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WEEKS 1 & 2 Volunteer Project

Each volunteer work project runs for the 1st two weeks and is operated in partnership with well-established conservation organizations including, not-for-profits, government and non government organizations (NGOs), private industries, and local grassroots groups or researchers. Projects are based in various locations throughout Costa Rica. Volunteer Work Projects Each project can be broadly classified based on the goals of the host organization, the project location, and the primary work task.

CONSERVATION VOLUNTEER WORK PROJECTS & HOST ORGANIZATIONS

ANAI - Gandoca is a non-government and non-profit organization that has been working for the conservation and sustainable development of the Talamanca Region of Costa Rica since 1978. ANAI seeks to integrate conservation of the sea turtles and their eggs with sustainable development through the commitment and participation of the local community, in close collaboration with national and international volunteers and scientists. These projects will put into practice methods aimed at eliminating the destruction of sea turtle nests in Costa Rica and strengthening the processes that seek to stop the slaughter of nesting turtles.

Carey Wildlife Project is a research project focused on the conservation of endangered species of frugivores ("fruit eaters") in the Osa Península, Costa Rica, and their role in the regeneration of tree species through seed dispersal. The information gained will be used to help establish wildlife conservation priorities and strategies within the Osa Península, and to increase public awareness of the importance of maintaining healthy populations of spider monkeys and other frugivores in the area.

Finca Las Lapas, in the village of Aranjuez, near the Gulf of Nicoya, is a project dedicated to the conservation, rehabilitation, and breeding of the Scarlet Macaw and the Green Macaw, both of which are currently in danger of extinction. At present, there are estimated to be less than 25 breeding pairs of Green Macaws in Costa Rica and although the Scarlet Macaw is more numerous, it is now only possible to see this species in isolated parts of the country. Both species are bred solely for release into the wild at Finca Lapas.

Kéköldi Indigenous Reserve hosts a research project focused on the conservation of natural resources in this Reservation located in Talamanca, Costa Rica. The project looks at the importance of different groups of birds and plants as indicators of ecosystem health and aims to develop alternative activities for the sustainable use of biodiversity. These are mainly through specialized ecotourism, volunteer participation and cooperation with researchers. By combining scientific research and community development, Kéköldi Project hopes to contribute to the sustainable development of the community while conserving the integrity of the Kéköldi Indigenous Reserve.

Ostional Sea Turtle Conservation. Located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Ostional has long been known for the "arribadas" (mass nesting) of the Olive ridley turtles; however, more recently this site is also being considered as one of the most important Leatherback nesting beaches on the Pacific coastline of the Americas. Currently, ISV Costa Rica is working together with the Ministry of Environment, as well as with the community of Ostional to help conserve the Leatherback turtles that nest at Ostional through monitoring, research and protection of nests.

Wildlife Survey in Golfo Dulce. Surrounded by pristine tropical fiords, this project in conjunction with the Vida Marina Foundation researches the living marine and wildlife resources in Osa Peninsula. It constitutes an important asset to the understanding of the ecological dynamic of Osa's ecosystems. This project will provide a head start towards achieving a comprehensive baseline in the development of management strategies for the area.

San San Pond Sak (Sea Turtle and Manatees Conservation Program, Panama) Located on the Caribbean coast of Panama, immersed in lush greenery and surrounded by pristine water mirrors, this non-governmental, non-profit organization has been devoted since 2005 in the protection of sea turtles and manatees with the support of Panamanian and international researchers and foundations. The populations of manatees on this wetlands are the largest in all Central America. You'll be monitoring them while paddling a canoe during the days, and also will be patrolling the beach at night in search of nesting turtles and their eggs.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS & HOST ORGANIZATIONS

Participants involved in community development volunteer work projects in Costa Rica will generally undertake a variety of tasks and activities. These include light to moderate construction and painting, gardening, some basic English teaching, and general assistance with the livelihoods of the community members (depending on project location and specific community).

Alianza Garabito. A community alliance formed by members of Garabito de Aguas Zarcas, a village in the Zona Norte region of Costa Rica. Their main objective is to establish a sustainable income for the community, while protecting the local environment, in particular, the water resources of the area. The long-term goal of the community is to become an example of a successful, sustainable-developed community, in which all the families enjoy healthy lifestyles and employment opportunities.

APROSAMA, San Marcos. The Association of Agro-forestry Producers and Environmental Management, located in San Marcos de Cutris, was legally constituted as a non-profit association in 1992 with the mission to improve people's quality of life in the Northern Region of Costa Rica. In order to achieve that, APROSAMA has created and implemented projects in three strategic areas: sustainable production; environmental management and education; and agro-ecotourism maintaining the local culture.

