Northwoods Costa Rica - Travel Study Program

Northwood’s students travel to Costa Rica for a cultural and educational experience that may transform their lives.

Northwood's owns and operates out of a 5 bedroom, 3 bath lodge and a new 3 bedroom 2 bath cabaña. With the recent purchase of 100 acres, Northwoods now owns 195 tropical acres in Costa Rica.

We also live with families in a rural community of Cerritos near the town of La Tigra, located on the Atlantic slope of the Tilaran Mountains. From there we explore the nearby rainforest, active and dormant volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls, and journey to remote Pacific Coast Beaches.

A variety of day trips may include sightings of Howler and White faced monkeys, iguanas, toucans, morpho butterflies, and hundreds of other species of tropical creatures.

Students also have an opportunity to complete a 5 day scuba diving course and may receive an open water diving certification.

In addition to their daily high school academics students may develop a portfolio of writings, photography and art work related to this journey and submit this along with their journals for high school credit.

While the physical setting is truly stunning, the most meaningful part of the experience is the human connection. Our students work in the field with local campesinos, play soccer, and attend local celebration with their newfound friends.

The legendary friendliness of the Costa Rican People (Tico and Ticas) makes for a lasting impression on all of us. Although at the end of our journey we look forward to returning home, we are often sad to leave.