Volunteer in Costa Rica

Volunteering in Costa Rica is the best way to discover one of the most sustainable countries in the world. Costa Rica is famous for its numerous sea turtle conservation projects. Volunteer to save baby turtles, work with sloths, monkeys and even the endangered jaguars that live in high trees in the tropical rainforest.

Volunteering in Costa Rica is very popular because the country has strong eco-tourism, wildlife conservation projects, and community programs. Here are the main ways you can get involved and where to look.

Marine Conservation

We offer a range of specialized services tailored to meet your individual needs.

Beach Clean Up

We offer a range of specialized services tailored to meet your individual needs.

Eco Conservation

We offer a range of specialized services tailored to meet your individual needs.

Volunteering in Costa Rica is very popular because the country has strong eco-tourism, wildlife conservation projects, and community programs. Here are the main ways you can get involved and where to look.

Wildlife & sea turtle conservation

One of the most sought-after options is helping protect sea turtles on the Pacific or Caribbean coasts. Tasks often include:

  • Night beach patrols
  • Protecting nests from predators
  • Data collection and tagging hatchlings
  • Beach cleanup

Environmental conservation

Costa Rica is known for rainforests and biodiversity, so programs often involve:

  • Reforestation and tree planting
  • Wildlife monitoring (monkeys, sloths, birds)
  • National park support
  • Sustainable farming projects

Community & education projects

You can also volunteer in local towns:

  • Teaching English
  • Working in childcare centers
  • Supporting after-school programs
  • Community development work

Animal rescue shelters

Animal welfare centers often need help with:

  • Feeding and caring for dogs/cats
  • Cleaning shelters
  • Socializing rescued animals

Costa Rica Partner Volunteer Organizations

We partner with these Costa Rica conservartionist for volunteer projects.  

    • Turtle Conservation: Projects are popular on both coasts.
      • Osa Peninsula (Pacific): Focus on Leatherback and Green turtles.
      • Pacuare (Caribbean): Remote, boat-only access, focusing on nesting green turtles.
      • Refugio Camaronal: Specialized in Olive Ridley conservation.
    • Wildlife Rescue Centers:
      • Wild Sun Rescue Center (Nicoya Peninsula): Offers programs focusing on rescue and rehabilitation.
      • Proyecto Asis (La Fortuna): Focuses on animal welfare and environmental education.