Costa Rica Adventure

Highlights

• Travel style: be part of an exclusive Gapforce group with a dedicated leader
• Sustainability: volunteer on sustainable volunteer projects including reforestation, animal rescue and turtle conservation
• Live like a local: immersive cultural experiences in Monteverde and Yorkin
• Boost your wellbeing: range of outdoor activities including hiking, hot springs, surfing and ziplining

Phase 1 (Days 1-9): Cloud Forests and Volcanoes 

Begin your adventure in Monteverde’s enchanting cloud forests at a sustainable coffee farm. Over five days, engage in organic farming, forest preservation, and local culture, whilst also learning about coffee production, harvesting and roasting. Experience a guided night hike to uncover Costa Rica’s nocturnal wildlife and enjoy thrilling ziplining through the treetops. 

Phase 2 (Days 10-17): Sea Turtle Conservation 

Next, volunteer at sea turtle conservation projects on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. Work at a remote beach near Tortuguero National Park and another site in Cahuita. Support efforts to protect endangered sea turtles through beach patrols, hatchery care, and site maintenance. Experience different conservation techniques and gain insights into the challenges faced. Conclude this phase with leisure time in Puerto Viejo, where you can enjoy Afro-Caribbean culture, relaxed beaches, and vibrant markets. 

Phase 3 (Days 18-20): Indigenous Culture Experience 

Travel inland to Yorkin Village for a unique cultural immersion with the Bribri indigenous community. Participate in activities like making chocolate, bows and arrows, gourd bowls, palm weaving, and exploring medicinal plants. After your cultural experience, hike to hidden waterfalls surrounded by lush flora and fauna, keeping an eye out for sloths, monkeys, and toucans. 

Phase 4 (Days 21-29): Puerto Viejo, Caribbean Coast

4-weeks: $3850

For available start dates check out the 'Dates & Availability' section below - you may need to scroll right to view the prices and book on! You can secure your place on your chosen adventure with a deposit of either $300 or 10% of the trip price, whichever is higher.

What's included:

• Pre-departure support 

• Airport pick-up & Return transfer 

• Gapforce Expedition Leader 

• All volunteer projects plus local project staff 

• All accommodation for the duration of the trip 

• Three meals a day 

• Project equipment and training 

• All internal transport 

• 24/7 emergency back-up  

• Financial failure protection 

Included Trips & Activities:

• Sustainable farming experience 

• Cloud Forest night hike 

• Ziplining Canopy tour 

• Volcano trail hike 

• Hot Springs 

• Sea Turtle conservation projects 

• Jungle boat rides to/from Yorkin 

• Bribri cultural immersion and cultural activities 

• Waterfall hike 

• Ara Project volunteering (Great Green Macaws) 

• Iguana Farm volunteering and activities 

• Surf lesson 

• Coastal bike and beaches day 

What is not included:

• Flights to/from destination

• Travel Insurance

• Visa & Vaccinations

• Spending Money 

• Tipping & Gratuities

How much spending money do I need?

Knowing how much to budget can be troublesome, because it’s hard to predict exactly how many optional activities you’ll want to take part in, and you can do the trip on a shoestring or more opulently depending on your preference. We advise you to budget approximately £70/$100 per week to cover items not included in the itinerary such as drinks, snacks, and optional activities. 

What is the food like?

Typical Central American food includes lots of rice, meat, beans, vegetables, and fruit. Whilst there will be some international options depending on where you are, regional dishes vary, and local specialties will always be made available! Vegetarian and vegans are easily catered for given the nature of the local cuisine.

What type of transport will I be using?

You are responsible for your flights to and from San Jose Airport. During the trip, airport transfers are included. Internal travel throughout the trip will consist of a range of transport types, including public and private buses, boats, and taxis. Please give us a call for more information on individual journey details.

Where will I be staying?

You will stay in a variety of diverse accommodation throughout your trip including local hotels, hostels, and volunteer guesthouses. Most accommodation will be dorm style with shared bathrooms.

Who takes part in this program?

This program is for anyone looking to volunteer and backpack through Costa Rica’s most sought-after destinations. There is no prior experience required although the minimum age is 18 and you must also have your doctor sign our medical form confirming you are medically fit to participate. A reasonable level of fitness is required to participate, and if you plan to take part in any open-water based activities eg surfing and snorkelling, you must be able to swim 200m.

When does this program start and end?

The program starts in San Jose on Day 1 when you meet the Gapforce leader or representative at the airport, or from 4.00pm at the group hostel if you are already in-country.  The program ends in San Jose on the last day at 10.00am, or at the time you checkout of the group accommodation,  whichever is earlier.  Transfers to the airport will be provided for participants flying out that same day.  Full details to help you book flights and plan your arrival and departure will be provided upon booking, but please contact us if you require further details beforehand.

How many others will be in my group?

Who will be supervising me?

Throughout your trip you will be accompanied by a Gapforce Expedition Leader. At various stages of your trip we utilize the services of local support staff including project coordinators, drivers, and guides.

*Please download the program brochure for full details!

If you are excited by the prospect of travel in Costa Rica, and would like a bit more inspiration, check out our Gapforce Costa Rica blog.

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