Volunteer in Costa Rica

Often described as the "jewel" of Central America, Costa Rica boasts a year-round tropical climate and awe-inspiring natural beauty. It is famous for its rich diversity of flora and fauna, plains, rivers, mountains, valleys, volcanoes, beaches, and national parks. With its close proximity to North America, a stable democratic government, and a safe and friendly atmosphere, it is a popular destination for international volunteering.

Program Details

Your volunteer program in Costa Rica will begin with four weeks of intensive language instruction, followed by a four to eight week volunteer placement. (Intermediate-level Spanish speakers may skip the language school portion of the program.)  You’ll be able to choose from a variety of worthy and interesting projects, including:

• Education for the Deaf and Blind - You’ll contribute to the education of children and adults with visual and hearing impairment by reading to them and leading recreational activities.
• Public School Support - You'll provide essential support to public school teachers, you’ll work directly with students, helping with educational and recreational activities.
• Child Welfare Assistance - You'll work in a government organization that operates shelters throughout the country for abandoned and abused children. Some of the children are waiting to be adopted while others will return to their parents if their home situations improve. You'll have a direct impact on the children, helping to build their self-esteem through a variety of activities.  Previous experience working with children or teenagers is required.
• San José Zoo Support - If you’re an animal lover, you’ll relish this opportunity to work at this small zoo outside San Jose. You’ll be responsible for providing animal care, as well as administrative assistance
• Working with Underprivileged Children - You’ll work with a non-profit organization that runs schools for children from poor neighborhoods. The organization not only provides the facilities, teachers and materials, but also food and clothing. Your work will include teaching English and doing recreational activities with the students. Donations of new or used school materials are more than welcome.
• Nursing Home Assistance - Working in a facility for the elderly, you’ll provide companionship and support to the part-time and permanent residents. Your duties might include serving food and organizing activities with the residents.
• Natural Park Volunteering - You’ll be placed at one of 20 natural parks in Costa Rica, providing important assistance with trail restoration, campsite cleaning, animal care, beach patrol, signposting, and more. Duties vary among individual parks.

As a Volunteer in Costa Rica, you’ll receive:

• Pre-departure assistance
• Enrollment in an intensive, four-week Spanish language school
• A volunteer placement matching your skills and interests
• Housing and meals with a carefully screened host family or in rangers quarters (for National Parks projects)
• Access to discounted international accident and sickness insurance
• Airport pick-up and transfer
• Access to various cultural activities
• In-country assistance from our Costa Rican international cooperator
• ISE card - International Student & Youth Exchange Identification Card

Program Start Dates

Year-round; arrive every Sunday

Program Fees

Accommodation Style

Host family 

Participant Requirements

To Volunteer in Costa Rica, you must:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be a U.S., Canadian, or European Union citizen
• Be covered by accident and sickness insurance

Interested? Request Information

Ready to Get Started? Apply Now