Thumbnail

Vista Hermosa Farm Project

Why choose Vista Hermosa Farm Project?

Our organization is creating a working model of a bio-intensive, organic, sustainable (permaculture) farm & will use this model, in conjunction with traditional teaching methods (lectures, films, literature) as a hands on learning experience. Volunteers/students will learn how to grow larger quanties of food per square meter. Using these methods, we will teach how to build our own high quality soil, maintain soil & nutrients, all while having a low carbon impact on the environment.

The program will also teach methods to develop self sustained, environmentally sound living. Our farm will implement these methods and our goal is that it will not only feed a group of volunteers, workers and directors, but will also provide additional fresh organic produce to the local community over time. We will also teach other topics such as reforestation, soil erosion prevention, community development and small farming entrepreneurship.

Founded
2015

Reviews

Default avatar
Carolyn
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Amazing experience!

Vista Hermosa Farm project is such an amazing organization, run by people who truly care an want to make a difference. My friend and I spent 5 days on the farm, during which we helped maintain the garden, plant banana trees, put together compost, make tomato trellises, helped cook healthy meals, among other activities. But it wasn't all work - we also went horseback riding, took a hike to a waterfall, visited a neighboring town's farmer market, squeezed sugarcane juice, and even milked a cow!
The food was all made fresh (and tasted amazing) and the living quarters were simple but comfortable. I definitely would recommend this organization to anyone who wants to help promote suitability and isn't afraid to get their hands a little dirty :)

What would you improve about this program?
More volunteers! Plans for various upgrades and amenities for volunteers are in the works :)
Default avatar
sean
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

I Definitely Recommend this program!

I volunteered at Vista Hermosa Farm in March of 2018. This is a incredible location, like a postcard or surreal backdrop, in every direction that you look! I enjoyed the staff very much, Kian, Christina and Katherine were excellent and I learned so much. I got to have a hand in the volunteer house renovation (which is going to be so nice!), as well as learned a great deal about composting and bio-intensive permaculture growing! I left the program very motivated to share my new knowledge and ideas with my community. I am even thinking about starting my own growing business. The hiking is amazing and there are some places that you can reach by hiking around the property that are just incredible! Go there!!!!

What would you improve about this program?
They are doing a lot of infrastructure development that will make the place better and better. Part of the adventure is helping to build it (for us volunteers)!
Default avatar
Jeff
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Vista Hermosa a place to see, be and stay

My only disappointment with my visit to Vista Hermosa Farm Project is that I had to leave after six days. This location is so spectacular that I would stay there for any reason. The fees were so reasonable it almost felt like it was free. I knew coming in that farming had not yet started there and I would be working on infrastructure. Despite this the nightly seminars made me feel like I was ready to go home and start my own intensive farm project. Kian the project director was amazing. He is so enthusiastic about what he is doing and really into making everything fun. I especially enjoyed our spectacular hike down to the rivers that surround the farms 100 acre property. I am hoping I can find the opportunity to return to the farm and get my hands into some newly created soil.

What would you improve about this program?
This is difficult to say since the project is still in its creation phase. The accommodations are comfortable and the food is good and healthy. After my next visit I will be better able to answer this question.
Default avatar
Karen
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Great Volunteer Experience!

I just finished a 2 week stay at Vista Hermosa. It was exciting for me to be there for the developing part of this project! I worked with Kian, the program director, Eduardo, their Costa Rican guide and a few other volunteers to expand the volunteer quarters and begin a large growing plot. I learned so much at our evening seminars and had an awesome time working on this project. I wanted to stay longer to help build the chicken coops, but was unable (had to return to work in the USA). Kian is an amazing human being and the place has the most beautiful setting with absolutely incredible views in every direction. I took one of Eduardos horseback tour through the mountains to the waterfall and it was fantastic and full of laughter and fun! I highly recommend Vista Hermosa Farm!!

What would you improve about this program?
It was terrific. Kian said they may be adding a pool this summer and I enjoyed myself without the pool, but if they do that, it would be even better of course!

Programs

Displaying 1 - 1 of 1