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Gap Year Programme
Leap to Costa Rica
WILDLIFE + ADVENTURE + SURF CULTURE
From Coastlines to Cloud Forests. This isn't your average backpacking route. This is four weeks, five unforgettable locations and one epic adventure that takes you from tropical coastlines to misty cloud forests, wild rainforests and buzzing beach towns.
From helping protect endangered sea turtles and caring for rescued wildlife to surfing Pacific waves, chasing waterfalls and zip-lining through Monteverde's treetops, every stop along the way offers something new.
This programme is perfect for those who love variety, adventure and the outdoors. With a fast-paced itinerary packed with wildlife, conservation, community, surfing and exploration, every week brings new challenges, new experiences and a new side of Costa Rica to discover.
Programme Summary
Programme Dates + Prices
2026
2027
What's included
- Pre-departure briefing
- The Leap t-shirt
- Airport pick-up and return transfers for team flight
- Safety and induction briefing on arrival
- 24-hour emergency back-up, management and support by UK and in-country team
- All volunteering projects as described
- Project-to-project transport
- Accommodation as described
- Entrance fees to all activities
- Food as described
- 2 x surfing classes
- 2 x yoga class
- Tour of Antonio Manuel National Park by your Leap guide
- Tour of the waterfalls with Leap guide
What's not included
- International flights
- Private transfers to and from the airport if you do not arrive on the main team flight
- Travel insurance and medical expenses
- Food and accommodation if away from the programme
- Alcoholic drinks and some soft drinks
- Laundry fees
- Suppers in Monteverde and Santa Teresa
- Please budget approx. $20 for lunch/dinner, plus drinks, in a restaurant or cheaper in a café. Self-catering option available at Santa Teresa
Our reviews speak for themselves
One Month. Real Impact.
Don’t wait for life to happen. In just four weeks, The Leap gives you the chance to step out of your comfort zone, contribute to meaningful projects, and gain experiences that are serious CV gold. You’ll return with new confidence, great stories, and skills that stand out in university applications and future careers.
Not sure where to start? Schedule a 30 minute call with Zoë, our travel expert.
