The Wild is Calling
Become a Citizen Scientist
in the Jungles of Costa Rica
A 7-day immersive expedition where you don’t just explore nature… you study it, contribute to real science, and experience Costa Rica like a true field biologist.
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WHAT THIS EXPERIENCE IS:
Explore, Discover, Expand
The Urban Botanist Expeditions are a once-in-a-lifetime small-group experience designed for curious minds, nature lovers, and those craving something deeper than traditional travel.
This is where education meets adventure.
Where strangers become lifelong friends.
Where curiosity becomes confidence.
What Can You Expect?
Experience life as a true field biologist.
Explore, connect, identify, and learn about unique insects and plants in one of the most beautiful and biodiverse places on planet Earth.
Guided tours through diverse Costa Rican ecosystems.
Hands on insect identification and study for nature enthusiasts with two seasoned professors of entomology.
Learn the art of capturing, identifying, and pinning insects.
Gain a deeper understanding of the deep relationship between insects and plants.
Professional guidance on macro insect photography techniques and wildlife photography from macro photography experts.
Discover your favourite house plant species in the wild and witness them in their natural environment
Who is The Expedition for?
Nature Lovers & Explorers
This experience is not for the faint of heart. Venture into the wild with us for a raw and authentic experience. No knowledge or prior experience is necessary. If you’ve ever wanted to experience what it’s like to be a field biologist and study plants and insects in the jungle, this expedition is for you! Expect to spend time in the field, and laboratories, studying and discovering species hands on!
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Location & Accommodations
Stay in a world class Research Centre for Education & Science, your jungle basecamp for conservation and exploration. Nestled deep within the lush lowland rainforests of Costa Rica, the Soltis Center is a biological field station owned and operated by the University of Texas. This remote jungle research center serves as the headquarters for our Citizen Scientist Expeditions and offers participants an immersive, off-the-grid experience surrounded by biodiversity.This isn’t just a place to sleep — it’s a living, breathing ecosystem that sets the stage for meaningful learning, connection, and contribution.
Watch a Video Here
The center is also home to a large open-air mess hall, where you’ll enjoy:
Three freshly prepared meals a day (GF,vegan, +)
Local, nourishing cuisine made daily on-siteUnlimited snacks, fresh juices, and Costa Rican coffee available throughout the day
Accommodations are comfortable, private cabins with elevated dorm-style rooms. Two-person occupancy, featuring:Double sinksDesks for journaling or field notesOutdoor balconies overlooking the rainforest
Hands-On Workshops
Insect Capturing Workshop
Macro Photography 101
Medicinal Plant Workshop
Insect Pinning and Preservation
House Plants in the Wild Workshop
Cyanotype Blue Plant Printing (DIY to Take Home)
Costa Rican Fruits - Tasting & Identifying
Night Hikes - Discovering nocturnal animals
** all workshops are included**
Adventurous Excursions
1.
Visit La fortuna Town
We head into the iconic Volcano town of La Fortuna. Here we can shop for supplies, groceries, snacks, and souvenirs. Take in the sites, enjoy some fantastic restaurants and visit a local butterfly sanctuary.
2.
Cacao & Coffee Farm
Visit a local cacao and coffee plantation where we will get to taste our way through some of Costa Rica’s best flavours! Spend time with experts learning how coffee and cacao are grown, harvested, and transformed into your favourite bar or cup. We will get to make our own chocolate creations to take home.
3.
Arenal Volcano 1968 Hike + Hot Springs
This full day adventure will be spent hiking the beautiful lava trail of Arenal, taking in some of the best views of this magnificent (and active) volcano! Finished off with a beautiful lake side coffee parlour, we then head to one of Fortuna’s best hot springs for a relaxing afternoon soaking in the mineral rich waters. A buffet dinner will be included!
Why you should
Join the Waitlist
Early access (before public)
First pick of spots
Founders pricing
Exclusive behind-the-scenes content
Join the waitlist
What's Included:
Expert leadership, Scientists, and guiding throughout
Special access to world class biological station, Soltis Centre
All accommodations (8 days, 7 nights)
All meals
All transportation within itinerary, including airport transfers
Specialty Equipment, workshops, and excursions- Contribution the Soltis Centre (you are directly supporting conservation!)
Not Included:
International airfare to/from Costa Rica
Day 1 optional restaurant meal and grocery shopping
Alcoholic beverages
Travel insurance (required)
Meet Our Team of
Specialists
DAVE KB CHEUNG
An entomologist, photographer, and designer who grew up chasing insects and tinkering with tech—and still does, now with a bigger net and a much faster computer. Formerly the entomology collections manager at the State Natural History Museum of Denmark, now running DKB Digital Designs to build visually stunning educational software like Bugdex and BugFinder. He is passionate about connecting people with nature through photography, design, technology, and science education.
MARVIN GUNDERMAN
A beloved instructor from McMaster University, known on campus as “the Bug Man”/“DaBugster,” he spent decades managing technical services in Biology while inspiring generations of students to see insects as essential and awe‑inspiring. An award‑winning educator and insect taxonomist with a soft spot for tiger beetles, he built McMaster’s insect outreach culture through lectures, media appearances, and hands‑on field courses that shaped many budding biologists. Now retired, he continues to teach, mentor, and energize our community.
Who is
The Urban Botanist
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.
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