crexperience website

join the crexperience

DISCOVERY | EXPLORATION | ADVENTURE

JUNE 11-21, 2024

OUR STUDENT TRIP IS FULL FOR 2024. CHeck back for 2025.

OUR ADULT TRIP IS FULL FOR 2025. CLICK HERE: WAIT LIST AVAILABLE.

the crexperience

Established in 2000, The CREXPERIENCE was born with the vision of providing students with an unforgettable journey to uncover the marvels of Costa Rica through the lens of science.

From the lush rainforests and towering volcanoes to the mesmerizing phenomena like horizontal rain and the mystique of the cloud forest, our program ensures students delve into the diverse tapestry of Costa Rica's natural wonders. It's an immersive experience brimming with new sights, captivating sounds, and thrilling explorations.

But beyond the scientific discoveries, our program is about embarking on an adventure of a lifetime. Students soar through the rainforest canopy on exhilarating zip lines, and navigate the exhilarating whitewater rapids, witnessing nature's raw power firsthand.

From the moment they touch down, students are immersed in the beauty of Costa Rica, crafting memories that will endure a lifetime. Join us and unlock the essence of Costa Rica through an experience that blends education with adventure.

24 Experiences

the Testimonials.

What I experienced during my time in Costa Rica led me to seek opportunity, to seek adventure and most importantly believe that anything is possible when you give yourself a chance to take a chance, to take a risk and experience something that not everyone has the opportunity to do.

Adam Ferry, CR#01

We were taken aback by the beauty of all the spots toured. A personal favorite was the chocolate tour. Having had many apprehensions about going out of our comfort zones, we successfully zipped lined, snorkeled, white water rafted and more. It was by the far the best travel experience of our lives.

Amy Braun-Gross, CR#18

I realized how many connections I made on my trip with people, how our lives touched each other in unexpected ways, and how impossible it is to calculate the ongoing influences from those encounters. I am so full of new and beautiful experiences, stories, and friends, that I feel like a new version of myself.

Max Kiekhofer, CR#18

the Reason.

Twenty-seven years ago, I penned my "Philosophy of Education," at UWEC concluding with the line, "I am a man with a dream, a dream of making meaningful impacts and fostering positive changes in the lives of my students."

Little did I anticipate that my subsequent employment with St. Francis Public Schools a year later, countless discussions with Judy Savick (the guidance counselor), and my eventual role as a web developer volunteer at the Reserva Biológica Tirimbina (TRC) alongside Joan Spector (Executive Director of TRC at the time) would unfold into two+ decades of the remarkable privilege of contributing to that very dream. It has become a dream that, for some, manifests as an indelible, once-in-a-lifetime journey.

As the program has naturally evolved over the years, there remains a steadfast yearning—a commitment to offering an experience for students that will resonate not only in the present but echo through the years to come.

It brings immense joy to peruse and disseminate testimonials from former students and parents (alumni of past experiences) reflecting on the profound impact and enduring memories, whether their involvement was last year or twenty-three years ago.

"I am a man with a dream, a dream of impacts and changes for which I play a small part in the successful lives of my students."

!Pura Vida!

the Numbers.

Total Years: 23

Total Student Trips: 21

Total Adult Trips: 1

Max Group Size: 33 ('07 and '19)

Most Students 25 ('07)

Most Parent Chaperones: 12 ('19)

Total Students: 290

Total Adults: 141

Chaperone Ratio: 1:2

Trip Alumni: 431

discovery | exploration | adventure

Our ‘24 Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Costa Rica, starting with the lush Sarapiqui Region and the enchanting Tirimbina Rainforest Reserve. Here, immerse yourself in the biodiversity of the rainforest, discovering unique wildlife and cascading waterfalls.

Next, venture to the misty heights of Monteverde, where cloud forests reveal a different world above the canopy. Walk across suspended bridges, spotting rare birds and vibrant orchids amidst the fog.

Continue your expedition to the iconic Arenal Volcano, where hot springs and scenic hikes await. Marvel at the volcano's imposing silhouette against the backdrop of Lake Arenal, and unwind in thermal pools surrounded by tropical gardens.

Conclude your Costa Rican odyssey with a ferry ride to Tambor Beach on the Pacific coast. Feel the ocean breeze and relish the tranquility of this secluded paradise, where golden sands meet turquoise waters—a perfect finale to a diverse and captivating exploration of Costa Rica's natural wonders.