Educational Vacation

Every parent knows that there is much more to a child’s education than the time he or she spends in the classroom. Research has shown that real world experiences are the key to learning. As a parent, to enrich your child’s education, you must take advantage of teachable moments.

Costa Rica is the perfect vacation destination for families. It is also the perfect place for parents to find teachable moments in which to enrich their children’s educations. There is no place on the planet that compares to the biodiversity of the little country of Costa Rica. There are opportunities to discuss ecology, biology, geology, climate change, oceanography and countless other –ologies at every turn. In addition, this small Spanish speaking country is rich in culture provide the chance to expose your children to cultural and language differences.

You don’t need to be an expert in ecology to embrace the teachable moments in a Costa Rica vacation. The guides on various excursions in Costa Rica are some of the most knowledgeable people of I ever met. Ticos are very proud of their country and very knowledgeable about the plants and animals that they share it with. Many of the guides in the national parks have grown up in the area in which they now work. They have been educated about the ecology, survival skills, history and geology of the area and they are happy to share this information with visitors.

I would recommend a trip planned around visits to one or more of the national parks. The national park system of Costa Rica provides you an opportunity to expose your children to what National Geographic called “the most biologically intense place on earth.

In 1970, the government of Costa Rica recognized that agriculture, and development were threatening the biodiversity of the country. In order to preserve this resource, the government began setting aside land for national parks, wildlife preserves and buffer zones. Today more than 25% of Costa Rica is protected from development.

Popular National Parks in Costa Rica

Arenal Volcano National Park – The most active volcano in Costa Rica

Braulio Carrillo National Park – home to volcanoes, rainforest, cloud forest, water falls, and a variety of flora and fauna

Corcovado National Park – Not to be missed, this park is home to threatened plant and animal species. Incredibly diverse home to bats, birds, crocodiles, sea turtules, monkey, slothes, jaguar, ocelots, and otters just to name a few.

Guanacaste National Park – Protected tropical dry forest, water research facilities, and artifacts from indigenous civilizations.

Manuel Antonio National Park – home to beautiful beaches, varied wildlife, hiking, snorkeling, and guided park tours. A tour of Costa Rica is not complete without a trip to Manuel Antonio.

Poas Volcano National Park - the most visited park in Costa Rica is for good reason. With active geysers and a well developed visitor center, this is a must see for a fantastic lesson in geology.

Cultural Activities and Museums

Panaca is a park that celebrates the agrarian culture of Costa Rica. With over 2000 domesticated animals and a variety of shows and exhibits this park provides a full day of educational fun.

Children’s Museum of Costa Rica located in San Jose is home to 32 permanent exhibits including an earthquake simulation.

The National Museum and Costa Rican Art Museum are also located in San Jose.

INBioparque A theme park whose theme is conservation.