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Santuario Gamba Gam, at La Gamba Community, near Golfito, Costa Rica. Permaculture Design Course / Tropical Forest Wildlife Preserve February 29 – March 14, 2016
$1525
CLASS LIMIT: 30 / CLASS FILLS UP FAST.
Enjoy your permaculture studies at this off-grid privately owned wildlife preserve located near the small agricultural village of La Gamba of Puntarenas. This small village is appreciated for its rich culture and natural beauty, and is located not far from the Golfito Beach and from Piedras Blancas National Park. Gamba Gam Sanctuary is located at the Biological Corridor of COBIGA (Corredor Biologico La Gamba) and ACOSA (Area de Conservacion de Osa).
Learn and practice permaculture at the sanctuary’s bio-intensive gardens and 20-hectares protected rainforest, enjoy the abundance of this location with its young tropical orchard fruit garden, native edible and medicinal plant nursery, water management systems, soil building projects, community activism and much more.
Students participate in daily activities at the sanctuary, helping with gardening, harvest, and erosion control projects and receive their internationally recognized Permaculture Design Certificate. Course syllabus is found here. Email us with questions here.
Course material is universal to every ecosystem, and knowledge acquired in this class is easily applied in other locations and settings. Participants of a wide range of ages and backgrounds are attracted to this class, making it a rich and life-changing experience for everyone.
Participants are involved with a seasonal homestead activities, including participation in Turmeric harvest. Additionally, participants work with erosion control and earth-shaping, soil fertility building and participate in the multitude of ongoing daily activities of this busy tropical learning center. Life at the Gamba Gam is exuberant, with daily visitations from monkeys, tayras, deers, birds and reptiles.
DATES: Course: February 29 – March 14, 2016
Due to travel distances and timing, we recommend the following sequence: arrive to San Jose, Costa Rica on or before Saturday, February 27 – travel via chartered tourist van and arrive to class location afternoon Sunday, February 28. Class ends on late on Monday, March 14, travel back to San Jose Tuesday, March 15 arriving around 4pm. You can also travel via public bus to Golfito (Tracopa Bus Company) – and we will arrange pick up from the bus station.
Spend a night at the reasonable and lovely Hotel Aranjuez,(reservations required, this is high season!) or at Margarita’s Guest House. We arrange tourist van door-to-door transportation, or you can opt out and travel on your own.
TRAVEL/ BUDGETING: See recommended dates above. Hotel is $30-55/night, chartered van is $55.
Email us with questions about planning your attendance!
LOCATION: The course is hosted at the Santuario Gamba Gam, a private biodiversity sanctuary located near the small agricultural village of La Gamba of Puntarenas. This small village is appreciated for its rich culture and natural beauty, and is located not far from the Golfito Beach and from Piedras Blancas National Park. The town of Golfitos offers emergency access to banks, clinics and other amenities. Gamba Gam is off-grid,there is no internet access at the Gamba Gam. If you need to be online for work during this course, please contact us to discuss your needs in advance.
ACCOMMODATIONS:
tCamping (with your own camping gear) is included in the cost of this class. If transporting camping gear via air is problematic, buying it in the country is an option.
tSimple safari tents, hidden in the forest, are available for rent. Linens and bedding provided.
CLASS LOGISTICS: Costa Rica is a wonderful place to visit in the winter! The weather is hot during most days, with mild nights and mornings. An occasional rain is possible. Beautiful settings offer ample spaces for indoor and outdoor learning and being. Beach is 8 km away.
Permaculture classes are held for six hours every day. There is ample midday siesta time to allow for reading, garden work, and rest. There are two days off in the middle of the class (March 5&6); no formal meals are offered on the days off but there will be basic foodstuffs and pizza nights. There are multiple local attractions to visit, and there will be simple food provided to participants on the days off.
There are evening gatherings, inspirational movies and conversation time. This course is attended by adult participants of all ages. Please contact us if potential participant is younger than 18.
FOOD:
Three ample meals are included in the course fee and are offered on all class days. There are no meals on the days off. Poultry and fish are served, and course participants are included in harvest and garden work. Reasonable accommodation for food allergies can be made, but please contact us in advance.
INSTRUCTORS:
Scott Pittman and Durga with guests. Read about Scott and Durga here.
Your payment + essay are your registration. Course non-refundable deposit of $300 secures your space in class. Full payment is due one month before class starts. QUESTIONS? Contact Arina for helpplanning your course attendance.
Optional Stay for a Volunteer Program:
The farm offers Volunteer Stay programs and welcomes course participants to use this opportunity join the farm in their day-to-day living activities. To speak about this stay, contact the Santuario Team directly santuariogambagam at gmail.com or visit their facebook page.
Course Description:
Calling all Visionary and Hands-on Co-creators of the New Earth…
Join us for this intimate convergence designed to uplift, inspire, and empower one another in Real-izing our dreams. This transformational immersion has been designed to facilitate our planetary rebirth, beginning with internal and personal transformation, spiraling outward through our local community of relations, into and beyond our global network of extended kin.
Each day will nurture Mind, Body, and Spirit through activities and explorations involving: Yoga, Breathing Exercises, Meditations, Shamanic Practices and Ceremonies, Artistic and Musical Expression, Non-Violent Communication, Team-building, Conscious Nutrition, Forest Gardening, Thrival Plants, Living Permaculture, and Responsible Earth Stewardship. Be prepared to stretch your comfort zone.
You are destined for greatness. Breathe Deep…
Teacher Bios:
Travis Britzke – Dedicating the past 13+ years of my life to personal and planetary wellness has rewarded me with deep insights into the subtle relations between People, Culture, and Nature.
