From the turquoise blue of the Caribbean Sea to
the pounding surf of the Pacific Ocean, the natural
splendor of Costa Rica stretches as far as the eye
can see. Here you can stay with local families and
learn Spanish, live on the beach and help save sea
turtles, or cruise through the country in search of
adventure on kayaks, horses, and whitewater rafts.
Rustic Pathways is the largest operator of highquality
service, adventure, and language programs
in Costa Rica. We have spent over five years
building strong relationships with communities,
local guides, and families throughout the country.
This year we are proud to introduce new
opportunities to delve further into Central America
with trips to Panama and Nicaragua. Golden
beaches, pristine rainforests, volcanic corridors,
and new friendships await. Join us and discover
the meaning of pura vida.
In Panama sparkling city lights turn swiftly into starry nights and delicious Caribbean feasts are shared with welcoming Kuna hosts. In Panama clear turquoise waters above reveal undersea shipwrecks teeming with tropical fish below, and pristine white sand beaches stretch for miles. In Panama the complex Panama Canal contrasts sharply with the simplicity of life in the San Blas Islands. In Panama Kuna is spoken as often as Spanish. In Panama cosmopolitan Panama City center thrives and the colonial neighborhood of Casco Viejo revives and no one in the autonomous Comarca de Kuna Yala even notices - they are too busy introducing privileged guests like yourself to their remarkable Caribbean paradise. Rustic Pathways is proud to introduce a new program in this vibrant and diverse country where continents and oceans converge.
Rustic Pathways Panama is one part Kuna cultural immersion, one part Caribbean island exploration, one part Panama City experience, and all parts amazing! Snorkel over pristine ocean reefs, boat between coconut-palm encrusted islands, live in thatched roof huts, relax on/ tropical beaches, work in Kuna communities, sleep in hammocks, tour the Panama Canal, learn words in the Kuna language, practice Spanish, and so much more.
Students can enjoy this service adventure on its own or connect seamlessly with any of Rustic’s other Central American programs. Imagine the ultimate Caribbean immersion combination of the Bribri Caribbean Service Project, the Costa Rica Caribbean Adventure and Panama: Kuna Culture, Caribbean Paradise! Alternatively, combine Panama with our new Nicaragua: Soul of Fire journey and experience three incredible countries in three weeks. Rustic Pathways is seeking intrepid travelers ready to get rugged and have fun in a cultural Caribbean paradise. Join us for a week or stay for month – Central America beckons!
Caribbean king crab and small lobsters plucked from green and blue waters
Dangle from the hands of Kuna fishermen
As they bring the fresh catch to the edge of the island
On the island bamboo walls covered in colorful molas
Border sandy pathways tread by bouncing children
And friendly locals cook a marvelous feast
Caribbean Panama… a Paradise…
but for how long?
a unique cultural experience
for the conscious traveler
come…
