Drake Bay, Costa Rica
A meaningful getaway in Costa Rica: Sustainability, yoga, and epic beaches
Nestled in Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, this retreat offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, community, and purpose. Participate in permaculture and soap-making workshops, enjoy daily yoga, practice your Spanish, and explore the area through sea turtle patrols and guided nature walks. Stay in cozy accommodations, savor fresh farm-to-table meals, and relax in hammocks just steps from the beach. This is more than a vacation. It is a journey back to yourself and to the Earth.
- Rob - Finca Ganadito
- Worldpackers host since Oct/2021
Starting from
US$ 898 for 8 days (US$ 112 per day)
Check dates & pricesJoin 160 worldpackers who've loved having this experience
Available group trips
Dec 07, 2025 - Dec 14, 2025
Come Join a Group of Aspiring Young Women Travelers in Costa Rica!
GO TO COSTA RICA WITH MY INCREDIBLE AUDIENCE OF NATURE LOVING WOMEN! If you’ve been dreaming about taking your first solo trip but don’t know where to start, this is it. Join a group of like minded young women in Costa Rica for an adventure that’s as safe and welcoming as it is unforgettable. We’ll save baby sea turtles, and explore some of the most beautiful beaches ever, all while surrounded by a small group of like-minded women who’ll quickly feel like best friends. You’ll have 24/7 local support, a trip coordinator, and plenty of time to explore at your own pace. This is more than just a vacation, it’s your first step into a world of freedom, confidence, and connection. You got this! Step out of your comfort zone and make it happen!🐢✨
Starting from
US$ 898
Requirements
- Beginner English or Beginner Spanish
- Over 18 years old
2 spots left
Dec 14, 2025 - Dec 21, 2025
Come Save Baby Sea Turtles With Katie!🐢
If you’ve been dreaming about taking your first solo trip but don’t know where to start, this is it. Join me in Costa Rica for an adventure that’s as safe and welcoming as it is unforgettable. We’ll save baby sea turtles, learn about sustainable living in the Costa Rican jungle, and explore some of the most beautiful beaches ever, all while surrounded by a small group of like-minded travelers who’ll quickly feel like friends. You’ll have 24/7 local support, a trip coordinator, and plenty of time to explore at your own pace. This is more than just a vacation, it’s your first step into a world of freedom, confidence, and connection. Let’s make it happen together! 🌊✨🐢
Starting from
US$ 986
Requirements
- Beginner English or Beginner Spanish
- Over 18 years old
2 spots left
Feb 15, 2026 - Feb 22, 2026
Come Join Ollie in Costa Rica!
If you’ve been dreaming about taking your first solo trip but don’t know where to start, this is it. Join me in Costa Rica for an adventure that’s as safe and welcoming as it is unforgettable. We’ll learn about sustainable living in the Costa Rican jungle, and explore some of the most beautiful beaches ever, all while surrounded by a small group of like-minded travelers who’ll quickly feel like friends. You’ll have 24/7 local support, a trip coordinator, and plenty of time to explore at your own pace. This is more than just a vacation, it’s your first step into a world of freedom, confidence, and connection. Let’s make it happen together! 🌊✨🐢
Starting from
US$ 1,052
Requirements
- Beginner English or Beginner Spanish
- Over 18 years old
Itinerary
Day 1
Afternoon
Arrivals
Welcome to paradise! Time to meet your hosts and group, get comfy, and feel the vibe of this life-changing week.
Evening
Ice Breaker Dinner
Let’s break the ice and get to know each other over a delicious meal! Meet your travel fam and start building real connections that last.
Day 2
Morning
Yoga Class
Wake up your body and mind with a gentle flow in the jungle. Breathe in, stretch out, and feel grounded.
Breakfast
Start your day with an amazing meal made by Chef Rebe, your co-host!
Orientation & Farm Tour
Get the lay of the land, explore the farm with Rob, your co-host, and learn how to connect all our conservation & sustainable living efforts.
Beach Workshop
During months with sea turtle conservation efforts, you'll learn how to spot turtle nests at the beach to prepare for patrolling!
Afternoon
Lunch
Enjoy a vibrant lunch made with farm-fresh ingredients and tons of flavor.
Spanish Class
Practice key phrases and local expressions so you can feel more confident while connecting with the community.
Evening
Dinner
End your day with a nourishing and satisfying meal packed with local flavor.
Turtle Talk
Learn all about sea turtle conservation, the local species, and how you’ll help protect them during your stay, between July and December.
Day 3
Morning
Biodiversity Survey
Join our morning nature walk to identify birds and other wildlife in this incredibly biodiverse region. Data collected will be reported to national conservation authorities!
Breakfast
Fuel up with a nourishing breakfast before diving into your hands-on farm experience.
