rica. When I got here I was a little nervous when finding the group but Colin made it easy. I feel as if the way the program was structured that it gave plentiful down time to allow bonding with the participants while also enjoying the activities. The only things I would change is how long the trip is, I would make it longer, the pre-trip PowerPoint could use some more details, and finally the pre-trip call was a little awkward.

I really enjoyed the experience in Costa Rica and I am very grateful to all of the programs and communities that supported us and showed us what pura vida is all about. It was really interesting to contrast the animal sanctuaries in Costa Rica with the ones I have seen in the United States to better understand the conservation practices that are best for the animals. It was also really empowering to see how passionate and willing to talk about sustainability everyone was when we visited all of the programs. I hope to visit again soon and feel like I have made many life long friends.

It was a great opportunity to travel in a way that fully explored the area and culture of Costa Rica. Our trip leader Colin was so knowledgeable and gave us such a full experience in a short amount of time. The housing was comfortable, safe and cute. The food was great! I got to go to multiple animal conservation sites and explore. The most unique part of the experience, however, was going to Bri Bri. Staying with the tribe was so wonderful and something I could not have done without the guidance of this organization. So grateful for this experience!

Whether you are a first-time, intermediate, or seasoned traveller looking for a chance to be exposed to surreal and lifechanging experiences, I encourage you to consider Interexchange's SACR program. After a month, I am still seeing new ways in which I have grown as a student, friend, and leader after the program. The biggest component to my endless bliss during the 8 day program was my endless curiosity which has stayed with me to this day. It is a true expedition for both the adventurous as well as those wanting to try that side of themselves out!

I had an amazing time during this program and learned so much from the guides, James and Pedro, and our driver, Edgar! Every day, we visited new local businesses and met new people which made this a truly life-changing cultural immersion, even if it was only for 8 days. I wasn't able to fit a study-abroad program into my time at university and this proved to be the perfect compromise. The group I went with was absolutely lovely and made the whole week that much better. Everyone was friendly and willing to try new things which allowed us all to get that much more out of the program. Overall, this was an excellent experience that I would highly recommend to anyone who wants to learn more about conservation and sustainability while experiencing a different culture!

This program was amazing! I learned so much about local communities and the initiatives they are taking to help the environment. It was truly inspiring. The landscape is so beautiful and the people even more so! The food was delicious as well and accommodating for any allergies or preferences (my group had someone that was gluten free, someone vegan, and two vegetarians and we all ate really good)! James and Pedro were also so supportive and led us fearlessly! You are able to meet amazing people from around the United States that have the same interests as you and that was one of the best parts, (it was hard saying goodbye). I recommend this program 100%!!