Sample Incentive Travel Program Itinerary: Costa Rica

When planning incentive travel programs for employees, Costa Rica consistently ranks as a top choice for its balance of natural beauty, adventure, and strong commitment to sustainability. With direct flights from major North American hubs, world-class resorts, and an unparalleled mix of activities, Costa Rica offers everything an organization could want in a reward program. Working with an experienced incentive travel company ensures every detail is seamlessly executed, from branded welcome gifts to curated excursions.

Below is a sample itinerary designed to inspire planners developing incentive travel programs in Costa Rica. It includes plug-and-play options that can be tailored for your group—wellness breaks, guided excursions, culinary moments, and sustainability-focused experiences.

Sample Itinerary for an Incentive Travel Program in Costa Rica

Day 1: Arrival & Branded Welcome

• Morning/Afternoon: Guests arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) or Guanacaste Airport (LIR). A professional incentive travel company arranges private transfers to the resort.
• Welcome Moment: Upon arrival, employees receive a branded welcome kit—reusable water bottles, eco-friendly tote bags, and locally made snacks.
• Evening: Welcome reception featuring Costa Rican craft cocktails, live marimba music, and a gourmet buffet showcasing local cuisine.

Day 2: Volcano Adventure & Wellness Breaks

• Morning: Guided excursion to Arenal Volcano National Park. Guests can choose between a moderate hike, a ziplining experience, or a photography walk led by a naturalist guide.
• Wellness Break: Midday yoga session in a rainforest pavilion, followed by a light tropical smoothie bar.
• Afternoon: Relaxation at the resort’s hot springs or spa.
• Evening: Group dinner with a farm-to-table menu highlighting sustainable agriculture practices.

Day 3: Team Building & Coffee Culture

• Morning: White-water rafting on the Sarapiquí River or a calmer river float for those seeking a lighter adventure. Activities are framed as team-building challenges to strengthen connections.
• Afternoon: Coffee plantation visit, where employees learn about Costa Rica’s iconic export through hands-on roasting demonstrations and tastings.
• Evening: Casual dinner in La Fortuna town, giving participants the chance to explore local restaurants and mingle with the community.

Day 4: Coastal Escape & Gala Night

• Morning: Transfer to a Pacific coast beach resort. Branded refreshments on the bus add a thoughtful touch from the incentive travel company.
• Afternoon: Free time at the beach—kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing. Optional guided snorkeling tour.
• Evening: Gala dinner on the sand under a canopy of lights. Highlights include live entertainment, a curated three-course menu, and a branded awards moment to recognize top performers.

Day 5: Departure

• Breakfast at leisure.
• Private transfers arranged for all guests.
• Farewell gift: artisanal chocolate box or hand-painted wooden keepsake.

Additional Activities for Your Trip

Incentive travel programs thrive on variety. In Costa Rica, you can easily tailor additional activities to match the preferences of your team:

• Adventure Add-Ons: Canyoning, ATV tours, horseback riding to waterfalls, or surfing lessons.
• Wellness Moments: Sound healing, forest bathing, or guided meditation in the rainforest.
• Cultural Experiences: Cooking classes with a Costa Rican chef, visits to artisan workshops, or volunteering in a local community project.

With the right incentive travel company, you can create flexible itineraries that allow participants to choose experiences that resonate most with them.

Sustainability-Focused Activities

Costa Rica is a global leader in sustainable tourism, making it an ideal backdrop for organizations that value environmental responsibility. Integrating sustainability into incentive trips for employees elevates the impact of the journey. Options include:

• Tree planting ceremonies tied to corporate values.
• Visits to wildlife rescue centers and eco-lodges.
• Farm-to-table culinary workshops that highlight organic and regenerative agriculture.
• Beach clean-up initiatives, perfect for groups who want to give back while bonding.

Partnering with a sustainability-savvy incentive travel company ensures these activities are both meaningful and seamlessly integrated into the program.

Local Food Options for Your Event

Costa Rica’s culinary scene adds another dimension to incentive travel programs. Some highlights include:

• Traditional Costa Rican Breakfast: Gallo pinto (rice and beans), plantains, fresh fruit, and locally brewed coffee.
• Interactive Cooking Classes: Groups learn to prepare ceviche, tortillas, or empanadas.
• Themed Food Stations: Coffee-tasting stations, fresh juice bars, or tropical cocktail mixology workshops.
• Fine Dining Experiences: Private chef-prepared meals that fuse local flavors with international techniques.

Adding culinary diversity ensures incentive trips for employees remain flavorful and engaging from start to finish.

What to Pack for an Incentive Trip to Costa Rica

Helping employees prepare for their trip is part of the planning process. Recommended essentials include:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing.
• Comfortable walking shoes for excursions.
• Swimwear for hot springs, beaches, and pools.
• Rain jacket or poncho (especially in the green season).
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen.
• Power adapters and chargers for tech.
• Reusable water bottle (a sustainable choice, often branded by the incentive travel company).

Providing this list in advance ensures participants arrive prepared for every adventure.

Local Gifting Options for Your Incentive Trip

Gifting is a memorable way to personalize incentive travel programs. Costa Rica offers authentic options that reflect its culture and values:

• Coffee & Chocolate: Locally sourced, fair-trade, and beautifully packaged.
• Handcrafted Items: Wooden bowls, pottery, or woven textiles from artisan cooperatives.
• Wellness Products: Organic soaps, essential oils, and natural skincare.
• Sustainable Keepsakes: Bamboo cutlery sets, recycled glass jewelry, or eco-friendly tote bags.

These items not only delight employees but also support local communities and align with sustainability goals.

Plan Your Incentive Travel Program with Costa Rica DMC

Costa Rica is an unparalleled destination for incentive trips for employees. It combines adventure, culture, and wellness with the professionalism of modern infrastructure and direct international connectivity. Whether your program focuses on rewarding top performers, strengthening team bonds, or showcasing your company’s commitment to sustainability, this country delivers.

The most successful incentive travel programs rely on the expertise of an experienced incentive travel company. From coordinating logistics and curating branded moments to sourcing authentic local experiences, a trusted partner ensures every element aligns with your vision.

In 2026 and beyond, incentive trips for employees must do more than reward performance—they must inspire, engage, and prove lasting value. Costa Rica DMC offers you Costa Rica’s unique combination of natural wonders, sustainable practices, and cultural richness makes it the ideal stage for unforgettable programs. By blending wellness, adventure, gastronomy, and personalization, your company can deliver an incentive trip that not only celebrates success but also leaves participants motivated long after the journey ends.