Costa Rica
Once labeled the “Switzerland of Central America,” Costa Rica is one of the most stable countries of the region and one of the most beautiful. From the lush rain forests, to one of the world’s most active volcanoes, to beautiful white sand beaches, this country is unparalleled for its natural beauty. Yet in the midst of this paradise, significant issues need addressing. Poverty and lack of education still persist, especially in the rural areas. The average family income in Costa Rica is still under $4000 per year. Since World War II over 80% of the rain forest has disappeared to make room for more cattle grazing and farm land. What a perfect place for your group to not only be exposed to such diverse issues, but to have an impact in making a difference. Oh . . . and you will have the time of your life!
Contact your Global Journey representative to discuss how an itinerary can be developed that is just right for your group. We can design trips that focus on one or more of the following:
Our trips focus on one or more of the following: Cultural/Language Immersion;
Eco-Treks (Ecology and Service); and Community Service. Exciting Outdoor Adventure experiences can be added to any of our programs.
Using our Tambor, Sarapiqui, or Monteverde outreach and service bases, a brief sampling of our service opportunities includes teaching English in local schools, construction projects that improve the local infrastructure, and participating in local environmental initiatives. No matter what activity with which you will be involved, you will be immersed in the Costa Rican culture and build relationships with the local people.
SAMPLE 9 days/ 8 nights Enviro-Trek at Tirimbina Base in Costa Rica
A Sample Service Component (dependent on scheduling and availability): A typical experience involves working with children in one of the local area schools. The province these schools are located in (Sarapaqui) is among the poorest in the country. Away from the beach resorts and the national parks, this region primarily consists of banana and pineapple plantations. The elementary students your group would be working with are mostly the children of these plantation workers. Two schools that need much assistance are located in very rural areas and will need help with construction of a new classroom and upkeep on the existing facilities. Besides the construction projects, your group will have ample opportunity to practice their Spanish as they build relationships with the children through afternoon activities at the school. At the end of experience, we have made a way possible to stay in touch with the kids after the trip is over.
Day 1:
Depart your home and fly to Costa Rica.
Day 2:
Morning
Coffee Tour*
Visit to Poás Volcano*
Visit to Waterfall Gardens*
Late afternoon
Arrival and orentiation.
Evening
Lecture on Biodiversity
Days 3:
Choose from the numerous Eco-education Activities available. Any of educational activities below can be replaced with others.
Afternoon
Service time.
Evening
Bats: Explore the bat world through an indoor presentation (20 minutes) and examine live bats previously caught in mist nets. Students will have a chance to study and identify each species for more information.
Day 4:
Morning/Afternoon
Service time.
Evening
Night Creatures: Students will learn how the rainforest changes in the dark, and how different groups (plants, frogs, mammals, birds, etc.) adapt to that condition.
The activity starts with a short presentation indoors (20 minutes), followed by a walk in the garden, bridges and forest. The whole activity lasts approximately 2 hours. A black light will be used to attract insects for their identification; mist nets are open for bat catching, and visits to key places allow the visitor to see some night creatures such as tarantulas, frogs, kinkajous, and others.
Day 5:
Morning
Aquatic Ecosystems: Students will learn the importance of the fragile stream and river ecosystems in the forest. Students will study physical, chemical and biological indicators.
Afternoon
Sustainable development in the rainforest: Using real case studies, students will analyze situations facing the forest will propose solutions to protect the forest.
Chocolate Tour: Participants will walk to the cacao plantation and learn about history, production process and importance of chocolate. The activity finishes by making chocolate bars.
Evening
Frogs: Students will study local frogs through a lecture (about 20 minutes) a visit to the Frog Pond to find and identify frogs observed. Please see ECOTOURISM ACTIVITIES for more information.
Day 6:
Morning
Banana or pineapple plantation* : Students will see the process of harvesting and packing the crop. Ecological and social issues are discussed as well.
Afternoon
Boat tour*: A two hour tour on the calm water of the lower Sarapiquí River. Participants will see local wildlife, possibly including monkeys, sloths, caimans and more.
Evening
Workshop on rainforest crafts or Salsa and Merengue lessons* : a local group will show the most common tropical rhythms and will invite participants to dance with them.
Day 7, 8:
Morning
Community outreach (one or more of the following):
Visit the High School at La Virgen and participate in the English-Spanish classes and sports (subject to School Calendar).
Help improve schools in La Virgen through selected activities.
Work on construction projects for local community buildings.
Help support local conservation initiatives.
Evening
Bon Fire
Day 9:
Depart for home after eight life-changing days!
Other activities * that may be included are:
Serpertarium
Indigenous Museum
Canopy Tour
Horseback Riding
Waterfall
Hot Springs
Rafting Trip
Boat Trip
Arenal Volcano
• Programs may be modified to fit specific needs •
