Adventure Camp in Costa Rica

The Adventure Camp is a short, supported way to find out what living and teaching abroad is really like. Over 4 weeks you'll help run English camps for local students in San José and San Ramón, with activities in Playas del Coco, using games, outdoor activities and conversation practice instead of textbook lessons.

You won't be dropped straight into a classroom. Your first week is an in-country orientation in the mountain town of San Ramón: Spanish lessons, a cooking class, a coffee plantation visit, a traditional sugar cane demonstration, volunteering at a wildlife rescue centre and practical workshops on running camp activities, plus trips to Arenal Volcano and surfing or paddleboarding at Playas del Coco. Before you fly you'll also complete a 60-hour online TEFL course.

TravelBud handles your application, your pre-departure preparation and your support throughout. On the ground you're looked after by our partner Xplore, whose local coordinators are on call 24/7.

 

 

You don't need a degree or teaching experience. If you're adaptable, enthusiastic and comfortable speaking in front of a group, you can do this program.

Students, graduates and gap-year travellers

A 4-week commitment that fits a summer break or gap semester. You'll come home with hands-on leadership and public speaking experience and a TEFL certificate for your CV.

Anyone curious about teaching abroad

A low-pressure way to try teaching before signing a year-long contract. The online TEFL course and orientation week prepare you, and you'll work alongside a group from day one.

• 18 to 55 years old
• Native English speaker, or C1 level English
• A clean criminal background check (this is a youth-facing program)
• No degree or teaching experience needed
• Adaptable, enthusiastic and respectful of local culture

Discounts & payment flexibility

• Get an Early Bird Special and Save 5% on the displayed prices when you pay the full program fee upfront at enrollment.
• Prefer to split the cost? Klarna (buy-now-pay-later) is available so you can spread payments over time.

You'll also pay a refundable accommodation deposit on arrival, returned at the end of your stay less electricity and water.

Fixed intakes. Every Adventure Camp starts on a Monday, with orientation week in San Ramón.

Arriving:

Plan your flight to land in San José on the Sunday before your start date, so you can join the airport pickup and go straight to your accommodation.

Give yourself at least 8 weeks:

Apply at least eight weeks before your start date. You'll need time to complete the 60-hour online TEFL course, get your background check and arrange your visa. On a tighter timeline? Talk to us.

The best time of the year to go:

December to April is the dry season and the most popular time to visit. May to November is the green season, with warm days and afternoon rain.

 Upcoming start dates:

TravelBud is built for people who want more than just a trip abroad - you want it to mean something.

We help you teach, travel, and immerse yourself in a new culture in a way that’s structured, supported, and genuinely impactful. From your first inquiry to your final day in the classroom, you’re never doing this alone.

What You Get With TravelBud

1. Ethical, vetted placements
We partner with trusted organizations that value their participants and follow fair, sustainable practices.

2. Support from day one (before you even book flights)
You get step-by-step guidance on visas, documents, flights, and what to expect, plus honest advice about whether a program is the right fit for you and your goals.

3. In-country orientation & ongoing help
When you land, you’re welcomed by a team who has been in your shoes. You’ll settle in, learn about the culture, make friends, and know exactly who to call if you need help throughout your stay.

4. Real cultural immersion, not just surface-level travel
You’ll live like a local, build relationships with your students and fellow camp leaders, and experience daily life in your host country in a way that short trips or tours can’t offer.

5. A community that has your back
From fellow volunteers to our support team and alumni network, you’re joining a global community of people who’ve taken the same leap and are ready to share advice, stories, and encouragement.

You bring the curiosity and courage - we’ll bring the structure, guidance, and support to make it all possible.