Discover Costa Rica:
Nature, History, and Flavor
December 2 – 9, 2025
Starting from $4,249 per person
DECEMBER 2 – 9, 2025
$4,249 per person*
Experience the magic of Costa Rica on a breathtaking 8-day adventure. Begin in San Jose with visits to the Irazú Volcano, offering panoramic views, and the historic Teatro Nacional. Enjoy guided tours of the Gold Museum and Central Market. Journey through the Arenal Mistico hanging bridges and explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest, renowned for its biodiversity. Engage in coffee, chocolate, and sugar cane tours, gaining insight into Costa Rican culture. Delight in local cuisine and scenic beauty at every turn. Don’t miss this chance to discover Costa Rica’s natural wonders and vibrant heritage.
*$1,500 single supplement
FACULTY LEADER
Elizabeth Ferry
Elizabeth Ferry is professor of anthropology at Brandeis. She is a cultural anthropologist with interests in mining, commodities, finance, and museums, with regional focuses in Mexico, Colombia, Cuba, and Central America, including Costa Rica. She is currently completing a book on gold as a physical substance in mining and finance. At Brandeis, she teaches courses on economic anthropology, power and violence, Latin American ethnography, sugar in historical and anthropological perspectives, and the anthropology of food. She has researched and taught extensively on sugar, coffee, and gold.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Tuesday, December 2, 2025
San Jose, Costa Rica
Depart home for San Jose, Costa Rica. Arrive in San Jose and transfer to your hotel. This evening gather for a welcome dinner with your faculty leader and fellow travelers.
(D)
Day 2: Wednesday, December 3, 2025
San Jose, Costa Rica
Today, visit Irazú Volcano National Park, home to Costa Rica’s highest active volcano at 11,260 feet. The volcano offers breathtaking views and a crater lake that shifts colors due to its unique mineral content. Located in the Central Volcanic Mountain Range, Irazú last erupted in 1963 during President
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John F. Kennedy’s visit, adding to its historical significance.
(B, L)
Day 3: Thursday, December 4, 2025
San Jose, Costa Rica
Begin your city tour of San José with a visit to the Teatro Nacional Costa Rica, an architectural gem. Marvel at its opulent interiors and learn about its rich history. Next, we’ll explore the Gold Museum and delve into Costa Rica’s indigenous history through an impressive collection of artifacts. Enjoy
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lunch in the center of San José, with some time to soak in the cultural treasures of the Costa Rican capital.
(B, L)
Day 4: Friday, December 5, 2025
Parque Nacional Volcán Poás
Today, we’ll visit Hacienda Doka, where you’ll immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Costa Rican coffee. This historic coffee plantation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the coffee production process, from cultivating the seedlings in the nursery to the intricate methods used at
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the Heritage Processing Plant, which still operates with machinery dating back to the 19th century. Conclude your visit with a guided tasting of eight unique coffee blends, exploring the rich flavors and aromas in the plantation’s gift shop. Experience the breathtaking Poás Volcano National Park. One of Costa Rica’s most iconic attractions, Poás Volcano, boasts one of the largest active craters in the world. Just a short hike away lies the Botos Lagoon, a serene, rain-fed lake nestled within an extinct crater. Surrounded by lush cloud forests, the lagoon provides a tranquil contrast to the volcano’s activity. Our adventure continues at the La Paz Waterfall Gardens, a verdant sanctuary of natural beauty. Stroll through vibrant botanical gardens filled with tropical flowers, including orchids and heliconias. Marvel at the cascading waterfalls, such as the towering La Paz Falls, which provide stunning photo opportunities. Along the way, encounter Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife in the park’s exhibits, featuring colorful butterflies, playful monkeys, hummingbirds, big cats, and other native species. This experience offers an up-close connection to the country’s remarkable biodiversity.
