We are offering a second 72-hour certification course this year for guides, tour operators, lodge owners and others interested in learning more about and getting trained in backcountry first aid and first response.  This Wilderness First Responder (WFR) curriculum is the standard wilderness medicine class for many outdoor organizations’ supervisors. The course addresses injury and illness prevention, patient assessment, long-term injury management, improvised splint and litter construction and environmental emergencies. Approximately half of the course is classroom lecture and half practical scenarios. Students also receive American Heart Association CPR for the Professional Rescuer certification.  This course is a unique opportunity for students to receive outstanding wilderness medicine training in a spectacular setting. Aerie’s courses are dynamic and challenging, preparing students for travel and work in remote, outdoor settings. This WFR is ideal for individuals or outdoor leaders traveling and/or working in Central America and/or the Tropics.  There will be one free day scheduled in the middle of the course so students can rest and enjoy the incredible surroundings.



Instructors
Aerie instructors present at national and regional conferences, including the Wilderness Risk Management Conference, the International Conference on Outdoor Recreation and Education, the Spring Fever Trauma Conference and the US Forest Service Incident Medical Specialist program.



Language
This course will be offered in English.  If we have enough interest from Spanish-speaking students, we will translate the course to Spanish.

Arrival
Students should plan on arriving to the Ranch no later than 8 a.m. on the morning of the first day of the class (June 8).  We encourage students to arrive the night before (this night is included in the cost of the class).

Cost
Foreigners $925; Ex-pats living in Central America $850; Costa Ricans $750.  A $250 deposit will secure your spot in the course.

About Aerie


Aerie provides outstanding training on a local, national and international level. Their courses, from Wilderness First Aid through Wilderness EMT, are taught to employees and members of the Student Conservation Association (SCA), NOLS, Outward Bound, the US National Park Service, the US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, the Missoula Backcountry Horsemen Association, and others. Aerie provides training for the US Forest Service Smokejumper’s EMTs and the USFS Wildlands Firefighting program.

Cancellation Policy


We receive the right to cancel the course due to inadequate enrollment and circumstances beyond our control. In the event of cancellation, all payments, including deposits, will be refunded.

For more information about the accommodations, course and course site, please contact Tim O’Hara at Rancho Mastatal.

Register Here.
For more information…

The Society / True Nature Costa Rica Service and Adventure Program

June 11 – 18

SPACE IS LIMITED! REGISTER TODAY!
Pay $250 Deposit to Hold Your Spot. (Scroll down to Register Now)
     
*NOTE: We have recently changed our registration process.
SCROLL DOWN TO THE REGISTRATION SECTION BELOW TO REGISTER     

For Any Questions Regarding Registration Please Email: Info@TrueNatureEducation.com
True Nature Education is partnering with The National Society of Leadership and Success to offer this service-based travel opportunity to Costa Rica. Both organizations share similar values as the Society’s shared values includes, “for the good of the community,” and at the core of True Nature’s values is an emphasis on community service.

You are invited to participate in this exciting and unique service and travel opportunity in Costa Rica. Experience the rich culture of this incredible country while doing work to support the people, communities, and preservation of the land and native environment. You will have an unforgettable experience, full of outdoor adventures, connections with local people, and mission outreach work. In a time where our world is becoming more and more of a global community, come be a part of the bridge of support, by taking part in this international service and adventure trip.

During the program you will participate in several service projects* including potential projects such as: planting trees, working at the local school, renovation/construction of a local building (ie. school, community, center, church), caring for endangered monkeys, cleaning the beach, and sharing our individual gifts – art, music, dance and sports — with the local villagers. You will lodge at eco-hotels and lodges. Our programs will take place in two different sites in 2015. Site #1 will be next to Manuel Antonio National Park and Site #2 will be located near village San Rafael, close to the Arenal Volcano.

These service projects may include work in:
~A Monkey Sanctuary
~Reforestation
~Local school building
~Building of a local library
~Village Community Building
~An Area that you can share your gifts! Just let us know.
Activities can include:
~Snorkel/Dolphin Tour
~Rainforest Hike
~Parasailing
~Surfing
~Kayaking
~Horseback-Riding
~Ziplining
~Waterfall Expedition

WATCH A NEW SHORT VIDEO ON THE TRUE NATURE /SOCIETY COSTA RICA SERVICE AND ADVENTURE PROGRAM

For more information contact: Info@TrueNatureEducation.com
Accommodations

True Nature Education has searched long and hard throughout Costa Rica to find unique, ecologically friendly, and inspiring accommodations for our guests to stay in. All of the accommodations are clean, comfortable and close to nature. Lodging includes electricity, hot water, internet, phone, comfortable beds and linens, and an environment which allows you to rest peacefully after a long day of activities. Most accommodations for large groups are shared. Private rooms are occasionally available for an extra fee on a first-come first serve basis.
Testimonials from Past True Nature/Society Trips
I believe coming on this trip took me out of my comfort zone, no actually, it expanded my comfort zone. I feel I am a changed person now and that I am able to to see and experience the beauty of planet Earth. I will take the memories or Costa Rica with me as I keep on with my journey of life.
-Kathryn Hima, Stratford, Connecticut

