Our Outdoor Leader Semester students have reached the final week of their 65-day course with us in Costa Rica and Panama.

Last week, the students returned from a ten-day hike through Central Costa Rica, trekking through rainforest landscapes to homestays with local families in the remote village of Piedras Blancas.

“It’s the side of Costa Rica that even most locals don’t get to see,” said Danny H. of Wake Forest, North Carolina. “The beauty of this country is beyond what the eye can see from afar. Hiking through the back country was truly eye-opening.”

For many students, staying with local families and learning about Costa Rican culture was a course highlight.

“It was amazing to stay with local families and learn about the history and culture of Piedras Blancas,” said Rachel A. of Louisville, Colorado. “Hiking through a part of untouched Costa Rica was beautiful, eye-opening and inspiring.”

Despite the stunning views and exotic flora and fauna, the best part of backpacking was being welcomed into the lives of our homestays, learning about their culture and daily activities of living off the land,” added Luna T. of Alameda, Califorina. “Nothing beats freshly made cane sugar.”

Ten days of hiking was one of the biggest challenges the students have faced on course yet, and many found it rewarding.

“This phase showed me more of the real Costa Rica than all other phases,” said Luna. “As an inexperienced backpacker, there has never been a more gratifying feeling than standing at the peak of a four-mile uphill hike, viewing the entire mountain we had hiked across the days before.”

The group is currently whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River.

The students are on course for 65 days earning certifications that cultivate their leadership skills and give them unique insight into the field of outdoor education.

For more photos of the students in action, visit our Facebook page, and be sure to check back on our blog for more student updates.