This is an experiential learning program in Costa Rica offered by the Institute for Central American Studies (ICAS), an educational institute dedicated to the cause of peace, justice, and the well-being of the people and land of Central America. Our 2, 3 and 4 week programs focus on environmental restoration and sustainable development - while having FUN!
Reforestation, trail building and preservation of natural corridors are the main "work" activities. Recreational adventures are only limited by the imagination and the group's budget. Typically, we hike, white-water raft, kayak, zip-line, horseback ride, swim/snorkel/surf in oceans and rivers, view wildlife, mud bathe, water slide, spielunk, etc. Ideally we spend about 4 hours working in the mornings and "playing" the rest of the time.
We have traveled the country - and beyond - but our two main regions of focus are Puriscal in the Central Valley, and Buena Vista/Rincón de la Vieja in Guanacaste. In the '90s we reforested 3 acres at the Finca Colibrí and helped organize the planting of an additional 5,000 trees in the community of Carít in Puriscal. In 2001 we will continue our homestay program in Carít and begin the transition of our base of operations to the Rancho Beija Flor in Buena Vista, Guanacaste. We also plan to expand our efforts to increase the reforestation and preservation of the Buena Vista area adjoining the Rincón de la Vieja National Park.
Although the past decade we have worked with groups from 5 to 30, we aim to encourage groups between 10-20 participants. For this reason we now are offering a minimum 2-week adventure for groups of at least 10, and we can accomodate groups in size up to 20 and for lengths of stay up to 4 weeks. Group rates begin at $9,000 and increase $50 per person per day (no increase for 3 & 4 week trips - at $1,250 and $1,500 per person - but a minimum group size of 10 is required). Please contact us for more specific information.
We invite you to visit information about our Itineraries, Finca Colibrí, Buena Vista/Rincón de la Vieja, ICAS and Costa Rica.