Surf Sports and Sustainability - Costa Rica

• Catch waves in the warm Pacific Ocean, explore tropical paths, and sail on a catamaran.

• Stay in an ecolodge surrounded by green areas and fruit trees, providing a home for local wildlife.

• Share rooms with roommates, enjoy shared bathroom and shower facilities.

• Enjoy locally sourced, primarily plant-based meals with daily chicken or fish options, including rice, beans, vegetables, and fresh fruit.

• We cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, no pork, and no fish options, and understand the importance of accommodating vegetarian, Kosher, or Halal diets. Feel free to reach out with any specific dietary concerns or questions.

• Students receive internet access once per week. Access is provided through temporary WiFi at Home Base or at a local internet café.

• Laundry is not available on programs shorter than 14 days in length, so students are asked to pack accordingly.

• Experience tubing in the Rio Negro at Rincon de la Vieja National Park, followed by a soak in volcanic hot springs.
• Soar through the jungle canopy on a ziplining adventure with spectacular treetop views.

• Choose any first-day flight within the provided arrival window.

• Staff available for airport pickup regardless of arrival time or delays, providing transportation to Home Base with licensed drivers.

• Transportation in approved vehicles or suitable modes for each location; supervised public transportation on Europe programs.

• Arrive into LIR anytime on the program start date.

• Depart LIR anytime on the program end date.

• Please note there is a $29 departure tax when exiting Costa Rica. Many airlines incorporate this into the price of the ticket; however, some do not. Please check with your airline.

Community Service

• Participate in projects supporting environmental conservation along Costa Rica's Pacific coast.
• Engage in reforestation, seed collection, plant propagation, and mangrove conservation efforts.
• Contribute to a sustainable farm, learning techniques and promoting ecological restoration.

Immersive Learning

• Embrace the "pura vida" lifestyle through cultural activities and interactions with local leaders.
• Test your cooking skills with a class featuring treats from Guanacaste's wood-burning stoves.
• Practice Spanish, enjoy pick-up soccer and beach volleyball games, and learn to surf in Costa Rica.

Program Highlights

• Stay active by surfing warm friendly waves and playing pick-up sports
• Learn about sustainable farming techniques and local green initiatives
• Volunteer on ecological restoration projects and community initiatives
• Support reforestation efforts by collecting and planting native seeds and clearing waste from waterways
• Zipline, go tubing down a river through lush canyons, and relax in thermal hot springs
• Explore the coast by catamaran boat and snorkel amongst diverse marine life

• Pocket Money Advice: $100 per week, depending on the spending habits of the student. This will be just for souvenirs and snacks. 

• Emergency Fund: It is advised families to send students with $200-$300 of emergency funds to only be used in case of an emergency. This money is not to be used on snacks or souvenirs.

• Safety First: Our 5-Point Safety System™ ensures rigorous standards to prioritize the safety, health, and well-being of students on every program.

• Home Base: Experience a safe and comfortable home away from home, serving as a gathering place for reflection and team building after active days.

• Caring Supervision & Local Expertise: No student is ever alone outside Home Base; our 6:1 student-to-staff ratio, along with local partners and international staff, ensures dedicated supervision and expert knowledge of the local community.

• Safe Transportation: Greeted by experienced drivers upon arrival, students are transported to Home Base safely, with approved vehicles or appropriate modes of transport for each location.

• Healthy Meals & Pure Water: Enjoy fresh, balanced meals prepared daily, blending local cuisine and common staples for a healthy dining experience.

• 24/7 Support & Emergency Response: With a proactive risk management approach, we provide constant support and emergency response throughout the program, ensuring a secure environment for all participants.