Description

The Osa Peninsula
The Osa Peninsula is one of Costa Rica's last truly untouched regions. This refreshingly remote area is swathed in jungle and home to an incredible abundance of flora and fauna. Breathe in the pure jungle air, take a dip in the warm Pacific Ocean, and let the Osa Peninsula take your breath away.

Waking up to the scent of a fresh ocean breeze and the sounds of white-faced cappuccino monkeys murmuring in the distance, you will begin to understand why the Osa Peninsula is one of Costa Rica's great national treasures. Spectacular Pacific Ocean views, untouched rainforest, and kind people will make this trip a truly unforgettable experience.

Welcome to the Jungle
Venture deep into the heart of the Osa Peninsula as you hike across rivers and traverse jungle trails in the area National Geographic described as "the most biologically intense place on earth." You'll have a trained naturalist by your side to teach you about the abundant wildlife and flora in the area. Keep an eye out for four different species of monkeys swinging through the trees, scarlet macaws fluttering in the leaves, sloths lounging in branches, and a multitude of other exotic tropical creatures.

Climb up the gnarled branches of a giant fig tree (optional) and swing off into the jungle Tarzan-style! Hike through breathtaking canyons and rainforest foliage to a 150-foot-tall waterfall and rappel down the rock face to relax in the cool natural pools below. Take a horseback ride through the jungle and take in the sights of Bahia Ballena National Park. Go on a zip line adventure and fly through the jungle canopy. Surf hidden breaks on the Pan Dulce (optional), enjoy secluded beaches bordered by lush rainforest, and kayak through the tranquil waters of the Pacific Ocean. Raft the famous rapids of the Savegre River and explore gorgeous coral reefs and turquoise waters during a boat tour (optional) to Cano Island, one of Costa Rica's top snorkeling and scuba diving destinations. After two weeks of living, playing, and working in the rainforest, you will have developed a new appreciation for the natural world.

Satisfying Service
You will get to know the people who live on this remote peninsula while working on service projects that will increase educational resources and opportunities in the community. Facilitate games and activities to enhance the English curriculum at local schools and take part in projects such as painting, maintaining, and cleaning the facilities (subject to school vacations and closings). Then stop by an animal sanctuary to learn about ongoing conservation efforts. Your jungle adventures will introduce you to Costa Rica's stunning landscapes, and your service projects will help you understand the lifestyle and culture of the people who live in this remote region.

A Special Note
Although program accommodations are comfortable, you must be aware that you will be surrounded by jungle, animals and bugs. There is also limited space for luggage, so we recommend packing only what is necessary and bringing only a bag you can carry on your back. You should also be prepared to partake in strenuous activities on this program.

Perfect Connection
After two weeks of exploring the jungles of Costa Rica, consider joining the Maleku Culture and Service Experience for a chance to live alongside one of Costa Rica's colorful indigenous groups and take part in rewarding service projects. For a break from service, join the Surf the Summer program, where you can learn to surf or improve your skills and relax on the beaches of the Pacific Coast. This program connects with our other Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Peru, and Panama programs.

Highlights

SHARE quality time with Costa Rican elementary school students and improve the learning environments at rural schools.

HIKE through the jungle and discover the wildlife of the Osa Peninsula, one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world.

CHALLENGE yourself and feel the rush as you rappel down a spectacular 150-foot waterfall in the heart of the jungle.

HELP preserve the beautiful and pristine coast of Corcovado National Park during beach cleanups.

PADDLE the tranquil waters of the Golfo Dulce in a kayak and keep a look out for dolphins, sea turtles and perhaps even a whale!

RAFT the famous whitewater rapids of the Savegre River.

ZIP LINE through the jungle canopy, and go on a Horseback ride to hidden waterfalls.

Qualifications

Students must be 14-years old and up to participate on the program. Additionally, participants must submit an application through the Rustic Pathways website and complete the appropriate documents before traveling on the program.

Type of Programs

• Adventure Travel
• Community Service / Volunteerism

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

2,995 + International airfare

Cost Includes:

• Excursions
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Travel while in host country
• Written materials abroad
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

The above cost includes all ground transportation in-country, 3 meals a day, housing, staff through the duration of the program, all supplies for the volunteer projects and all excursions on the program itinerary not listed as optional.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

• Eco-tourism
• English Teaching
• Environment
• Teaching
• Tutor
• Youth

Age Range

14 years old and up

This Program is open to

American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Guest House
• Other

Scholarships are Available

Rustic Pathways is providing over 100 scholarships for the 2012 season based on a mix of both need and merit. Application deadline is every year in early Spring. Please contact us for more details on applying for a scholarship and other financial aid options.

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

1-2 business days

Rustic Pathways's Mission Statement

Rustic Pathways is a pioneer in providing superior quality travel and service programs for students and families in some of the world's most welcoming countries. Rustic Pathways demands professionalism and integrity across all of its operations, insists on quality in all aspects of its programs, and places the safety of its students above all other considerations. We enrich the lives of our students and our staff, benefit the parts of the world we serve, and build cultural bridges that lead to greater global understanding and cooperation.

Year Founded

1983