Experience an adventure while making a difference this winter break. Outward Bound Costa Rica's 20-day Venture & Volunteer Winter Break course brings you on a trek through the remote jungles of Costa Rica to the comfort of cultural homestays and finally to idyllic Pacific Coast beaches where you will dedicate your time to preserving the sea turtle population.
While camping along the Central Pacific Coast at the National Wildlife Refuge at Playa Tulín, you will spend your time renovating the facilities and infrastructure of a center that has been devoted to protecting sea turtles for 12 years. Your work alongside local community members in improving the refuge will help ensure staff and future volunteers are able to continue their commitment to preserving this fragile ecosystem. In addition to facility reconstruction, you will have the opportunity to assist Reserve staff in their daily operations by performing nightly patrols, cataloging nests, creating habitats and potentially releasing newly hatched turtles into the wild.
You will also spend a large portion hiking through the remote region of Brujo. Spot howler monkeys, tree frogs and other wildlife as your instructors teach you about Costa Rican ecology. Your trek will bring you to Piedras Blancas, a remote region located in the thick of the jungle and home to many of our instructors. Your time in this small community will include family homestays and the opportunity to take part in many cultural traditions, including harvesting and grinding sugar cane, making tortillas and playing soccer with the locals.
Earn up to five academic credits either through independent study or in partnership with Western State College of Colorado. Scholarships and discounts available to those that qualify.
For more information on course activities and enrollment steps, see our course page.
