Costa Rica
Sea Turtle Ecology
HIGHLIGHTS
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Collect data on leatherback sea turtles
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Explore a tropical rainforest ecosystem
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Live like a researcher
ITINERARY
Join fellow students on a 7- or 9-day educational travel course in the rainforests of Costa Rica's Caribbean slope. You’ll travel by boat to Pacuare Reserve—a working field research station stewarded by EPI—and help scientists research and protect incredible species like leatherback sea turtles. When you’re not collecting data in the field, you’ll explore the biodiversity of a lowland tropical ecosystem on guided hikes with EPI instructors and Pacuare Reserve staff.
EPI’s Individual Student Travel Programs are designed for middle school, high school, and college students. You’ll join a group of other passionate students from all over the country, assist with real wildlife conservation projects, and propel your career path forward with confidence and a new sense of independence.
Health & Safety
Tuition, Financial Aid, & Fundraising
FAQ
TUITION & DATES
Your Fieldwork
Work with nesting leatherbacks
& protect hatchlings
The Leatherback is the largest of all sea turtles. Join researchers conducting night-time censuses of nesting turtles and collect key biometric data on this threatened species. If nests are found in unsuitable locales, you'll help relocate the nests to ensure the safety and success of the hatchlings.
Partner Profile
Pacuare Reserve is a scientifically managed wildlife reserve on Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast. Home to the most important leatherback nesting beach in Costa Rica, the reserve hosts a range of scientists studying sea turtles and other rare wildlife such as the jaguar and agami heron. Fundamental to its model of community-based conservation is the belief that students and teachers must be involved in the scientific study and preservation of wild habitat.