Regenerative Farming Workshop
Learn how to create natural fertilizers, build garden beds, and plant food sustainably—get your hands dirty for a good cause!
Afternoon
Lunch
A colorful and hearty lunch featuring ingredients you may have helped plant!
Optional Rural Tour Opportunity
Explore the nearby community and learn about rural life in Costa Rica through immersive and authentic interactions.
Evening
Dinner
A cozy dinner to celebrate a day of learning, growth, and connection.
Sea Turtle Night Patrol
Walk along the beach under the stars and help protect nesting turtles in this unforgettable nighttime mission. This activity will happen between July and December.
Day 4
Morning
Breakfast
Get energized for the day with a farm-to-table breakfast full of vibrant colors and flavors.
Optional Corcovado National Park Tour / Free Day
Embark on an epic day tour to Corcovado, one of the most biodiverse places on Earth—or take the day to rest, enjoy the Ganadito beach, explore, or journal.
Afternoon
Lunch
Even on a free day, you’ll be spoiled by Rebe’s flavors if you stay at the project. Fresh, light, and made with love!
Evening
Dinner
Whether you explored the jungle or chilled by the beach, dinner’s waiting—warm, rich, and delicious.
Sea Turtle Night Patrol
Another chance to witness the magic of the turtles and make a real impact on conservation efforts.
Day 5
Morning
Yoga
Unwind and reconnect with your breath during a peaceful morning yoga session by nature.
Breakfast
Enjoy another beautiful breakfast with locally sourced ingredients and a whole lot of heart.
Coconut Workshop
Discover the many uses of coconuts, from milk to oil to bowls, and craft your own coconut creations!
Afternoon
Lunch
A vibrant midday feast made with fresh produce and Chef Rebe’s creative twist.
Spanish Class
Build on your Spanish skills with fun group activities and practical conversation practice.
Evening
Dinner
Savor rich tropical flavors with a warm, family-style dinner to celebrate your efforts and connection.
Coconut Curry Night
Taste the tropics! A flavorful, homemade coconut curry dinner shared around good company and laughter.
Day 6
Morning
Biodiversity Survey
Spot toucans, monkeys, and more during a guided walk designed to connect you deeper with the local ecosystem.
Breakfast
A final stretch of the week starts with a comforting breakfast and stunning views.
Soap Workshop
Get into the science and magic of natural soap making: learn about saponification and make your own custom bar.
Afternoon
Lunch
A delicious break between creativity and culture: Chef Rebe brings her A-game as always.
Optional Rural Tour Opportunity
Head out into the surrounding community for a final glimpse of rural Costa Rican life.
Evening
Dinner
An early dinner to wrap up a full and fascinating day: good food, good vibes, and great company.
Free evening or Sea Turtle Night Patrol
Join one last patrol or relax under the stars—your choice for your final full night.
Day 7
Morning
Breakfast
Enjoy your breakfast: savory, sweet, and made with cariño!
Cano Island Snorkeling Tour / Free Day
Head out for a once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling trip (not included in the itinerary) or enjoy a relaxed day soaking up the last bit of pura vida.
Afternoon
Lunch
A tropical goodbye feast made with the freshest ingredients and her signature love.
Finish Soap / Free Time
Put the final touches on your handmade soap or enjoy some quiet time before the farewell.
Evening
Dinner
One last delicious dinner together. Celebrate the memories, the flavors, and the new friendships.
Closing Night
A heartfelt farewell evening filled with stories, gratitude, and all the good vibes you’ll take home with you.
Day 8
Morning
Departure
Time to say goodbye! A trusted driver will take you to the boat or to the airport back to San José.
Breakfast
Your final breakfast, enjoy and don’t forget to thank Rebe!
The activities in this itinerary and their order can be adjusted according to seasonality and the needs of the project.
What's included
What's not included
Requirements
- Beginner English or Beginner Spanish
- Over 18 years old
Activities
See the activities that will make your trip into an epic adventure.
Learning opportunities
Contribute to your project and make a positive impact while developing new skills.
Regenerative Farming Workshop
Join and learn harvesting produce, building structures, and making bio-inputs.
Beach patrols
Join nighttime beach patrols to locate and protect sea turtle nests.
Turtle season from Jul to Dec
Release baby sea turtles
When the eggs hatch, help release baby turtles safely into the ocean!
Turtle season from Jul to Dec
Coconut Workshop
Learn to extract coconut milk and oil, fresh from the palms at Ganadito Beach.
Relocating nests to the hatchery
Relocate turtle eggs to hatcheries to protect them from predators.
Turtle season from Jul to Dec
Soap Making Workshop
Learn to make sustainable soap using coconut oil and other natural ingredients.
Collecting biodiversity data
Observe and record local wildlife activity to support Costa Rica’s conservation efforts.