(B, L, D)
Day 5: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Monteverde
This morning, enjoy a scenic drive to Monteverde. Our first stop will be lunch at a local non-profit artisan cooperative dedicated to enhancing local women artists’ economic and social well-being. We’ll have a chance to converse with the artists and view their work. After lunch, we’ll visit the Monteverde Cloud Forest
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Biological Reserve, one of the world’s most famous reserves and essential in Costa Rica due to its conservation activities and scientific research. Founded in 1972 and covering an area of 3,500 hectares, the Monteverde Reserve has 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity. The reserve’s geographical, topographical, and climatic conditions have favored its surprising biodiversity. In its forests, we find four “Ecological Life Zones, ” which give life to different ecosystems inhabited by hundreds of species of mammals, birds, butterflies, amphibians, reptiles, insects, and arachnids, as well as a great variety of plants such as mosses, lianas, and common trees of the cloud forest.
(B, L, D)
Day 6: Sunday, December 7, 2025
Monteverde/Arenal Area
Start your day with a sweet chocolate and sugar cane tour! Participate in the chocolate process, tasting and learning about each stage. Next, visit the sugar cane mill to discover the origin of sugar cane, see the plantation, and learn about the production of sugar cane
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products. You’ll even get the chance to extract fresh, sweet sugar cane juice. Later, enjoy stunning views as we arrive in the Arenal area.
(B, L)
Day 7: Monday, December 8, 2025
Arenal Area/San José, Costa Rica
This morning, we’ll explore the Arenal’s Mistico hanging bridges. This enchanting park features a series of suspension bridges and well-maintained trails that wind
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through the vibrant canopy, providing visitors with unique vantage points to experience the region’s rich biodiversity. Later this afternoon, we’ll return to San José, where tonight we gather for a festive farewell dinner.
(B, D)
Day 8: Tuesday, December 9, 2025
San Jose, Costa Rica
Today we end our adventure. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before returning home.
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ACCOMMODATIONS
Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen
Hotel Arenal Kioro Suites & Spa
Monteverde Lodge
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS)
Is international airfare included?
International airfare is not included. However, we can assist in coordinating flights upon request. Please attempt to book your flights in accordance with our group transfer schedule if you’d like to take part in the transfer. (Dec. 2nd – pick up around 2:30 PM; Dec. 9th – hotel departure around 11 AM.)
When I arrive, will there be a group transfer?
Yes, there will be a group transfer from the San Jose, Costa Rica airport around 2:30 PM on December 2, 2025. If you are arriving a day or two early, EPIX can arrange for a private transfer from the airport to the hotel at an additional cost.
What if I’m traveling solo?
Solo travelers are welcome! We can either match you with a same-gender roommate, or you can opt for a single supplement for an additional fee to secure a private room.
What is included and what is excluded?
Inclusions:
Group transfer R/T from the airport to the hotel
All tips and gratuities
All admission fees
All meals listed in the itinerary
Accommodations at 3 to 5-star hotels
Faculty lectures
Itinerary listed excursions
Luggage porter service
Exclusions:
Airfare and fees
Baggage fees
Insurance
Transportation outside of the program dates
Incidentals
Personal services (spa fees, personal assistance, etc.)
What is the cancellation and deposit policy?
To hold your space on the program, we require a $1,000 per person deposit which will be applied to your final payment. In the event you need to cancel, all deposits are refundable minus a $250 per person administrative fee until August 4, 2025. After August 4, 2025, all payments are non-refundable.
What is the weather like in December in Costa Rica?
In early December, San José, Costa Rica, typically experiences mild temperatures with daily highs around 24°C (75°F) and lows around 16°C (61°F). The month marks the beginning of the dry season, often referred to as the “Gold Season,” characterized by reduced rainfall and an increase in sunny days. However, it is still possible to encounter some rain, with an average of 16 rainy days and about 150 mm of precipitation throughout the month. The weather is generally pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.
Should I get travel insurance?
Protecting your trip with travel insurance is highly recommended. Brandeis Travelers recommends contacting Meyer and Associates | 800-635-7801 | info@meyerandassoc.com
EPIX Travels works with a third-party vendor, Yonder, for free, fast, online insurance quotes. You can quote your trip instantly online here: https://epixtravels.com/travel-insurance/
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Terms and Conditions, Release from Liability, Assumption of Risk, and Binding Arbitration Clause
This Agreement is significant. It includes terms and conditions and releases EPIX Travels from liability. Acceptance of this Agreement occurs upon booking this program.