I am forever grateful and forever changed. I truly found myself here…who I want to be. I am happy, content, and a completely new person. Thank you so much True Nature and the Society! I could have never felt this way without you and for that I am forever indebted.
-Charlotte, Dabrowski Middletown, Connecticut

There is no words to describe how beautiful everything is. Costa Rica takes my breath away. I was surrounded by life, felt closer to the Earth than I have ever felt before. More than that True Nature and everyone has been so supportive. I have never felt to unselfconscious.
-Allison Waters, San Antonio, Texas

Life is a journey, every pebble on this Earth has its place. Sometimes those pebbles create a stepping stone-something with time , concrete, and strength. This experience was another stepping stone to my life-my personal journey, and I am grateful.
-Nola Heller, Plover WI
Payment and Online Registration
Tuition: $1595.00*
(Society Members SAVE $350 off the Regular price of $1945!!)
Tuition includes accommodations, food, ground transportation,
activities, and service projects. *Airfare is not included.

Register early as these programs fill quickly to fill quickly! A $250 deposit will get your name on the big
“I Want To Go To Costa Rica” list and officially reserve your spot. It will be deducted from the total amount of the trip cost.
*The trip has a minimum of 10 people and a maximum of 25 people
*** A $35.00 Service Processing Fee will be added to the tuition.

In order to pay and register use the drop-down menu below to choose the trip you would like to attend, then click the register now icon below. Once payment is processed you will a confirmation email followed by further information and a link to the online registration page.

December 12-19, 2015
June 11-18, 2016
July 30-August 6, 2016
December 10-17, 2016

Payment Options

Hold My Space Deposit for December, 2015 $250.00 USD
Hold My Space Deposit for June, 2016 $250.00 USD
Hold My Space Deposit for July, 2016 $250.00 USD
Hold My Space Deposit for Dec, 2016 $250.00 USD

Participant’s Name

Participant’s Primary Email

If you have any questions please email: Info@TrueNatureEducation.com
Cancellation

tInitial deposits are non-refundable
t50% of payments are refundable upto 90 days before program excluding initial deposit
t89 days prior to a program, tuition is non-refundable
tFull tuition is refunded if the trip is canceled due to low enrollment

Half Tuition is Due 90 Days Prior to the Trip
Full Tuition is Due 45 Days Prior to the Trip

**AIRFARE IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE TUITION PRICE
Alumni and Non-Society Members
Society Alumni and Non-Society Members are also welcome on the trip. If you or someone you know would like to join us please let us know.
Non-members will have to pay the full tuition price and also agree to the True Nature / Code of Conduct for the trip. Alumni are eligible for the discount.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We understand that many questions come up when visiting a place you have never been. What do I bring? What is the weather like? We have created Participant Packages that will clarify these type of questions and more Once you have registered, we will send you these materials. In addition, on our website we have a comprehensive FAQ section, that also gives detailed answers to common questions. If you have other questions, you can always write us at info@truenatureeducation.comso we can support you.
Getting There
All international flights will arrive at San Jose International Airport (SJO). True Nature Education has a Group Travel Agent that will be happy to help you book your flights. Just ask us if this interests you. Some of our retreats also have a Group Flight Option so you can travel with your fellow retreatants. From the airport we will organize one group transport for all retreat participants. Before booking tickets please contact us to discuss flight arrival and departure windows for your retreat and to be sure group minimums have been reached.
True Nature Education
True Nature is an Educational Travel Company which provides full service in the planning, support, and guiding of a diverse catalog of trips to Costa Rica each year. We believe in the power of experiential travel abroad and the multitude of affects it has on ones growth. We have hosted thousands of participants and have been honored to share in the life-changing experiences of our guests. It is True Nature’s goal to strive to meet the needs of our guests and to be of support from the time you first contact us, to the time you land in Costa Rica, and until you return home from your journey.
Sample Itinerary* 

Saturday
Arrival Day
Stay at Hotel Near Airport
Welcome Dinner
Sunday

Orientation
Transfer to Manuel Antonio and Hotel Karahe
Sunset Group Circle
Monday
Transport to BBI Monkey Sanctuary
Service Project #1
Lunch
Service Project #2
Evening Circle

