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Woods of the World
Corcovado, Costa Rica
December 2026 - March 2027
Program Description
Woods of the World, in partnership with Amora Regenerative Community Development, developed a three-month immersive research and field study program for middle years students (ages 10 –13) based in partnership with Corcovado Wilderness Lodge and Innoceana. The program is designed to integrate authentic field science with place-based, project-led education — offering students a rare opportunity to conduct real ecological research alongside the scientists and conservationists of Innoceana.
About the Educational Partners
The Woods School
Founded by Ariana Binney on Martha's Vineyard, The Woods School has grown into two campuses serving more than 100 families with children ages 3 –13. With over 20 years of teaching experience, Ariana brings deep expertise in project-based and experiential curriculum design. As an educational consultant, she partners with communities worldwide to design schools that honor children's innate curiosity, creativity, and connection to the natural world.
Amora Regenerative Community Development
Amora provides the operational and community development framework supporting Woods of the World programming at the Amora Regenerative Eco Village in Costa Rica. The Corcovado program would be conducted in coherence with the broader educational programming of the Amora community.
About Woods of the World
Woods of the World brings a transformative, nature-based education program to families exploring Costa Rica. Rooted in the philosophies of Place-based, Waldorf, Forest School, and Permaculture education, our program invites children ages 10-15 into a learning adventure that honors curiosity, imagination, and deep connection to place.
Set in the stunning natural landscape of Dominicaltio, children will explore tide pools, jungle trails, rivers, and beaches while engaging in seasonal, child-led learning. Our days blend outdoor exploration, creative arts, storytelling, nature skills, cooperative games, and community building.
This is more than an educational program—it's an invitation into a learning community where children, families, and facilitators grow together.
What Makes Us Different
🌿 Nature as Classroom: All learning happens outdoors in Costa Rica's incredible ecosystems
🎨 Child-Led Exploration: We follow children's interests and questions, weaving in seasonal and geographical themes
👥 Mixed-Age Community: Children ages 5 -15 learn together, building leadership, empathy, and collaboration
🌍 Place-Based Learning: Deep dive into Costa Rican ecology, culture, and community
🤝 Family Inclusion: Parents and family members are welcomed into the learning process through community dinners, excursions, breathwork, and yoga sessions
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
CORCOVADO FAMILY NATURE & DISCOVERY PROGRAM
INSPIRED BY NATURE, DESIGNED FOR CURIOUS MINDS OF ALL AGES
Program Overview
This immersive family experience invites guests to explore the extraordinary biodiversity of Corcovado through a
balance of adventure, discovery, and meaningful connection. Designed for both children and adults, the
program blends guided exploration, hands-on learning, and time to relax in nature.
With a flexible and family-friendly approach, each day offers a mix of exploration and rest, ensuring an enriching yet
enjoyable experience for all ages.
Experience Pillars
Nature & Wildlife Exploration – Discover rainforest and marine ecosystems
Discovery & Learning – Hands-on, interactive activities inspired by real science
Wellbeing & Connection – Shared family moments in nature
Conservation Awareness – Meaningful, accessible environmental actions
DAY 1 - ARRIVAL & INTRODUCTION
Afternoon
Arrival and warm welcome at the lodge
Orientation: Introduction to Corcovado and its unique biodiversity
Guided rainforest walk: wildlife observation and ecosystem interpretation
Evening
Nocturnal Biological Monitoring of Amphibians and Reptiles.
Field-based monitoring activity focused on the observation and identification of amphibians and reptiles within their natural habitats. Participants will apply data collection techniques using
digital tools such as iNaturalist and Epicollect, contributing to citizen science and biodiversity records.
Dinner at the lodge
DAY 2 - JUNGLE, CULTURE & DISCOVERY
Morning
Breakfast
Interactive Experience: “Be a Scientist for a Day” & Claro del Bosque
Expedition: A hands-on experience where families step into the role of explorers and scientists. Combining the Claro del Bosque Expedition with guided ecosystem interpretation, this activity blends cultural connection, sustainability, and conservation. Participants will explore the rainforest, observing wildlife such as birds and
primates while learning to identify species and record biodiversity using simple digital tools like iNaturalist and eBird. The experience also includes an introduction to wildlife monitoring through camera trap installation and a review of the images captured, offering a glimpse into how scientists study animals in their natural habitat.
Designed for all ages, this activity inspires curiosity, learning, and a deeper connection with nature.
Afternoon
Free time to relax and enjoy the lodge amenities
Evening
Dinner at the lodge
DAY 3 - CONSERVATION & CONNECTION
Morning
Breakfast
Biodiversity in Coral Reefs & Whale Monitoring: Dive into an unforgettable ocean experience where you and your family explore the vibrant world of coral reefs alongside expert guides. Through a
guided snorkeling adventure, you’ll discover colorful marine life, learn how these ecosystems function, and understand how to interact with them responsibly. Developed in collaboration with INNOCEANA, this experience also introduces you to real conservation efforts and sustainable practices. During whale season, you may have the opportunity to observe these incredible creatures and learn about their migration journeys.
Afternoon
Lunch
Coastal Cleanup & Waste Classification Activity: A hands-on conservation experience where you and your family take part in the removal and classification of plastic waste from coastal ecosystems. Through guided activities, participants will learn to identify different types of materials and understand their impact on the environment. As part of the experience, children and families will take on a fun and eye-opening “Ocean Challenge”, discovering that not all the waste found along the shore comes from Costa Rica. Together, you may identify plastics that have traveled across the Pacific Ocean, highlighting the global nature of pollution and the importance of collective action. This activity combines learning and purpose, inspiring environmental awareness while empowering participants to become active protectors of our oceans.
Evening
family Dinner
Closing reflection: sharing experiences and highlights as a
DAY 4 - DEPARTURE
Morning
Breakfast
Departure