Ecology and Community Adventure: Camping Experience
Corcovado National Park
Por Neotrópica Costa Rica
In this program, the student will leave the comfort of their home and hotel and have real contact with nature, camping under the shelter of stars, and sleep along the infinite sounds of nocturnal creatures. Teamwork and respect for others is an essential part in this program. This will allow the student to build a better relationship between his/her partners.
11 Days Program Program Price $ 1300.00
With one of the largest great stands of unspoiled primary rain forest in Central America teeming with abundant aquatic life, scenic cascading rivers and waterfalls, and one of the highest levels of biodiversity in the entire world, this often overlooked region of the country is a treasure trove experiences for both the eco-tourist and the adventure traveler alike. This is where the “rubber meets the road” related to issues such as biodiversity, sustainable development, and environmentalism, and where individuals like you can really make an impact, even just as a visitor.
During the camping session, the participants will have to collaborate with the preparation of food and the organization of the camping grounds, as well as to clean the used area and to make sure to not leave remainders (trash) behind. Beforehand, they will receive instruction on how to handle stoves, tents and camping utensils.
Intercultural exchange is a very important component in this program. In order to fulfill this, the student will have the opportunity to get involved in a community project, such traditional fishing techniques and low impact gold harvesting. Also, the student will be able to share with members of the community through social activities.
These activities are designed for participants of all levels of experience. Enthusiasm is a key to guarantee a positive experience during this adventure
Recommended Gear
Lightweight, comfortable hiking or walking shoes (waterproof is preferable).
Water shoes (such as Tevas, Crocs or Keens)
Sports tall socks (at least 3 pairs for the hiking section) to make sure you don’t get a rash when wearing our rubber boots on the rainforest hikes.
Sunscreen (30 factor at least) and insect repellent
Flashlight, head lamp is very useful in the hiking experience.
When possible, please pack only Panasonic batteries, as these are the only brand of batteries that can be recycled in Costa Rica.
Light raincoat during the raining season (April to November).
Swim suit
Light camping towel
Sheets and Terma rest or Foam pad. (sleeping bag is not recommended because is too hot and impractical)
Biodegradable soap and shampoo in a small container to take in the hike. Do not bring more than you need. You can bring extra to leave in the field station.
Personal medication
Diary or small notebook
Plastic bags for your clothes (remember they can be wet) You can use small Ziploc bag also for camera and documents.
Water (1 or 2 bottles).
A copy of your passport.
Your own camping dish, cup or glass and spoon or fork (must be durable to be used during the camping session).
Educational Program:
“Ecology and Community Adventure: Camping Experience"
Day 1
Arrival to San Jose, Costa Rica. Transfer to hotel (lunch or dinner according to flight schedule).
Day 2
08:30 AM Introduction of Neotrópica Foundation, and general information about the trip.
10:30 AM Transfer to Center of Studies and Community Empowerment Alvaro Wille Trejos (CEEC-AWT). (Lunch box included)
05:30 PM Arrival to the Center, time to get accommodated and refreshed from the trip.
06:30 PM Dinner
07:30 PM Introduction to the Program and time to meet the Environmental Educator, Precautions at the tropical rainforest, tips to camp and cook in the rain forest.
Lecture: "Corcovado National Park: Adventure and Expedition Behavior, expectations for the trip".
Day 3
05:30 AM Breakfast
06:30 AM Departure to Jaguar de Oro Project (Gold Panning Community Project)
Activities at the Project
11:30 AM Lunch at Jaguar de Oro
12:30 PM Departure to Ngöbe Indigenous Reserve (Workshop of Ngöbe Culture).
06:00 PM Dinner.
Day 4
04:00 AM Light Breakfast
04:45 AM Departure to Los Patos Ranger Station
06:30 AM Arrival to Los Patos, time to take a snack before the hike.
07:30 AM Hike through Primary Forest to Sirena Ranger Station (8 or 9 hours hike 23 km or 14 miles).(Lunch box included)
04:30 PM Arriving to Sirena Ranger Station and set up Camp.
Introduction to the Program “Community and Biodiversity in the Osa Peninsula” and time to meet the environmental educator, Precautions at the Tropical rainforest.
Dinner at the dining room.
07:00 PM Round table: “Ups and downs of the day”.
Day 5
06:00 AM Wake up time for the Cooking Group: start preparing breakfast
07:00 AM Breakfast
08:00 AM Hike to Ollas and Rio Claro trails, time to see the most pristine section of the Corcovado National park and swim in the river.
12:30 PM Lunch
01:30 PM Personal time at the beach
03:00 PM Walk to Los Naranjos and Guanacaste Trails, visit to Sirena River.
06:00 PM Dinner and Preparation for tomorrow´s hike
07:00 PM Night walk to the grass field to see the Tapir
Day 6
04:00 AM Time to pack camping equipment
04:30 AM Breakfast
05:00 AM Hike to La Leona Ranger Station (6 to 7 hours hike, 16 Km or 10 miles) (lunch box included)
02:00 PM Arrival to La Leona Ranger Station and Set Up Camp. Personal time at the beach.
05:30 PM Dinner
06:30 PM Round table: “Ups and downs of the day”, what did I learn in this session of the trip.
Day 7
05:30 AM Time to pack camping equipment
06:00 AM Breakfast
07:00 AM Hike to Carate (3.5 Km or 2.1 miles).
08:00 AM Arrival to Carate and take a Rural Taxi out to Puerto Jiménez Town.
11:30 AM Arrival to Puerto Jiménez (Lunch and time to make phone calls or shopping)
02:00 PM Departure to CEEC – AWT
03:00 PM Arrival to CEEC and time to refresh from the trip.
06:00 PM Dinner
Day 8
07:00 AM Breakfast
08:00 AM Community Service at CEEC or El Campo Community
12:00 NOON Lunch
01:00 PM Dance lessons
Introduction to the Program “Community and Biodiversity in the Osa Peninsula” and time to meet the environmental educator, Precautions at the Tropical rainforest.
Soccer game with El Campo community members
06:00 PM Dinner
07:00 PM Lecture: “Sustainable Tourism in the Osa Peninsula: A Paradox?”
Day 9
06:30 AM Breakfast
07:15 AM Departure to Playa Colibri
08:00 AM “Green Blue Golfo Dulce – Ecological Tour”. Traditional Fishing workshop with local fishermen (Fruits and water bottles are included).
03:00 PM Lunch at ASOPEZ
05:00 PM Lecture: “History and Cultural Diversity in Osa”
06:00 PM Dinner
Day 10
07:30 AM Breakfast
08:30 AM Wrap up and get ready to leave
09:00 AM Transfer to San Jose
05:30 PM Arrival to Hotel
07:00 PM Dinner and closing activity and certificates
Day 11
Departure from Costa Rica (according to the group`s schedule).