Location

Upala

In northern Costa Rica, just a convenient 1.5-hour drive from Liberia International Airport, lies Upala—a peaceful region where rivers nourish the land, cacao sustains families, and neighbors know each other by name. Situated about a 30-minute drive from the Nicaraguan border, this area is an agricultural frontier vital to Costa Rica’s food supply, supporting the growth of beans, cattle, and root crops. While pesticide-intensive pineapple is also grown on a large scale for export, life in Upala maintains a slower pace, where community bonds are strong and people’s lives are deeply connected to their environment.

A Crossroads of Cultures

The Zona Norte, where Upala is located, is a vibrant meeting point of people and cultures. Sharing a vast and unmarked border with Nicaragua, communities here are socially, culturally, and economically intertwined with this neighboring country. Located along a significant migrant route, the area serves as a point of transit for those journeying to the United States. Recognizing this, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has established numerous programs in the region to provide essential services, advocate for refugee rights, and foster social and economic integration. Notably, VN Center was awarded the UNHCR Inclusive Community grant to further facilitate the social and economic integration of Nicaraguan communities through initiatives focused on small business development, health, education, and cross-cultural learning programs.

Life by the River

Life in Upala flows with the rhythm of its rivers. The water not only connects communities and supports agriculture but also brings a sense of calm to everyday life. It comes as no surprise that Upala remains one of Costa Rica’s most welcoming and safe regions—where hospitality runs deep and community care is second nature. This is truly a land of rich traditions and shared roots. Influenced by generations of Nicaraguan migrants, Costa Rican farmers, and the indigenous Maleku people, Upala is a captivating cultural mosaic. The Maleku still honor their ancestral wisdom and language, offering “Capi capi” as their unique expression of Pura Vida—a way of living in gratitude and harmony.

Natural Beauty and Agriculture

While Upala is not a bustling tourist hub, its natural beauty is undeniable. Lush rainforests, majestic volcanoes, cascading waterfalls, and fertile soil that yields some of Costa Rica’s finest cacao define the landscape. Agriculture here is more than just a tradition; it’s the heartbeat of the local economy and a way of life passed down through generations for many families. The area also offers many other undiscovered natural treasures, including pristine rivers and forests teeming with abundant wildlife such as sloths, monkeys, and toucans. It’s not uncommon to spot monkeys in the trees during your travels around the area! Upala lies in Costa Rica’s tropical lowlands, a tropical wet ecosystem characterized by lush, green forests. During the refreshing rainy season, afternoon showers are a common occurrence. Temperatures remain comfortably in the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit year-round.

Community and Daily Life

Upala is a close-knit community where everyone knows each other. Interns and volunteers quickly adapt to the friendly and welcoming atmosphere, becoming an integral part of the Upala community. Far removed from the busy streets of the capital, San Jose, and the often-touristy areas where authentic local food can be elusive, Upala is a quintessential traditional Costa Rican rural town. It offers the perfect setting to fully immerse oneself in the local culture, language, and daily life. Upaleños, the hardworking people of Upala, deeply value family and tradition. The town center is home to a bustling Central Market, vibrant fruit stands, and numerous locally owned “sodas”—typical Costa Rican restaurants. Families often gather at the park in the evenings to play basketball, enjoy ice cream, or spend time on the swings with their children. Weekend gatherings with family and friends are a cherished tradition. The river serves as a central point of life in Upala, with many Sundays spent enjoying picnics along the banks of the Rio Zapote.

Exploring Beyond Upala

For those looking to explore beyond Upala, the town’s main bus station provides convenient access to popular destinations. While renting or driving a car during an internship is prohibited, private transportation arrangements can be facilitated. Upala is situated a five-hour drive from San Jose and approximately two hours from most of the magnificent Pacific Coast beaches. It is also conveniently located just 30 minutes away from the famous Rio Celeste and two hours from the renowned tourist destinations of La Fortuna and Volcan Arenal. The Caño Negro Wildlife refuge, an internationally protected wetland and a haven for numerous wildlife species, is just a one-hour bus ride from Upala Center. Moreover, Upala itself holds many hidden tourist gems, including natural hot springs, fascinating chocolate farms, indigenous territories, and crystal-blue rivers. The VN team is dedicated to showing you these off-the-beaten-path treasures.

Your Invitation to Immerse

At VN Center, interns and volunteers are warmly invited to live, learn, and grow alongside the community. This is more than just a visit; it’s an opportunity to share meals, participate in local festivals, contribute to meaningful projects, and become an integral part of daily life. Upala offers more than just adventure—it offers a truly immersive experience.

FAQs

• Will I be supervised during my internship?

  Yes! From pre-arrival assistance to on-the-ground coordination and supervision, we are there to help you throughout! We work closely with you to design a personalized internship experience, and our team will accompany and supervise you throughout your stay. We are also available 24/7 for support.

• Is Upala safe?

  Costa Rica is one of the most stable and safest countries in Central America. Upala, in particular, is a tight-knit and peaceful community where everyone knows each other.

• Can I drink the water?

  Yes, the tap water in Upala is safe to drink.

• Can I travel on the weekends?

  Absolutely! You’re encouraged to explore. We can help you arrange weekend trips to popular destinations like La Fortuna, Rio Celeste, nearby waterfalls, and Pacific beaches.

• What’s the currency?

  The currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC) — around ₡510 to $1 USD. You can use credit/debit cards almost everywhere. U.S. dollars are also widely accepted, and you’ll usually get change back in colones.

• Where is Upala located?

  Upala is in northern Costa Rica, close to the Nicaraguan border. It’s about 1.5 hours from Liberia International Airport and 5 hours from San José International Airport.

• Do I need vaccinations?

  Vaccinations are not required to enter Costa Rica, but it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor and the CDC website for the most up-to-date recommendations.

• Do I need to speak Spanish?

  It is not a requirement, but we highly suggest at least two semesters of Spanish. We can arrange classes for an additional fee. This is also a great opportunity for language immersion if you want to learn or improve your Spanish. Complete immersion is the best way to learn!

• Can you accommodate vegetarians or people with other dietary restrictions?

  Yes! The staple of the Costa Rican diet is rice and beans, which is an easy base for a vegetarian diet. Other dietary allergies, restrictions, and preferences can also be accommodated.

• Do I need insurance?

  You must have international coverage when abroad. Check to see if your health insurance covers international care. Students can purchase basic international coverage for about $30.

• What do I do if I get sick?

  There are private doctors, clinics, and a hospital in Upala. Costa Rica has an excellent universal healthcare system.

• Can I get school credit for this experience?

  Yes! Many of our past interns have received academic credit through internship programs or independent study. We’re happy to provide documentation and help with any requirements your school may have.

Welcome to Upala! A place where community and nature seamlessly intertwine. 🌳