Merri-Mac Costa Rica Adventure
Date: December 27, 2019 – January 4, 2020
Grade: 8th – 12th grade girls
Cost: $3,200(flight not included)
Description:
Join Camp Merri-Mac & Timberlake this winter in Costa Rica! Have an adventure of a lifetime with your friends. “Pura Vida” is Spanish for “pure life.” This expression is the essence of Costa Rica, whether it is trekking in the cloud forest, surfing off the Pacific Coast, or playing “futbol” with the kids in the village of Piedras Blancas. While in Costa Rica, we will raft the Sevegre River (the second cleanest river in Central America), rappel down a waterfall, zip through the rainforest canopy, and brush up on our Spanish during home stays. While visiting the village of Piedras Blancas, we will also volunteer with the local community, harvest and process sugar cane, and make our own corn tortillas with the Ormidas family. Our time also includes learning about leadership, backpacking skills, and Latin culture.
Includes: Food, professional guides, transportation, permits, group equipment, instructor fees
Additional Course Costs: Personal clothing, flight to and from the course location (San Jose, Costa Rica)
Itinerary (subject to change)
Dec. 27 – Arrive at the Juan Santamaria Airport (SJO). Travel and stay at Coffee Plantation, just outside of San Jose.
Dec. 28 – Tour the coffee plantation and then head to the trailhead. Begin hike in rainforest to arrive at La Flecha for the first night of camping in the rainforest.
Dec. 29 – Hike 3 ½ hours to La Casa de Orlando to enjoy some great homemade Costa Rican food and beautiful views of the Piedras Blancas Valley.
Dec. 30 – Hike for 1 hour to the main Lopez Family house in Piedras Blancas. Upon arrival, enjoy Doña Flor’s excellent cooking and Don Hormidas’ great hospitality.
Dec. 31 – Jump in the river of Piedras Blancas and explore the village of Piedras Blancas and surrounding areas.
Jan. 1 – After eating gallo pinto for breakfast, hike to the Fonsecas Family Eco-Lodge alongside the Savegre River. Take in the beautiful views of the Savegre River and enjoy the natural gardens that surround this area.
Jan. 2 – Arrive at the Rio Savegre to begin the 16-mile rafting trip.
Jan. 3 – Surf instruction in Uvita. Enjoy the waves and monkeys that frequent this area! Travel back to San Jose.
Jan. 4 – Travel to airport for flight departure.
Where will we sleep?
We will stay in hostels, homes, and camp.
Why should I go?
- Because it is the best way to build confidence, create friendships, and experience new things.
- Because it is really fun, you will be proud of what you accomplish, and you’ll never forget what you experience!
