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Turn the Rainforest Into Your Classroom

Learning doesn't happen in a conference room here. It happens beside a canal. Under a leaf. On a rainforest trail. At breakfast after someone photographed something bizarre the night before. Throughout the expedition, we'll incorporate hands-on learning, group discussions, identification activities and informal workshops that help connect what we're seeing in the field to the ecology happening around us.

Learn More About the Expedition

A woman taking a selfie while holding another camera and tripod

Woman taking a picture of a large costa rican moth

A group of people taking a selfie in front of a waterfall

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I need a science or biology background?

Adventurer, insect enthusiast, and wildlife conservationist Emma Terra is the renowned Urban Botanist. Featured on CBC, Rogers TV, Canada’s Home and Garden Shows, BBC News, Gusto Television, Lee Valley, and CTV News, Emma continues to push the boundaries of nature exploration. This time, she’s inviting you to join her in discovering the untamed beauty of The Rainforest in Costa Rica as a fellow citizen scientist.

Can I come alone?

Absolutely. Solo travelers are very welcome. We'll pair roommates based on same gender and similar age whenever possible.

Can I request a roommate?

Yes. When you're travelling with someone else on the expedition, you can request to room together.

Can I book a private room?

No. All accommodations are shared and private/single rooms are not available.

Are flights included?

No. Participants book their own flights to/from SJO.

When should I arrive?

Our transportation departs SJO at 10:00 AM on February 14. We strongly recommend arriving on February 13 and staying near the airport overnight.

When can I fly home?

Book your February 21 departure from SJO for 3:00 PM or later.

Are meals included?

Yes. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included throughout the expedition, along with non-alcoholic beverages. Dietary accommodations are available.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes. All participants are required to have travel insurance.

What fitness level do I need?

We recommend being in good physical condition and comfortable walking outdoors in tropical conditions. The experience is designed to be inclusive, and we'll discuss individual concerns during your 1:1 interview.

Is there a minimum age?

There is no minimum expedition age. Applicable booking/guardian requirements will still apply to younger participants.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?

No—and that's what makes wildlife exciting.We'll be exploring highly biodiverse environments with experienced guides, but these are wild animals in natural ecosystems. Specific species sightings can never be guaranteed.

Will we collect insects?

No. Our insect activities focus on observation, identification, photography and learning rather than collecting specimens.

Are gratuities included?

No. Gratuities are not included in the expedition fee.

What happens after I pay my deposit?

You'll complete a short 1:1 interview with the UB Expeditions team. Your reservation will be held while your interview is completed.When approved, your deposit becomes non-refundable and is applied toward your expedition balance.When UB Expeditions determines the expedition isn't the right fit following the interview, your deposit will be immediately refunded in full.

What happens if I need to cancel?

Cancellation and refund policies are provided through TourHero, our booking and transaction platform. Once you've been approved following your interview, the $500 USD deposit is non-refundable.