Experiences Include:
o 11+ years living in tropical communities (Intentional, Indigenous, and/or Subsistence Farming).
o 7 years Managing/Designing Organic Farms & Volunteer Programs from Guatemala to Bolivia
o 3 years Peace Corps Panama Agro-forestry program and Volunteer Support Network
o University Thesis on SocioBiology, Positive Psychology, and Culture of Wellness
o 5 years facilitating Hatha Yoga
I’ve also served as social worker with immigrant families, tutor and mentor to “at-risk” youth and peace mediator. I have a passion for the wild and weedy “Thrival” plants, and enhancing the harvest with added energetic and nutritional value (fermenting, sprouting, cooking, etc…).
Currently I’m excited to be connecting with our larger community by developing and facilitating activities, trainings, and events that make this Transition process Fun and Fruitful for ALL.
Language class is taught in:
English and Spanish
Cost:
$222
Accommodations:
Camping Event – Space is limited
— Food Options:
Local organic meals provided
Notes or Comments:
More info, Bios, and registration : REGENESIS2020.weebly.com
Directions:
Fuente Verde (Green Spring) is located near the small village of Las Tumbas in the mountains on the southwest Pacific coast of Costa Rica, between the beach town of Dominical and San Isidro de El General.
• Class Description:
Construct or advance your career in the emerging industries of resilient energy generation in this 10 day intensive training. Equip yourself with the necessary knowledge and experience to become a leader in the fields of solar PV, wind and hydro production. From assessment to design to management, our RETech program facilitates the motivated to move our global economy into a distributed, renewable energy operation. All equaling to 52 contact hours of experiential education and 2 transferable academic credits.
t8 Learn-Experience-Develop “LED” Days
tWind, Solar PV, Geothermal & Hydro Assessment & Design Training
tResidential & Commercial Frameworks
tLocal & Global Energy Policy
tDistributed Generation & Micro-Grids
tFinancing & Community
tDevelopment Energy & Social Justice
• Teacher Bios:
Scott Meloeny is the Founder and President of Second Attention Strategies (SAS), an educational programming and system installation business. Scott developed GELT to facilitate risk-ready entrepreneurs seeking to construct a viable financial livelihood while redefining our physical community. Scott has dedicated his work to facilitate passions, enjoyment and skills of individuals seeking to experience a life worth living. Scott has been featured on CNN’s “360 with Anderson Cooper”, is trained in Solar Photovoltaic (electricity) through Solar Energy International and resides in Lake Arenal, Costa Rica.
• Language class is taught in:
English
• Cost:
$2,600 for 10 days. $500 deposit required to register and reserve your space. Remaining balance due 30 days prior to program start date.
Accommodations:
3 meals/day, housing (hotel), all transportation (not airfare )
— Food Options:
Vegan,Vegetarian,Meat options
Outdoor Activities:
Tailored to group (examples: waterfall and volcanic hikes, kayaking, SUP boarding, hot springs)
• Directions:
Puerto San Luis Hotel, Lake Arenal, Costa Rica
http://www.hotelpuertosanluiscr.com/hotel-overview.html
We will be posting more information about this week-long class with a focus on earth building in the coming weeks.
Liz Johndrow of Earthen Endeavor Natural Building will return to Rancho Mastatal to join the Ranch staff in mid-March for 7 days of hands-on and feet-in learning and classroom theory and discussion coupled with slideshow presentations and evening topic discussions. We will cover everything earth, lime, and clay from site selection, foundations and earthen wall systems, to the fine art of sculpting, Moroccan tadelakt, and finish plaster. You will want to join us for this opportunity unlike any other! The Ranch provides years of beautiful and inspiring natural building to emphasize successes and learning curves, beauty and function. And Liz brings expertise, passion, fun, and serious learning opportunities to their workshops.
About the Instructor
Liz Johndrow
Liz is founder of Earthen Endeavors Natural Building and has been building and teaching for several years. She has worked with all kinds of materials and techniques and has collaborated int the past with Kleiwerks International teaching a 4- month women’s natural building apprenticeship. She also co-leads timber framing workshops with Sarah Highland of Highland Artisans and also enjoys all things mud, particularly all types of plasters. She is presently collaborating with women’s organizations in Nicaragua to help increase quality of life through natural building opportunities for locals. Liz enjoys spaces that bring her in touch with the natural surroundings. As a builder, she was thrilled to discover she could bring that contact deeper into a home experience through the choice of building materials. Since that discovery, she has been exploring the world of cob, strawbale, adobe, earthbag, earthen plasters and floor systems, and timber framing. The simplicity of these systems and materials allow for people of all ages and abilities to participate in some manner. The past several years have taken her further into the role of teacher, facilitator, instructor and co-conspirator. She is increasingly passionate about helping others learn these skills so they in turn can share their vision of beautiful, sustainable, and socially just structures. Her more recent work in Nicaragua with the women and youth in the northern pueblos has been her most challenging and rewarding work thus far. Check out her website for more of her vision and her work. www.earthenendeavors.com.
Arrival
Students should plan on arriving to Rancho Mastatal the evening before the start of the class. This night is included in the cost of the course.
Cost
Costa Ricans: $500
Expats in Costa Rica: $600
Foreigners: $800
Cost includes 8 nights lodging starting on the night before the start of the class, all meals, course instruction and full access to Rancho Mastatal and its private wildlife refuge. A $250 deposit will secure your space in the course.
Accommodations
For more information about food and lodging please see our website at accommodations.
Course Payment
Please follow the link for payment options.
Enrollment
To enroll in the class, please go to our Online Registration Form. For more information please contact Tim O’Hara at info@ranchomastatal.com and/or call the Ranch at 2200-0920. We have a maximum of 15 openings for this workshop and a minimum of 5 students to run the course.
