The Storm King School offers exciting travel opportunities across the United States and around the globe each year. Recently, a small group of students and faculty traveled to Costa Rica for Spring Break and returned full of enthusiasm about their experiences. Their adventure led them through a myriad of natural and historic sites where they had the chance to embrace new and sometimes challenging activities and fully immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of this beautiful country. Among the highlights was their time spent exploring the rainforest, where they eagerly learned about this fragile ecosystem, formed deeper connections with nature, and bonded with one another.
“Everything in Costa Rica was amazing,” explained Kenta I. ’26. “The activities we did, like surfing, boating, climbing trees, and going down a waterfall, were all new experiences for me. Staying in the rainforest was so cool. We were living in the middle of nature!”
After landing in San Jose, the group set out on their journey to reach the rainforest which entailed crossing two rivers and a two-hour hike to reach the Ecolodge where they would spend the next few days. While at the Ecolodge, the students spent their time learning about their natural surroundings, foraging and cooking local cuisine, and learning about the local culture. One activity that stood out was their participation in a traditional ‘sweat lodge ceremony.’
“The lessons I learned in the rainforest at the Ecolodge are the things that I think everyone needs to experience once in their lifetime,” explained Jiann L. ’26. “We did so many entertaining activities like tree climbing, learning about plants around the lodge, cooking, night hiking, and swimming in the river. One of my favorite activities was the sweat lodge ceremony–a purification ceremony to connect with oneself, one another, and nature. It was basically dipping yourself in the cold river for three minutes and going into the heated lodge for about 10 minutes, then repeating the process three times. The first round is to physically clean yourself; the second round is to clean your mind and wash off your troubles; the third round is to spiritually connect yourself with the nature around you.”
Another highlight of the trip was a two-day community service project where the students helped to prepare a chemical and pesticide-free vegetable garden for the kitchen at the Manuel Antonio School. Closer to the beach, the students dipped in natural hot springs, went sailing and snorkeling at sunset, tried waterfall rappelling and river rafting, made friends with monkeys, and visited the active volcano, Poás.
“This trip provided the ideal balance of education, adventure, and immersion in culture. The ecolodge’s amazing views fascinated me and the wonderful cuisine and warm welcome of our host family made our stay there very special,” explained Logan K. ’27. “I really enjoyed swimming in the river and enjoying the cool waters among the lush plants. Every step you took as you traveled through the center of the jungle showed new natural treasures; it was like walking into an adventure book. Watching monkeys, snakes, lizards, and other creatures improved my knowledge of Costa Rica’s unique ecology. Thanks to our instructors and trip guide, I was able to completely lose myself in the culture and gained priceless lessons about respecting and enjoying nature. I was able to learn more about who I am and welcome new experiences on this trip.”
Along with their educational value, Storm King’s international trips are a good opportunity for students to relax, make new friends, and create lasting memories. “The best thing about our trip was spending time with my friends, teachers, and the family who gave us a place to sleep, food to eat, and happiness to laugh and make my time so enjoyable. Having meals together, walking the same path, gathering around and talking united us. We helped one another and by the end of the trip we were sharing and caring like a family. I truly appreciate the time in Costa Rica and am very grateful for everyone who made this trip so wonderful,” continued Jiann.
“It was satisfying to spend time with my teachers and friends, developing relationships and making long-lasting recollections,” added Logan. Upon his return to campus, Kenta echoed the feelings of most of the SKS travelers: “It was a short 10 days, but they were the most memorable 10 days in my SKS life.”