APECH, San Jerónimo. El Chirripó Producers Association (APECH), located in the slopes of Chirripó National Park, unites local producers to provide agricultural and social development alternatives for the surrounding community. Their main activity and source of income is the production of citrus fruits. APECH is helping to design and implement an agro-ecological program to enhance the Association's organic agriculture, environmental education, and reforestation programs.

ASOMOBI, Biolley. The Organized Women's Association of Biolley (ASOMOBI) was established in 1996 by a group of 15 women from Biolley, a community located in the slopes of La Amistad Biosphere Reserve. ASOMOBI was created to generate productive options that would allow its members to make their living in an environmentally and culturally sustainable manner, and through these opportunities, the organization also served as an alternative for the locals who would otherwise migrate due the lack of jobs in the area. Members of the Association are currently involved in the coffee process and production, as well overing ecotourism services.

ASOPROLA, Altamira. The Association of Producers, La Amistad (ASOPROLA) develops projects that allow the region's inhabitants to make their living in an environmentally and culturally sustainable manner. They develop environmental education programs to promote natural resource conservation in the area, as well as sustainable community development.

El Yüe, Organic Farmers. The Association of Producer Families El Yüe was established by 12 women from three small communities in the Province of Limon, who were concerned about the unsustainable use of the natural resources in this region. Their goals include increasing the number of families working as organic farmers in the region, the development of alternatives to improve their quality of life through sustainable and environmentally friendly means, and improving the health of their communities by producing pesticide-free products.

La Gran Vista Agro-Ecological Farm, situated in lovely General Valley, is a non-profit, family-run project that aims to spread awareness of environmentally sustainable agriculture to other farmers in the region, thus assisting in the sustainable development of nearby communities. It is intended to provide an example for other farmers of how organic farming, soil regeneration and conservation, and enhancement of the natural environment can be employed successfully.

Quizarrá Forest Conservation Committee, (Cocoforest). Located in the village of Quizarrá, in Pérez Zeledón County, the organization's mission is to protect areas surrounding Los Cusingos Sanctuary for Neotropical Birds, and the Alexander Skutch Biological Corridor. This will help to counter the loss of forests due to logging and farming, enhance the remaining areas of evergreen tropical rain forest, promote environmental education, and develop environmentally sustainable employment opportunities in the community.

Santa Elena de Pital. The Asociación de Mujeres Amigas (The Association of Women Friends) was founded in June 1995 by a group of women in the community of Santa Elena de Pital who were looking to improve their educational opportunities and provide a more just income for their families as well as encourage the development of their community through various projects. Their mission is "Constant improvement, protection of the remaining patch of forest, and the conservation of flora and fauna," and their vision is to achieve an improved standard of living for themselves and their families.

VIDA Environmental Association. VIDA (Spanish for Volunteers Organization for Environmental Research and Development), was founded in 1988 with the mission of develop projects and programs in three specific categories: environmental education, conservation and voluntary work (both formal and informal) in order to improve environmental education, support protected areas, and assist with community development in Costa Rican rural areas. VIDA promotes activities, programs and projects that raise awareness of the importance of ecosystems, as well as the appropriate management and sustainable use of natural resources. It aims to improve the quality of life and support the sustainable development of communities.

WEEKS 3 & 4 Adventure Tour

Day 1: Arrive in Heredia
Lodging: Hotel América
Return to the city from the Volunteer Project (laundry time!). The ISV Adventure Tour Orientation will take place in the afternoon. Tonight, relax and explore the city.

Day 2: Heredia to Rio Pacuare
Lodging: Rios Tropicales Jungle Lodge
Get ready for high-adrenaline whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River, Class III and IV rapids (an ISV Included Activity). The Pacuare is rated one of the top five rivers in the world to raft. Along the way, you will stop to swim in secluded, natural swimming holes. Overnight in the incredible Rios Tropicales Jungle Lodge and experience a traditional Costa Rican meal prepared by the local river guides.

Day 3: Rio Pacuare
Lodging: Rios Tropicales Jungle Lodge
Awake to the sounds of the rushing river. Early risers can enjoy some phenomenal bird-watching and get ready for the best-ever waterfall hike. Relax in the evening and enjoy the tranquility of the river; this is truly one of the country's most scenic locations!