Spend a week with us in the jungle and learn to design a bountiful garden that supports all life.
With the era of consumerism, the world faces many challenges from loss of habitat, to environmental degradation and social disconnection. We believe it’s time to cultivate opportunities for positive change and learning. Permaculture – derived from the words “permanent” and “culture” – is a design science based on mimicking efficient patterns and relationships found in nature. Permaculture is yoga for the land, as yoga is permaculture for the body.
Introduction
Our week-long course includes the following:
7 Days / 6 Nights at Rancho Delicioso
3 Meals per day that showcase healthy fresh cooking from the farm or local providers
Introduction to Permaculture – Daily Workshops
Daily Yoga Class
Aerial Silk Beginner’s Class
Archery Class
Beach Trip To Playa Hermosa (Surfing Lessons Optional)
Montezuma Waterfalls Excursion
Anamaya Yoga Excursion
Pool Party
Introduction to Permaculture Daily Workshops:
The program will include eight permaculture courses, from 90-120 minutes long each, throughout the week, earning you an “Introduction to Permaculture” certificate from Rancho Delicioso. These eight courses will be:
1. Definition, Ethics and Principles:
Participative discussion that includes the Web of Life Activity.
2. Soil Science:
Know your soil types, micro-organisms, textures, Ph, simple tests to do at home.
3. Composting:
Making a “lasagna-style” compost pile and bio-fertilizers.
4. Biointensive Gardening:
Hands on mulching, seeding, transplanting, making beds, moon cycles, pest and disease control, plant propagation, seed saving.
5. Garden Design:
Using patterns and the edge effect – design and hands-on making an herb spiral or mandala garden.
6. Medicinal Plants and Medicine Making:
Native plant walk, tinctures, honey cough syrup and ointments made with local herbs.
7. Food Forests:
Tree planting and maintenance, layers of the forest, guilds, observation exercise in a native forest.
8. Sustainable building:
Discussion about various methods of natural construction techniques, natural cooling, energy, and green building.
Horses and Animals
Animals are an essential part of a sustainable cycle in a farm. They provide companionship, food, work, and even their poop is vital to our work of soil restoration.
Many more photo here: PYP Photo Gallery
Activity Details
Aerial Silk dance class in Rancho Delicioso’s passion fruit dome.
Aerial Silk Basics
Ever wonder what it’s like to dance in the air? Our workshop teaches how to move with the silks using breathing techniques that prevent muscle exhaustion. This is a fun way to activate all muscle groups, while learning a few tricks to show your family and friends back home!
Archery Basics
Perhaps after seeing “The Hunger Games” you have wanted to try shooting a bow and arrow? Now is your chance to let fly a few shots into some hay bales on the farm. It’s surprisingly addictive and cathartic.
Healthy Cooking and Nutrition
The truth is we can all cook like Nigella Lawson without using ingredients from the whole world. Learn to live sustainably by using local seasonal produce to create magic on your plate. From kefir to sauerkraut workshops and making dehydrated chips coated in cashew goodness, our workshops will leave your mouth watering and your body craving more!
Daily Yoga Classes
You don’t have to be a ballerina doing split handstand to be able to practice yoga. Whether you’re a beginner just wanting to stretch, or an advanced level yogi, our daily classes will allow you to connect with your body.
Excursion to do yoga at Anamaya’s new yoga shala
Yoga at Anamaya Resort
The yoga decks at our partner resort – Anamaya – are truly spectacular. With views over Montezuma and out to the ocean, it is a wonderful place to practice at the beginning or end of the day.
Beach and Surfing Trip
No trip to Costa Rica would be complete without a chance to dive in, balance your body, and feel the power of the ocean. Surfboards and surf classes, boogie boards rentals, etc, require an extra fee, but a trip to enjoy the beach is included. Click here to read about some of the area’s best surf spots: Surf Spots Near Rancho Delicioso.
Pool Party
An opportunity to chill with your new-found family beside a cozy bonfire. Enjoy our salt-water swimming pool to cool off from the tropical heat. Stargazing included! Afterwards, those who want more can head down to Montezuma for the famous “Reggae Night” street party every Thursday.
Adriana Pal, our permaculture instructor
Retreat Leader
Meet
Adriana Pál
. Adriana is a native Costa Rican, and our area’s leading permaculture expert. She is the founder of
La Escuela de la Jungla
(The School of the Jungle) and has been teaching various courses in the area for several years.
Originally with a background in tourism and hospitality, Adriana became enamored with permaculture and sustainability, and has been educating herself in all things “green.” With a delightful personality, a love of teaching, and a natural ability to connect with people, you will fall in love with her passion for the earth and her drive to help protect it.
Dates offered:
February 7 – 13, 2016 – (Dorm spaces sold out – bring a tent only!)
February 21 – 27, 2016 – (One Dorm Space Left!)
March 6 – 12, 2016 – (Dorm spaces sold out – bring a tent only!)
March 20 – 26, 2016 – (2 Dorm Spaces Left)
April 3 – 9, 2016 – (2 Spaces Left – 1 dorm, 1 tent)
April 17 – 23, 2016 – (3 Spaces left)
May 15-21, 2016 – (Just Added!!)
June 19-25, 2016 – (Just Added!!)
July 3 – 9, 2016 – (Just Added!!)
July 17 – 23, 2016 – (Just Added!!)
August 7 – 13, 2016 – (Just Added!!)
August 21 – 27, 2016 – (Just Added!!)
All programs begin on Sunday and end on a Saturday. This gives a generous window of time if you leave your home country on a Friday night or Saturday, and return to work/school on a Monday.