Tuesday
Service Project #3
Beach Restoration
Beach Activities 10am
Lunch 12pm
1pm National Park Tour
Dinner
Wednesday
Dolphin/Snorkel Boat Tour
Lunch
Depart for Luna Nueva Eco-Lodge
Arrive
Orientation
Dinner
Thursday
8:30am Transport to San Rafael for Service Project #4
Lunch in the Village
Free Time
Afternoon Biodynamic Farm Tour
Dinner
Rest (Optional Night Hike)

Friday
Breakfast
Service Project #5: Local School Exchange
Zip Line / Horseback
Lunch
Waterfall Hike
Dinner
Closing Circle
Saturday
Wake-Up
Transport to Airport
Depart for Airport…Adios…

*Schedule Subject to Change

+ GOOGLE CALENDAR

Sustainable Homestead Design
JUNE 22 – JUNE 26, 2016
 Register here →

DESCRIPTION
Learn the tools to design an abundant and harmonious landscape!

This five-day intensive course will introduce participants to the basic skills needed to analyze the landscape and design a sustainable homestead. The course will cover site analysis and mapping, goal setting, and designing to maximize the productivity, beauty, and sustainability of the land. This course is relevant to people who already own a home-site as well as people considering buying land in the future. During a final hands-on project, participants will put their new skills to work on a small-scale design. Students will leave equipped with the skills to more deeply understand their homestead and to design for the challenges and opportunities they encounter. The course will be conducted in Rancho Mastatal’s beautiful naturally built classroom and will mix lectures, drafting, and group work, with mapping and measuring in the field.

Note: Participants with their own property should contact the instructor to see about the potential for using their land during the final design project.

Concepts and skills covered will include:

tKey permaculture principles
tSystems thinking
tUsing the pattern language
tThe design process
tDefining goals
tSite analysis
tCreating a base map
tDrafting tools and techniques
tDesign alternatives and evaluation process

INSTRUCTOR: RACHEL JACKSON
Rachel holds a Masters Degree in Sustainable Landscape Planning and Design from the Conway School in Conway, Massachusetts. She has been practicing permaculture in the tropics since 2009, working in both the rainforests of Costa Rica and the dry forests of Nicaragua. She is passionate about creating harmonious, healthy relationships between humans and the landscape. From urban renewal projects in New England to food forests in Latin America, Rachel has used her skills to create integrated, whole-system designs in difficult locations. She has also worked as a garden-based youth educator, art handler, photographer and carpenter and harbors a life-goal of trying as many varieties of tropical fruits as possible.
ACCOMMODATIONS
For more information about food and lodging please see our website at accommodations.
COST
$550

Cost includes 6 nights lodging, 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. 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 12 openings for this workshop and a minimum of 4 students to run the course.

“If you value your human existence and think is worth telling, if you think your life has something epic, this retreat is to strengthen your urge to create a life full of adventure, full of dreams to realize, full of positive emotions that move your spirit towards what your heart desires!

We believe in you and in the realization of your dreams so we invite you to create an experience together where we can strengthen in community and continue visualizing ourselves in a constructive and positive way”

Includes:
Transportation
2 nights lodging
3 meals a day
Pipa and daily smoothie,
4 Yoga classes
Yoga Natyam (Energetic Activation Exercices)
Meditations
Access to Nauyaca waterfalls and Baru river

Cost: 
$ 300 before May 24
$ 350 after May 24
** Reserve with 50% ($ 150)**

Renew and Rebalance in Costa Rica—Re-Turn to Yourself with Lisa Feder & Dana Baruch

June 25 – July 2

Playa Uvita, Costa Rica

Weeklong Costa Rica Women’s Retreat for the Mind, Body, and Spirit

Join yoga/wellness teacher Lisa Feder, and life coach/educator Dana Baruch for a week dedicated to YOU! Take a retreat from your everyday life and come together in magnificent Costa Rica, where you will have the opportunity to explore and empower yourself and your life–mind, body, spirit—through yoga, meditation, coaching, creating, journaling, and service to others. There will be group activities, and plenty of free time; time to come together, and time to be within; time to move and create, and time to rest and replenish; time to treat yourself; and time to serve others.   This retreat is all about coming back to yourself, re-harmonizing (what better place than in the natural splendor of Costa Rica?!), and connecting with and rekindling your authentic, natural spirit. And we promise lots of laughter and fun!

Throughout the week, participants will have both group and individual access to yoga instruction and life coaching. All levels of yoga experience are welcome, even if you’ve never heard of, seen, or done a down dog!   And you don’t need to have big ugly issues to reap benefits from the wisdom of coaching.   We will be well cared for by the True Nature Staff at the breathtaking La Cusinga lodge facilities. For sure, what happens in Costa Rica stays in Costa Rica, but this retreat is also designed to help you plant seeds for intentional and positive change when you re-enter your life back home. Looking forward to seeing you in Costa Rica in June, 2016!
This Eco-Lodge and Retreat Center in Uvita, Co
sta Rica is hidden in the hilltops overlooking the pristine beaches of Costa Rica’s still-virgin South Pacific, where the ocean crashes into the jungle. Tucked away in a private reserve of over 600 acres, this rainforest lodge provides guests with sweeping ocean views, sandy beaches, natural pools, and the chance to experience the burgeoning forests and astonishing wildlife of the country’s most famous ecosystem.