Day 4: Rio Pacuare to Selva Bananito
Lodging: Selva Bananito Lodge
Start the day with a hearty breakfast, followed by more exhilarating whitewater rafting. You will then travel to the rainforests of the Caribbean region, crossing two rivers to reach our beautiful accommodations. Selva Bananito is one of the world's top eco-lodges. In this idyllic location, there is no better place to learn about and experience sustainable tourism.

Day 5: Selva Bananito
Lodging: Selva Bananito Lodge
Learn about rainforest flora and fauna of the Caribbean region with a guided nature hike (an ISV Included Activity). Experience the breathtaking beauty of primary and secondary tropical rainforest. With luck, you will see toucans, colorful poison dart frogs and many other species as you trek through the reserve. Finish off the day with an optional tree climb or horseback ride at Selva Bananito.

Day 6: Southern Caribbean to Tortuguero
Lodging: Evergreen Lodge
Today is a travel day as you head to Tortuguero. Getting there is half the experience as we must take a motorboat from Caño Blanco and travel along the canals for one and a half hours to reach your final destination. Tortuguero is famous for its sea turtles and National Park. In the afternoon we will explore Tortuguero Village (an ISV Included Activity) and visit the sea-turtle information centre, the CCC.

Day 7: Tortuguero
Lodging: Evergreen Lodge
Today is another amazing day for wildlife viewing. Watch for sloths and monkeys in the forest while exploring the amazing canals and lagoons of Tortuguero National Park by kayak (an ISV Included Activity).

Day 8: Tortuguero to La Fortuna (Volcan Arenal)
Lodging: La Cangreja Lodge
Travel to Volcan Arenal near the small town of La Fortuna. In the evening, those with the ISV Optional Activity Package can relax in natural thermal springs and watch out for nature's fireworks!

Day 9: La Fortuna
Lodging: La Cangreja Lodge
Spend the day at Arenal Mundo Aventura, an ecological adventure park like no other in Costa Rica. Enjoy the fantastic zip-lines and learn about the indigenous "Maleku" culture through a visit to their mystical village (an ISV Included Activity). If you have the ISV Optional Activity Package, test your courage on the largest rappel in Costa Rica! Descend 30m (90ft) free-rappel followed by 50m down Pino Blanco waterfall.

Day 10: Volcano Arenal to Monteverde
Lodging: Hotel El Establo
Monteverde, literally 'Green Mountain', is one of the most beautiful destinations in the country. Learn about the unique culture and visit the many local artisan shops. You will hike within the Monteverde Cloud Forest Preserve ecosystem (an ISV Included Activity). This type of ecosystem is threatened internationally due to global climate change – this is a very special opportunity! As you hike along the nature trails, look out for the endangered rainforest bird the resplendent quetzal, and also listen for howler monkeys. You would learn a lot from hiking with a professional naturalist guide who are experts at explaining about the cloud forest and helping you see things that the average person will miss (guide hire is part of the ISV Optional Activity Package).

Day 11: Monteverde Site-seeing
Lodging: Hotel El Establo
Today is a free day; try the orchid gardens, the frog pond or serpentarium. A fun and scenic option in the morning is to go horseback riding through an organic farm (part of the ISV Optional Activity Package). In the afternoon enjoy Selvatura Park Canopy tour (part of the ISV Optional Activity Package), experiencing one of the tallest and fastest series of zip-lines, located inside the actual cloud forest of Monteverde.

Day 12: Monteverde to Playa Ocotal
Lodging: Ocotal Beach Resort & Marina
Travel to the beautiful Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. Tonight, unwind with volleyball on the black-sand beach and take in a magnificent sunset.

Day 13: Playa Ocotal
Lodging: Octotal Beach Resort and Marina
Go snorkeling from a boat with a guide and explore beneath the surface of the Pacific Ocean (part of the ISV Optional Activity Package). The area is famous for the abundance of marine life, including schools of fish, manta rays and whale sharks. Dolphins often cruise alongside the boat on the way to the snorkeling site! Participants will also have the opportunity to scuba diving at an additional cost.

Day 14: Pacific Coast to Heredia
Lodging: Hostel La Dehesa
Return to the central valley via Sarchi, the crafts center of Costa Rica. The town of Sarchi is perhaps most widely recognized for its colorful and decorative oxcarts that have been made here for over a century. A national symbol of Costa Rica, the oxcart plays a key role in the country's history, as they were used to transport coffee beans to nearby and faraway markets. This is a great place to obtain well-made Costa Rican souvenirs, particularly woodcraft, jewelry and masks.

Enjoy a farewell dinner during the final night with the group.

Day 15: The adventure ends.