Video of the farm
Week Schedule
This is a general week schedule, which may shift a bit depending on various things like the availability of teachers. We try to fit all this in here, and more. Sometimes if someone amazing is in town and offering something unique we’ll bring them to the farm and offer it to the guests, such as a unique style of yoga or something that fits with our vibe. Some guests find there’s too much to do and want to relax more… that’s fine too, you’re not obligated to do any of these activities.
Sunday – Orientation
Opening Circle
Introduction to Permaculture
Monday – The Fun Begins
Morning Yoga
Permaculture: Soil Science
Archery Class
Permaculture: Composting
Open Mic Night at Cafe Organico in Montezuma ($4 addl pp for transport)
Tuesday – Anamaya and Waterfall
Healthy Cooking Class
Waterfall Hike and Lunch
Ocean View Yoga at Anamaya Resort
Permaculture: Garden Design
Our Aquaponics Growing House
Wednesday – Beach & Surf Day
Morning Yoga
Permaculture: Biointensive Gardening
Beach Trip – Surfing Optional
Thursday – Anamaya Dinner Night
Morning Yoga
Permaculture: Aquaponics or Greenbuilding
Permaculture: Medicinal Plant Walk
Dinner at Anamaya Resort
Dance and Street Party Night in Montezuma ($4 addl pp for transport)
Friday – Free Day and/or Aerial Silks
Morning Yoga
Permaculture: Food Forests
Aerial Silk Class
Raw Chocolate Making Class
Saturday – Goodbye Day
Morning Yoga
Closing Circle, group hugs, tears, and goodbyes
Click here for a
calendar of classes and events
.
Lots More Photos
Many more photo here: PYP Photo Gallery
A Typical Day’s Schedule
6:30-7:45am
– Yoga
8:00-8:30am
– Breakfast
9:15-10:00am
– Fitness Class (optional)
10:00-12:00pm
– Permaculture Class
12:00-1:00pm
– Lunch
1:00-4:00pm
– Siesta, Free Time, Swimming Pool, or Various Activities
4:00-6:00pm
– Permaculture Class
6:00-7:00pm
– Dinner
7:00-9:00pm
– Free Time. Movies, bonfire, various extra activities
9:00pm+
– Sleepy Time…
For more detail, click here: Detailed Schedule of Activities
Prices & Payment
Dates: February through April 2016
The PYP Program price depends on your accommodations. We currently have three options:
1. Bring Your Own Tent:
– $450
2. Dorms:
– $500 – Check this out here:
Volunteer House/Dorm
3. Joseph’s Treehouse:
$450 base price + $79/nt or $59/nt May-Nov (Please check Joseph’s prices in case of changes.) It has a queen-sized bed, private bathroom and full kitchen. Can be shared by couples who book together. The treehouse is booked directly with Joseph from his AirBnB page:
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/3164732
Dates: June through August 2016
The price is higher for June-August because our new accommodations will be ready with much more space for everyone.
1. Bring Your Own Tent:
– $450
2. Dorms:
– $600
3. Joseph’s Treehouse:
$450 base price + $79/nt or $59/nt May-Nov (Please check Joseph’s prices in case of changes.) It has a queen-sized bed, private bathroom and full kitchen. Can be shared by couples who book together. The treehouse is booked directly with Joseph from his AirBnB page:
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/3164732
Payment and Deposit:
When you’re ready to book, we’ll send you a PayPal money request for 50% of the price of the program, as a non-refundable deposit. The balance is due two weeks before your arrival, and we’ll send you a PayPal money request for that as well. If you prefer to pay the balance in cash when you arrive, that can sometimes be arranged too.
Liability Release Form: Upon arrival you must sign our standard liability release. Please read it before booking: RD Liability Release Form
Additional Notes
Why not add a week?
If you’d like to add a second week, after your program ends to practice what you have learned, the cost is $200 for the week (7 additional nights). Limited space for 4 people so let us know asap if you want to stay on as a farm volunteer. PYP students who add the extra week will work on the farm with the regular volunteers, but less work is required. We ask for 3 hours per day for this extra week (compared with 6 hours per day for regular volunteers.)
Join a like-minded community to gain the tools to empower our humanity and live to the fullest. Let’s create an abundant future together!
Course Description:
Discover and develop your passion to grow and harvest food that is in balance with the natural environment, then cultivate it into a global career. Integrated, resilient design strategies, rooted in the laws of earth, will establish your foundation to design and generate food production systems that meet both personal and career ambitions. From citrus to vegetables to herbs to using waste and water to produce electricity on the farm, our program fosters a unique food training experience that is only possible in the rich, deep soils of the Continental Divide of Lake Arenal, Costa Rica. The program equals 52 contact hours of experiential education and 2 transferable academic credits.
t8 Learn-Experience-Develop “LED” Days
tPermaculture Theory & Application
tIntegrated Farm Planning & Management Classes
tCattle, Veggies & Fruit Production Workshops
tMicro-Climate Cultural Growing Practices & Strategies
tFarm 2 Table Classes, Including Culinary Arts
tBio-Mimicry and Food Biology
tDesign/Build workshops for Food-based Projects and Initiatives
Teacher Bios:
Joseph Mucaria: Culinary Arts Director / Cofounder FWF
Executive Chef and restauranteur Joseph Mucaria has been working with the local products of Costa Rica since he relocated here in 2003. He is passionate about sustainable farming practices and is on the fore front of the farm to table movement here in Costa Rica. He currently owns and operates Angelina’s restaurant in Playa Flamingo, and runs the food and beverage program at the Palms private residence club. Joseph is the cofounder of Fresh Water Farms in Lake Arenal and currently teaches culinary workshops and farm to table courses for GELT.