Retreat Includes:

t7 Nights Accommodation (1st night in hotel near airport, 6 nights in Uvita)
t3 Whole Foods Meals a Day
tTransport to/from the Airport to La Cusinga
tPersonal Retreat Time
tDaily Yoga Practices
tMeditation
tCoaching
tOpportunities for creative expression
tAnd More…

Instructors
Lisa Feder

Lisa Feder is a full-time Yoga instructor and wellness consultant living in Austin, Texas.  She has had a passion for all things wellness for as long as she can remember.  While working for over 20 years in the corporate world as a strategic marketing specialist, she began teaching fitness classes in her free time.  This led her to explore Yoga, and she fell in love with the way it made her and her students feel— physically, emotionally and energetically. After teaching part-time for many years, she took the leap and started Being Well Yoga, where she brings Yoga on-site to companies to help employees learn how to live healthier, more balanced lives.   She also teaches in studios, schools, senior centers, parks and private homes.  Her approach is balanced, and she likes to bring humor, challenge and deep relaxation into her practices.  Lisa is especially interested in helping students find a Yoga practice that really works for them, and she believes that Yoga can provide more ease and comfort to all.  She has seen the effects of a healthy lifestyle on her family as well and wants to share. As a wellness coach, Lisa loves helping people explore how to incorporate healthy habits into their daily lives in a fun and sustainable way.  One of her programs, a week of Being Well, is an inclusive and integrated approach to mindfulness in eating, working, exercising, meditating, media usage and sleeping.  Her favorite thing is hearing about the positive change her participants make for themselves.  Another workshop, “A Sigh of Relief”, teaches how Yoga practices can be used during the day to manage stress before it becomes chronic. Lisa, RYT-500, E-RYT-200 incorporates many Yoga traditions into her practices.  She has certifications in Hatha, Hatha Flow, Kundalini, and I-rest Yoga Nidra.  She has had the opportunity to study with Donna Farhi, Sean Corne, Sarah Powers, Anodea Judith, Beth Shaw, Amy Weintraub and Richard Miller.  All of these wonderful teachers have shared wisdom that informs her teaching, and she is grateful to them all. Lisa received a BSBA in Spanish and MBA from Washington University in St. Louis.  She is fluent in Spanish, having fallen in love with the language during her junior year studying in Bogota, Colombia.  She has served as President of the Board of Community Yoga, an organization that brings Yoga to underserved communities.  She is also active with the Interfaith Hospitality Network, providing resources, housing and meals to homeless families. She lives in Austin with her husband and has two active offspring–a daughter completing high school and a son in college.  She looks forward to the day that her family members adopt a regular mindfulness practice.  For now, they  just attend her Sunday morning class on Mother’s Day! For more information about Lisa, please visit her website at
www.beingwellyoga.com

Dana Baruch
Dana Baruch is a certified life-coach, educator of 30+ years, organizational consultant, and community builder.  Her first job was as a teaching assistant when she was in the 5th grade (ask her about it…it’s a great story!), and she has been teaching in one fashion or another since then.  She has had the pleasure of working with people in every stage of life from infants to seniors.  One of her guiding beliefs is:  SHIFT happens!  She loves to help people and organizations set goals, get clear about their challenges, and feel motivated to make healthy and powerful changes.   Dana is also a student of mindfulness and weaves together these teachings and philosophies, among others, into her coaching and consulting work with individuals and groups.   She’s a highly skilled facilitator and expert in human and group dynamics.  Dana offers her work always with a sense of humor, compassion, authenticity, creating a safe, warm, inviting environment. Dana specializes in coaching women in periods of transition (empty nest, divorce, retirement, entering or re-entering the workplace, dealing with illness, new relationships, etc.).  She also works with men and women seeking coaching for specific issues (time management, getting organized, relationship coaching, parenting, etc.).  She is grateful to be able to do her work from wherever she is by phone and Skype, as she has clients across the US, Canada and Europe. Dana is also a community leader. She is the Founder of the Austin Jewish Academy, co-creator and educational consultant for JLead (Austin-based leadership development program), long-time board member past board Chair of Shalom Austin, founding board member of Challah for Hunger, ADL Words to Action coach/trainer, UT Schusterman Center for Jewish Studies Advisory Council member, and mentor to many.  Dana has a Master of Education degree from Tufts University, BA in Psychology from the University of Michigan and is a certified life-coach from The Life Coach School in California.  She has been married for 30+ years and is the proud mom of two mostly launched young-adult sons.     For more about Dana, visit her website at www.danabaruch.com
Accommodations

