Program Location
The program takes place on the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica in the town of Puerto Jimenez. Lodging is provided with a host family (at their family owned lodge, Hospedaje el Ceibo) in the town of Ñeque (4kms from Jimenez). Most internships are located in the town of Jimenez or surrounding villages.
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Costa Rica, located in Central America, is truly an amazing country. With wonderful people, beautiful landscapes, and bountiful nature, it is a place you don't just go to once. Use your guidebook or the Internet to gain as much background information as possible before arrival. The more you know, the more you can immerse yourself into this rich country and culture.
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According to National Geographic Society, the Osa Peninsula is considered "…the most biologically intense place on the planet". Home of Corcovado National Park, the Peninsula is the "off-the-beaten track" tourist destination, with breathtaking views of primary rainforest leading to white-sand beaches. The two largest towns on the Peninsula are Drake Bay (Northern end) and Puerto Jimenez (Southern end).
Puerto Jimenez, with a population of about 3000, is considered the largest town on the Peninsula. Although it is comprised of only one main street with a few unpaved side roads, the town has supermarkets, restaurants, hotels, an elementary and high school, a health clinic, a pharmacy, banks, tour operators, a bus stop, an airport, a public boat dock, and most anything you need. However, it is a small town, isolated from the rest of the country, and you will get to know people quickly.
There are several small villages out of town in both directions along the coast. The road out of town to the North is paved and excellent for biking. El Ceibo (Live the Osa homestay/lodging) is located in the small community of Ñeque and takes about 10 minutes, by bike from Puerto Jimenez to arrive there. Other nearby villages with internship options include Bambú, Gallardo, Sándalo, and Cañaza.
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San José, the capital, is comprised of several "barrios" or neighborhoods. It is located in the Central Valley, either a 1-hour flight to Puerto Jimenez or a 7-hour bus ride. You will fly to the international airport, Juan Santamaría, in Alajuela, about 30 minutes from downtown San José. There are some interesting things to see in and around San José.
Walking around the city alone or after dark is NOT recommended. Please see your guidebook for more information.
Live the Osa can recommend a trusted lodge, a personal guide and a trusted taxi driver in San José.