Uvita, Costa Rica
Coral Reef Restoration & Ocean Adventure: Marine Conservation & Coastal Immersion in Costa Rica
Dive into a journey where the ocean becomes your classroom. The traveler will join a dedicated group to help restore vital coral ecosystems while exploring the breathtaking coast of Costa Rica. This experience blends hands-on marine conservation with the thrill of ocean adventure, designed for those who want to protect our blue planet. Beyond the water, the group will connect with local culture and develop a deep understanding of marine biology in one of the world's most vibrant settings.
- Kerri Bowers
- Worldpackers host since Nov/2025
Available group trips
Dec 01, 2027 - Dec 07, 2027
Coming soonMore dates available soon
Dates to book this experience for 2026 and 2027 will be available soon, stay tuned!
Starting from
US$ 1,217
Itinerary
Day 1
Morning
Airport pickup
Your journey begins the moment you land! A dedicated member of our team will be waiting for the group right outside the exit of SJO International Airport
Afternoon
Welcome Lunch & Check-in
Kick off your journey with a warm tropical welcome! As soon as you arrive at our coastal base, you’ll be greeted with a fresh, locally-sourced lunch—the perfect first taste of Costa Rican flavors. After refuelilng, we’ll get you checked into your breezy dorm so you can unpack and settle into the coastal rhythm.
Orientation with WeVOL team
This is where the vision comes to life. The group will gather with the WeVOL team for an immersive orientation designed to bridge the gap between passion and action. We’ll dive deep into the project’s core goals, setting intentional expectations for the week ahead and defining our impact roles.
Evening
Healthy Dinner
Wind down your first day with a vibrant, family-style dinner designed to nourish both body and spirit.
Day 2
Morning
Breakfast
Fuel up with fresh tropical fruits and local coffee for a day of ocean impact and adventure.
Meet Coral Reef Restoration Team
Connect with expert marine biologists and scientists leading the project. You’ll learn about their mission, hear real-world stories from the field, and officially join the team as a guardian of the ocean.
River to Reef workshop & Laboratory Tour
Go behind the scenes at the marine lab to see how we cultivate coral. You'll explore the science connecting river health to reef survival and get hands-on with the tech used to restore our oceans.
Afternoon
Lunch
Recharge with a fresh, family-style meal featuring authentic Costa Rican flavors and local ingredients.
Surf Lesson
Grab a board and hit the Pacific swell! Whether you're a pro or a total beginner, our instructors will help you find your flow and catch your first Costa Rican waves in an iconic surf paradise.
Evening
Team Dinner & Group Planning
Bond over a delicious group meal while we map out the mission for our upcoming lab day. It’s the perfect blend of good food, shared goals, and collaborative planning to maximize our impact on the reef.
Day 3
Morning
Breakfast
Start your day with fresh tropical fruits, local coffee, and hearty whole foods.
Reef to River Work
Dive into your first full field shift as a citizen scientist, it’s hands-on, high-impact work that directly supports our long-term conservation data.
Afternoon
Lunch
Step out of the sun and gather for a fresh, community-style lunch. You’ll enjoy authentic Costa Rican flavors and nutrient-dense ingredients curated to keep your energy high.
Back to Coral Reef Work
Return to the front lines of marine conservation for our third dedicated work shift. The group will get hands-on with coral nursery maintenance, cleaning the structures and ensuring the fragments have the perfect environment to thrive.
Evening
Yoga Class
Reconnect your mind and body with a yoga flow designed specifically to stretch out your tired muscles. Led by an expert instructor, this session helps you find your balance and ground your energy as the tropical day winds down.
Healthy Dinner
It’s a time to gather around the table, share reflections from the day, and enjoy the authentic community spirit that makes this journey so special
Turtle Patrol
Join a magical night mission to protect the coastline’s most ancient visitors. The group will patrol the beach under the stars to monitor nesting grounds and safeguard sea turtle eggs from predators.
Day 4
Morning
Breakfast
Energize your morning with a vibrant spread of seasonal fruits, local Costa Rican coffee, and nourishing whole foods.
Isla Cano Snorkel Boat Trip
Set sail for the crystal-clear waters of Isla del Caño, one of Costa Rica's premier marine reserves. You’ll dive into a vibrant underwater world to snorkel alongside sea turtles, rays, and schools of tropical fish.
River to Reef Work
Take your research to the high seas during our fourth dedicated work shift. While exploring the waters of the marine reserve, you'll assist the team with vital data collection and reef monitoring.