Tour Details
Tour Name:
Discover Costa Rica
Tour Dates:
December 2 – 9, 2025
Tour Operator:
EPIX Travels
Program Size:
Limited to 26 participants from Brandeis University
Airfare:
EPIX Travels is not liable for any airline cancellation penalties incurred by purchasing non-refundable airline tickets for this tour. The issued air ticket constitutes the sole contract between the passenger and the airline. It is recommended that participants purchase refundable airline tickets or airfare insurance in case of changes or trip cancellation.
Cancellations and Refunds:
Deposit:
A $1,000 per person deposit is required. Cancellations must be in writing.
Final Payment Deadline:
August 4, 2025.
Refund Policy:
Deposits are refundable (minus a $250 per person administration fee) if written notice of cancellation is received by August 4, 2025. After August 4, 2025, deposits are non-refundable. All payments after the final payment deadline are 100% non-refundable. No refunds are provided for non-completion of the tour or unused services. EPIX Travels reserves the right to cancel the tour or require any participant to withdraw if deemed necessary for the health, safety, or general welfare of the group or individual, subject to a refund of the recoverable portion of unused services and accommodations.
Insurance:
Travel insurance for trip cancellation, interruption, medical issues, baggage loss, and delay is highly recommended. Participants should carry travel insurance details with them and understand the difference between “primary” and “secondary” insurance.
Changes in Itinerary, Program, and Costs:
EPIX Travels reserves the right to alter the itinerary for the safety and best interest of the group. Participants are responsible for any additional expenses incurred due to changes. EPIX Travels may bill participants for unforeseen fuel surcharges or port fees levied by the cruise provider. Accommodations are subject to change, but will be of the same quality if changed. The faculty leader’s participation is subject to reaching a minimum number of travelers and is not guaranteed.
Personal Information:
Personal information provided by participants is confidential and only shared with entities providing tour services. Name, home city, and email address may be included in the tour participant list distributed to tour staff and participants. EPIX Travels may use photographs or video taken during trips for promotional purposes without compensation.
Inadvertent Errors and Changes:
Reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented. EPIX Travels is not responsible for errors or damages resulting from the use of this information. Information is subject to change.
Responsibility:
EPIX Travels does not own or operate entities providing goods or services for the trip. All such entities are independent contractors. EPIX Travels is not liable for any negligent or willful acts of these entities or any other third party. This includes, but is not limited to, acts of God, government actions, war, civil unrest, strikes, criminal or terrorist activities, overbooking, accommodation downgrading, transportation failures, recreational activity dangers, food poisoning, lack of medical care, or other causes beyond EPIX Travels’ control.
Coronavirus (COVID-19):
Participants assume all risks related to COVID-19, including sickness, incapacity, or death, and agree to hold EPIX Travels harmless from such developments. Risks include, but are not limited to, quarantine requirements, transportation issues, and necessary medical attention. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination may be required, and any related expenses are the participant’s responsibility. Tour staff has the authority to isolate symptomatic individuals and require medical testing.
Assumption of Risk:
Participants acknowledge the risks of travel, including illness, injury, or death from various causes. Medical services may not be readily available during the trip. Participants accept these risks as part of the adventure and assume full responsibility for any consequences.
Binding Arbitration:
Any disputes related to this Agreement, the brochure, or the trip itself will be resolved by binding arbitration according to the Federal Arbitration Act and the rules of the AAA or JAMS. Proceedings will take place in Connecticut and be resolved under Connecticut law. Both parties waive their right to a jury trial.
Voluntary Participation:
Participants acknowledge voluntary application and participation in the trip, having read and understood the trip description and all related information.
Knowing and Voluntary Execution:
Participants confirm they have read, understand, and voluntarily accept this Agreement, recognizing it as a release of liability and a contract with EPIX Travels.