Description

From white sand beaches to misty cloud forests, towering volcanoes, beautiful rivers that cut through tropical canyons, and hospitable, friendly communities, Costa Rica has it all. Having abolished its military over 50 years ago, this tiny democratic republic has long been known for its pacifism, commitment to environmental protection, and its status as a destination for those seeking safe yet exciting adventure travel set against breathtaking scenery. However, despite an extensive tourism industry, in many parts of Costa Rica there remains a need for help and service. Our programs offer unique access to Costa Rica's best-kept secrets and friendliest communities. We are confident you will love the land of Pura Vida as much as we do!

Pioneer Program, 10 Days:

The Pioneer Program is our shortest and most economical Costa Rica offering, allowing for a comprehensive introduction to the country while minimizing cost and travel time. Focused around days spent in a host community and a beautiful organic farm, this program combines two of Costa Rica"s strongest suites: immersion in a small village and quality time in her world renowned rain forests.

* San Jose:
Students will briefly experience one of the most cosmopolitan Central American cities as we explore colonial courtyards, busy avenues and quaint neighborhoods. We will take Latin dance lessons and gather for orientation meetings to prepare for our upcoming adventure.

* Manuel Antonio:
Manuel Antonio is a beautiful national park with pristine white sand beaches on the Central Pacific coast. Famous for its wildlife, Manuel Antonio is home to sloths, monkeys, a stunning variety of birds, and much more. Those who are interested in surfing can take professional lessons and apply their practice to waves renowned for their ease and consistency. At night we will gather around bonfires on the shore and eat fresh seafood caught during the day.

* Host Village and Homestay:
The heart and soul of our Costa Rica programs is the time in the host village. For the duration of our time in the community, students will live with homestay families where they will significantly improve their Spanish and experience firsthand an intimate snapshot of Costa Rican family life. While we understand the thought of living with another family can be intimidating, we believe that homestays are extremely rewarding. Walking Tree has carefully selected each host family to ensure a safe, nurturing and enriching environment.

Days in the village are spent working on a variety of community service projects that are decided upon in conjunction with the community to ensure their usefulness. Some projects will necessitate construction while others will be less labor-intensive. The days will begin early and end in the afternoon, broken up by a midday break. They promise to be long and rewarding. Students will eat breakfast and dinner with their families, while lunching with the group and continuing with the service projects. Our skilled foremen also ensure that all of our work is safely completed and structurally sound.

When not working on the community service projects, our students will have free time to spend with their families, practice Spanish, play soccer, make friends with local youth, and attend community gatherings. At the end of our time in the village, we will have a fiesta de despedida, or going away party, to say goodbye to the community that has been our home.

Highlights

* 25 Hours of Community Service
* 6 Day Homestay
* Spanish Language Immersion

Travel Types

• Student Tours
• Volunteering
• Homestay
• Language Immersion

Type of Programs

• Adventure Travel
• Community Service / Volunteerism
• Cultural Exploration
• Student Tours

Languages

• Spanish

Cost in US$:

Visit website for more information.

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Application Process Involves

• Written Application
• Letters of Reference
• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Essay

Typically The Application Process Time is

1 week

Walking Tree Travel's Mission Statement

To inspire young adults to become global citizens by taking an active interest in the world around them. We specialize in programs for high school students that focus on linguistic immersion, cultural immersion, international community service, and include a host of other meaningful adventures.

Year Founded

2004