SURVIVAL STORE

A collage of nine photos showcasing highlights from The Survival University’s Costa Rica Jungle Adventure, including ocean arrival, jungle exploration, fireside moments, wild foods, tropical cabins, and a lush rainforest setting.
Colorful jungle cabin surrounded by lush tropical plants and palm trees, featuring yellow railings and a purple trim under a metal roof.
Five people wade through a jungle river holding heavy backpacks over their heads to keep them dry, surrounded by lush green forest and mossy boulders.
A line of backpackers hiking single file through dense tropical rainforest, surrounded by lush greenery and rugged terrain on a narrow jungle trail.
Smiling woman in camouflage rain gear takes a selfie near a stream while a man in sunglasses and a straw hat grins behind her. Another person is slightly blurred in the background, surrounded by lush greenery.
Group of people setting up camp in a lush jungle, with two tarps hung as shelters and a fire pit surrounded by logs and large leaves under a primitive tripod structure.
Two men sit by a glowing campfire at night in the jungle, one shirtless with a headlamp, the other in a long-sleeve shirt and cap, both focused on the flames under a primitive cooking tripod.
Man preparing coconuts under palm trees at a beachside jungle camp, with hammocks strung between trees and sunlight streaming through the canopy.
View from inside a hammock setup along a tropical coastline, with a Survival University patch visible and the ocean waves crashing beyond a line of palm trees.
Fiery orange and pink sunset over a rocky tropical shoreline in Costa Rica, with reflections of the sky shimmering in the tide pools.

Costa Rica Jungle Adventure: Tropical Survival Training & Coastal Living Skills

$4,900.00

Join us on an exhilarating journey as The Survival University heads back to the captivating landscapes of Costa Rica for an adventure that promises the perfect blend of training and unforgettable experiences.

Description

Early Macaw Registration Special
$500 off registrations completed before February 15.   Use code COSTARICA500 at checkout

Costa Rica Jungle Adventure: Tropical Survival Training & Coastal Living Skills

Experience the ultimate jungle survival adventure in the heart of Costa Rica with The Survival University! This unforgettable expedition combines hands-on survival training with immersive exploration through one of the world’s most biodiverse environments, where the rainforest meets the ocean.

Designed for adventure seekers, outdoor enthusiasts, and wilderness survival learners, this course takes you deep into the Costa Rican jungle and along its stunning coastlines. You’ll learn practical jungle survival skills like fire-making, shelter building, sourcing wild foods, water purification, and fishing in tropical environments. Along the way, you’ll hike to hidden waterfalls, explore lush rainforests, observe exotic wildlife, and relax on pristine beaches.

Led by expert instructors, this immersive experience focuses on both beginner and advanced jungle survival techniques. You’ll gain real-world skills while enjoying a deeper connection with nature and a renewed sense of self-reliance. This isn’t just survival training, it’s a transformational adventure that challenges your limits and reawakens your wild spirit.

Bring your essential gear and clothing in your luggage, we’ll safely store it before we trek into the bush. Brushing up on your Spanish is encouraged for a richer cultural experience.

A VALID PASSPORT IS REQUIRED!
AIRFARE TO AND FROM COSTA RICA IS NOT INCLUDED

READ BEFORE YOU BOOK

Read This First

This jungle adventure is not a vacation, well… maybe it is a little but it is a rugged, immersive experience designed to challenge and reset you. If you’re in, we’re excited to have you. But read this carefully so there are no surprises.

Physical Readiness

  • The hike into the jungle is approximately 3 hours over tough terrain. (Day 5) It’s hot, humid, and physical. You need to be in good shape and mentally prepared to work.
  • You must be able to carry your own gear on your back for a 20-minute walk upon arrival to the costal portion of this adventure (Day 7) . No one is going to carry it for you.

Meals and Food Expectations

  • Included meals:
    • Dinner on arrival day in San Jose (Day 1)
    • Breakfast in San Joe and Lunch in Sierpe (Day 2)
    • All meals at the jungle retreat (standard meals only)
    • Breakfast and Dinner on the return to San Jose (Day 11)
  • We provide full, hearty meals during the scheduled parts of the trip. But:
    • We do not provide snacks. If you need snacks or eat frequently, bring your own.
    • We do not pay for alcoholic beverages. If you want to drink alcohol during meals, it’s on you.
    • If you want extra food or drinks outside of what’s planned, you’ll need to cover the cost.

Dietary Restrictions

  • We cannot cater to specific dietary needs. If you notify us well in advance, we may try to accommodate, but you’ll need to plan accordingly and may have to bring your own food or pay extra.