Language class is taught in:
English
Cost:
$2,600 for 10 days. $500 deposit required to register and reserve your space. Remaining balance due 30 days prior to program start date.
Accommodations:
3 meals/day, housing (hotel), all transportation (not airfare)
— Food Options:
Vegan, Vegetarian, Meat options, Pot Luck
Outdoor Activities:
Tailored to group (examples: waterfall and volcanic hikes, kayaking, SUP boarding, hot springs)
Directions:
Puerto San Luis, Lake Arenal, Costa Rica
http://www.hotelpuertosanluiscr.com/hotel-overview.html
The Jungle Camp: A Transformational Summer Camp for Adults
April 2-6
The Punta Mona Center for Regenerative Design and Botanical Studies
Find yourself where the jungle meets the sea….on miles of uninhabited beach… covered in healing mud… with chocolate from cacao grown right on the land…celebrating freedom…. off-the-grid on Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast!
A Transformational “Summer” Camp for Adults ~ April 2-6, 2016
At Jungle Camp, we journey deep within ourselves and explore our profound connections with nature all while playing, crafting, moving, learning and dancing with new best friends at the gorgeous Punta Mona Center for Regenerative Design and Botanical Studies.
Disconnect to reconnect
You won’t even miss your devices with our incredible lineup of yoga, workshops, camp activities, music, and more. While at camp you choose your own activities with workshops on permaculture, meditation,medicinal plants, fermentation, chocolate making, yoga plus some old summer camp standbys all while eating gourmet jungle cuisine, frolicking on the uninhabited beaches, cooling off in the river and going deep with new friends!
The international array of talented teachers and facilitators each bring diverse experience in a myriad of modalities that will expand your perspective of the world in ways you may never have thought possible!
For more information and an application to attend send us a message to info@puntamona.org. We look forward to seeing you at camp!!
Just a few of the incredible activities we’re working on for Jungle Camp!
Intro to Permaculture
Fermented foods workshop
Chocolate making
Talent Show
Volleyball
Snorkeling
Kayaking
Jungle hikes
Mud-Bathing and make your own body scrubs!
Bamboo building
Natural tattoos
Sweat lodge
Sing a-longs
Community creation workshop
Dolphin watching
Off the Grid Electronic Music Making
Campfire Music Jams
and SOOOOO much more
Hands-on Learning
Learn about renewable energy technologies for the developing world in the developing world! Hands-on learning will occur at Rancho Mastatal, a private nature reserve, and in nearby La Cangreja National Park.
This workshop provides an introduction to all the major renewable energy technologies with a focus on designing and installing small, rural systems. We’ll get our hands dirty — the majority of the workshop is hands-on field work, and it also includes classroom sessions and the following projects: 1) building and using solar ovens, 2) a solar hot water or solar-electric system, and 3) installing a methane biodigestor. This is an experiential program, with a non-technical, overview focus. These hands-on installations give participants the opportunity to interact with local members of the community, experience both the challenges and satisfaction of working within the developing world, and the opportunity to install systems that can dramatically improve the living conditions of the local people.
Workshop Topics include:
tSolar Electricity
tWind Electricity
tMicro-Hydro Electricity
tSolar Hot Water
tSolar Cooking and Food Drying (with Sol Verde, a women’s cooperative)
tMethane Biogas Digesters (with Viogaz)
tTechnology Transfer and System Maintenance
tSocial & Cultural Issues of Working in the Developing World
tHands-On Installations in the Local Community
For millions of people around the world, renewable energy can replace dirty, expensive, and inconvenient energy. For those in the developing world, it may provide the first electric lights a family has seen, replacing darkness at sunset with the opportunity to read, study, or recreate after a day of work. This hands-on workshop teaches volunteers how to ensure quality renewable energy assistance to the people who are most in need.
In the classroom portion, students will gain a basic understanding of all the major renewable energy system types, including solar electricity, micro-hydro electricity, and wind electricity, solar cooking, solar hot water, and methane biogas digesters for developing world applications. Participants will learn the components, applications, and limitations for each system type, and will be able to analyze a site and make suggestions on the most appropriate renewable energy technologies.
Participants will join with Sol Verde, a women’s solar cooking cooperative from Guanacaste Costa Rica, to build and use solar cookers. Participants will also help install a small solar-electric system or solar hot water system, and will work together with Central American experts to build a methane biogas digester. These hands-on installations give participants the opportunity to interact with local members of the community and experience both the challenges and satisfaction of working within the developing world.
In our fourteenth year at Rancho Mastatal, this springs workshop builds on the success of our past workshops. Our program is focused on learning through hands-on work. We’ll spend about one-third of our time in the classroom, studying renewable energy technology basics. The rest of our time will be in the field or lab, getting our hands dirty, learning by doing. The course is taught in both English and Spanish. Price includes dorm bed or camping, all meals and in-country transportation. Private accommodation may be available at additional cost (contact Rancho Mastatal). Ask about options for family members not taking the workshop.