Immersion activities
Get to know the local culture and have an authentic travel experience with activities included in your itinerary.
Spanish classes
Learn Spanish with your co-host Rob—two fun, practical lessons included!
Yoga Classes
Join two classes with your co-host Rebe and connect body & mind in nature.
Extra activities
Additional activities for you to enjoy this adventure even more in your free time.
Horseback Riding Tour
Includes local guide & horse for a 2h ride along Costa Rica’s stunning beaches.
Aprox. US$70
Beach Volleyball
Play a fun match with the group at Ganadito Beach, just 500m from your stay!
Gratis
Beach Bonfire
Enjoy a night of music, stories, and stars around a cozy beach bonfire.
Gratis
Snorkel at Caño Island
A 6h snorkeling tour in crystal-clear waters. Includes boat, gear, local team & transport.
Aprox. US$100
Floating River Tour
Float from river to beach! Includes 45-minute hike, guide, life jacket, transport & lunch.
Aprox. US$75
Corcovado National Park Tour
A 6h wildlife tour through Costa Rica’s top park! Includes transport, entry, and guide.
Aprox. US$125
Videos
Colby
United States
My time at Finca Ganadito was nothing short of spectacular. Rob, Rebe, Felipe, and everyone else on the team are masters of their crafts, and so clearly care deeply about the project. We never had a dull day, and were able to feel like we made a meaningful impact during our stay. Best of all the food was AMAZING, everyday we had 3 delicious hand cooked meals that were genuinely jaw dropping. Thank you guys for all your hard-work and dedication, I can't wait to be back one day!
1 day ago
Daniel
United States
My experience at Finca Ganadito was like no other!!! I experienced tranquility, inspiration like never before, delicious food, learned about my impact on the environment and was utterly amazed at the hospitality the hosts had to offer! I’ll let the pictures and descriptions speak for themselves, and to anyone still reading: go out of your comfort zone and do hard things! Go on this trip! You will learn more about yourself and nature in your short time at Finca compared to anywhere else!
1 day ago
Sydney
United States
I had an amazing time at the Finca Ganadito! Everyone was so welcoming and knowledgeable! The property is beautiful and in an amazing location. The work they have you doing truly makes you feel fulfilled and like you are making a difference. This was my first World Packers experience and I could not recommend it enough!
2 days ago
Gahl
United States
There are only good things to say about Finca Ganadito. Rob and Rebe are such wonderful people and hire so many other wonderful people for the staff. They are so welcoming and I always felt warmth and inclusivity from everyone who worked there. Facilities are really nice and clean, and the food was absolutely out of this world delicious. I couldn’t recommend it more, especially to someone solo traveling for the first time. Getting to acquaint yourself with a solo traveling by being in a group environment to kick off your trip is the perfect way to do it. Much love to Rob, Rebe, and staff🤍
2 days ago
Dorian
United States
Don’t think, Just book it. This will be the most incredible stay of your entire life.
2 days ago
Kamaryn
Guam
My time at Finca Ganadito was one of the best experiences I've had in my life thus far! Rob and Rebe were amazing hosts, Feli and all the volunteers, solo WP travelers and the families that were there were all such amazing individuals. Being apart of the culture and putting in the work for sea turtle conservation was amazing! Living and working on a self sustaining homestead, doing group activities, family meals 3 times a day was soo nice and the food was delicious. The energy that Finca Ganadito was like no other, very welcoming, very peaceful, it was a very humbling experience.
about 2 months ago
Talk to those who have lived the experience
In our community, you can talk to worldpackers who have already collaborated with this host and get your questions answered directly.
Connect with others who will also be there
Exchange ideas with other confirmed worldpackers before your trip.
+11
Accommodation options
Cabins
The dormitory offers a comfortable, close-to-nature experience. It accommodates up to 12 travelers of all genders in 6 cozy bunk beds, each one counts with mosquito nets to ensure a peaceful night's rest with nearby outlets to charge devices and shelves to store clothes and luggages. There are 5 bathrooms with showers for the travelers to use that are separated by gender.
The open-air structure welcomes a gentle breeze and the sounds of the surrounding rainforest, enhancing the immersive experience of living in one of the world's most biodiverse regions. There are 9 hammocks strung within the space and the dorm's construction has a wooden platform and a metal roof that provides shelter from the tropical rains.
- Pay-per-use laundry machine
- Internet (50 Mbps to 100 Mbps)
- Hot water showers
Round House
The dormitory offers a comfortable, close-to-nature experience. It accommodates up to 12 guests of all genders in 6 cozy bunk beds, each equipped with mosquito nets for a peaceful night’s sleep. Nearby outlets allow you to charge your devices, and shelves are available to store clothes and luggage. There are 5 bathrooms with showers, separated by gender, for added comfort and privacy.
