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COSTA RICA

OCEAN & WILDLIFE CONSERVATION ADVENTURE

Become a steward for wildlife and their habitats through sustainability, environmental protection and coastal conservation efforts in the bio-diverse Osa region.

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Highlights

FOR THE OCEAN & WILDLIFE CONSERVATION ADVENTURE PROGRAM

  • Volunteer on various environmental restoration and conservation projects to support critical wildlife ecosystems
  • Support the well-being of rescued wildlife through a local organization dedicated to animal welfare and protection
  • Go on an epic boat adventure to Caño Island, snorkel and experience marine life
  • Zipline through the forest canopy
  • Venture to world-famous Manuel Antonio National Park, home to nearly 300 species of mammals and birds
  • Learn from marine biologists and national park representatives about their critical conservation efforts
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COSTA RICA

OCEAN & WILDLIFE CONSERVATION ADVENTURE

Program Overview

On this program, you will discover Costa Rica’s Osa Province, where you’ll be amazed by the variety of beautiful beaches, mangroves and animal life. Embrace the ocean-minded ‘Pura Vida’ lifestyle as you live on the coast and contribute to ocean and wildlife conservation.

Experience the beauty of the Pacific Ocean and the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica in one of the most unique places on the planet. You’ll volunteer with local ecological groups to help conserve the beaches and wildlife habitats, raise awareness for environmental protection, or prepare food and distribute it to some of the country’s iconic species.

This program combines two themes — Environmental Stewardship and Animal & Wildlife Conservation — making for a one-of-a-kind summer adventure.

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COSTA RICA

OCEAN & WILDLIFE CONSERVATION ADVENTURE

Community Service

Contaminants generated by unsustainable practices worldwide find their way into the sea, threatening the delicate ecosystem of Whale Bay and its wildlife. During this program, your community service projects will depend on the most urgent needs of your host community and its local habitats at the time of your arrival. This might involve participating in reforestation initiatives along the coast, protecting beaches from erosion, creating educational signs and supporting local research initiatives. You may also assist conservationists and marine biologists with their ongoing projects.

Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula is a biodiversity hotspot, home to abundant marine life and a wide variety of species. Our expert partners will guide us through the wonders of this ecosystem and introduce us to their sanctuary, which rescues, researches and rehabilitates iconic native species. You’ll have the opportunity to contribute to vital conservation efforts, including reforestation projects, habitat restoration or supporting wildlife care through food preparation and distribution.

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Hands-on Learning

Discover how global unsustainable practices impact the delicate ecosystem of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula and its vibrant wildlife. Our local partners will guide you through this rich ecosystem, offering insights into the cultural and historical ties that influence sustainability in the country. Explore the steps Costa Rica is taking to further protect its natural resources.

As a group, we’ll delve into critical topics in environmental stewardship, including the Marine National Park concept, sustainable marine tourism development, and natural resource preservation, to learn about the protection and conservation of the region’s wildlife.

We’ll also enjoy two surfing lessons from Bodhi Surf School, where we’ll learn about their passion for ocean stewardship, as well as a yoga lesson focused on mindfulness and movement.

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Adventure

No visit to Costa Rica is complete without adventure! Discover the thrill of ziplining through the jungle canopy. The course includes nine cables, eleven platforms, two rappelling stations, two suspension bridges and ends with a Tarzan swing. The best part of this tour is that the ecosystem remains completely undisturbed.

Enjoy a brief hike to a nearby waterfall, where you can take a dip to cool off, then embark on an epic adventure by boat to Caño Island. While on the island, explore your surroundings and join a snorkeling excursion among vibrant local marine life. We’ll also journey to Manuel Antonio National Park, considered the crown jewel of Costa Rica. Spot incredible native wildlife, including playful monkeys along the coast. And don’t forget, you’ll be surfing in world-renowned waters along the way!

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Lodging

Your Home Base on this program is located in a coastal region of Costa Rica. This area, known for its stunning beaches and protected ecological areas, will surround you with natural beauty at every turn. Students will have access to a pool, outdoor spaces and covered areas with tables and chairs. Plus, a private beach just half a mile away! Students may visit the beach under staff supervision and discretion. Meals will be healthy, featuring a mix of staple foods and local cuisine. The group will stay in gender-segregated rooms with roommates, private bathrooms and air conditioning.

COSTA RICA

OCEAN & WILDLIFE CONSERVATION ADVENTURE

Dates & Tuition

Everything you need to know before you apply.

14-Day Program
2025 Dates
JUN 11 – JUN 24, 2025
JUN 28 – JUL 11, 2025
JUL 15 – JUL 28, 2025
Duration: 14 days
Tuition: $4,999
Student/Staff Ratio: 6 to 1
Community Service Hours: 35
Language Hours: N/A
For Ages: 14-18
Lodging: Ecolodge

Tuition Includes All In-Country Expenses

  • Airport pick-up/drop-off
  • In-country transportation
  • Lodging
  • 3 meals per day
  • Professional full-time staff and experts
  • 24/7 parent support hotline during the program
  • Secondary medical and evacuation insurance
  • Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
  • Pre-departure materials and support
  • Educational materials

To save your spot, an application fee and $600 deposit are required.

Backed by our 5-Point Safety System™

GLA HOME BASE:
SAFE & SECURE LODGING
CARING SUPERVISION &
EXPERT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
SAFE
TRANSPORTATION
HEALTHY FOOD
& PURE WATER
24/7 SUPPORT &
EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Speak with the GLA Admissions Team

Admissions
Phone Number

1-858-771-0645

USA Toll-Free
Phone Number

1-888-358-4321

Admissions
Email Address

info@experienceGLA.com

COSTA RICA

OCEAN & WILDLIFE CONSERVATION ADVENTURE

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