US $1,325 includes:
• Instruction, tools, and materials
• In-country transportation
• Dorm lodging (upgrades may be possible)
• Three delicious meals a day
• Enjoyment of Rancho Mastatal trails, waterfalls, and reserve
Rancho Mastatal
In addition, Rancho Mastatal and the community of Mastatal have fine examples of:
• Sustainable agriculture, forestry, and living
• Small renewable energy systems
• Micro-enterprise and ecotourism
• Composting and biodigester toilet and wastewater management systems
• Nature study and awareness
• Natural building
• Medicinal plants & indigenous skillsRancho Mastatal is an environmental learning and sustainable living center, retreat, and lodge located in the last virgin rainforest of Costa Rica’s Puriscal County. Rancho Mastatal practices and promotes living responsibly in the tropics, while educating its visitors about the significance and majesty of the world’s disappearing tropical forests. The site encompasses 500+ acres of picture-perfect waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers, and impressive trees in the transition zone between very wet and pre-montane rainforest in one of Costa Rica’s most undiscovered regions. The property shares a significant border with the splendid La Cangreja National Park, a protected area providing habitat for a number of endangered animals and flora, and containing some 2,000 plant species and varied fauna. Rancho Mastatal owns 19-kilometers of rainforest trails, connecting to a network of footpaths in La Cangreja National Park.On site and in the community, the Rancho Mastatal crew builds using natural techniques, including the use of bamboo and cob, and supports the use of renewable energy systems. In their ongoing commitment to education and instruction, they organize and sponsor a wide array of workshops ranging from alternative design and construction to wilderness first response certification, and work with schools in both the United States and Costa Rica in offering customized educational programs on rainforest ecology, Latin culture, and Spanish and English as a second language. Rancho Mastatal welcomes volunteers, graduate students, interns, and all others in search of a memorable and unique tropical experience.Our schedule is designed to give you time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and people of Mastatal. We try to take a two-hour lunch/siesta/swimming break in the middle of each day. And we take the middle day of the workshop off from our project work, to go on
recreational or cultural trips in the area. Our past groups have experienced an educational, exciting, and inspiring time while having fun with a great group of people.Lodging & Food at Rancho Mastatal
Your workshop fee includes dorm lodging, all meals (primarily vegetarian, and sumptuous), and in-country transportation. Private or semi-private accommodations may be available at an additional cost—contact Rancho Mastatal. Ask us about options for family members not taking the workshop.
Please see www.ranchomastatal.com for more information. Please note that the folks at the Ranch do not check e-mail frequently, so please make your lodging upgrade inquiries well before the beginning of the workshop.
Costa Rica Language and Culture
Costa Rica is a Spanish speaking country. However, in many places you will find people who speak some or plenty of English, and it is quite possible to get along with minimal Spanish. The people are used to tourists, and are very helpful. We recommend that you invest some time in learning at least some basic Spanish to facilitate your journey, and out of respect for the local people. Lonely Planet’s Costa Rica Spanish Phrasebook is an excellent, inexpensive introduction to the language. Our workshop will be taught in English, with Spanish translation for local participants if necessary.
Ticos, as Costa Ricans are often called, are generally easy-going, open, helpful, and fun people. The country’s tranquil nature shows through in all aspects of the culture. Since 1949, the country has been without any armed forces. Costa Rica, despite its relatively small size, has an incredibly diverse geography. A series of volcanic mountain chains run down the center of the country. The highest point is Cerro Chirripó, which reaches 3,820 meters high, rivaling some of the taller mountains in the United States. The variety of flora and fauna found throughout the country is remarkable for a country so small. It is a nature lover’s paradise. The majority of people are white, with smaller percentages of blacks and Indians. Though not quite as “advanced” as the United States, Costa Ricans enjoy a life expectancy similar to that of Americans, perhaps a result of a more laid back lifestyle, and a healthy dose of fish, rice, and beans.
What to Wear & Bring
Mastatal in April will be warm, humid, but relatively dry. We recommend traveling as lightly as possible. Resist the temptation to bring everything you think you might possibly need. Light, long sleeved shirts and pants are recommended for sun, insect protection, and evening use. In the tropical climate, darker clothes will make you hot and attract bugs. Bring plenty of underclothes, and clothes that dry easily. Heavy jeans are thick and take an extremely long time to dry in the humid, tropical climate where you will be staying.
Bring a good hat to shade your eyes and forehead and to keep your head dry if it rains. If you are light skinned or very heat sensitive, bring a wide brimmed hat. You will be in a tropical forest, and we will be doing physical work, so make sure you bring a pair of shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. Rubber boots are very popular in Costa Rica, and can be purchased in country if necessary. Work gloves will be handy for protection from blisters, stones, dirt, and plants. A local family is available to do laundry for a fee, or folks can do their own in one of the outdoor sinks/basins.
Here is a list of smaller items that you may find useful:
• Small flashlight with spare bulb and batteries (rechargeable)
• Travel alarm clock or watch
• Swiss Army-style pocketknife
• A section of cord or line (clothesline or for a thousand other purposes)
• Sewing kit
• Sunglasses (good ones as the sun is very, very strong)
• Toiletries (use soaps, shampoos and toothpastes that are biodegradable)
• Sunblock (don’t skimp on sunblock, and use the biodegradable type)
• Insect repellent
• Water bottles
• First-aid kit
• Prescription medicines (many are available cheaper in Costa Rica, but don’t take your chances)
We recommend that you carry your gear in a large, internal frame backpack. It’s less tiresome to carry your load on your back, although you have to be aware when in crowded places. Make sure that you choose a good quality pack that won’t rip, break or become damaged in any way as it may get “tested.” In addition, a smaller backpack is useful when doing shorter day hikes.
There is only one public telephone in the town of Mastatal. There is also a police radio in town for emergencies. Internet service is sporadically available in Mastatal in a few different forms, but you shouldn’t count on it. The ranch has a telephone for emergency use. Check with your wireless carrier for voice, text, or data plans. My experience is that voice and data are relatively costly, while modestly priced text plans can keep you in touch with family and friends without absorbing as much of your $ and attention.
