UTSI’s field station is located at Finca Carolina in Uvita, Costa Rica. Finca Carolina is a 23 hectare nature reserve and organic farm. Andrew Ogden currently manages UTSI’s station in Uvita. The site is surrounded on one side a by a large tract of nationally protected forest (1,000 ha) and by a large (350 ha) private nature reserve on the other side of the pristine Ballena river. The valley in which Finca Carolina lies boasts a very high level of biodiversity, which fuels UTSI to study, catalogue, and conserve this natural treasure.

The intersection of rivers, mountains, and sea make UTSI a premier destination for educational ecological projects and adventures. UTSI’s field station boasts rustic living quarters for up to 20 students and professors. All buildings are built from local sustainably harvested timber and are enclosed with mosquito screens. One large two-storied cabin has a kitchen and dining area as the first floor and the second floor serves as a classroom. Two cabins complete with three sets of bunk-beds, attached shower, sink, and foot-wash lie just next to the central building. Each cabin also has its own toilet or detached dry-toilet outhouse.

Local Features of Uvita

The town of Uvita lies just 4 miles from Finca Carolina. Uvita offers all modern amenities including banks, 3 large grocery stores, internet cafes, restaurants, and a small health clinic. There are many activities that can be performed in and around Uvita. Check the Useful info section for more information.

Marino Ballena National Park. Marino Ballena is home to the famous whales’ tail formation along its pristine beach. At low tide, one can venture 200 m out onto to the rocky whales’ tail and gain a spectacular view of the surrounding mountain ranges. 16 kms of coast line plus 1 km into the sea comprise this national park, one of only two marine national parks in Costa Rica. The beach offers both tranquil waters in the bay of Bahia and more turbulent waters for surfing along the southern portion of the park. Tours with expert local surf guides may be arranged if requested.

Access to emergency medical services in Cortes. Just a short 30 minute drive from Uvita lies the the citiy of Cortes which boasts a brand new fully modern hospital. Emergency care is not far away if needed. Visiting the rainforest has its inherent risks and all UTSI trip participants sign a waiver before entering UTSI’s field research station.

Corcovado National Park, Boruca reservation, Mount Chirripo all less than 4 hours drive. These are just a few of the exciting excursions that UTSI can arrange.