The open-air structure invites gentle breezes and the soothing sounds of the surrounding rainforest, deepening the immersive experience of staying in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions. Nine hammocks are strung throughout the space, perfect for unwinding. The dorm is built on a wooden platform with a metal roof that provides reliable shelter from tropical rains.
- Pay-per-use laundry machine
- Internet (50 Mbps to 100 Mbps)
Meals
The menu is prepared by Rebe, one of the project's owner and Vegan chef. The meals are focused on plant-based dishes, offering a variety of delicious vegan options, as well as vegetarian dishes which may include dairy or eggs.
For breakfast the options may include overnight oats, various seeds, fresh fruit, pancakes, honey, burrito with scrambled eggs, cheese, greens, and refried beans.
For lunch and dinner, try an incredible pasta with homemade pesto, vegan bean burger or veggie curry that can be South Indian or Thai style. Eating like locals is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in a new culture, remember to be open to try new things.
Just a heads up: meals might look a little different from what's described, photos are for reference only.
Arrival orientation
The host Rob or a local trusted taxi driver will pick you up and drop you off at Drake Bay Airport (DRK) free of charge.
If you are arriving by boat in Drake Bay, you will need to pay for a taxi transfer to get to the project that costs around USD 10.
About the project
Rob’s connection with the Drake Bay community began in 2009 during his backpacking trip through Central America. Originally joining a sea turtle conservation initiative as a research assistant, his background as a biologist eventually led him to manage the program for six years.
Through nightly beach patrols alongside nesting sea turtles, he not only deepened his understanding of conservation but also learned Spanish and sustainable living from local residents, who affectionately nicknamed him “Rob Tortugo” — the turtle man. After years spent living on the Osa Peninsula, Rob returned to Drake Bay with his wife, Rebe, a Costa Rican psychologist, chef, and yoga instructor. Together, they created a purpose-driven initiative in Ganadito, near the turtle nesting beach, focused on ecological practices, community engagement, and immersive guest experiences. Now naturalized Costa Rican citizens, they continue to protect sea turtle nesting grounds, steward a forest reserve, support the local school, and promote conscious eco-tourism.
Over the years, more than 213 international participants have been trained in regenerative farming and sea turtle conservation, all while enjoying over 200 yoga and Spanish classes with the stunning beaches of Costa Rica as their backdrop. Together, they’ve planted more than 300 native trees, conducted over 30 biodiversity surveys, and created over 20 tons of soil enriched with organic bio-inputs. Nineteen local turtle patrol leaders have been trained in conservation management, protecting 270 nests and releasing over 20,000 baby sea turtles into the Pacific. These efforts have also raised more than $30,000 to support ongoing marine conservation in this tropical sanctuary.
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Top host
- This host receives a lot of worldpackers and has a high average rating.
- Languages spoken in this project
- English, Spanish
- How long does it exist
- 16 years
- Worldpackers host
- Since Oct/2021
About the destination
Drake Bay is located on the stunning Osa Peninsula and is the gateway to the Corcovado National Park. Famously referred to by National Geographic as "the most biologically intense place on Earth", the park is home to 2.5% of the world’s species.
The Drake Bay area consists of the main tourist town, known as Agujitas (where the boat taxi from Sierpe lands and from where the main tours depart), plus several smaller villages, such as Los Planes and El Progreso, and beach destinations, such as Ganadito, Caletas, Río Claro and San Josecito.
Agujitas has a relaxed backpacker vibe and several restaurants, cafes and bars, plus a fantastic coastal trail that extends all the way to the National Park, stopping at many picturesque beaches along the way.
Impact & Purpose
Over 213 international guests have taken part in hands-on training in regenerative farming and sea turtle conservation. Together, they’ve planted more than 300 native forest trees, completed over 30 biodiversity surveys, and produced more than 20 tons of soil along with multiple organic bio-inputs. These efforts have also helped train 19 local turtle patrol leaders in conservation management, leading to the protection of 270 sea turtle nests and the release of over 20,000 baby sea turtles into the Pacific Ocean. In total, this collective work has generated over $30,000 to support marine life protection in this tropical sanctuary.
By participating in this immersive experience, your contributions support regenerative agriculture, biodiversity, and sustainable living. Every action plays a role in strengthening ecological health and empowering local communities in one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet.
This host contributes to Sustainable Development Goals
Life below water
A portion of your program fee supports ongoing marine conservation work. During specific seasons, you may also get involved in field activities focused on protecting nesting sea turtles.
Life on land
You’ll explore the surrounding ecosystems through biodiversity monitoring, helping document and celebrate the rich wildlife that makes this region so unique.
Responsible consumption and production
You’ll take part in organic farming practices and help close the loop through the mindful handling of natural compounds that enrich the land.
Climate action
Conscious consumption of limited resources is encouraged throughout the experience.
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