Options are more and more varied when it comes to taking a Gap Year, particularly if you decide to go abroad. The variety of options can become overwhelming, so we’ve decided to help by listing some of the reasons why you should absolutely make Costa Rica a top destination:
Biodiversity & Nature
Costa Rica, a small Central American country, is known for its lush rainforests and great environmental practices. The country is incredibly diverse: about a quarter of the territory is dedicated to protected national parks and rainforests, which hold 5% of the world’s biodiversity.
You can safely observe volcanoes in Costa Rica: the country has more than 200 volcanic formations, though only five volcanoes are actually listed as active. The areas around volcanoes have particularly fertile soil and are therefore special spots in which to hike and observe nature at its best.
Ethan, a participant in our Summer Expeditions, described completing a course in Costa Rica as: “a great leap outside your comfort zone, exposing you to the wonders of the world.”
Waterfalls also abound: and what best way to connect with nature than rappelling down a rushing waterfall? You’ll also enjoy the view at the top then a swim in the fresh water at the bottom. From the cloud forest to the magnificent coast, Costa Rica is full of natural landscapes that beg to be explored.
The Wildlife
Whether you want to see monkeys or butterflies, Costa Rica is the place to go. The country is home to a wealth of species, including 812 bird recorded species, and protected areas provide shelter for all these animals.
Costa Rica is home to a large sea turtle population, especially leatherback sea turtles. The turtles come to shore one to two times a month in mass nestings known as arribadas, from August to December to lay their eggs. Students with Outward Bound Costa Rica work on projects with local biologists to help with sea turtle conservation, whether on a Girl Scout Destination or Summer Expedition.
Students also participate in service projects focusing on reforestation, which is essential for animals, including the slowest animals in the world: sloths! While they are discreet, these cute mammals can be seen sleeping in trees in trees at the edge of beaches or along the way when you hike.
In addition, students on certain hike programs get to stop at Rancho Tinamu, in the National Park of Piedras Blancas, and get to go on a walk at night to observe different frog species.
Outdoor Activities
Costa Rica is one of the best destinations if you are an adventure junkie! The list is endless: ziplining through the rainforest canopy, surfing on world-renowned beaches (Costa Rica is one of the top three surf destinations in the world), rafting on world-class rapids, and more.
There is also scuba diving, and kayaking – you can even head to the neighboring country of Panama in order to practice these activities in the Archipelago of Bocas del Toro. Students from Winterline will arrive in a few days to Costa Rica to do just that.
All these activities are not only fun, but also a unique opportunity to learn essential life skills, such as leadership, self-confidence and independence.
“I learned that I am capable of more than I thought and that I have been limiting myself. I know that I can do anything and be anything and that life is mine for the taking,” said Rachel, who participated on a Semester Program.
OBCR semester courses give you a leg up in applying for a position in the Outdoor Industry. With the opportunity to earn 7 internally recognized certifications coupled with language, technical and social skills you will present yourself as a qualified candidate to be taken seriously.
“Not only have I expanded my knowledge and career options through terrific certifications, but I have made huge strides in my physical and mental strength. I can really see myself as a leader now too, and Outward Bound Costa Rica has set me up for a really amazing future,” said Luna, who also participated in one of our Semester Programs.
The Culture
Costa Rica has a rich history that you can discover in the museums located in the capital of San Jose. It’s also easy to find places to indulge in traditional meals such as Gallo Pinto. This dish of rice and beans is served in the morning for breakfast, usually alongside eggs and tortillas. Gallo pinto means “painted rooster” in Spanish and it’s definitely one of our favorite local meals! You can accompany it with delicious fresh Costa Rican coffee (there are around 78,000 coffee producers in Costa Rica).
Costa Rica is also known as the happiest country in the world and hasn’t had an army for more than sixty years. Everywhere you go, locals will great you by saying “Pura Vida”, or “pure life”, a saying that captures the spirit of the country well. This national expression is not only a greeting, but also a salutation and a way of life that involves a laid back and optimistic attitude. Happy Planet Index actually ranks Costa Rica as the happiest country in the world with its high life expectancy, levels of well-being and environmental initiatives.
We can’t wait for our current students to share their stories about their time in Costa Rica and Panama, and help us continue the list of everything Costa Rica has to offer!
To learn more about our programs, check out our website, and stay tuned to our blog to learn more about the adventures of Winterline students in Central America as they enjoy their Gap Year around the world.