Explore the beauty of Costa Rica while hiking and camping in the dense tropical rainforest, staying in homestays in local indigenous communities, rafting down picturesque rivers, participating in a service project, ziplining through lush canopies, visiting a world-renowned beach, and shopping for souvenirs in the bustling artisan markets of San Jose.

Picture It

Come sample the best Costa Rica has to offer! This 14-day course will take you through lush, tropical cloud and rainforests, down raging whitewater rivers and out to one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. In addition, you'll get a chance to explore the rich cultural offerings of the country's capital city of San Jose and be part of a service project that will help local communities.

After gearing up at our base camp just outside of San Jose, the journey will begin with a multi-day hiking trek into one of the most remote regions of Costa Rica. Hike and learn about wildlife and the local flora and fauna and gain insight into the mysteries of the jungle and the people who live there. Experience a variety of homestays with local families - learning about their language, culture, and overall way of life and helping them with some of their traditional activities such as harvesting and grinding sugarcane, making tortillas and playing soccer with local children. Challenge yourself physically by participating in fun activities such as a waterfall rappel.

Next you will find yourself at Manuel Antonio, an idyllic Pacific coast beach where you will spend your time spotting monkeys, sloths and tree frogs. Finish out your experience by braving the rapids while whitewater rafting, ziplining on a canopy tour and experiencing the vibrant culture of San Jose during a city tour.

Girl Scouts will be exposed to Costa Rica Outward Bound’s unique approach to outdoor education and personal development. Woven into all activities are discussions and meetings about leadership. Explore how the challenges you meet in and out of the Costa Rican wilderness help you confront challenges that life presents.

Map It

San Jose, Costa Rica
Costa Rica (Activities in San Jose, Cartago and Puntarenas Provinces) Base Camp is located in San Ramon de Tres Rios; Manuel Antonio is on the Central Pacific coast

Be It

• Interest in the outdoors
• Willingness to learn the Spanish language and interest in cultural exchange
• Prepared for a physically demanding fitness challenge. You should be ready to backpack 2-10 hours per day with a full size (35+ pounds) pack for 7-9 days.
• Intermediate-level swimmer who is comfortable in the water
• Good team player

Plan It

• Session 1; July 6–20, 2013; $2,050
  Must be 13–18 years old at the time of the event.
• Session 2; July 20, 2013–August 3, 2013; $2,050
  Must be 13–18 years old at the time of the event.

Get It

• Packing list will be provided
• Valid current passport
• Tetanus vaccination required before arrival

$ It

A $200 deposit will be due immediately upon acceptance to this course (to be used towards the total tuition cost of the course).

You will be responsible for providing your own round-trip airfare to San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO), as well as bringing your own spending money.

Note: Please be sure to specify which session(s) you are applying for on your application.

Application Instructions:
	Please be aware that Costa Rica Outward Bound’s offices are located in Costa Rica. Your application will be forwarded from our Miami post office box. You will receive an email from Costa Rica Outward Bound once your application has been received. Therefore, do not send a self-addressed stamped postcard with your application.

Download the Application Form(s):
	destinations_girl_application_2013.pdf destinations_girl_application_2013.doc