Learn all about turtle conservation and work to protect native sea turtles on the Nicoya Peninsula of Costa Rica. Spend the days both enjoying the beach and working to keep it clean. Help protect the turtles during evening patrols looking for nests to relocate to safety. Carry out beach cleanups with park rangers and work daily shifts in the hatchery. Experienced conservationists will lead you through service and teach you about the many ongoing efforts to save sea turtles.
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Country:
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Costa Rica
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Duration:
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8 Days
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Departure/Return Dates:
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May 29 - June 05, 2023
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Starting From:
- $3,950 plus Airfare
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International Airfare Estimate:
- $1,000
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At Rustic Pathways we strive to keep your program fun and easy, even before your trip begins. To get ready for your program, just follow the steps below!
1. Sign-up with Rustic Pathways by clicking the ‘Enroll Now’ button at the top of this website. If you were enrolled in the 2020 program, you can bypass this step. Just make sure you have signed the updated Terms and Conditions sent to your email.
2. Upon registration close, Rustic Pathways will send invoices to each family for program payment. Payment can be made using the secure payment link in the invoice email. Any vouchers from 2020 will automatically be added to the account.
3. Complete your Medical and Emergency Information form and Participant Enrollment Agreement. Shortly after submitting your application, you will receive a link to this form in your email. To complete this form, enter the information requested and click “submit.” All participants and one parent/legal guardian will have to sign this form.
4. NOTE REGARDING INSURANCE: As participants on a Rustic Pathways program, students are required to purchase comprehensive trip insurance. Costa Rica also requires this for entry. We are working with our previous partner, Trip Mate for updated terms however this is not yet available. While we hope to have this as an option for you prior to travel, please also feel free to shop around individually as well.
5. Confirm that your passport is up to date. Passports must be valid for 6 months after your return date. NO EXCEPTIONS!
6. Visit your physician or a travel medicine clinic to discuss vaccinations or medications for your trip.
7. Enjoy your trip to Costa Rica!
Carry-On Luggage
A small backpack is the best carry-on bag – it can double as a day-pack once you arrive!
- Passport and Wallet (Travel Wallet that can be hidden under clothing is a good idea)
- Photo Copy of Passport (2 additional photocopies should be carried in checked luggage)
- Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of departure!
- Face Mask (at least 2 hand washable)
- Sunglasses
- Journal and Pens
- One change of clothes
- Good Book (trade with buddies!)
- Water bottle (Nalgene or similar)
- Medications
- Immunization Records (if applicable)
- Emergency Contact numbers for Rustic Pathways
- Consent to Travel Letter (for students under 19, recommended by the US State Dept but not required)
- Camera
Checked Luggage
A medium sized duffel bag or large backpack work best. Wheeled bags are OK as long as they are medium sized and can easily be carried like a duffle over rough terrain.
Clothing Items
Please bring at least a few outfits that can get dirty or destroyed for service work or adventure activities.
- Face Masks (2 per day or 2 cloth masks that can be hand washed)
- Underwear (8 to 9)
- Long Pants (3)
- Socks (7 to 8)
- Cotton T-Shirts (6-8)
- Quick-Dry T-Shirts (1-2) – Capilene, Polypropylene, or similar
- Light Sweater/Sweatshirt (1)
- Rainproof Jacket (1)
- Shorts (3-5) -Please be conservative regarding length
- Swim Suit (1 or 2)
- Athletic Shoes (1) – ok to get dirty, comfortable to hike in, and quick dry
- Strap-on Sandals (1) – such as Tevas or Chacos
- Flip-Flops (1)
- Hat for Sun
- Towel (1) – NOT white, large travel towels are great!
- Pair of Pajamas (1)
Toiletries
Non-scented, biodegradable products (such as Dr. Bronner’s or Mountain Suds) are great as they don’t attract bugs. Please pack all items that could leak in a plastic or ziplock bag.
- Shampoo & Conditioner
- Soap
- Deodorant
- Toothpaste & Toothbrush
- Sunscreen (2+) – 30+ SPF
- Insect Repellant (1-2) – 35% DEET
- Anti-itch Cream (1) – Benadryl or Hydro-cortisone
- Hand Sanitizer (1-2 small bottles)
- Contact Lenses & Solution (if applicable)
- Feminine Products (if applicable)
Misc. :
Headlamp/Flashlight – please bring one with a red-light option as this is the only way we can shine on the beach walks for the safety of the turtles.
Any questions? Contact your Rustic Pathways Program Coordinator:
groups@rusticpathways.com
440-975-9691