Our Programs
Semillas: Journeys for High School Students
The Semillas Program is our flagship summer experience for high school students. Semillas means “seeds” in Spanish, and these trips are designed to plant the seeds of resilience, curiosity, and cross-cultural connection that last a lifetime.
Over the course of one week, students step outside of their comfort zones and into a supportive cohort environment where they can learn, grow, and thrive. With a balance of adventure, reflection, and community immersion, participants return home more confident, independent, and inspired.
What students gain:
A deeper understanding of themselves and their potential
Cross-cultural friendships and connections
Confidence navigating new environments
Stories, skills, and memories that shape who they become
Itinerary Highlights:
Explore vibrant cities, rainforests, or coastlines in Latin America
Engage in hands-on learning with local educators and guides
Stay in eco-lodges that connect students to daily life
Participate in nightly reflection circles and group activities
2026 Programs:
🌋 Costa Rica Uncovered: Nature & Stewardship (Arenal + San José)
Dates: May 19–24, 2026
This journey is all about discovering the power of nature and our responsibility to care for it. Students will explore volcanoes and rainforests, connect with local communities, and take part in hands-on projects that highlight sustainability. Along the way, they’ll reflect on how protecting the earth connects us to something bigger than ourselves.
Best for students who love: adventure, outdoor education, nature, and animals.
Highlights:
Trek through the Arenal Volcano region’s breathtaking landscapes
Learn from local environmental leaders and conservationists
Take part in service learning activities that support sustainability efforts
Daily group reflections to process, connect, and grow
🌊 Heritage & Horizons: Afro-Costa Rican and Indigenous Exchange (Cahuita + San José)
Dates: May 26–31, 2026
This trip invites students into the rich cultural heritage of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, where Afro-Costa Rican and Indigenous traditions take center stage. Through food, music, storytelling, and community connection, students will experience culture as a living force—while also engaging in environmental stewardship of the coastal ecosystem.
Best for students who love: cultural exchange, history, music, storytelling, and the ocean.
Highlights:
Share meals, music, and stories with Afro-Costa Rican and Indigenous communities
Learn traditional art forms and cultural practices from local leaders
Explore Cahuita National Park and the Caribbean coastline
Reflect on identity, heritage and ways culture shapes community
School Trips
Our school-based travel programs make international learning accessible and transformative for students of all backgrounds. We collaborate directly with schools and youth programs to design immersive itineraries that combine cultural exploration, adventure, and reflection.
These journeys give students the chance to step beyond textbooks and discover the world firsthand. Whether snorkeling in Caribbean waters, visiting historic sites, or sharing meals with local families, students experience learning in a way that builds both knowledge and empathy.
What schools gain:
A turnkey travel experience with full logistical support
Curricular alignment with global education goals
A powerful way to foster community and school pride
Students who return more confident, globally aware, and inspired
Itinerary Highlights:
Language and cultural exchanges with local students
Visits to heritage sites and cultural centers
Outdoor adventures like hiking, ziplining, or river rafting
Group reflections that connect travel experiences back to learning goals
Customized daily curriculum and facilitation
2026 Destinations:
Costa Rica, Honduras
Educator Retreats
Educators spend their days pouring into others—our educator retreats are designed to pour back into them. Rooted in rest, resilience, and renewal, these retreats offer time away from the classroom to restore balance, reflect deeply, and return inspired.
Each retreat blends professional and personal growth with cultural immersion and adventure. Participants leave not only recharged, but also with new perspectives and practices to sustain themselves in the demanding world of education.
What educators gain:
Rest and renewal in beautiful, culturally rich settings
Space to reflect on teaching practice and leadership
New strategies for resilience and balance
Connections with other passionate educators
Itinerary Highlights:
Daily mindfulness, yoga, or wellness practices
Interactive workshops on resilience and sustainable teaching
Excursions to cultural, historical, or ecological sites
Ample free time for journaling, rest, and connection
2026 Program:
✨ Rooted & Renewed: An Educator Retreat
Dates: June 2-9, 2026
This weeklong retreat is designed to give educators the time and space to rest, reflect, and renew. Set on Costa Rica’s stunning Pacific coast, the program blends wellness practices with cultural immersion and adventure. Through daily mindfulness, restorative yoga, and intentional reflection, participants will return home recharged and ready to carry their resilience into the classroom and beyond.
Themes:
🌊 Renewal through Rest
🧘♀️ Resilience & Mindfulness Practices
🌱 Sustainability & Connection to Nature
🤝 Community & Shared Learning
Itinerary Overview:
Mornings: Daily yoga, mindfulness, or guided reflection overlooking the ocean
Midday: Excursions to local cultural and ecological sites (markets, nature reserves, coastal hikes)
Afternoons: Ample free time for journaling, rest, or connecting with fellow educators
Evenings: Group dinners, community conversations, and sunset reflections
Highlights:
Daily yoga and wellness practices led by experienced facilitators
Guided excursions that showcase Costa Rica’s coastal beauty and culture
Workshops on resilience, sustainability, and educator well-being
Time for deep rest, connection, and joy
Best for educators who love: wellness, mindfulness, the ocean, community, and space to recharge.
Staff & Team Retreats
Strong teams don’t just happen—they’re built through shared purpose and connection. Our staff and team retreats create the space for colleagues to bond, collaborate, and grow together while engaging in meaningful travel.
Whether it’s a nonprofit staff, a school faculty, or a professional team, these retreats are designed to spark creativity, deepen relationships, and leave groups feeling more aligned and energized.
What teams gain:
Stronger trust, communication, and collaboration
Shared memories and experiences outside the workplace
Opportunities to reflect on mission, values, and goals
Renewed energy and commitment to working together
Itinerary Highlights:
Facilitated team-building activities and workshops
Shared adventures like cooking classes, rafting, or guided hikes
Community dinners with local leaders, artists, or changemakers
Structured reflection time to translate experiences into action
Custom Group Journeys
For groups of 10 or more, UbicaTours offers the chance to design a one-of-a-kind itinerary that reflects your specific goals and values. We collaborate with you to co-create experiences that balance adventure, cultural immersion, and purpose.
Custom journeys are perfect for nonprofits, professional associations, alumni groups, or any community looking for a meaningful international experience. From destination selection to program design, we make sure your group’s vision comes to life.
What groups gain:
A tailored itinerary designed around their purpose and interests
Access to unique local experiences and partnerships
Expert support from planning to on-the-ground execution
A journey that fosters deeper bonds and shared memories
Itinerary Highlights:
Choice of destination and lodging style (eco-lodges, homestays, boutique hotels)
Excursions aligned with your mission or group interests
Opportunities to engage with local educators, artists, or activists
Flexible scheduling with time for both structured activities and free exploration