What to Expect in the Jungle

  • There will be bugs. Come prepared with repellent and the right mindset.
  • You’ll get dirty, sweaty, and soaked. That’s part of the experience.
  • Bring more electrolytes than you think you’ll need.
  • Pack anti-diarrhea meds, just in case.
  • Your clothes will likely be wet and musty by the time you head home. A few dryer sheets stored in your bag will make your return trip more pleasant.
  • You’ll be able to store your travel luggage at the hotel in San Jose while we’re in the jungle, so be sure to pack a clean outfit to change into for the return flight, anything you wear in the jungle won’t be something you’ll want to sit in on a plane.

Technology and Communication

  • Bring your own battery chargers. There will be opportunities to recharge them but not every day.
  • Cell service will be limited or non-existent. Plan to disconnect and fully engage in the experience.

Logistics

  • We do not provide a taxi or ride back to the airport at the end. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation.
    • Uber is available in San Jose and typically costs around $20 to the airport.
  • This is a structured, curated experience. We have a set schedule and plan. If you choose to leave early or book your flights incorrectly, you are responsible for all logistics and additional costs. Leaving early will cost you no less than $1000 to arrange a ride from Drake back to San Jose.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

  • All Nights and Lodging. (Double occupancy). All transfers.
  • On site QRF (Quick Response Force) in case of Emergency.
  • Survival instructor/ Guides.
  • Breakfast in San Jose on Day 2.
  • All 3 meals at Base camp Bijagua Lodge, beach and coast
  • You will have the ability to charge electronic devices at camps and hotels via USB outlet.

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

  • Airfare To and From Costa Rica
  • Airport departure tax $29.00 (subject to change). Some airlines include this when you purchase your tickets.
  • Shuttle or Taxi back to airport on the final day
  • Alcoholic beverages or additional meals
  • Bring $200+ USD for souvenirs or additional meals

FOOD AND WATER

  • Breakfast in San Jose.
  • All 3 meals at Base camp Bijagua Lodge and Costal Hostel
  • You will need to provide your own snacks for ventures out into the jungle and other meals in San Jose after day 1.
  • We suggest you bring 3 freeze dried meals or similar.

MINIMUM RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT FOR THE JUNGLE:

You are solely responsible for what you bring, do not expect to rely on the gear of others.

Passport and medications (14 day supply), vitamins

  • Boonie hat or something similar to a Tilley Hat to protect you from the sun
  • Polarized sunglasses, bring attaching device so they stay on your head
  • Sandals for the beach (no slippers or flip flops)
  • Boots should be above the ankle and well broken in. (breathable NON-waterproof boots are the best) Your feet are going to get wet no matter what.
  • Fixed blade hunting or survival knife
  • 40 oz. Kleen Canteen
  • 4 pair of thin wool socks for the bush (no cotton)
  • 3-4 wool/poly underwear
  • 2 light weight long sleeve quick drying shirts for the bush
  • 2 light weight long, quick drying slacks (convertibles great)
  • 1 swimsuit
  • 2 pairs of shorts (1 cargo/hiking, 1 gym for sleeping)
  • 1 moisture wicking shirt for sleeping
  • 1 regular T-shirt
  • 1 tank top
  • Ultralight rain jacket*
  • 2 MREs with heaters.
  • Machete (These are available for purchase in Costa Rica after arrival for about $20 USD)
  • Sleeping system (jungle hammock with tarp and bug net). Most of us use Warbonnet hammocks.
  • Water filtration system is REQUIRED. Do not bring water purification tablets.
  • Full finger gloves
  • Heavy duty poncho
  • Rain cover for backpack if poncho doesn’t cover*
  • Framed backpacking pack (about 45-65 liters)
  • Flashlight with fresh batteries, bring extra batteries
  • Assorted sizes of zip lock bags to keep things dry
  • 550 para cord 50ft.
  • Mosquito repellent of 30%+ deet (TSU holds no responsibility for personal use of chemicals)
  • Sunscreen
  • Rite in the Rain note pad and pen, small to fit in breast pocket
  • Towels (1 handcloth, 1 washcloth)
  • Camera or phone (keep it in a waterproof case) Cell service varies. Check with your provider before departure.
  • Liquid IV (expect to use 2-3 a day)
  • Ferrocerium rod & cotton balls w/petroleum jelly
  • Signal mirror
  • Shemagh
  • Survival Fishing Kit
  • Bellow tube*
  • Personal First Aid Kit
  • Mesh bag to store wet/dirty clothes on your return flight
  • Minimal toiletries for the bush (no scented products like deodorant, aftershave, lotion, scented soaps etc.) We suggest only toothbrush, tooth powder, small bar of unscented soap, disposable razor, alcohol pads, aspirin packets, Imodium tablets, lip balm w/sunscreen, talcum powder, washcloth, wet wipes and a small mirror, all in a waterproof bag.
  • CREATURE COMFORTS*
  • Ear plugs (for sleeping because the monkey howl is very loud at 4am)
  • Sleeping bag liner or light blanket (it will be warm but having a light blanket to cover up with is recommended)
  • Mosquito head net
  • USB battery pack and/or solar panel for charging your phone. There are USB outlets available, but must be shared. Do not hog the outlets.
  • Bring snacks like energy bars, energy jelly beans, and Clif Bars.
  • Earbuds (Download audio books and music before you go)
  • A book
  • Lightweight coffee cup
  • Bring a set of nice clothes as we will not be in the jungle the whole time.
  • Phone cords