Travel
For this workshop, we will be meeting and traveling as a group once participants arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica. You will need to make your own arrangements to fly into the Juan Santamaría international airport (SJO) in Alajuela, the primary international airport in Costa Rica, which is approximately 17 kilometers west of San José. If you are willing to carry some gear with you from the states, please contact me.
Participants must by ready to meet outside the San Jose, Costa Rica airport (airport code SJO) by 3:00 p.m. at the latest on Saturday, April 2, 2016, and will be returned to the same airport by 11 a.m. on Sunday, April 10, 2016. Please plan your flights accordingly, with leeway for the vagaries of travel. Those not at the meeting place at the appointed time on April 2 will need to make their own arrangements to get to the ranch.
On our final night in Mastatal, we’ll have a farewell party, and perhaps some entertainment. On the following morning, participants will travel by shuttle bus to the San Jose airport, arriving by 11 AM on Sunday, April 10. If you need to stay overnight in the San Jose area on either end of your trip, or want ideas for other travel within the country, we can give you advance advice, or talk while we are together in Mastatal.
Register Now!
Cancellation Policy: If a workshop is cancelled (rare), you will receive a full refund. If you cancel more than 90 days before start of workshop, you will receive a 75% refund; 30-90 days before workshop, 50% refund; less than 30 days before start of workshop, no refund.
Program information and logistics:
Ian Woofenden, Workshop Coordinator
PO Box 1001, Anacortes, WA 98221
360-770-1520
ian@renewablereality.net
Lodging upgrades and local information:
Tim O’Hara, Owner, Rancho Mastatal Environmental Learning Center & Lodge
info@ranchomastatal.com, www.ranchomastatal.com
Spend a week with us in the jungle and learn to design a bountiful garden that supports all life.
With the era of consumerism, the world faces many challenges from loss of habitat, to environmental degradation and social disconnection. We believe it’s time to cultivate opportunities for positive change and learning. Permaculture – derived from the words “permanent” and “culture” – is a design science based on mimicking efficient patterns and relationships found in nature. Permaculture is yoga for the land, as yoga is permaculture for the body.
Introduction
Our week-long course includes the following:
7 Days / 6 Nights at Rancho Delicioso
3 Meals per day that showcase healthy fresh cooking from the farm or local providers
Introduction to Permaculture – Daily Workshops
Daily Yoga Class
Aerial Silk Beginner’s Class
Archery Class
Beach Trip To Playa Hermosa (Surfing Lessons Optional)
Montezuma Waterfalls Excursion
Anamaya Yoga Excursion
Pool Party
Introduction to Permaculture Daily Workshops:
The program will include eight permaculture courses, from 90-120 minutes long each, throughout the week, earning you an “Introduction to Permaculture” certificate from Rancho Delicioso. These eight courses will be:
1. Definition, Ethics and Principles:
Participative discussion that includes the Web of Life Activity.
2. Soil Science:
Know your soil types, micro-organisms, textures, Ph, simple tests to do at home.
3. Composting:
Making a “lasagna-style” compost pile and bio-fertilizers.
4. Biointensive Gardening:
Hands on mulching, seeding, transplanting, making beds, moon cycles, pest and disease control, plant propagation, seed saving.
5. Garden Design:
Using patterns and the edge effect – design and hands-on making an herb spiral or mandala garden.
6. Medicinal Plants and Medicine Making:
Native plant walk, tinctures, honey cough syrup and ointments made with local herbs.
7. Food Forests:
Tree planting and maintenance, layers of the forest, guilds, observation exercise in a native forest.
8. Sustainable building:
Discussion about various methods of natural construction techniques, natural cooling, energy, and green building.
Horses and Animals
Animals are an essential part of a sustainable cycle in a farm. They provide companionship, food, work, and even their poop is vital to our work of soil restoration.
Many more photo here: PYP Photo Gallery
Activity Details
Aerial Silk dance class in Rancho Delicioso’s passion fruit dome.
Aerial Silk Basics
Ever wonder what it’s like to dance in the air? Our workshop teaches how to move with the silks using breathing techniques that prevent muscle exhaustion. This is a fun way to activate all muscle groups, while learning a few tricks to show your family and friends back home!
Archery Basics
Perhaps after seeing “The Hunger Games” you have wanted to try shooting a bow and arrow? Now is your chance to let fly a few shots into some hay bales on the farm. It’s surprisingly addictive and cathartic.
Healthy Cooking and Nutrition
The truth is we can all cook like Nigella Lawson without using ingredients from the whole world. Learn to live sustainably by using local seasonal produce to create magic on your plate. From kefir to sauerkraut workshops and making dehydrated chips coated in cashew goodness, our workshops will leave your mouth watering and your body craving more!
Daily Yoga Classes
You don’t have to be a ballerina doing split handstand to be able to practice yoga. Whether you’re a beginner just wanting to stretch, or an advanced level yogi, our daily classes will allow you to connect with your body.
Excursion to do yoga at Anamaya’s new yoga shala
Yoga at Anamaya Resort
The yoga decks at our partner resort – Anamaya – are truly spectacular. With views over Montezuma and out to the ocean, it is a wonderful place to practice at the beginning or end of the day.
Beach and Surfing Trip
No trip to Costa Rica would be complete without a chance to dive in, balance your body, and feel the power of the ocean. Surfboards and surf classes, boogie boards rentals, etc, require an extra fee, but a trip to enjoy the beach is included. Click here to read about some of the area’s best surf spots: Surf Spots Near Rancho Delicioso.
Pool Party
An opportunity to chill with your new-found family beside a cozy bonfire. Enjoy our salt-water swimming pool to cool off from the tropical heat. Stargazing included! Afterwards, those who want more can head down to Montezuma for the famous “Reggae Night” street party every Thursday.