Comfortable Bed & Breakfast Style (Eco-Friendly) accommodations situated amidst acres of lush gardens, hiking trails and a secluded jungle trail leading to Playa Uvita, a beautiful beach (a 15 minute walk). The atmosphere of the retreat center is simple, healthy and relaxed. Rooms are single (inquire if interested) or double occupancy or 2 larger group rooms are available. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are prepared daily and include healthy vegetarian options along with fish and/or chicken. The food is organic when available, and prepared with nourishing ingredients. Single Occupancy Rooms Beautiful private bungalow style accommodations all with huge ocean views, where you can see Ballena Marine National Park, the Rainforest and much more. Limited singles available for an extra fee.  Please register for a single room, and if spaces are full, register for a double accommodations and  contact us to be placed on a waiting list. We will do our best to accommodate you. Double Occupancy Rooms

Beautiful private bungalow style accommodations all with huge ocean views, where you can see Ballena Marine National Park, the Rainforest and much more. All of the rooms are made from reforested wood from our trees planted on the same land 20 years ago. Local craftsmanship with wood, stone, shell, and sand is unique. Group Rooms The group rooms offers two big rooms equipped with comfortable bunk beds. These rooms have the best ocean view, because they are located in the upper side of the lodge, also have private bathrooms and have a beautiful breeze during day and night.
Activities
While on your retreat you will also have the opportunity to take part in adventure activities and wonderful excursions. Some of the possible options include:

tZip-lining
tHorseback Riding
tSurfing
tWaterfall Tour
tKayaking
tFishing Trip
tRiver Wildlife Tour

*Price of Activities are not included in Tuition

Payment and Online Registration

tTo register  – go to our  Online Registration Platform *.
tAt the checkout you will have the option to choose your payment method. The minimum deposit you can make is the $300 which will “Hold Your Spot” and Lock in Your Price for your retreat.  There is a $35 Service and Administration fee that will be added to the tuition rate.
tFor future tuition payments please use the same Online Registration Platform
t* For Online Registration Technical Issues please call Reg Online support at 1.888.351.9948 Ext. 1

* Our on-line system does not accept checks, but if you need an alternative payment arrangements,contact us.

$2395 Single Room SOLD OUT  CLICK HERE TO BE PUT ON WAIT LIST
$1995 Double Room – SOLD OUT CLICK HERE TO BE PUT ON WAIT LIST
$1595 Group Room SOLD OUT CLICK HERE TO BE PUT ON WAIT LIST
 Cancellation

tInitial deposits are non-refundable
t50% of payments are refundable upto 90 days before program excluding initial deposit
t89 days prior to a program, tuition is non-refundable
tFull tuition is refunded if the trip is canceled due to low enrollment

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We understand that many questions come up when visiting a place you have never been. What do I bring? What is the weather like?  We have created Participant Packages that will clarify these type of questions and more   Once you have registered, we will send you these materials.  In addition, on our website we have a comprehensive FAQ section,  that also gives detailed answers to common questions.  If you have other questions, you can always write us at info@truenatureeducation.com so we can support you.
Getting There
All international flights will arrive at San Jose International Airport (SJO). True Nature Education has a Group Travel Agent that will be happy to help you book your flights.  Just ask us if this interests you.   Some of our retreats also have a Group Flight Option so you can travel with your fellow retreatants.  The first night you will be staying at a hotel near the airport and the following morning you will travel to Uvita in a group shuttle. A group shuttle to and from the retreat center is included in the tuition. Once you are registered you will be receiving information about appropriate flight times.  Before booking your flight, be sure your retreat has been officially confirmed.
True Nature Education
True Nature is an Educational Travel Company which provides full service in the planning, support, and guiding of a diverse catalog of trips to Costa Rica each year. We believe in the power of experiential travel abroad and the multitude of affects it has on ones growth. We have hosted thousands of participants and have been honored to share in the life-changing experiences of our guests. It is True Nature’s goal to strive to meet the needs of our guests and to be of support from the time you first contact us, to the time you land in Costa Rica, and until you return home from your journey.

If this retreat isn’t up your alley, take a look at the variety of other retreats coming up around the globe!  There’s a retreat with your name on it! 

Costa Rica Summer Program
Costa Rica has been the model for sustainable economic development in Latin America for a generation. On this program, you’ll spend most of your time living in or alongside some of Costa Rica’s most important biological reserves while learning about integrated sustainability initiatives to protect these valuable resources.

