Explore Costa Rica alongside fellow wildlife enthusiasts on an unforgettable journey through one of the most biologically diverse countries in the world. Hosted by the Wildlife Center of Virginia and led by President Meg Gammage-Tucker, this immersive travel experience combines breathtaking natural landscapes, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and behind-the-scenes access to wildlife conservation efforts that few visitors ever experience.
During ten days in Costa Rica, we will explore some of the country's most treasured natural destinations, including Tenorio National Park, La Fortuna Waterfall, Arenal Volcano, and the Tapir Valley Nature Reserve. Along the way, you will encounter monkeys, sloths, tapirs, sea turtles, tropical birds, and other remarkable wildlife while experiencing the rainforests, rivers, and volcanic landscapes that make Costa Rica a global leader in conservation and ecotourism.
The opportunity to go beyond traditional tourism sets this journey apart. Through visits to wildlife rescue centers, protected natural areas, and conservation projects, participants will gain a firsthand look at how rescue, rehabilitation, habitat restoration, research, and community engagement work together to support wildlife conservation.
Our itinerary includes behind-the-scenes visits to the Rescate Wildlife Rescue Center, Asis Wildlife Rescue Center, and Las Pumas Rescue Center, where you will meet the professionals caring for Costa Rica's native wildlife and learn about the challenges and successes of wildlife conservation in a rapidly changing world. Additional experiences include a visit to the Tapir Valley Nature Reserve, a conservation success story built on habitat restoration and rewilding, as well as opportunities to learn from marine conservation researchers working to protect rays and sea turtles along Costa Rica's Pacific coast.
Whether you are a longtime supporter of the Wildlife Center, a passionate wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who loves exploring the natural world, this journey offers a unique opportunity to experience Costa Rica through the lens of wildlife conservation while gaining new perspectives on the connections between wildlife, people, and the environments we share.
Why Travel with the Wildlife Center?
This journey offers more than a typical travel experience. The itinerary was designed specifically for the Wildlife Center to align with our mission, while expanding on the themes that define our clinical and educational work. We will deepen our understanding of different wildlife rehabilitation models by connecting with international conservation leaders and broaden our perspectives on global conservation.
Led by Wildlife Center President Meg Gammage-Tucker, herself an experienced international conservationist, the program provides unique opportunities to connect with global experts in the field, learn from their work, and explore Costa Rica through the lens of wildlife conservation.
Itinerary & Travel Logistics
During ten days in Costa Rica, we will explore wildlife rescue centers, national parks, conservation projects, rainforests, volcanoes, and diverse marine ecosystems while experiencing the country's extraordinary biodiversity firsthand. You will arrive in San José, Costa Rica, on March 4, 2027, and depart from Liberia on March 13, 2027. An optional four-day extension is available for travelers who wish to continue exploring Costa Rica's Central Pacific region.
Daily Travel Overview
Day 1 – Arrival in San Jose
Day 2 – Rescate Rescue Center and La Fortuna, home to the Arenal Volcano
Day 3 – Asis Wildlife Rescue Center and Ecotermales Hot Springs
Day 4 – La Fortuna Waterfall and Trail Hike
Day 5 – Rio Celeste and Tapir Valley Tour
Day 6 – Tenorio National Park
Day 7 – Las Pumas Rescue Center
Day 8 – Canyon Canopy Tour
Day 9 – Ray Monitoring and Turtle Conservation Activity with Marine Biologist Tora Carey
Day 10 – Departure from Liberia Airport
Travel and Program Inclusions
Program Inclusions:
Accommodations throughout the program
Ground transportation within Costa Rica
Wildlife rescue center visits and conservation activities
Guided tours and excursions
National park entrance fees
Welcome and farewell dinners
Program Does Not Include:
International airfare
Travel insurance
Passport fees
Personal expenses
Gratuities
Meals and beverages, other than those specified above
Pricing
Main Travel Program: March 4–13, 2027
$5,495 per person (double occupancy)
$2,395 single supplement
Optional Central Pacific Extension
$1,995 per person (double occupancy)
$795 single supplement
We would love to share additional details about this unique travel experience with you. To request a detailed itinerary and reservation information, contact us directly at npatrick@wildlifecenter.org.
If you are interested in future Wildlife Center travel programs, we would love to hear from you. Contact us to be added to our travel interest list.
