COURSE DESCRIPTION

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.

Embark on a jungle and coastal survival course that isn’t just about acquiring self-reliance skills – it’s an epic escapade that will awaken your inner adventurer! Dive into the heart of the lush jungle, where you’ll savor the flavors of wild foods, discover the secrets of thriving in the natural habitat, and immerse yourself in a realm of unparalleled beauty. From cascading waterfalls to vibrant wildlife, meandering rivers, abundant fishing, and pristine beaches, this bio-diverse haven offers the ultimate backdrop for your bushcraft journey alongside seasoned masters of their craft.

Our 12-day curated course places you at the heart of hands-on learning, where you’ll embrace the abundance of the jungle and learn to harness its gifts. From mastering fundamental survival skills to unleashing advanced applications in jungle survival, every day promises not just adventure, but also moments of relaxation, a deeper connection with your surroundings, and a sense of unity with mind, body, and spirit.

Pack your regular essentials and clothing in your luggage, which we’ll securely store while we venture into the bush. And why not brush up on your Spanish for an even richer experience?

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

TRIP ITINERARY

Please attempt to arrange your flight time so that you arrive in San Jose the morning of day 1 or the previous day.

Day 1: Arrival in San Jose Arrive at SJO Airport and enjoy a seamless transfer to your hotel in San Jose for the night.

Day 2: Journey to Base Camp Embark on a scenic van ride to Sierpe (4 hours), followed by a tranquil sea transfer to Drake Bay (1 hour). Arrive at Base Camp, where you’ll settle into the lodge. This day includes a comprehensive briefing and the chance to meet your skilled instructors.

Day 3: Mastering Jungle Skills Start your day with proper machete handling and care, followed by a focus on essential jungle fire skills. As night falls, partake in a captivating night river scouting expedition for nocturnal wildlife observation.

Day 4: Nature’s Bounty Immerse yourself in the wilderness with activities such as a waterfall walk, plant identification walk, learning about fish traps, crafting a bamboo spear, setting up a Tilon rat trap, and taking a refreshing river swim.

Day 5: Survival Essentials Delve into jungle food preparation and storage techniques before embarking on a challenging hike into the heart of the jungle. Learn water procurement methods, including extracting water from vines and royal palm fruit.

Day 6: Crafting and Shelter Building Focus on jungle survival essentials like crafting a jungle shelter, catching shrimp, mastering cordage techniques, and building a functional jungle latrine. Learn about wild edibles and scout the surroundings before experiencing an unforgettable overnight stay in the jungle.

Day 7: Navigating Back to Base Camp Embark on the journey back to base camp, transitioning from your jungle immersion.

Day 8: Coastal Exploration Travel to the coast, establish a beachfront camp, and indulge in coastal fishing, followed by a captivating night stay by the beach.

Day 9: Coastal Survival Training Engage in a full day of coastal survival training, learning the art of survival fishing using hand fishing lines, and identifying wild edibles in their natural habitat.

Day 10: Costa Rica Adventure Immerse yourself in an exhilarating Costa Rica adventure activity (to be determined), adding a touch of excitement to your journey.

Day 11: Return to San Jose Travel back to San Jose, reflecting on the experiences gathered during your adventure.

Day 12: Departure Complete your journey with a transfer to the airport for your departure, filled with memories of your remarkable survival adventure in Costa Rica.

Please note that the outlined itinerary is subject to change due to varying levels of prior experience and knowledge among students in each class. Additionally, slight modifications might occur based on weather conditions. Nevertheless, our dedicated instructors are committed to accommodating these factors to provide a valuable and consistent training experience that maximizes the value for each student’s investment.

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.
• 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 food and snacks for ventures out into the jungle and other meals in San Jose after day 1.
• We suggest you bring 3 MRE’s or other Camp Ready Meals.

MINIMUM RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT FOR THE JUNGLE:

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

[* = optional]

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
• 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