Join our "Global Health in Costa Rica" study abroad program for a deep dive into the unique healthcare landscape of this vibrant country. In this short-term program, you’ll explore both public and private healthcare systems, gaining firsthand insights into how Costa Rica has become a global leader in accessible, quality care. Compare and contrast these systems with the healthcare structure in your own country to better understand different approaches to public health.
Visit a variety of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, detox centers, and residential homes for the elderly, to see the diversity of care practices in action. Participate in a workshop with the Red Cross to learn about emergency response, community health initiatives, and disaster management strategies. Additionally, you will explore the significant role of natural medicine in Costa Rica, discovering how traditional remedies are integrated into modern healthcare. This program offers a comprehensive understanding of global health perspectives, enriching your knowledge and preparing you to make a meaningful impact in your field.
Embark on an enriching journey with the "Global Health in Costa Rica" program, starting in San José, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by GLP staff at the airport and guided throughout your trip. Begin with a San José Walking Tour to immerse yourself in the city’s culture and history. Visit a local university and experience Costa Rica's academic perspective on healthcare. Explore the dramatic landscape of the Irazú Volcano and uncover the history of an abandoned tuberculosis sanatorium.
Dive deep into the healthcare system with visits to both public and private hospitals, and engage in a meaningful volunteer activity supporting people without homes. Throughout your stay, attend class meetings for in-depth learning. Enjoy a Costa Rican cooking class and visit an elderly residential center in San Carlos. Relax on a free day in La Fortuna, exploring its natural wonders. Participate in a medicinal plant tour and a hands-on workshop with the Red Cross. Visit a governmental Children's Comprehensive Care Center and learn about sustainable practices on a coffee tour. Conclude with a few days of relaxation and exploration in beautiful Manuel Antonio. This program offers a balanced mix of structured activities and free time for a comprehensive and fulfilling experience.
Accommodations in a well-selected private house and hotels (outside of San José). Lodging in San José includes housekeeping everyday, full kitchens and laundry rooms, and are fully equipped
Pick up and drop off at the SJO airport in Alajuela, Costa Rica
Arrival orientation includes participant health & safety
Daily breakfast, some lunches, some dinners
Private shuttle bus for the group in Costa Rica
We recommend a budget of $20-30 CAD for each meal not included.
Souvenirs, personal travel, snacks, alcohol, and personal supplies are not included
Arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport, where a member of the GLP team will be waiting for you, who will accompany you in the transfer to the accommodation GLP´s Private House
Breakfast and Safety & Health Orientation at GLP´s Private House
Introduction to the Costa Rican Healthcare System and Visit to Simulation Center: You will begin with an introduction to Costa Rica’s healthcare system, learning about its structure, accessibility, and public and private sectors. After the lecture, you’ll visit a state-of-the-art Simulation Center, where students and medical professionals train through realistic clinical scenarios. This visit will provide hands-on exposure to healthcare education in Costa Rica.
Lunch included
Visit to Hospital Carit: In the afternoon, you’ll tour Hospital Carit, where you will observe healthcare delivery in a hospital setting. You’ll have the opportunity to meet healthcare workers and learn about the hospital’s services and community impact.
Debrief
Dinner included at GLP´s Private House
Breakfast at GLP´s Private House
Class Meeting #1: Start the academic portion of your program with an introductory class meeting. In this session, the professor will review the course objectives, topics to be covered, and explain the various projects students will complete during the program. This meeting will help set expectations and create a foundation for your academic experience in Costa Rica.
San José Walking Tour (Windshield Survey & Visit to Central Market): After the meeting, head out on a San José walking tour focused on observing the environment and urban life. You'll conduct a “windshield survey,” gathering observations about infrastructure, services, and community life. A highlight of the tour will be a visit to the vibrant Central Market, where you'll experience local culture, foods, and traditions firsthand.
Lunch included
Activity at Red Cross: Tour, History, Simulation: In the afternoon, visit the Red Cross (Cruz Roja) station in Moravia. You will learn about the organization's history, role in the community, funding sources, and the challenges they face. The visit includes a tour of the facilities, exploration of the ambulance units and emergency equipment, and participation in a hands-on simulation activity, offering an up-close look at emergency response operations.
Debrief
Dinner included at GLP´s Private House
Breakfast at GLP´s Private House
Irazú Volcano Tour: After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Irazú Volcano, the tallest volcano in Costa Rica. Explore its unique lunar-like landscape and, on clear days, enjoy breathtaking views where you might even see both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Learn about the volcano’s history, geology, and impact on the surrounding regions during this guided experience.
Picnic lunch included
Sanatorio Durán Tour: In the afternoon, visit the historic Sanatorio Durán, a former tuberculosis hospital with a fascinating and sometimes eerie past. As you tour the grounds, you’ll learn about the history of healthcare in Costa Rica and the role the hospital played. The site, rich with stories and legend, also offers insights into the architectural and societal developments of the early 20th century.
