Volunteer Programs in Panama City, Panama

My Outward Bound experience in Costa Rica was a little different. I was originally signed up to go on a course with other adults or college students for a week. Unfortunately, not too many people had signed up or other things had occurred. Fortunately, I was still able to attend the course and was able to travel with two groups. I traveled first with Girl Scouts and another group that was around the same age (most were between 13-16 years of age). I didn't spend too much time in Costa Rica, but for the brief moments I did it was beautiful. I was able to do zip-lining through the forest and even went into the city. But the real highlight of my travel was going to Panama and working with locals on the sea turtle conservation efforts. Not only was it cool seeing baby sea turtles hatch, but I was glad we were helping to increase the survival rate of two endangered species of sea turtles. I think if anyone has a chance to travel to Costa Rica or even Panama they should definitely take it. As for the Outward Bound Program hands down one of the best programs that I have taken part in. Prior to Costa Rica I had travelled some years back to the one in Colorado which inspired me later to do this program. Needless to say I liked the program so much that I'm doing a gap year course this coming spring in Costa Rica. Traveling to Costa Rica and Panama is a must but if you really want to make it work your while I definitely would look into the Outward Bound Program. Wherever you end up finding yourselves at I hope you have an awesome time!

Outward Bound Costa Rica responded to this reviewSeptember 19, 2022

Hi Samantha! We're so glad you enjoyed your trip so much that you're coming back for a gap year in the spring. We can't WAIT to see you again soon!

The service and cultural immersion taught me so much about how other people live and the impact you can have on people and nature. It taught me not to take things for granted. I also learned how I function with a group.

I came to Costa Rica because I wanted to try something new, and scuba diving was definitely one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life. We had the best instructors I could ask for, and I learned that I should be more grateful for the little things at home.

The relationships with my coursemates and instructors were incredible. I never thought that I would know all of these people like I do now. They are true friends because we went through thick and thin in the past two weeks. I wouldn’t change a thing — my course was awesome. I learned that if I try to see the positive in things, it will lift up the group and myself.

The most meaningful part for me was just living in Costa Rica because it taught me about maturity and responsibility. OBCR really makes you grow. Being on the course required me to push myself, but also gave me so many experiences and allowed me to learn a lot about Costa Rica and its culture. This trip helped me experience life more.

I learned about a country and myself and had a great time doing it. The homestays allowed me to experience a new culture and new lifestyle. Outward Bound Costa Rica is an experience where you have to leave your comfort zone. Once you do, you’ll have a great time.

OBCR represents discovery on the most interpersonal levels. As a classroom teacher, this lies at the core of my educational philosophy. In Costa Rica, I learned that when I am faced with what seems like an insurmountable challenge (like rappelling down a waterfall), that I can confront it and overcome it. I also learned about the amazing level of biodiversity, rich cultural and geography history, and the beloved motto ‘Pura Vida’! I was grateful to wake up each day on course knowing that we were in the hands of competent, qualified, extremely well-trained OBCR instructors, and that we would be empowered to face obstacles and challenges with full self-confidence. This cannot be emphasized enough.

This experience is a mental and physical challenge that pushes your comfort zone in the best way. You get to travel to a new and exciting environment. The best part is all the food and the people you meet while enjoying it.

The most meaningful part of the course was seeing the sea turtles lay their eggs and helping clean the beach so they had a safe environment to lay eggs and get to the ocean. I learned that I can do way more if I have a positive mindset and I can face my fears.

On our trip, I got to learn new things about sea turtles and see the laying of the eggs from start to finish. Ziplining was also a hugely meaningful part of my trip. It pushed my limits and made me face my fears. I learned that I can do anything I put my mind to.

Seeing an entire group of turtles laying eggs was crazy — a once in a lifetime experience. Our instructors were fun to talk to, friendly, trustworthy, always knew what to do, and took very good care of our group.

Outward Bound’s philosophy is very similar to my own. I really appreciated that our course not only showed us the beauty of Costa Rica, but also encouraged all of us to reflect and grow as individuals and as a team! In my opinion, our course was exactly how it was supposed to be. We had some challenges at first getting used to the heat and humidity, but being uncomfortable is a way to make individuals stronger — it’s not always a bad thing. This was our custom course and I enjoyed every single experience!

The people we met along the way — whether it was other groups, instructors, or the people running service projects — each went out of their way to make the experience special. I learned I can do a lot more than I think I can, and that I can understand a lot more Spanish than I thought I could.

It was the greatest final trip before college my Girl Scout troop and I could have asked for. I got to do a lot of fun, new things with my troop. I learned that I really enjoy doing outdoor activities that push me out of my comfort zone, and that I’m more confident than I thought.

The most meaningful part of my course was spending time with my troop, since this was our last trip before college. I’m also leaving with a new love of travel and Spanish, and I greatly desire to continue taking Spanish in college.