8 Reasons To Choose Costa Rica For Your Wonder Voyage Mission Trip
A mission trip to Costa Rica is ideal for first-time service teams because of the combination of picturesque scenery and the deep needs of the community. However, Wonder Voyage’s deep connections within Costa Rica also make this a fantastic option for repeat travelers, as no two trips are the same.
Here are the top eight reasons to consider Costa Rica for your next Wonder Voyage mission trip.
1. Breathtaking Natural Beauty
Costa Rica is known for its rainforests, beaches, cloud forests, and sun-kissed coastlines. These diverse ecosystems create the perfect backdrop for reflection, growth, and spiritual renewal.
2. The “Pura Vida” Lifestyle
Costa Rica’s national motto is “Pura Vida,” which translates to “pure life.” In practice, this means that the people focus on gratitude, simplicity, and joy. A mission trip to Costa Rica allows your team to experience this joy first-hand as your team gives back to the community through hands-on service projects.
3. Immersive Cultural Experiences
Because Wonder Voyage has such deep ties within Costa Rica, our teams enjoy the privilege of being treated as invited guests. We share meals with locals, hear the stories of people who call the region home, and get to experience the traditions and customs far beyond tourist traps other companies utilize.
4. Meaningful Service Opportunities
A Wonder Voyage mission trip goes beyond traditional service projects. We focus on serving the people who are serving the community. We often take on the job nobody wants, so the hours served outlast your team’s stay. To learn more about what one school experienced during their Spring Break mission trip to Costa Rica, see the review from Becky Moseman.
5. Adventure And Team Building
Costa Rica is an adventure lover’s paradise. Whether your team goes zip-lining, white-water rafting, or hiking, these adventures will become the cornerstone of your team’s stories long after you return home.
6. Spiritual Growth And Reflection
“The Way of Wonder” pilgrimage curriculum lays the framework for deep spiritual connection. As your team walks through the lessons before the trip, you lay the foundation for a deeper spiritual journey on the trip. The curriculum is free to use whether your team hires Wonder Voyage or not.
7. Transformative Itinerary
The Wonder Voyage office will work with your team to develop an itinerary to meet your unique goals, visions, physical fitness level, and budget. Here is a sample itinerary from previous teams:
- Day 1: After arriving in San Jose, your team heads to Guanacaste. The evening meal and discussion lays the groundwork for the week ahead.
- Day 2: Today, your Voyage Guide may introduce your team to a local expert who will take you on an iguana hunt before heading to the tropical forest at Barra Costa National Park.
- Day 3: On day three, your team may visit a remote village on the Nicoya Peninsula. After a morning service project, the team may be free to explore the area before shopping for a Stone Soup meal.
- Day 4: As your team reaches the middle of the trip, you may spend your day teaching ESL in the morning and zip lining in the afternoon.
- Day 5: Day five often focuses on team-building adventures like exploring the hot springs in Arenal.
- Day 6: This final full day in Costa Rica is usually spent on spiritual reflection and relaxation. For example, your team may go swimming, sliding, hiking, and shopping before concluding the week with a celebratory meal.
- Day 7: After a final night in Costa Rica, your Wonder Voyage Guide will help prepare you for your return home with a renewed sense of wonder.
8. Reconnecting With Wonder
Whether your team is first-time travelers or repeat adventure seekers, a Costa Rica mission trip is the opportunity of a lifetime. Whether you are planning for a youth group, J2A program, Adult Journey, or an Educational Expedition, the Wonder Voyage office can help you schedule a trip that will exceed your team’s expectations.
Contact us today to reconnect with wonder on a mission trip to Costa Rica. Because…
Wonder Changes Everything.

Jamie has been involved with Wonder Voyage for over 15 years. She is our Communications Director and Legacy Co-Director.