In this Sustainable Summer Program…

tYou’ll visit an indigenous community and learn traditional agricultural practices
tYou’ll learn about the implementation of renewable energy at a variety of scales
tYou’ll harvest crops and practice permaculture at an organic farm
tYou’ll develop homesteading skills such as fermentation and soap-making
tYou’ll learn about natural building and work with natural building materials and techniques

Your Sustainable Summer experience will span from Costa Rica’s legendary Pacific beaches to the mist shrouded slopes of the Central Highlands to the tropical rainforest. Our Costa Rica summer program is ideal for high school students with a strong interest in environmental sustainability, and particularly renewable energy and agriculture. Costa Rica is widely considered an ‘easy’ place to travel by developing country standards, and we think this program is also a good choice for students that are looking to get their first taste of ‘adventure travel’ and life in a ‘developing’ country, although we caution that our itinerary is more challenging (in a good way) than many Costa Rica travel itineraries.
Picture yourself living on an organic farm on the edge of a national park, where you’ll help produce the food that sustains the local community. Or on a guided night hike through Costa Rica’s virgin rainforest, when the jungle really comes alive. You’ll feel the rush of rafting Costa Rica’s world famous whitewater, play soccer with local kids, and come to understand why the essential Costa Rican phrase – pura vida – is the perfect embodiment of this beautiful place and the Tico people that call it home.Not sure if this is the right option for you? Use our Compare Programs page to help you assess which Sustainable Summer is the best fit for your interests and comfort zone.

Learn
how sustainable energy and agriculture solutions are designed

Explore
tropical rainforests, hidden valleys, and pristine beaches

Ride
horseback to a towering waterfall in Cangreja National Park and raft Costa Rica’s legendary whitewater

2016 Facilitators *

Remy Franklin
READ BIO

Kiska Kosakowski
READ BIO

Costa Rica Testimonials

 
Thank you so much for creating and running this amazing program!! I’m so grateful for all that you’ve done to make this organization so awesome!!  Jess,  student from Boca Raton, FL

Read More Testimonials

STUDENT STORIES

t

Costa Rica 9-Day Photos
By Sustainable Summer // September 16, 2015

t

Costa Rica 21-Day Photos
By Sustainable Summer // September 16, 2015

t

Costa Rica Student Essay
By Rafael Robert // September 8, 2015

t

Costa Rican Transformation
By Lily Antunez // September 1, 2015

t

Costa Rica Student Essay
By Amber Heldreth Miller // September 1, 2015

t

Costa Rica Student Essay
By Own Shain // September 1, 2015

t

Costa Rica Student Essay
By Miriam Wahid // September 1, 2015

t

Costa Rica Student Photo Essay
By Jess Kian // August 16, 2015

Core Curriculum & Program Components

Much More Than A Tour
Amazing destination? Check. Fun and authentic experiences? Absolutely. A smart, down-to-earth group of like-minded teens? Yup. An awesome itinerary and first-in-class lodging are just the start. Our programs prepare teens to become environmental leaders through dynamic place-based learning.

FIELD STUDIES
How do “small” and “local” provide a blueprint for a sustainable future? This essential question guides our experience studying sustainability in Costa Rica. Participants – through discussions, workshops, site visits, and fieldwork – will investigate sustainability with the understanding that truly sustainable solutions take into account not only the environment, but also the people, culture and economy of a given place.

t

Field Studies

t

Leadership

t

Design Thinking

t

Independent Project

t

Case Study

t

Action Plan

Program Tuition

Each program has a tiered tuition rate: standard (full tuition), tuition assistance (83% of tuition), or scholarship (as low as 15% of tuition).HOW IT WORKS

STANDARD

$ 4795

tAPPLY
tOur standard course fee, which represents the actual cost of operating our programs, including the administrative costs that are necessary to sustain our organization in the long-term. This is the suggested rate for families living in high cost of living areas with household net assets of greater than $650,000 and/or annual household income of greater than $180,000.

TUITION ASSISTANCE

$ 3995

tAPPLY
tParticipants at this tuition rate cover only their direct participation costs, including lodging, meals, activities, in-country staff and transportation, and support for local projects. Participation at this level is based on the honor system. It is available to all families – no documentation required. We simply ask families to honestly consider their financial resources and ability to pay the full tuition rate.

SCHOLARSHIP

$ 720 – 3355

tAPPLY
tAdditional scholarship funding is available for students that are unable to participate at either of the other rates. Scholarship participants receive up to an 85% reduction of the standard course fee. Due to the limited availability of scholarship funds, a separate application is required, including a parent financial statement and recent tax return.

What’s Included

Accommodations

in eco-lodges and other locally-owned (and often sustainably-minded) establishments

Meals

3 meals daily while in-country. Local cuisine, served family-style, is on order most days. Dietary restrictions can typically be accommodated.

Immersive Activities

Guided activities, from the adventurous to the cultural, are a regular part of the itinerary.

