Day 8

Day 8: Ecotourism in Action - Wednesday, April 29

Today we bring the trip together by experiencing Ecotourism at its best, taking part in an activity that helps protect fragile ecosystems while providing jobs for locals and enjoyment and learning for participants

This morning we say goodbye to our homestay families and enjoy an exciting day of white-water rafting. This is not just an amazing adventure activity with Class 3 and 4 rapids, but it is a connection with many of the themes touched upon during your journey. This most scenic and famous river slices through pristine rainforest and mountain gorges, which drop the most beautiful waterfalls right alongside our raft. You may already know your rafting guides as many of them are from Tres Equis! As your group works together to move down the river, the bonds formed through the Expedition Mentality strategies employed throughout the trip will be apparent. After rafting, you head down to the Southern Caribbean to immerse yourself in vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture. On our way we visit a banana plantation to see first-hand the other side of agriculture, and the cost of converting forest to monoculture.

Important Themes:

-Conservation Areas

-Water cycles

- Eco-tourism and economic support for communities

-Social, Environmental, and Economic Impact of Monoculture and Bananas in Costa Rica

Overnight: Blue Conga, Puerto Viejo

Reflection of the Day

On Day 8 we left our homestay families. A moment we thought would be bittersweet turned out to be emotional and difficult. There were tears everywhere, and it was extremely difficult to say goodbye. I will never forget the spectacular memories I made with people I was only half-fluent in their language.

After we departed Tres Equis we ventured to the Pacuare RIver and white water rafted on the world quality river. Everyone got sunburned, a few people got thrown off the raft, and we even got to swim in the luxurious and cool waters in our 28km trip. The day started off sad and dismal, but quickly turned out to be one of the most memorable times.