HIGHLIGHTS
Zipline through the Monteverde cloud forest
Get active in the Arenal National Park
Volunteer on sustainable conservation projects
Understand the origins of your chocolate, touring a cocoa plantation
Develop your outdoor bush craft skillset
Soak up some sun on golden Caribbean beaches and learn to surf
WHAT TO EXPECT
Week 1: Monteverde & Arenal
On arrival into San Jose you will be met by your Gapforce leader and transferred to your accommodation then onward to the incredible Monteverde Cloud Forest with its vast array of wildlife and chance to experience an adrenaline-filled canopy tour and zipline! Next you’ll head to La Fortuna, a picturesque rural town at the foot of Costa Rica’s largest volcano, Arenal. Outdoor activities are plentiful, from volcano hikes to swimming in hidden pools fed by natural hot springs, the options are endless.
Week 2: Heart Pumping Rainforest Adventure
Next, it’s time to pack up your bags and head over to the town of Puerta Viejo on the Caribbean coast, the jumping off point for your rainforest adventure. With the support of Gapforce Expedition Leader and knowledgeable local guides you will trek deep into the national park to experience the wonders of the rainforest. Sleep under the rainforest canopy and marvel at the incredible wildlife with which you share this magical environment. You will be instructed in a variety of bush craft and survival skills such as fire lighting, and basha shelter set-up. For those participating in the 4 week program, your jungle adventure ends with a solo survival night, where you get to put your skills learned over the last 3 days to the test!
Week 3: Turtle Conservation Project and Cocoa Plantation
The next stage of your adventure is spent volunteering at one of the many turtle conservation projects along the coast. Costa Rica is home to 5 species of turtle of which 4 are endangered so supporting local partners on their work to reverse this trend is a powerful and rewarding experience. The remote project sites are beautiful and your work typically includes beach patrols (during nesting season), hatchery work and site maintenance. Finish your week learning about all things Cocao! Tour plantations, and volunteer with tree planting.
Week 4: Environmental Conservation & Beach time
After emerging from the rainforest as a seasoned trekker, you will spend part of your final week assisting on a variety of volunteer projects in the Limón Province. Protect the great green macaws within a conservation movement at the centre of the effort to reverse the decline of this magnificent endangered bird species. Explore the efforts and variation in species of a second turtle conservation project, and visit an animal rescue centre. After your taste of the wild life, enjoy some well-earned relaxation time beside the Caribbean in nearby Puerto Viejo. Learn to surf, walk white sand beaches from Manzanillo and sample the colourful local cuisine and chilled backpacker scene.
