You will be staying in a touch of class high up in the canopy where the Pacific Ocean meets the lush rainforest. Enjoy hikes through the jungle to beautiful cascading waterfalls or walk along the deserted virgin beaches that separate the vibrant jungle wall and the endless Pacific Ocean.

What to Expect

The wildlife here is absolutely extraordinary with verdant ridges full of monkeys, fluttering butterflies and scarlet macaws. In fact, this area has the highest concentration of breeding scarlet macaws in the world!

This is an experience that is, ‘what you put into it is what you get out of it’. Test the volunteer experience as much or as little as you want. Challenge yourself with our team as we trek deep into the rainforest and hike up jungle-rivers. Or take in a dip in the Pacific Ocean. Explore at your own pace and enjoy this journey of discovery.

Climate
The Osa Peninsula is quite temperate and rarely experiences extreme high or low temperatures. The temperatures in the area seldom drop below 27°C (80°F) in the green season (May to November), and may exceed 35°C (95°F) in the dry season (December to April). Costa Rican’s prefer to call the "wet" season the Green Season because the countryside comes alive like the springtime. The trees and plants are greener, the animals are everywhere to be seen, and the sun shines in full force. October is really the “wet month” and so from May to September, the climate is ideal for hiking, animal watching, and relaxing on the beach. The Green Season brings daily afternoon rains to the jungle, which gives you a good opportunity to find a sheltered hammock and take a snooze.

Luggage
Light luggage over all. Light, quick dry clothing is best, since it is never cold and can be hot and humid. Hiking boots or sturdy shoes for hiking and thongs for being around Lookout Inn are the most practical footwear. We suggest Crocs for hanging around and “amphibian” shoes for hiking and going in the rivers. A hat, sun block, and sunglasses are good for sun protection. Don't forget your camera, binoculars, and a good flashlight or headlamp (this is a MUST). Bring a journal if you like to write, or a good book if you like to read. We do have small library where you can swap books in and out. Water bottle (not disposable) is recommended although we can provide you with them. If you have the chance you can bring a new book in Spanish for the public library in town. It would be much appreciated!

We will be sending a complete list of necessities once you have booked your reservation with us. It will definitely help you prepare for this wonderful experience.

Water
The water at the eco-lodge comes from an Artesian well and is drinkable straight from the tap.

Health
If you have any health issues that require medication it is recommended that you bring it with you (in their original containers, clearly labeled). There’s a local drugstore in Puerto Jiménez that can provide you with most of the medicines that you may need. For any serious health issues there is a local clinic in town or we would fly you to the nearest hospital, which is located in Golfito across the Golfo Dulce. Using common sense and staying on the paths should eliminate any risks of injury. The Osa Peninsula is one of the safest places in Costa Rica. Even the animals are our friends here!

Money
The national currency is the colon and the exchange rate is around 490c = 1US$. However, everyone accepts US currency. We will advise you as to what you will need for incidentals once you have confirmed your booking.

Insurance
We believe that signing up for a travel-insurance policy is recommendable, both for last-minute cancellation before the trip, as well as health insurance for your stay in Costa Rica. Check with your insurance company for the coverage and bring the copies with you as it is always useful.

Insects/Reptiles
"Biting" insects come in several groups, but only two are worthy of mention: mosquitoes and midges (or no-see-ums). But, their nuisance value is not that high thanks to the constant fresh tropical breezes, lizards and birds. There is a real balance here so we have very few problems with such insects. If you are worried, most repellents provide effective protection.

Contradictory to belief, snakes are a rare sight in the rainforest but most encounters are with non-venomous species. Nevertheless, the threat from venomous snakes does exist but your chances of being bitten are as improbable as being struck on the head by a falling coconut. Ouch!