Construction
Costa Rica4.8(4)
Construction projects in Costa Rica
- Duration
- 2 to 12 weeks
- Age
- From 16 years old
from €1,290 for 2 weeks
Costa Rica
Volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica
Volunteer in Costa Rica with Freepackers: wildlife rehabilitation in an animal shelter, rainforest conservation, construction projects or education projects.
5 programmes in this country
Costa Rica is a Central American country known for its commitment to the environment and its ability to offer long, happy and pleasant lives to its citizens, according to the Happy Planet Index. Costa Rica charms visitors with its gentle way of life, its incredible environmental wealth and the kindness of its inhabitants, nicknamed Ticos. “Pura Vida” is a popular saying and an important part of Costa Rican culture which translates to “pure life” or “simple life.”
Here is a country whose main credo is the protection of the environment, respect for all living things and the well-being of the population. Costa Rica is home to numerous national parks, including Manuel Antonio National Park, Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, and Corcovado National Park.
San José is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica. Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica, though English is also widely spoken.
Good to know before you go
- Visa
- You do not require a visa for stays of under 90 days. Please check the website www.visitcostarica.com to ensure that the conditions have not changed.
- Health
- Please check with your doctor or a travel clinic which vaccinations you need for your destination. You can also find up-to-date health advice for each destination on the Institut Pasteur website.
Our programmes in Costa Rica
Teaching
Costa Rica5(2)
Childcare placement project in Costa Rica
- Duration
- 2 to 12 weeks
- Age
- From 16 years old
from €1,240 for 2 weeks
Marine life
Costa Rica
Sea turtle conservation in Costa Rica summer camp
- Duration
- 2 weeks
- Age
- From 15 years old
from €2,210 for 2 weeks
Marine life
Costa Rica4(2)
Sea turtle conservation in Costa Rica
- Duration
- 2 to 8 weeks
- Age
- From 18 years old
from €1,480 for 2 weeks
Animals
Costa Rica5(2)
Animal rescue center in Costa Rica
- Duration
- 4 to 12 weeks
- Age
- From 18 years old
from €1,850 for 4 weeks
About the Destination and Volunteer Opportunities
Advice before volunteering in Costa Rica
Due to the tropical environment, there may be diseases such as yellow fever or mosquito-borne illnesses. Make sure to check if there are any vaccinations you need before leaving.
Although many people speak English, especially in the tourist areas, learning some basic Spanish phrases will help you to connect with locals and the community as a whole.
It is also important to familiarize yourself with the local currency (the Costa Rican colón) and its exchange rate against your currency.
Is it safe to volunteer in Costa Rica?
Costa Rica is considered to be a safe destination for volunteers. Nevertheless, you should still exercise general caution when walking with valuables, at night, in an unfamiliar place, etc.
Requirements to volunteer in Costa Rica
In order to volunteer in Costa Rica, you must be 18+, be proficient in English, have a valid passport and have travel insurance.
Volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica
Many volunteer projects in Costa Rica revolve around wildlife protection. You can work closely with animals on wildlife rehabilitation projects or with plants on rainforest conservation. Humanitarian programmes such as construction projects or childcare placements are also very popular.
Where to volunteer in Costa Rica?
The capital, San José, is a popular option, as are small fishing villages, mountains, beaches and rainforests.
- Do you want to help the local fauna? Opt for the mission in an animal shelter.
- Do you prefer to take care of the flora? Go and study the rainforest.
- Do you want to help people? We offer you solidarity work camps or educational projects. Join a Freepackers project!