TRIP ITINERARY

Please arrange your flight to arrive in San Jose as early as possible on Day 1 of the course (March 26). You are welcome to arrive prior to this date; however, any additional lodging or transportation from the airport will be your responsibility. We are happy to assist with booking accommodations or transfers if needed, but all associated costs must be covered by the participant.

March 26 – Day 1: Welcome to San Jose
Arrive at SJO Airport, where you’ll enjoy a seamless transfer to your hotel in San Jose for the night. Take this time to rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Travel Day 2: Scenic Journey to Base Camp
Embark on a scenic van ride to Sierpe (approximately 4 hours), followed by a tranquil sea transfer to Drake Bay (1 hour). Upon arrival at Base Camp, settle into the lodge for a comprehensive briefing and a chance to meet your skilled instructors and fellow adventurers.

Camp Days 3–4: Basic Jungle Training (Jungle Base Camp)

These days focus on foundational jungle skills while operating from a base camp environment. Training emphasizes safe and effective use of jungle tools, firecraft in humid environments, camp systems, and working with natural materials commonly found in the jungle. Students will begin developing confidence moving, working, and thinking in dense jungle terrain while learning to manage heat, moisture, insects, and limited visibility. Instruction is hands-on and progressive, building the base skills needed for deeper jungle operations later in the course.

Jungle Days 5–6: Advanced Jungle Training (Primitive Jungle Camp)

Students transition from base camp and hike deeper into the jungle to establish a more primitive field camp. These days are more physically and mentally demanding and focus on advanced jungle living skills. Training may include food procurement and preparation, shelter construction, water sourcing, navigation, and operating with limited resources in a remote environment. Emphasis is placed on adaptability, decision making, and efficiency while living and working directly out of the jungle. An overnight stay in the jungle reinforces lessons in campcraft, security, and sustainability.

Jungle Day 7: Jungle Extraction and Transition

Students break down their primitive camp and hike out of the jungle, applying movement, load management, and field discipline learned during the advanced phase. This day reinforces lessons in leaving minimal impact, transitioning between environments, and maintaining awareness while tired and resource constrained. Upon completion of the jungle phase, the group prepares for movement to a coastal environment.

Coast Days 8–9: Coastal Survival Training (Beach Camp)

Training shifts to a coastal setting where students establish a beachfront camp and learn to operate in a marine influenced environment. Instruction focuses on coastal survival principles such as shoreline navigation, fishing methods, working with tides, coastal foraging, and campcraft specific to beach and ocean conditions. Students spend nights on the beach, gaining firsthand experience managing exposure, weather, and resource use in a coastal survival context.

Travel Day 10: Journey Back to San Jose
Begin the return trip with a scenic journey back to San Jose. Reflect on the skills and experiences you’ve gained over the past week and a half, and prepare for your return home.

April 5 – Day 11: Farewell to Costa Rica
Complete your adventure with a transfer to the airport for your departure. Leave Costa Rica with memories of an incredible survival experience and newfound confidence in your skills.

Course Progression Overview

  • Days 1-2: Travel, Arrival, and Orientation
  • Days 3–4: Basic Jungle Training (Base Camp)
  • Days 5–6: Advanced Jungle Training (Primitive Jungle Camp)
  • Day 7: Jungle Extraction and Transition
  • Days 8–9: Coastal Survival Training (Beach Camp)
  • Days 10-11: Course Wrap-Up, Departure and Travel Home

Note:
The outlined itinerary is subject to change due to varying levels of experience among students or weather conditions. Our dedicated instructors are committed to adapting the program to ensure a valuable and consistent training experience for every participant.

 

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