Teach Environmental Sustainability in Costa Rica

Your first stop in picturesque Costa Rica is San Jose.
This bustling metropolis is a great introduction to Costa Rica, and you’ll get a great idea of what kind of food you can expect to find in Costa Rica, plus an idea of the culture. Go on one of the free walking tours to really take in the city, and don’t forget to wander through some of the more popular museums. You’ll also get an opportunity to check out the Costa Rica National Theater and experience the sights and smells of the San Jose Central Market. People-watching at the market is a must, as is trying some of the different delicacies that all vendors have to offer.

On your second day in the beautiful country of Costa Rica, you’ll be treated to a fun surprise! Lace up your hiking boots because it’s time to check out the Arenal Volcano. This volcano is very close to San Jose and gets you out of the big city and straight into the fresh air of the Costa Rican countryside. Your hike will include a challenging but manageable trek to the volcano, refreshing dip in the local hot springs, and an authentic Costa Rican lunch. The food will taste even better when eaten on the picturesque side of this impressive volcano. The Arenal Volcano is a must-see for anyone who visits Costa Rica!

It’s time to leave the city and head for the coast. Puerto Viejo is situated right on the Carribean side of the country and is well known for its bounty of biodiversity, as well as its amazing natural wonders. You’ll have the afternoon to spend as you choose, so grab a surfboard and catch some waves, luxuriate on the beach, or simply spend your time wandering the streets of this pretty and peaceful beach town. Ecotourism flourishes in Puerto Viejo, so be prepared to be astounded by all of the bounties that this region has to offer.

Local guides will also be available to offer Spanish lessons or give you an overview of the history of Puerto Viejo.

Are there any creatures in the world that are cuter than sloths? These tree-dwellers are known as the gentlest creatures in the jungle, but they are sadly in danger. Many sloths experience problems with electrical wires, chance encounters with people or predators. Some are even sold into the exotic animal trade, a deeply problematic black market that exploits these wild creatures. Fortunately, you’ll get the chance to help the sloths!

Puerto Viejo’s sloth sanctuary rehabilitates these creatures and releases them back into the wild when they are able. Learn all about how to care for sloths, and the steps that you can take to make sure that these wonderful animals are safe in their habitats.

Limon is a short trip from Puerto Viejo, and the perfect spot to help local children learn about environmental sustainability! You will be working at a summer camp in Limon, educating children about the importance of protecting the environment with kid-friendly activities. Your curriculum is already prepared, so all you need to do is bring your enthusiasm for learning and be prepared to have fun. You will also be enjoying a traditional Costa Rican lunch with the school staff and the children.

It’s time to head on back to San Jose. Costa Rica has an astounding number of different butterflies and you will get to interact with them all. The San Jose Butterfly Conservation is dedicated to making sure that all vulnerable types of butterflies survive and flourish in Costa Rica. You will learn the finer points of butterfly husbandry, as well as how you can help protect these vulnerable creatures.

It’s time to head home, but before you leave, you will learn authentic Costa Rican cooking with a class that highlights all of the culinary secrets of the country. Your bilingual guides will expertly describe the ingredients and techniques to you, and you’ll get a recipe book to bring home with you, so you can make these favorites for your family and friends back home!