On Wednesday, April 30th, the Biology Department of the Internacional Baccalaureate Diploma Programme held an educational field trip to La Tigra Rainforest Lodge, located in the canton of San Carlos. Both teachers and IB students took part in the activity. The purpose of the trip was to highlight the vale of natural resources, raise awareness about environmental issues, and inform
participants about the different actions that can be taken through the conservation project led by the reserve: Bosque La Tigra.
Upon arrival at around 8:30 a.m., attendees were welcomed with an
introductory talk given by Adolfo Quesada, the reserve’s administrator. He shared
the history of the reserve, explaining how the area transitioned from being used for
cattle farming to becoming a protected zone that now hosts approximately 3% of Costa Rica’s species. He also highlighted key initiatives such as volunteer programs and community support projects that have provided access to clean drinking water for many local families.

Image related to the introductory presentation

After the talk, students walked along the reserve’s trails to observe the forest and the locations where the day’s presentations would later take place. During the hike, Mr. Quesada explained important characteristics of the forest’s flora and fauna which were key elements for the upcoming research activity.

Students then split into pre-assigned groups to present on four different topics. Their goal was to investigate the local climate and how it influences the biodiversity of the reserve, while identifying the role of various plant and animal species within the ecosystem.

Photo of the student presentations

To conclude the academic portion of the day, students and teachers
participated in a reforestation activity by planting a tree in the reserve’s designated area. This symbolic gesture supported the ongoing conservation project. The tree was planted by student Luis Paul Lenz-Fontán Sancho from section 2-4.

Photo of the student Luis Paul Lenz-Sontán Sancho

To wrap up the visit, a group photo was taken with students, teachers, and the reserve’s administrative team to commemorate the experience.

Group photo towards the end of the activity 

This marked the end of the Biology Department’s educational trip for the Diploma program students.

We thank La Tigra Rainforest Lodge for hosting us and for helping to promotes environmental and ecological values among our students and staff. We hope the experience was as enriching for them as it was for us.

Author: Jason Pérez Avendaño; Second year IB Student

Translated by: Ariadna Soni Loría; First year IB Student