Gandoca Cultural Exchange Program

🍃Our Mission: To promote organic agriculture and create mutually enriching and impactful experiences for the Gandoca Community and all who visit through sharing culture, nature, ideas, and energy. 

READ ABOUT OUR MISSION AND STORY

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🍃About Gandoca:  Gandoca is a small village of less than 300 people tucked in the southern corner of the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica.  This humble community is rich with nature and culture and is surrounded by protected nature.  To the east a beach of turtle nesting habitat, to the north is the primary rainforest and wetlands of the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, and to the south a mangrove lagoon teeming with wildlife. The town is isolated from tourism and a big change of pace from other beach towns; you won’t find bars or clubs or beach hotels. MORE ABOUT GANDOCA

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The Program Details

🍃 Cost:  The cost of the program is 20k Colones/night (Click for Current Rate in USD), all of which goes directly to your host family. This includes your accommodation and three meals each day.  A one time, sliding-scale inscription fee goes to support our not-for-profit operations.  We have special rates for couples and families.  All ages are welcome.
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🍃Morning Service:  Mornings are usually spent helping out in the family's farm.  There are additional opportunities to participate in local schools or help keep the beaches clean (or maybe you have a special skill to offer). We welcome all ages and skill levels; whether you're looking to roll up your sleeves and work hard or help with less strenuous activities.  Volunteers can expect to learn about tropical agriculture, local culture and food, and new perspectives on life.  

READ ABOUT PEOPLE'S EXPERIENCES WITH THIS PROGRAM

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🍃 Exploring the Area:  Afternoons and weekends are free for you to explore and connect.  There is incredible nature, a beach to enjoy, as well as plenty of peace and quiet for those looking to be more introspective.  Many people continue to get involved more community projects like beach cleanups, connecting with local children, or continuing to help out their family. 
CHECK OUT SOME ACTIVITIES GANDOCA HAS TO OFFER

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🍃 Accommodation and Food:  You'll live with a local family and be given three meals a day. The homes are rustic, but you will have your own room.  There is electricity and clean running water, and most homes have Wi-Fi.  If you ask anyone where the best food in Costa Rica is they'll tell you it's the Caribbean.  There are lots of wonderful local foods to try and for those eager it's a chance to learn new recipes.   The families are happy to adapt to any dietary needs. 
GET TO KNOW SOME OF THE FAMILIES

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🍃 Spanish Immersion:  This is a great place for people who want to speak more Spanish; immersing yourself is the best way to continue to learn! Though many families  speak only Spanish, everyone is patient with those who are learning.  Those who are still beginners can be paired with bilingual families.  

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🍃 Length of Stay:    The minimum commitment is generally one week.  We recommend starting with one or two weeks to make sure it’s a good fit for you before committing to longer stays.  The majority of people feel right at home and extend their stays in Gandoca.

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