Free evening. Dinner not included (at your own expense)
Breakfast at GLP´s Private House
Clinical Morning in Chepe Se Baña Service Center: Spend the morning engaged in serving San José population living in the red-light distrist, which includes people in a state of homelessness, migrants, and people living in high poverty. The service center includes mobile stations you will rotate through: hygeine, medical clinic, food, and therapy.
Lunch included
Class Time #2: Spend time in class, engaging in educational discussions and activities related to your program's focus.
Free evening. Dinner not included
Breakfast at GLP´s Private House
Transfer to San Carlos
Visit and Tour of Elderly Residential Center in San Carlos: Tour a local elderly residential center, providing a unique opportunity to learn about elder care in Costa Rica. Meet with residents and staff to understand the daily operations, community activities, and the challenges and opportunities in providing care for older adults in Costa Rica. Gain insights into the cultural values surrounding elder care, support systems, and the integration of traditional practices in a modern setting.
Lunch included
Transfer to La Fortuna
Check into Hotel Secreto La Fortuna
Free evening. Dinner not included (at your own expense)
Breakfast at La Pradera del Arenal
Free Day to Explore La Fortuna: Enjoy a full day of freedom to discover the many attractions and activities La Fortuna has to offer.
Lunch and dinner not included (at your own expense)
Breakfast at Hotel Secreto La Fortuna
Free morning in La Fortuna
Maleku Full Experience: In the afternoon, dive deep into the traditions of the Maleku Indigenous community. Learn about their rich cultural heritage, including their belief systems, language, traditional crafts, and the use of medicinal plants. Participate in interactive activities and listen to personal stories from Maleku community members. A traditional lunch is included, offering a taste of authentic Indigenous cuisine and further connecting you to their way of life.
Lunch included
Return to GLP´s Private House
Debrief
Free evening. Dinner not included (at your own expense)
Breakfast at GLP´s Private House
Visit Ciudad de los Niños (Institutional Tour and Healthcare Overview): Spend the morning at Ciudad de los Niños, a comprehensive social welfare institution that supports vulnerable children and adolescents. During the visit, you'll tour the facilities and learn about the healthcare services provided to the students, including the on-site clinic and nutrition programs. Gain insights into how holistic care—covering education, health, and social well-being—is central to the organization's mission.
Free time for lunch (not included - at your own expense)
Class Time #3: Spend time in class, engaging in educational discussions and activities related to your program's focus.
Free evening. Dinner not included (at your own expense)
Breakfast at GLP´s Private House
Class Time #4: Spend time in class, engaging in educational discussions and activities related to your program's focus.
Lunch included
Cooking Class with Ancient Costa Rican Cuisine Theme: Participate in a cooking class focusing on ancient cuisine native to Costa Rica. Learn about traditional ingredients, cooking methods, and cultural significance of dishes prepared by local chefs. Dinner included at the end of the class.
Breakfast at GLP´s Private House
El Toledo Coffee Tour: Participate in a guided tour at El Toledo Coffee Farm, where you’ll learn about coffee cultivation, processing, and the rich history behind Costa Rican coffee. See the coffee-making process from bean to cup and sample freshly brewed coffee.
Lunch included at Casa del Alto
Transfer to Quepos
Check in at Villas Jacquelina
Free evening at Marina Pez Vela. Dinner not included (at your own expense)
Breakfast at Villas Jacquelina
Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour: Embark on a guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park. Discover its rich biodiversity, including exotic wildlife and lush rainforests, while learning about the park's ecological significance from your guide.
Free afternoon and evening.
Lunch and dinner not included (at your own expense)
Breakfast at Villas Jacquelina
Free Day for Self-Organized Activities: This day is designed to give you the freedom to tailor your experiences based on your interests, whether that’s nature walks, wildlife spotting, or simply unwinding by the ocean.
Lunch and dinner not included (at your own expense)
Breakfast at Villas Jacquelina
Free Morning: Enjoy a leisurely morning in Manuel Antonio. You might take one last stroll on the beach, grab a coffee at a local café, or simply relax before the journey back.
11AM: Check out of hotel
Lunch not included (at your own expense)
2PM Return to San José
Dinner included at GLP´s Private House
Breakfast at GLP´s Private House
Final Class Meeting #5 (Final Presentations): Present your final projects or presentations. This session is an opportunity to showcase your learnings and experiences from the program, followed by feedback and discussions.
Free afternoon. Lunch not included (at your own expense)
Final Debrief and Departure Dinner: Participate in a final debriefing session to review the entire experience. Conclude with a special departure dinner at Casa Alma where you can celebrate the journey, share reflections, and say goodbye to your fellow travelers and hosts.
Transfer Out to Airport: Participants will depart from Casa Alma for their onward journeys. Transportation arrangements will be made to ensure timely arrival at the airport for departure.