Transfer to Monteverde: Travel to the misty highlands of Monteverde, a region renowned for its rich biodiversity.

Included Group Activities:

*Visit LBN Public High School in Naranjo: Engage with local students and teachers, gaining insights into Costa Rican education. 

Educational Takeaways

Cultural Exchange: Engaging with local students and teachers provides a unique opportunity for cultural exchange. Educators can gain insights into Costa Rican education practices, curriculum, and classroom management techniques, which can be compared and contrasted with their own systems.
Educational Practices: Observing different teaching methods and educational practices can inspire new approaches and strategies for educators to implement in their own classrooms.
Community Engagement: Understanding the role of community and family in Costa Rican education can offer valuable lessons on fostering community involvement and support in education.

*Permaculture Workshop/Visit Butterfly Garden: Learn sustainable farming techniques at a permaculture workshop or visit a vibrant butterfly garden.

Educational Takeaways

Sustainable Farming: Learning about permaculture techniques provides educators with knowledge on sustainable farming practices. This can be integrated into lessons on environmental science, sustainability, and agriculture.
Biodiversity and Conservation: Visiting a butterfly garden offers insights into biodiversity and the importance of conservation. Educators can use this experience to teach students about ecosystems, species interactions, and the role of pollinators in the environment.

*Night Guided Tour in Monteverde: Experience the nocturnal wonders of Monteverde on a guided night tour through the cloud forest.

Educational Takeaways

Nocturnal Ecology: A guided night tour through the Monteverde cloud forest offers a unique perspective on nocturnal wildlife and ecosystems. Educators can learn about the behaviors and adaptations of nocturnal animals, which can be shared with students to enhance their understanding of ecology.
Biodiversity: The tour provides an opportunity to observe a diverse range of species in their natural habitat. Educators can use this experience to discuss the importance of biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Environmental Awareness: Experiencing the cloud forest at night can foster a greater appreciation for natural environments and the need for their protection. Educators can inspire students to become more environmentally conscious and active in conservation efforts.
      

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Overnight in Valle Escondido en Monteverde (or similar)

Enjoy a day in Monteverde!

Included Group Activities

*Guided Hike to Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

Join expert guide Ricardo on a hike through one of the world’s most famous cloud forests.

Educator Takeaways

Biodiversity and Conservation: The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is home to a vast array of plant and animal species. Educators can learn about the importance of biodiversity and conservation efforts, which can be integrated into environmental science lessons.

Ecosystem Studies: The guided hike offers insights into the unique cloud forest ecosystem, including its climate, flora, and fauna. This knowledge can be used to teach students about different ecosystems and their significance.

Sustainable Tourism: Understanding how ecotourism supports conservation efforts can provide educators with examples of sustainable practices that can be discussed in geography and social studies classes.

*Tour/Visit Monteverde Friends School (MFS): Meet with the head of the school or a representative to learn about their unique approach to education.

Educational Takeaways

Quaker Education Principles: Learning about the Quaker approach to education, which emphasizes community, peace, and equality, can offer new perspectives on educational philosophies and practices.

Bilingual Education: Observing the bilingual curriculum at MFS can provide insights into the benefits and challenges of bilingual education, which can be valuable for educators working in diverse linguistic environments.

Community Engagement: The school’s strong community focus can inspire educators to foster a sense of community and collaboration in their own classrooms.

*Visit Casem (Oldest Women’s Coop in Monteverde): Support local artisans and discover the stories behind the oldest women’s cooperative in Monteverde.

Educational Takeaways

Empowerment and Entrepreneurship: The cooperative’s history and mission highlight the importance of empowering women through entrepreneurship. Educators can use this as a case study to discuss gender equality and economic development.

Cultural Heritage: Supporting local artisans and learning about their crafts provides a deeper understanding of Costa Rican culture and traditions, which can be shared with students to enrich cultural studies.

Sustainable Practices: The cooperative’s emphasis on sustainable and locally sourced materials can be used to teach students about sustainable business practices and environmental responsibility.

*The Bat Jungle Workshop & Gelato Time: Explore the fascinating world of bats with an educational workshop, followed by a sweet treat.

Educational Takeaways

Wildlife Education: The workshop offers a fascinating look into the world of bats, their ecological roles, and conservation efforts. This can be used to teach students about wildlife biology and the importance of protecting endangered species.

Cultural Experience: Enjoying local gelato after the workshop adds a cultural element to the experience, allowing educators to explore local cuisine and traditions.

*Free Time and Dinner with MFS Faculty: Enjoy some downtime and a casual dinner with faculty from the Monteverde Friends School.

Educational Takeaways

Networking and Collaboration: Casual interactions with MFS faculty provide opportunities for networking and exchanging ideas, which can lead to future collaborations and professional development.

Reflective Learning: Downtime allows educators to reflect on their experiences, gather new ideas, and plan how to integrate their learnings into their teaching practices.

Cultural Immersion: Sharing a meal with local educators offers a deeper cultural immersion, enhancing understanding and appreciation of Costa Rican culture and educational practices.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Overnight in Valle Escondido en Monteverde (or similar) 

Today we will spend another day enjoying Monteverde together!

Included Group Activities: 

*Sky Trek Adventure Treetopia: Soar through the treetops on a thrilling zip line adventure, offering breathtaking views of the cloud forest.

Educational Takeaways

Ecosystem Exploration: Soaring through the treetops on a zip line adventure offers a unique perspective on the cloud forest ecosystem. Educators can learn about the diverse flora and fauna, and the importance of preserving these habitats.