Dynamic Learning Opportunities

Place-based. Interactive. Fun. Our programs prepare teens to become environmental leaders.

Ground Transportation

Once in country, all travel will be by private coach when we are traveling any significant distance, although we may occasionally use other transport when traveling locally. This can range from a cattle truck to the local bus. Traveling like a local is part of the experience!

2 Full-Time Professional Facilitators

Our international field team includes returned Peace Corps volunteers, college professors, seasoned wilderness guides, sustainability graduate students, and similar.

Pre-Program Materials and Support

Students and parents receive comprehensive and prompt pre-program support.

Not Included

Tuition does not include airfare, $95 InternationalSOS membership (required), or personal expenses such as laundry, snacks, souvenirs, and internet or international phone calls, and other incidentals. A $29 Costa Rica exit fee, payable at the SJO airport on departure, is also not included.

Flights

We designate a recommended group flight for students. Students, whether arriving on our group flight or independently, will be met at the international arrivals area by our staff. Very detailed travel and booking instructions will be provided to all participants upon enrollment.Our designated round trip group flight:

CHECK THE CURRENT PRICE

Escort on Both Outbound and Return Flight

Outbound Flight

June 26

654pm
752pm
Miami (MIA)
San Jose (SJO)
American
1031

Return Flight
July 16
1140am
439pm
San Jose (SJO)
Miami (MIA)
American
1238

Important

tDo not make any flight reservations until explicitly directed by Sustainable Summer. Enrolled families – please check your MySummer accountfor more information.
tNot all of our group flights have a staff escort. Please see above for specifics and our Flights page for additional details.
tStudents NOT traveling on our designated group flight will be assessed a $35 fee if they arrive on a flight other than our specified group flight and/or a $35 fee for departing on a non-group flight ($70 total). Students must verify BEFORE BOOKING all non-group flight travel itineraries

21-Day Itinerary

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Arrival
Most students will arrive on our chaperoned group flight into the international airport outside San Jose, Costa Rica’s capital city. It’s a short drive by private transport from the airport to our hostel in Alajuela, where we will begin our orientation period.Day 1

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Orientation at Rancho Margot
The next morning, after breakfast we’ll travel north to Rancho Margot, a stunning eco-lodge on the shores of Lake Arenal. Rancho Margot is the perfect destination to become acquainted with Costa Rica and your fellow students. It is fully self-sufficient, yet at a truly impressive scale – two different micro-hydro turbines provide all their energy needs; chickens, pigs, and cows number in the hundreds, yet exist in healthy, environmentally sustainable way; and the entire property of several hundred hectares has been reforested in the last decade.During orientation, we’ll become familiar with local customs, health and safety protocols, and share our individual and mutual goals for the program.We also will begin our investigation of sustainability as a subject of inquiry, as we learn about the various sustainability initiatives on the farm and consider how the systems and philosophies in place at Margot can inform a shift to more sustainable communities elsewhere in the world. No visit to the beautiful Arenal would be complete without some dedicated to exploring the surrounding countryside. We’ll have some time for a short hike in the area, as well as kayaking on Lago Arenal.Days 2 & 3

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The Rainforest
We’ll then move on to the Sarapaqui region, one of Costa Rica’s most important biospheres. We’ll be staying at an eco-lodge on the edge of Costa Rica’s largest National Park, Braulio Carrillo. The surrounding jungle is primary rainforest that serves as a critical ecological corridor. Much important research has been and continues to be conducted in the area. Conservation efforts have maintained the native forest on the southern side of the Rio Sarapiqui, although the numerous pineapple farms that dot the northern side serve as a constant reminder of the threat of development.During our five nights in the area, we’ll conduct biodiversity research with a local scientific organization; take an ethnobotany course from a local expert; go whitewater rafting on the Rio Sarapaqui; and go for a guided night hike through the tropical jungle. It’s not all adventure and sustainability, though. We’ll also take in some with local culture. You’ll learn to make the perfect gallo pinto and friend plantains in a cooking class and polish your Merengue, Salsa, and Cha-Cha skills in a Latin dance class, too.Days 4 – 8

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The Cloud Forest
Leaving Sarapaqui, we’ll travel south and up in elevation to Paraiso Quetzal, a beautiful cloud forest lodge situated on a ridge overlooking Costa Rica’s southern valley. After lunch, we’ll have an afternoon hike in search of the elusive Quetzal, seen rarely throughout Costa Rica, but living in abundance in this area.While in this area, we’ll visit a cooperatively owned wind power facility and hydroelectric project and learn how the projects are producing clean energy at fair rates for rural communities that previously had no access to the grid. This segment of the program encourages reflection on the sources, uses, and economics of renewable energy. One of the principle questions we will consider is the size and scope of a project, which we will continue to explore later in the program.We’ll also visit a flower exporter and a coffee cooperative in an effort to better understand both the global supply chain as well as issues of equity and social justice associated with agricultural production and consumption.Days 9 & 10

