Sarapiquí, Costa Rica
Learning Beyond
the Classroom
Transformative educational travel experiences in Costa Rica that combine STEAM, sustainability, cultural immersion, and adventure.
Our Mission
We create life-changing educational experiences that connect students with nature, science, culture, and communities through immersive travel. By combining STEAM learning, environmental conservation, and experiential education, we inspire curiosity, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to a more sustainable and interconnected world.
Our Vision
A world where every young person has the opportunity to learn beyond the classroom, develop a deep respect for people and the planet, and become an innovative leader who creates positive change in their community and beyond.
Why EcoTravel & Learn?
We are not a traditional travel company. We are an educational partner that designs transformative learning experiences where every activity has a purpose.
Environmental Stewardship
Students develop a deep connection with nature and a lifelong commitment to protecting our planet.
Critical Thinking
Field investigations and real-world challenges develop analytical and problem-solving skills.
Collaboration
Team challenges and community projects build cooperation and interpersonal confidence.
Global Citizenship
Cultural immersion expands perspectives and builds genuine intercultural competence.
Creativity & Innovation
STEAM projects in natural settings spark innovation and creative thinking beyond the classroom.
Leadership & Confidence
Adventure challenges build resilience, decision-making skills, and genuine self-belief.
Our Programs
Every program is intentionally designed to meet learners where they are and take them further than they imagined possible.
Schools
Curriculum-aligned educational tours designed with teachers and coordinators for maximum learning impact and measurable outcomes.
- Educational Tours
- Curriculum-aligned experiences
- Teacher resources & support
- Safety protocols
- Custom itineraries
Most Popular
International Students
Immersive adventures for students seeking cultural exchange, personal growth, and unforgettable experiences in Costa Rica's rainforest.
- Gap experiences
- Summer Camps
- Spanish immersion
- Cultural exchange
- Rainforest Expeditions
Why Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is not just a beautiful destination it is one of the most powerful educational environments on Earth.
of the world's biodiversity in one small country
World leader in environmental conservation
Stable democracy, no army since 1948
Safe destination for international travelers
99%+ renewable energy, a global sustainability model
Rich indigenous and Afro-Caribbean cultural heritage
Learning Areas
Every experience is built around four core learning areas ensuring depth, intentionality, and lasting educational impact.
Environmental Conservation
- Forest restoration
- Wildlife study & protection
- Climate change education
- Biodiversity exploration
STEAM
- Robotics & Coding
- Citizen Science
- Engineering Challenges
- Innovation Projects
Leadership
- Communication skills
- Problem solving
- Decision making
- Resilience & perseverance
Global Citizenship
- Culture & language
- Sustainable Development Goals
- Intercultural competence
- Community engagement
Adventures
Each adventure is purposeful. Every challenge teaches something. No two days in the rainforest are ever the same.
The Learning Journey
Our programs extend far beyond the trip itself creating meaningful learning before, during, and after every experience.
Before the Trip
- Virtual orientation sessions
- STEAM challenges & prep activities
- Cultural preparation workshops
- Personal goal setting
During the Trip
- Field investigations
- Community engagement
- Daily reflection journals
- Team challenges
After the Trip
- Student presentations
- Digital portfolios
- Service projects
- Certificates
- Continued environmental action
Our Educational Philosophy
Every activity is designed with purpose. Our programs are built on proven educational frameworks that create real, lasting impact.

Experiential Learning
Learning by doing in real environments not just classrooms.

Project-Based Learning
Complex challenges that require creativity, research, and collaboration.

Inquiry Learning
Questions that drive exploration, discovery, and critical thinking.

Nature-Based Education
The natural world as the most powerful classroom available.

STEAM
Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics integrated meaningfully in the field.

Social Emotional Learning
Building empathy, self-awareness, and strong human connections.

Global Citizenship
Developing students who think globally and act responsibly in their communities.

UN Sustainable Development Goals
Every program aligned with the global framework for a sustainable future.
CAS Creativity, Activity, Service
EcoTravel & Learn offers a structured, multi-day experiential learning program aligned with the International Baccalaureate CAS framework.
This experience combines marine ecosystem exploration, environmental service, and reflective learning providing students with meaningful engagement across all three CAS strands. It fosters student ownership and engagement from the very beginning of the experience all the way to the end.

Creativity
Students express their learning through reflection journals, creative projects, and artistic documentation of their environmental experiences.

Activity
Scuba diving certification, marine ecosystem exploration, and outdoor challenges provide physical engagement and new skill development.

Service
Students engage in meaningful environmental service through beach clean-ups, marine pollution awareness, and understanding human impact on ecosystems.
CAS Learning Outcomes Supported
Safety & Supervision
Certified scuba instructors and trained staff. Risk assessments conducted for all activities. Full compliance with safety and environmental standards.
Meet the Experts
Our programs are designed and led by educators and specialists who deeply believe in the potential of every learner.
Natalia Montero Salas
"I deeply believe in the potential of every child and teenager I meet."Founder · EcoTravel & Learn · The Leadership Lab
Our Programs Also Integrate:
Depending on the program, our experiences are enriched by local and international specialists.
What They Say
Hear directly from students, teachers, and families who have experienced EcoTravel & Learn.
Gallery
Real moments from our programs learning, adventure, nature, and community in Costa Rica.
EcoTravel in Action
Costa Rica
Our Programs
Learning & Adventure
Learning with Trusted Local Partners
EcoTravel & Learn works with experienced local organizations that share our commitment to education, sustainability, and meaningful experiences.
Green Rivers Rafting
ALKUK
Tirimbina
Cultural Banana Tour
Start Your Learning Journey
Ready to design a transformative experience? We'd love to hear about your school, group, or family.