What I experienced during my time in ​Costa Rica led me to seek opportunity, ​to seek adventure and most ​importantly believe that anything is ​possible when you give yourself a ​chance to take a chance, to take a ​risk and experience something that ​not everyone has the opportunity to ​do.

Adam Ferry, CR#01

We were taken aback by the beauty of ​all the spots toured. A personal ​favorite was the chocolate tour. ​Having had many apprehensions ​about going out of our comfort zones, ​we successfully zipped lined, ​snorkeled, white water rafted and ​more. It was by the far the best travel ​experience of our lives.

Amy Braun-Gross, CR#18

I realized how many connections I ​made on my trip with people, how our ​lives touched each other in ​unexpected ways, and how ​impossible it is to calculate the ​ongoing influences from those ​encounters. I am so full of new and ​beautiful experiences, stories, and ​friends, that I feel like a new version of ​myself.

Max Kiekhofer, CR#18

Twenty-seven years ago, I penned my "Philosophy of Education," at UWEC concluding ​with the line, "I am a man with a dream, a dream of making meaningful impacts and ​fostering positive changes in the lives of my students."

Little did I anticipate that my employment with St. Francis Public Schools a year later, ​countless discussions with Judy Savick (our guidance counselor), and my eventual role ​as a web developer volunteer at the Reserva Biológica Tirimbina (TRC) alongside Joan ​Spector (Executive Director of TRC at the time) would unfold into two+ decades of the ​remarkable privilege of contributing to that very dream. It has become a dream that, for ​some, manifests as a lasting, once-in-a-lifetime journey.

As the program has naturally evolved over the years, there remains a steadfast desire —​a commitment to offering an experience for students that will resonate not only in the ​present but echo through the years to come.

It brings joy to read and share testimonials from former students and parents (alumni of ​past experiences) reflecting on the profound impact and enduring memories, whether ​their involvement was last year or twenty-four years ago.

"I am a man with a dream, a dream of impacts and changes for which I play a small part ​in the successful lives of my students."

!Pura Vida!

Total Years: 24

Total Student Trips: 22

Total Adult Trips: 1

Max Group Size: 33 ('07 and '19)

Most Students 25 ('07)

Most Parent Chaperones: 12 ('19)

Total Students: 304

Total Adults: 158

Chaperone Ratio: 1:2

Trip Alumni: 462

• Tirimbina Rainforest Center ​offers immersive eco-tours and ​research.
• Sarapiqui River is perfect for ​thrilling white-water rafting.
  
• Explore lush biodiversity in ​Tirimbina's protected rainforest.
  
• Sarapiqui is a birdwatcher's ​paradise with abundant ​species.
  
• Experience sustainable living in ​the heart of nature.
  

• Lush cloud forests teeming with ​diverse wildlife
• Home to the rare resplendent ​quetzal bird
  
• Canopy tours offer thrilling ​ziplining experiences
  
• Serene hiking trails with ​stunning panoramic views
  
• Sustainable eco-tourism ​practices protect natural ​habitats
  

• Nestled at the base of Arenal ​Volcano.
• Surrounded by lush rainforests ​and natural hot springs.
  
• Located in the northern part of ​Costa Rica.
  
• Gateway to adventure activities ​like zip-lining and hiking.
  
• Offers stunning views of volcanic ​landscapes and waterfalls.
  

• Scenic ferry ride offers stunning ​coastal views.
• Tambor Beach boasts serene ​sands and clear waters.
  
• Explore Curu Wildlife Refuge's ​rich biodiversity trails.
  
• Spot diverse wildlife, including ​monkeys and exotic birds.
  
• Discover hidden coves and ​pristine natural landscapes.
  

Katherine is an experienced and passionate guide based in Costa Rica, with a deep ​commitment to showcasing her country's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Her ​journey in tourism began with rural experiences, starting at a coffee cooperative where ​she provided guided tours. Later, she specialized in eco-tourism at the Rainforest ​Chocolate Tour, educating visitors about chocolate production in the rainforest.

Currently, Katherine is a member of the Costa Rica Rainforest Experience team. She ​collaborates closely with fellow guide Carlos to lead immersive rainforest tours. Her ​extensive knowledge of local flora, fauna, and cultural heritage enriches visitors' ​experiences.

Outside of work, Katherine enjoys activities connecting her with nature and community, ​such as playing UNO with friends and tourists during downtime. Her warm and fun-loving ​personality makes her a delightful host for travelers seeking an authentic Costa Rican ​experience.

Katherine's dedication extends to promoting responsible tourism practices and ensuring ​all visitors feel welcome and engaged. Her commitment to sustainable tourism and ​genuine hospitality makes her a valued ambassador for Costa Rica's eco-tourism ​industry, offering memorable and educational adventures in the enchanting rainforests.

Contact

info@crexperience.org

fb.com/crexperience