CIEE Study Abroad with Dinosaurs
Costa Rica

Study Abroad with Dinosaurs

Dates

-

15 weeks

Application Deadline

The April 1, 2026 deadline for Fall 2026 has passed.

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Overview

Have you ever wondered what dinosaurs were like? Here is your chance to find out!

Based in Costa Rica’s protected rainforest, CIEE’s newest conservation-focused program places students at the center of a bold new initiative: supporting the care, research, and responsible integration of living dinosaur species into modern ecosystems.

From towering Brontosaurus to the quick Compsognathus, this immersive experience invites students to participate in habitat design, behavioral observation, and ethical megafauna management in one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth.

Come on an unforgettable adventure that combines education, sustainability, and the thrill of encountering dinosaurs in their natural habitat.

Unique Experiences

Safari Tours

Take guided Jeep tours through dinosaur paddocks

Hatchery & Baby Dinosaur Experience

Watch dinosaurs hatch from eggs and meet the baby dinosaurs

Triceratops Trail Rides

Climb aboard experience Costa Rica from the back of a gentle giant

Experience
  • CIEE dino hatchery
  • Dinosaur safari

The Destination

As the global leader in sustainability, biodiversity, and ecosystem preservation, Costa Rica makes for the ideal setting for responsible prehistoric species management.  

The high-elevation Cloud Forest has long protected some of the planet’s most fragile ecosystems. It now protects some of the planet’s largest. Just outside the main biological preserve, living dinosaur species roam freely in habitats, their movements tracked by conservation scientists and very sturdy fencing. 

Monteverde isn’t just a destination, it’s a living laboratory where the cloud forest meets the Cretaceous. 

Excursions & Activities

CIEE’s excursions and cultural activities in Monteverde will open doors for you to explore Costa Rica's rich biodiversity and timeless beauty in ways that will enhance your time abroad. 

Dinosaur selfie

Sky Tours

Climb aboard one of the largest flying dinosaurs ever and experience the Cloud Forest from above as you glide through misty canopies and across sweeping jungle valleys. Guided by trained handlers, you'll ride atop massive winged reptiles, taking in views of Triceratops herds grazing below, Brachiosaurus rising above the treetops, and waterfalls cutting through the dense rainforest. 

Each flight follows carefully mapped aerial routes with smooth takeoffs and landings, offering a safe and unforgettable perspective of this prehistoric world.

Iguanodon Fruit Harvesting

Iguanodon Fruit Harvesting

Why use a ladder when you have a 30-foot tall friend? These gentle giants will gently lower branches of mango and cacao trees so you can pick the best fruit. In exchange, they expect 10% of the harvest and a neck rub. 

Program Blogs

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6 Reasons to Study Abroad in Costa Rica

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Costa Rica is one of those places that lives up to the hype – and then some. Between learning Spanish in real-life settings, studying surrounded by rainforests and beaches, and... keep reading

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From CIEE

EAT, DRINK, EXPLORE: MONTEVERDE

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN MONTEVERDE There is absolutely no way to avoid eating casado in Costa Rica. This traditional comida tipica (typical dish) is on every restaurant and home... keep reading

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From CIEE

What is Study Abroad? Everything You Need to Know!

By College Study Abroad at CIEE

@cieestudyabroad Study Abroad 101 #cieestudyabroad #studyabroad #internationalstudent #collegemajors #collegelife #students #scholarships #studyabroadprograms #internships hollywood - rchie Every student hears about it, but what does study abroad mean , anyway? How... keep reading

Housing
Courses

Course Information

  • Inter-Species Communication and Cooperative Learning with Dinosaurs)
  • Dinosaur-Guided Leadership and Social Systems 
  • Ethics of Coexistence with Non-Human Intelligent Species 
  • Applied Survival Strategies Taught by Apex and Herd Dinosaurs 
  • Environmental Stewardship Through Megafauna Perspectives 
  • Movement, Migration, and Spatial Awareness in Vast Landscapes 
  • Human–Dinosaur Conflict Resolution and Trust Building 
  • Experiential Learning Practicum: Daily Life and Work Alongside Dinosaurs
  • Dinosaur Choir: Roaring with the Greats 
  • Dr. Dinosaur: Dental 101 
  • Occupational therapy for T-rex 
  • Prehistoric Passport: Life Finds a Way (Abroad) A Study Abroad Program Inspired by Science, Chaos, and Poor Fencing Decisions 

Note: This course listing is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a contract between CIEE and any applicant, student, institution, or other party. The courses, as described, may be subject to change as a result of ongoing curricular revisions, assignment of lecturers and teaching staff, and program development. Courses may be canceled due to insufficient enrollment.
"(GI)" denotes courses that originated at CIEE's Global Institutes and that are offered at multiple CIEE sites.

Dates & Fees

What's Included

Housing

Meals

Pre-safari Advising

Orientation

Fireside Meat & Greet

Cultural and/or Co-curricular Activities

Excursions and/or Study Tours

Onsite Staff

24/7 Emergency On-site Support

Get Started Steps

Get Started

Here’s what you need to do to take the next steps:

1

Start an Application

You're one step closer to an amazing study abroad experience!

2

Connect With Your Campus Study Abroad Office

Share your plans and confirm you're on track to meet all required steps to go abroad.

3

Contact Us

Send us an email if you still have questions or need information about applying to this program.

Request Info