Students from Woodland High School recently returned from an unforgettable trip to Costa Rica, where they spent several exciting days exploring the country's natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant traditions.
The journey began in Liberia, located in the north of Costa Rica. During their first three days, they experienced the thrill of zip lining through the lush Costa Rican canopy, took part in a traditional cooking class where they learned to prepare local specialties, and visited a working farm. One highlight of their time in Liberia was a snorkeling adventure on the Caribbean coast, where they had the incredible opportunity to explore 600 acres of living coral reefs.
The students also visited Rincon de la Vieja National Park, where they hiked through stunning landscapes and witnessed Costa Rica’s amazing volcanic activity and diverse wildlife up close.
Next, the group traveled to one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful areas—the Arenal region. As they moved from the dry, desert-like climate of Liberia into the lush jungle, they were amazed by the dramatic change in scenery. A boat trip through the region allowed them to spot an incredible variety of animals, including sloths, monkeys, crocodiles, snakes, birds, and turtles. Another standout moment was visiting La Fortuna Waterfall, described by many as the most beautiful and iconic spot of the entire trip.
The adventure continued with a tour of a coffee plantation in San Jose, where students learned about the coffee-growing process—from the seed to the final product found in stores. They even had the chance to sample different types of coffees and chocolates! A lively salsa dance class added even more fun to the trip, as everyone learned the basic steps and danced with the help of an energetic local instructor.
Though the trip was short, it was packed with experiences that left a lasting impact. They learned about Costa Rican culture, tried new foods, met fellow student travelers from Michigan, and created memories that will last a lifetime. They truly returned richer in knowledge, experiences, and friendships.
Ms. Dionis is already planning another exciting trip for Spring Break next school year! For more information, contact her at mdionis@dd4.k12.sc.us.