We have welcomed university field trips from around the world including Princeton, Dartmouth, Westminster, Trinity, Aberystwyth, University of Washington, the International Youth Conservation Coalition, and more. From logistics to content, our team works with you to streamline the process and make sure your trip runs smoothly.
Education in the Rainforest
The Osa Conservation Campus is a private 7,000 acre wildlife refuge that boasts:
- Fully-equipped rainforest classroom ready for lecture of 30+ students
- Library with hundreds of publications on conservation and biology
- Private offices available for reservation
- Reliable charging stations
- Treetop access via canopy tower
Site-Based Immersion Modules
Osa Conservation tropical field immersion modules give students an experiential introduction to Neotropical conservation and the unique ecosystems and wildlife of the Osa Peninsula. These activities take advantage of our field sites to expose the exciting and practical aspects of field-based research and conservation. Instructors bringing students to our facilities may choose to build a field program utilizing these modules for the duration of their stay, or can supplement existing curricula with any of these activities.
The education modules are a half-day immersive experience consisting of the following:
- Introduction (5-10minutes)
- Lecture (~45 mins)
- Field Activity (~2 hrs)
- De-Brief and Assessment; Quiz (~30 mins)
Module prices vary based on the number of participants, ranging from $20 per person for large groups to $30 per person for small groups. See our “Student Group Rates” for more information on pricing.
Learn more about each of our immersive modules:
Tropical Restoration and Rewilding Module
This in-depth learning experience will focus on the theory and practice about active restoration methods suited for the neotropics and necessity of restoring and rewilding agricultural lands, pastures and secondary forests. By utilizing case studies throughout the region and at the Osa Conservation Campus, participants will get up-close and be part of active restoration and rewilding efforts.
Apex Predator and Prey Module
The Osa Peninsula is home to five wild cat species. This module focuses on the ecology of these mammals, our field monitoring methods, and the technologies used to obtain wildlife population distribution data – the results of which guide region-wide conservation efforts across the neotropics.
Tropical Tree Conservation Module
This hands-on experience of tropical tree conservation and propagation introduces participants to patterns of tree diversity, threats, and conservation approaches. Participants will also learn about tree conservation initiatives led by Osa Conservation’s team, including the first Center for Threatened Tree Propagation and the largest Arboretum in the region with in-situ and ex-situ collections.
Regenerative Agroecological Farm Module
Get back to your roots with this immersive module, which focuses on the socio-environmental problems related to agricultural exploitation. Participants dive into the concepts of regenerative agriculture and agroecology, then get their hands dirty on the Osa Verde farm, where these practices are put to work. The module includes a bio-inputs training session and a tour of Osa Verde’s agroecosystems.
Predatory and Pelagic Fish Module (Off-site, Puerto Jiménez)
Golfo Dulce is renowned as a crucial site for shark reproduction, as well as home to large predatory fish. These captivating animals are not only beautiful, but key indicators of ecosystem health. Their presence – or absence – helps scientists choose appropriate conservation actions. The predatory and pelagic fish module focuses on their biological aspects and importance, their threats for conservation, and the new technologies used to study them. Participants will learn about biodiversity of this large fish species, how to identify them, and the role of each in the ecosystem. We will explore the use of Baited Remote Underwater devices (BRUVs) and their scope in scientific research and conservation.
Sea Turtle Conservation Module
Dive into the evolutionary history, distribution, threats and development of conservation efforts, and discuss the groundbreaking research conducted by our team on highly endangered sea turtle populations. Participants will apply the knowledge gained in the classroom directly to the field as they patrol sectors of the 6km Piro Beach, bordering the Osa Conservation Campus. Seasonally dependent field activities ensure that students will experience the most of the project in the time they spend at our Conservation Campus.
Where the Rainforest Meets the Sea
Groups enjoy access to over 30 kilometers of self-guided trails that traverse primary, secondary and mangrove forests and feature our arboretum – a living museum that details over 400 species. Enjoy the remote rocky coastline of Piro Beach, which can only be accessed via the Osa Conservation Campus.
Testimonials
Group Housing for Students Surrounded by the Rainforest
Student groups are offered our group living facility with capacity for 24 guests. This space includes its own shower block, shared bathrooms and living space, and is surrounded by tropical rainforest.
Professors, chaperones, or others are welcome to reserve private rooms in our Conservation Cabins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Osa Conservation Campus located?
Osa Conservation is located in the southern part of Costa Rica, in the Osa Peninsula. The Peninsula is renowned as the most biologically diverse place on earth, where an astounding array of biodiversity resides on a miniscule fraction of the Earth’s surface.
How would our group get to your site?
After arriving to Costa Rica’s capital, San Jose, groups can either fly, bus, or drive to Puerto Jimenez, the nearest town to our Conservation Campus. From there, it is approximately a one-hour drive to our site. We are happy to help organize taxi service for your group. Free parking is available at our campus should you choose to reserve a vehicle for your group.
Is there a lecture space?
Yes. Our classroom is the perfect place to conduct workshops or host lectures with student groups. While you’re here, you may also have the chance to hear from scientists from around the world present their conservation research!
What are the group living facilities?
At our Conservation Campus, we have 1 dorm that can house 24 people with shared bathrooms. While we aim to provide as much privacy as possible, you may be staying with other groups when our campus is full. This facility hosts university, research, and student groups, as well as volunteers.
Student Group Rates
Groups from academic or training institutions are privy to our decreased Educational Experience Group Rate. These groups must be accompanied by a professor or certified group leader.
All rates are displayed in US Dollar and are current for 2023 & 2024 reservations. Educational Experience Group rates include shared lodging and three meals daily.
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$75 per person per day (international)
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$65 per person per day (national)
Module prices vary based on group size. Please contact our team directly with inquiries and to pre-book modules for your group’s visit.
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Group of 5: $30 per person
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Group of 6-15: $25 per person
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Group of 16 and more: $20 per person
Experience the Osa Conservation Campus!
Contact us to directly to begin planning your group’s experience. Send us an email at reservations@osaconservation.org or fill out the contact form below and we will get back to you as quickly as we can.