Afternoon
Lunch on the island
Enjoy a unique 'castaway' dining experience with a fresh, picnic-style lunch right on the pristine shores of Isla del Caño.
Yoga Class
"Deepen your practice with a second restorative yoga session. This flow focuses on recovery and flexibility, helping you release tension after a day on the boat and under the sun.
Free time
Take a moment to follow your own rhythm. Whether you want to explore the local artisan shops, journal your experiences in a hammock, or simply catch a nap to the sound of the waves, this is your time to recharge.
Evening
Team Dinner & Reflection
Gather for a heartfelt dinner to celebrate our progress and the bonds we've built. This evening is dedicated to sharing our 'highs' of the week, reflecting on the environmental impact we’ve made together, and deepening our connection to the mission.
Day 5
Morning
Breakfast
Fuel up for the day with a nourishing spread of local Costa Rican coffee, fresh tropical fruits, and hearty favorites.
River to Reef Work
Venture into the heart of the coastal ecosystem as we shift our focus to the vital river mouths and bay areas. In this hands-on session, the team will analyze the transition zones where fresh water meets the sea, measuring sediment levels and water quality that directly impact the coral nurseries.
Afternoon
Lunch
Step into the shade for another delicious, chef-prepared meal featuring the best of local Costa Rican cuisine.
Surf Lesson
Head back to the breaks to take your skills to the next level! With the basics under your belt, this second session is all about refining your technique, improving your paddle power, and gaining the confidence to catch bigger sets. Whether you’re working on your pop-up or carving your first turns, the warm Pacific waves provide the ultimate classroom for your progression.
Evening
Dinner Out & Latin Dance Night
Experience the vibrant local culture as we head into town for a night on the terrace. We’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the community’s favorite spots (personal expense) before hitting the dance floor. Get ready to move as we learn the rhythms of Salsa, Merengue, and Bachata! It’s a night of pure joy, laughter, and 'Pura Vida' energy—the perfect way to celebrate our hard work and the friendships we've formed.
Day 6
Morning
Breakfast
Start your day with a vibrant spread of seasonal fruits, local coffee, and nourishing whole foods.
Free time
Take the morning to explore at your own pace. Use this window to wander through the local village, hunt for unique souvenirs, or simply find a quiet spot on the beach to reflect on the week's journey.
Afternoon
Nauyaca Waterfall Hike & Swim
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the lush rainforest to reach one of Costa Rica’s most majestic wonders. We’ll hike through vibrant jungle trails to the stunning Nauyaca Waterfalls, where powerful cascades drop into deep, natural pools. It’s the perfect opportunity to cool off with a refreshing swim!
Lunch out in Dominical, Shopping, Coffee & Drinks
Take a bite out of the local scene as we head into the charming surf town of Dominical. This is your chance to explore the eclectic beachfront markets, hunt for handmade artisan souvenirs, and grab a delicious lunch at one of the many vibrant cafes (personal expense).
Beach Sunset Bonfire
As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of fire and gold, we’ll gather on the sand for a classic coastal bonfire. Feel the warmth of the flames and the cool ocean breeze as we share stories and laughter.
Evening
Light Dinner & Free time
Gather for one final, nourishing meal as we wind down our journey together. We’ll keep it light and fresh, offering a peaceful space to share a few more laughs and savor the local flavors. Following dinner, the evening is yours to spend exactly how you wish. Whether you want to take a final moonlit stroll along the shore, finish packing at a relaxed pace, or simply enjoy a quiet moment of reflection under the stars, this is your time to soak in the last bits of paradise before we head home.
Day 7
Morning
Breakfast
Gather one last time over the aroma of fresh Costa Rican coffee and a hearty morning spread.
Departure & Homeward Journey
Bid a final farewell to the coast as we take a scenic taxi ride to the Quepos airport. From there, you’ll hop on a quick domestic flight to San José.
What's included
What's not included
Requirements
- Intermediate English
- 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.
Turtle Patrol
Join a nighttime beach patrol to monitor and protect nesting sea turtles in their habitat.
2 Surf Lessons in Paradise
Catch your first waves with expert guidance and experience the thrill of the ocean.
River to Reef workshop & laboratory tour #1
Go behind the scenes in our lab to see how river health protects the coral reefs.
Immersion activities
Get to know the local culture and have an authentic travel experience with activities included in your itinerary.
Reef to River work shift #2
Get your hands dirty and help us restore the vital links between our reefs and rivers.
River to Reef Work Shift #3
Venture into the bay for a practical fieldwork session connecting land and sea health.
