Volunteer Programs in Rural Areas, Panama

I had an amazing time in Panamá. I lived with a great host family that welcomed me and two other Americans into their home. I learned what the day-to-day life is like for people in a small, agricultural community, and improved my Spanish through conversations.

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!