- Costa Rica
- Panama
- Bocas del Toro
About Program
OUTDOOR LEADER SEMESTER (65 Days, Spring or Fall)
Discover your strengths and leadership style as you delve into the field of outdoor education through both technical & soft-skill training. Earn seven internationally-recognized certifications and 10 academic credits.
COAST TO COAST EXPEDITION (85 Days, Spring or Fall)
Coast to Coast Expedition is the perfect choice if you want a life-changing experience that will immerse you in a brand new culture, challenge you physically, and allow you to learn and grow as a leader. Earn 12 academic credits and five internationally-recognized certifications.
35-65 DAY RESIDENTIAL GAP SEMESTER (Spring or Fall)
Dive into science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) topics while exploring the tropics of Costa Rica and Panama. This Residential Gap Semester can last from 35 to 65 days and participants can bring electronics, cell phones, and laptops.
Video and Photos
Top graduates of this Outdoor Leader Semester program will be offered a paid internship as a Field Instructor Intern for Outward Bound Costa Rica’s summer high season, with the possibility of staying on as a year-round instructor.
COAST TO COAST EXPEDITION SEMESTER (85 Days, Spring or Fall)
Coast to Coast is the perfect choice if you want a life-changing experience that will immerse you in a different culture, challenge you on physically and grow as a leader while learning about yourself and how effective you are at leading others.
Embark on a 26-day cross-country expedition that will push you to expand your boundaries and give you new cultural awareness. Trek through rainforest valleys and dense cloud forests as you learn the local traditions of Costa Rica. Spend your evenings camping under the stars, living with host families on their farms, learning to cook using local ingredients, and learning more about yourself, your passions and dreams. Venture into Panama to become NAUI scuba certified, understand the fragile ecosystem of the ocean in the archipelago and test your skills at wakeboarding. Sea kayak to remote islands and work side by side with the indigenous villagers. Nicaragua will take you inland to work in local communities on school/orphanage projects and close contact with local school children. You can also earn 12 academic credits upon successful completion of course as well as earn international certifications in outdoor education.
Program Highlights
- Expand your boundaries and step out of your comfort zone while engaged in outdoor education.
- Gain a new cultural awareness during your stay in Costa Rica and Panama.
- Practice your Spanish language, build leadership skills, and boost your confidence.
- Earn internationally recognized certifications, giving you a competitive edge in your further study or future career.
- Enjoy a broad range of outdoor activities - sea kayaking, scuba diving, rappelling, rainforest trekking, etc!