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Mastatal
Winding our way through the craggy, jungle clad valleys of the central mountains, our next destination is Mastatal and Cangreja National Park, one of Costa Rica’s least visited, but most remarkable destinations.We’ll spend a little over a week at Rancho Mastatal, an environmental learning center and eco-lodge situated on the park’s boundary. Rancho Mastatal is a sustainability pioneer that practices natural construction techniques (locally harvested woods and bamboo, earthen structures, etc), sustainable food production, and renewable energy generation.The American operators work closely with the surrounding community on conservation initiatives to help preserve and protect the last remaining virgin rainforest in this region of Costa Rica. Sustainability education of both local and foreign students is an important part of Mastatal’s mission.During our time there, we’ll study many of the initiatives that make Mastatal a stunning example of sustainability, from their use of biodigesters and rainwater catchments to traditional agricultural production methods and reforestation efforts.We’ll visit the Zapaton Indigenous Reserve, play soccer with the local kids, and fill our minds with knowledge about the principles of permaculture, tropical ecology, and other remarkable subjects that are being practiced every day at Mastatal.Days 11 – 18

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The Coast
Our final days of the program will be at the beaches of Playa Esterillos, where we’ll reflect on our time in Costa Rica, share our Sustainability Action Plans, and prepare to say farewell.Days 19 & 20

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Departure
We’ll wake up for breakfast and perhaps a final swim in the Pacific and then it’s about 90 minutes driving by bus back to the airport in Alajuela for an early afternoon flight back to the US.Day 21

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An Important Note About Itinerary Changes
Sustainable Summer reserves the right to change, alter, or amend the program itinerary. Changes can be made for various reasons including changes in weather or road conditions; to take advantage of a new activity or unscheduled opportunity (such as a local festival or event); to accommodate the health needs of an individual participant; or due to changes in activities or schedules of our local partners and providers.The itinerary shown here is based on previous programs and the anticipated day-to-day activities for this program. However, as with any travel experience, some changes may occur.

Questions?
CONTACT US

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Description
From food to medicine to building materials, this short course will cover useful tropical plants for the homestead. We will go deep into selecting, planting and caring for your plants.

Topics covered include:

tSelecting plants that are right for your site
tPlanting and caring for young trees
tUsing plants to build soil fertility
tDesigning plant guilds/companion planting

We will also introduce you to some of our favorite all-star tropical species and share resources for finding plants in Costa Rica!
INSTRUCTORS
Rachel Jackson & Scott Gallant

Rachel holds a Masters Degree in Sustainable Landscape Planning and Design from the Conway School in Conway, Massachusetts. She has been practicing permaculture in the tropics since 2009, working in both the rainforests of Costa Rica and the dry forests of Nicaragua. She is passionate about creating harmonious, healthy relationships between humans and the landscape. From urban renewal projects in New England to food forests in Latin America, Rachel has used her skills to create integrated, whole-system designs in difficult locations. She has also worked as a garden-based youth educator, art handler, photographer and carpenter and harbors a life-goal of trying as many varieties of tropical fruits as possible.

Scott Gallant is an agroforester and food system designer from small town Ohio. He graduated from Wabash College in 2008 with a degree in Economics. As the farm manager at Rancho Mastatal he works with an amazing team to cultivate 15 acres of a emerging tropical agroforest. He is the lead permaculture design instructor on site and one of the principle founders of the Rancho Mastatal Design/Build Collective.  Passionate about regenerative agriculture, holistic thinking, ethnobotany, community development, and re-skilling, he still makes time to hike and bike, read exhaustively, and work on his basketball jump shot and frisbee throw.  He and his partner Laura have traveled and volunteered extensively in Latin America, leading to a love of the culture, food, and language, which they speak.  Scott is a certified Wilderness First Responder, writes for the Permaculture Research Institute and has been featured on the Permaculture Voices podcast.
LANGUAGE
This course will be offered in English.  If we have enough interest from Spanish-speaking students, we will translate the course to Spanish.  The instructor is bilingual.
Cost
Includes all food, lodging and instruction.  
$150

ACCOMMODATIONS
All food and lodging is included in the cost of  the course.   Students will stay in the Ranch bunkhouse with options for upgrades.  We provide high quality mattresses and linens and blankets.  Please see our Accommodations page for more information.
GETTING TO RANCHO MASTATAL
Please see our Directions page for detailed information on how to get to Rancho Mastatal.
COURSE PAYMENT
Please see our  Payments page for information about how to pay.
ENROLLMENT
To enroll in the class, please fill out our Online Registration Form.  For more information please contact Tim O’Hara at info@ranchomastatal.com and/or call the Ranch at 2200-0920.