Lunch out in Dominical
Enjoy a delicious lunch with tropical flavors and the unique surf vibes of Dominical.
Beach Sunset Bonfire
Unwind by the fire, share stories with the team, and enjoy a magical sunset on the sand.
Nauyaca Waterfall Hike & Swim
Hike through lush jungle to reach majestic falls for a refreshing swim in crystal clear pools.
Dinner Out & Latin Dance Night
Enjoy local flavors and feel the rhythm with an energetic night of Latin music and dancing.
Isla Cano Snorkel Boat Trip & River to Reef work shift
Boat trip to snorkel and collect vital data for coral restoration in a marine paradise.
Extra activities
Additional activities for you to enjoy this adventure even more in your free time.
Game Night
Make new friends and enjoy a fun, cost-free evening of board games and laughs.
No extra cost
Karaoke Night
Shine on stage at our local spot! Just grab a drink and sing your heart out.
1 drink minimum at local bar/restaurant
Cooking class
Master authentic recipes in our hands-on cooking workshop.
$15 per person
Massage session
Treat yourself to a premium 2-hour professional massage session.
$60 per session.
Spanish class
Master the language with 3 engaging hourly sessions per week.
$180 per week
Videos
Accommodation options
8-Bed Shared Accommodation
The group will stay in a vibrant, shared living space designed to foster community. The traveler will stay in comfortable mixed-gender dorms accommodating up to 8 people, providing an authentic social experience. To ensure comfort, the building features 6 bathrooms with separated showers and toilets. Located under 30 minutes from the activity sites, the property includes communal areas perfect for evening debriefs, a shared kitchen, and relaxing outdoor spaces. It’s a welcoming hub that balances rest with the social spirit of a collective adventure.
- Fixed-price laundry service
- Internet (over 100 Mbps)
- Use our equipped kitchen
- Bikes at your disposal
- Dedicated Workspace
- Hot water showers
- Lockers
Meals
The experience provides a balanced meal plan designed to fuel a day of ocean activity. The traveler will enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring fresh local ingredients and traditional Costa Rican flavors. The host easily accommodates vegan and vegetarian preferences. Meals are served in a communal setting, and a shared kitchen is also available for the group’s use. Whether it’s a tropical breakfast or a hearty regional dinner, the menu is curated to be nutritious and reflective of the authentic local culture.
Arrival orientation
The group will be picked up at SJO International Airport, where a team member will be waiting with a dedicated sign at the exit. A private van shuttle will be scheduled to transport the traveler directly to the coastal site. Detailed instructions, including the meeting point and the local coordinator’s contact, will be shared before departure. The journey includes an introduction to the program upon arrival, ensuring a smooth transition. If flight times vary, the traveler can also be picked up at Tracopa Bus Terminal in San Jose.
About the project
- Hosted by Kerri Bowers
The group will be guided by a specialized marine conservation collective focused on innovative reef restoration and ocean literacy. This host is a leader in environmental stewardship, working to rebuild coral colonies and educate the next generation of ocean protectors. The traveler will work alongside experts and marine biologists who provide professional training and deep insights into the ecosystem. Their mission is to bridge the gap between global travelers and local grassroots science to create a sustainable future for the ocean.
About the destination
The experience takes place in a stunning coastal region known for its rich marine biodiversity and the Marino Ballena National Park area. This part of Costa Rica is a haven for humpback whales and vibrant coral reefs, perfect for those seeking a deep connection with nature. Away from the typical tourist crowds, the traveler will experience the "Pura Vida" lifestyle in a community that lives in harmony with the sea. The surrounding landscape offers a perfect mix of lush tropical vegetation and pristine beaches, ideal for both impact and exploration.
Impact & Purpose
The traveler will step into the role of a local biologist, assisting in coral nursery maintenance and reef restoration. By testing water chemistry and tracking environmental changes, the group provides vital data to protect Costa Rica's reefs. This work is crucial for supporting local fishing communities and ensuring ocean resilience. You’ll contribute directly to the survival of these "living engineers" while gaining practical skills in marine science.
This host contributes to Sustainable Development Goals
Climate action
By measuring water and air chemistry, the traveler helps track environmental changes and supports restoration planning that strengthens coastal resilience against the impacts of global climate change.
Life below water
The group supports marine conservation by restoring coral reefs, which serve as vital nurseries for sea life and protect the shoreline from erosion while maintaining the health of the marine ecosystem.
Life on land
The group connects lab findings to nearby rivers and bay areas, using data and GIS to monitor environmental health and ensure the conservation of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems integrated within the region.
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