Environmental Science: The guided hike along suspension bridges and nature trails provides insights into the cloud forest’s climate, biodiversity, and conservation efforts. This knowledge can be used to teach students about environmental science and the significance of protecting natural ecosystems.

Adventure Learning: The thrill of zip lining can be used to discuss the benefits of experiential learning and outdoor education. Educators can explore how adventure activities can enhance student engagement and learning outcomes.

*Sugar Cane, Chocolate, and Coffee Tour: Dive into Costa Rica’s rich agricultural heritage with a tour focused on the production of sugar cane, chocolate, and coffee.

Agricultural Education: This tour provides a comprehensive look at the production processes of sugar cane, chocolate, and coffee. Educators can learn about the agricultural techniques, history, and economic importance of these crops in Costa Rica.

Sustainable Practices: The tour often highlights sustainable farming practices and the importance of environmental stewardship in agriculture. Educators can use this information to teach students about sustainable agriculture and its impact on the environment.

Free Time: Relax and explore Monteverde at your own pace.

Breakfast, Lunch included

Overnight in Valle Escondido en Monteverde (or similar) 

Today we will journey to Tambor! This is an amazing coastal paradise! 

Included Group Activities: 

*Transfer to Tambor/Hotel TangoMar: Travel to the coastal paradise of Tambor and settle into the beautiful Hotel TangoMar.

Educational Takeaways

Cultural Immersion: Experience the local culture and environment, which can provide insights into different ways of life and educational practices.

Networking: Opportunity to connect with fellow educators in a relaxed setting, fostering professional relationships and idea exchanges.

*Visit the Turtle Rescue Project: Participate in a workshop at the Turtle Rescue Project, learning about conservation efforts even if it’s not turtle season. 

Educational Takeaways

Conservation Education: Learn about marine biology, conservation efforts, and the importance of protecting endangered species. This knowledge can be integrated into science and environmental studies curricula.

*Enjoy the Beach & Free Time: Unwind on the pristine beaches of Tambor and enjoy some free time to soak in the sun.

Educational Takeaways

Well-being and Reflection: Time to relax and reflect on the day’s learning experiences. This can help educators recharge and return to their work with renewed energy and inspiration.

Inspiration for Outdoor Learning: Observing the natural environment can inspire ideas for outdoor and experiential learning activities for students.

Breakfast, Lunch included

Overnight in Hotel TangoMar (or similar)

Today we will explore the area together. All listed activities are included!

Included Group Activities: 

*Visit Curú Wildlife Reserve: Discover the diverse wildlife of Curú, a private reserve known for its ecological significance.

Educational Takeaways

Biodiversity and Conservation: Learn about the diverse ecosystems and species within the reserve, including tropical dry forests and mangrove swamps. This can provide valuable insights into conservation efforts and biodiversity, which can be integrated into science and environmental studies curricula.

Sustainable Practices: Understand how sustainable development can be implemented without harming the environment. This knowledge can inspire discussions on sustainability and eco-friendly practices in the classroom.

*Turtle Island Snorkeling Tour: Dive into crystal-clear waters and explore the vibrant marine life around Turtle Island.

Educational Takeaways

Marine Biology: Explore the vibrant marine life around Turtle Island, including tropical fish and coral reefs. This hands-on experience can enhance understanding of marine ecosystems and the importance of marine conservation.

Environmental Awareness: Highlight the impact of human activities on marine environments and the importance of protecting these ecosystems.

*Hike to Mangroves: Take a scenic hike through mangroves, exploring one of Costa Rica’s most unique ecosystems. 

Educational Takeaways

Ecosystem Exploration: Discover the unique mangrove ecosystems, which are crucial for coastal protection and biodiversity. This can provide a deeper understanding of the interdependence of different ecosystems and their roles in the environment.

*Bioluminescence Night Tour: Experience the magical glow of bioluminescent waters on a guided night tour—a truly unforgettable experience.

Educational Takeaways

Natural Phenomena: Experience the wonder of bioluminescence, learning about the organisms that produce this natural light and the conditions that allow it to occur. This can spark curiosity and interest in natural sciences among students.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included

Overnight in Hotel TangoMar (or similar) 

 Today we will head to Alajuela together and discover the town of Sarchi.

Included Group Activity:
*Sarchi Town Tour: Visit the charming town of Sarchi, famous for its colorful oxcarts and artisan souvenirs.

Educational Takeaways

Cultural Heritage: Learn about the history and significance of Sarchi’s famous colorful oxcarts, which are a symbol of Costa Rican culture.

Economic Insights: Understand the role of local crafts in the economy and how artisan communities sustain their livelihoods.

*Free Time: Enjoy some leisure time to explore Alajuela or relax before your departure.

Educational Takeaways

Personal Reflection: Use this time to reflect on the experiences and learning from the trip, which can help in integrating new ideas into teaching practices.

Exploration and Relaxation: Explore Alajuela or relax, providing a balance between structured activities and personal downtime, which is essential for overall well-being and creativity.

Breakfast & Dinner included

Overnight in Alajuela Hotel (or similar)

Individual Departures to the USA: Say goodbye to Costa Rica as you head to the airport for your flight back home, taking with you memories of a truly enriching adventure and reflecting on all of the amazing experiences you will bring back to your classroom! Our team will assist with airport transfers

Extend your stay and do a hike! 

Optional Activity:  Hike El Tigre Waterfalls 

Meals Included: Breakfast