Adriana Pal, our permaculture instructor
Retreat Leader
Meet
Adriana Pál
. Adriana is a native Costa Rican, and our area’s leading permaculture expert. She is the founder of
La Escuela de la Jungla
(The School of the Jungle) and has been teaching various courses in the area for several years.
Originally with a background in tourism and hospitality, Adriana became enamored with permaculture and sustainability, and has been educating herself in all things “green.” With a delightful personality, a love of teaching, and a natural ability to connect with people, you will fall in love with her passion for the earth and her drive to help protect it.
Dates offered:
February 7 – 13, 2016 – (Dorm spaces sold out – bring a tent only!)
February 21 – 27, 2016 – (One Dorm Space Left!)
March 6 – 12, 2016 – (Dorm spaces sold out – bring a tent only!)
March 20 – 26, 2016 – (2 Dorm Spaces Left)
April 3 – 9, 2016 – (2 Spaces Left – 1 dorm, 1 tent)
April 17 – 23, 2016 – (3 Spaces left)
May 15-21, 2016 – (Just Added!!)
June 19-25, 2016 – (Just Added!!)
July 3 – 9, 2016 – (Just Added!!)
July 17 – 23, 2016 – (Just Added!!)
August 7 – 13, 2016 – (Just Added!!)
August 21 – 27, 2016 – (Just Added!!)
All programs begin on Sunday and end on a Saturday. This gives a generous window of time if you leave your home country on a Friday night or Saturday, and return to work/school on a Monday.
Video of the farm
Week Schedule
This is a general week schedule, which may shift a bit depending on various things like the availability of teachers. We try to fit all this in here, and more. Sometimes if someone amazing is in town and offering something unique we’ll bring them to the farm and offer it to the guests, such as a unique style of yoga or something that fits with our vibe. Some guests find there’s too much to do and want to relax more… that’s fine too, you’re not obligated to do any of these activities.
Sunday – Orientation
Opening Circle
Introduction to Permaculture
Monday – The Fun Begins
Morning Yoga
Permaculture: Soil Science
Archery Class
Permaculture: Composting
Open Mic Night at Cafe Organico in Montezuma ($4 addl pp for transport)
Tuesday – Anamaya and Waterfall
Healthy Cooking Class
Waterfall Hike and Lunch
Ocean View Yoga at Anamaya Resort
Permaculture: Garden Design
Our Aquaponics Growing House
Wednesday – Beach & Surf Day
Morning Yoga
Permaculture: Biointensive Gardening
Beach Trip – Surfing Optional
Thursday – Anamaya Dinner Night
Morning Yoga
Permaculture: Aquaponics or Greenbuilding
Permaculture: Medicinal Plant Walk
Dinner at Anamaya Resort
Dance and Street Party Night in Montezuma ($4 addl pp for transport)
Friday – Free Day and/or Aerial Silks
Morning Yoga
Permaculture: Food Forests
Aerial Silk Class
Raw Chocolate Making Class
Saturday – Goodbye Day
Morning Yoga
Closing Circle, group hugs, tears, and goodbyes
Click here for a
calendar of classes and events
.
Lots More Photos
Many more photo here: PYP Photo Gallery
A Typical Day’s Schedule
6:30-7:45am
– Yoga
8:00-8:30am
– Breakfast
9:15-10:00am
– Fitness Class (optional)
10:00-12:00pm
– Permaculture Class
12:00-1:00pm
– Lunch
1:00-4:00pm
– Siesta, Free Time, Swimming Pool, or Various Activities
4:00-6:00pm
– Permaculture Class
6:00-7:00pm
– Dinner
7:00-9:00pm
– Free Time. Movies, bonfire, various extra activities
9:00pm+
– Sleepy Time…
For more detail, click here: Detailed Schedule of Activities
Prices & Payment
Dates: February through April 2016
The PYP Program price depends on your accommodations. We currently have three options:
1. Bring Your Own Tent:
– $450
2. Dorms:
– $500 – Check this out here:
Volunteer House/Dorm
3. Joseph’s Treehouse:
$450 base price + $79/nt or $59/nt May-Nov (Please check Joseph’s prices in case of changes.) It has a queen-sized bed, private bathroom and full kitchen. Can be shared by couples who book together. The treehouse is booked directly with Joseph from his AirBnB page:
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/3164732
Dates: June through August 2016
The price is higher for June-August because our new accommodations will be ready with much more space for everyone.
1. Bring Your Own Tent:
– $450
2. Dorms:
– $600
3. Joseph’s Treehouse:
$450 base price + $79/nt or $59/nt May-Nov (Please check Joseph’s prices in case of changes.) It has a queen-sized bed, private bathroom and full kitchen. Can be shared by couples who book together. The treehouse is booked directly with Joseph from his AirBnB page:
https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/3164732
Payment and Deposit:
When you’re ready to book, we’ll send you a PayPal money request for 50% of the price of the program, as a non-refundable deposit. The balance is due two weeks before your arrival, and we’ll send you a PayPal money request for that as well. If you prefer to pay the balance in cash when you arrive, that can sometimes be arranged too.
Liability Release Form: Upon arrival you must sign our standard liability release. Please read it before booking: RD Liability Release Form
Additional Notes
Why not add a week?
If you’d like to add a second week, after your program ends to practice what you have learned, the cost is $200 for the week (7 additional nights). Limited space for 4 people so let us know asap if you want to stay on as a farm volunteer. PYP students who add the extra week will work on the farm with the regular volunteers, but less work is required. We ask for 3 hours per day for this extra week (compared with 6 hours per day for regular volunteers.)
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