Costa Rica – Family-Friendly Wildlife Volunteering on the Pacific Coast

Costa Rica is one of the world’s top ecotourism destinations, renowned for its incredible biodiversity. Home to about 5% of the planet’s plant and animal species, Costa Rica, meaning ‘rich coast’ in Spanish, boasts diverse landscapes, including rainforests, tropical and temperate forests, volcanoes, beaches, high mountains, and marshy lowlands.

The volunteer project is based in Manuel Antonio, a region celebrated for its stunning biodiversity and natural beauty. On Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, this area features breathtaking beaches, lush rainforests, and a variety of unique wildlife. The nearby Manuel Antonio National Park is a haven for eco-tourism, with hiking trails and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling or relaxing. Families will enjoy the vibrant community in Quepos, where local markets, restaurants, and cultural attractions provide a welcoming atmosphere. Public transport and affordable taxis make exploring this incredible region easy and convenient.

Costa Rica is renowned for its sustainable and nature-based tourism, yet its diverse wildlife faces significant threats, including habitat loss from development, electrocutions, attacks by domestic animals, and illegal pet trading. This program partners with one of Costa Rica’s leading wildlife organizations to address these challenges and protect its unique fauna.

About the Organization
Founded in 1999, the sanctuary is a non-profit organization committed to preserving the wildlife of Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast. The center rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured or orphaned animals while offering permanent care to those unable to survive in the wild. Its mission extends beyond animal care to include innovative conservation projects like reforestation, wildlife bridge construction, and community education.

Volunteer Work
Volunteers play a key role in supporting the sanctuary’s operations. Tasks include preparing food for animals like sloths, parrots, and spider monkeys, cleaning enclosures, and providing enrichment activities to promote animal well-being. Families may also assist in conservation projects, such as planting trees or helping to construct wildlife corridors.

Volunteer Tasks may Include:

• Preparing meals and providing water for animals.
• Cleaning and maintaining enclosures.
• Creating and implementing enrichment activities for wildlife.
• Assisting with reforestation and habitat restoration.
• Supporting the construction of wildlife bridges.
• Taking part in community environmental education projects.
• Helping with special tasks based on the sanctuary’s needs.

A Typical Day for Families
Families volunteering at the sanctuary can follow a flexible schedule that suits their needs. The day starts at 7:00 AM with a hearty breakfast, followed by morning tasks such as preparing food for the animals and assisting with enclosure maintenance. For families with younger children, additional breaks or an early finish can be arranged.

After lunch, activities might include enriching animal environments, light construction projects, or participating in educational initiatives. The workday usually wraps up by 3:00 PM, leaving families ample time to relax or explore the surrounding area.

Afternoons and free days provide opportunities to enjoy the beauty of Manuel Antonio. Families can visit Espadilla or Biesanz beaches, try paddleboarding, horseback riding, or snorkeling, or arrange excursions to explore Manuel Antonio National Park. For an unforgettable experience, families might also consider a sunset catamaran tour.

Note: The schedule and tasks may vary depending on the number of volunteers and the tasks required.

Internet: Wi-Fi is available in shared living spaces.

Laundry: Laundry services are available onsite for volunteers.

Accommodations: As a family, you will stay in a private cabin with its own bathroom, equipped with air conditioning. The accommodations are simple yet comfortable, offering an immersive experience in the jungle. Each room can accommodate families of 2 to 5 members. During the first two nights in San José, your family will stay in double or family rooms at a 3-star hotel such as the Holiday Inn, Hampton Inn, Best Western, or a similar establishment.

Food: During the volunteer program (5 nights), three daily meals are provided, featuring traditional Costa Rican dishes such as rice, beans, fresh vegetables, and tropical fruits. Special dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and allergy-specific needs, can be accommodated at prior notice. During the first two days in San José, only breakfasts and one lunch during the tour are included. Nearby restaurants are available for other meals.

• GoEco Interview
• Minimum age of 12 for independent participation; parents must supervise younger children.
• Physically fit and comfortable working in humid conditions.
• Passionate about animal care and conservation.
• Flexible and adaptable to simple living arrangements and varied tasks.
• Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip-related incidents.
• Flexible and open-minded to do all kinds of chores, depending on the project needs
• Adaptability to the weather in Costa Rica (tropical climate – high temperatures and humidity during the rainy season)
• All volunteers coming from South America or Africa must have a yellow fever vaccination certification in order to enter Costa Rica

Included in the program – Combo Tour (Doka Coffee-Poas Volcano-Waterfalls):
Embark on a thrilling adventure with our Combo Tour, perfect for volunteers seeking diverse experiences! Explore the majestic Poás Volcano National Park, marvel at the breathtaking La Paz Waterfall Gardens, and savor a delicious breakfast and lunch. Immerse yourself in the enchanting landscapes of Costa Rica, blending the rich flavors of Doka Coffee with the awe-inspiring beauty of waterfalls and volcanic vistas.

Spanish Immersion Week – recommended to add before the volunteer program 

Enrich your family program experience by adding our Spanish Cultural Immersion Course! This week long itinerary allows your family to immerse themselves in the vibrant Costa Rican culture. Live with a local family in San Jose and engage in cultural activities alongside your private Spanish lessons throughout the week. See Dates & Fees to add this option for an extra fee. Two-week family schedule with the Spanish week:

Sun: Arrival day
Mon-Thu: Spanish week in San Jose
Fri: Combo Tour
Sat-Sat: Volunteer program in Manuel Antonio (full week)
Sun: Departure

Extra Fee includes:

• Airport pickup on Sunday
• Orientation sessions to prepare for chosen volunteer project
• Lodging with a host family in a private room
• Breakfast and dinner (Mon-Fri)
• 20 hours of Spanish lessons, 5 hours a day (Mon-Thu)
• 2-6 students per classroom with one instructor
• Latin Dance and Costa Rican cooking classes
• Spanish classes run from 9 to 12 noon, with one hour for lunch, and continue from 1 to 3 pm (total 5 hours a day, Mon-Thu).
• Evenings and weekends are free to enjoy the city or travel in Costa Rica

Highlights during the volunteer program,

Manuel Antonio offers an unforgettable blend of adventure and relaxation. Volunteers can explore Manuel Antonio National Park, renowned for its vibrant biodiversity and pristine beaches. Families will enjoy activities such as zip lining, snorkeling, horseback riding, or sunset catamaran tours. Nearby beaches like Espadilla and Biesanz are perfect for swimming or paddle boarding. Local markets and restaurants in Quepos provide a taste of Costa Rican culture, while night walks through the rainforest reveal a different side of the region’s incredible wildlife. With so many options, families can create a personalized and enriching travel experience.