Volunteering in Costa Rica

Contribute to worthwhile community initiatives in the heart of Latin America

Volunteer in Costa Rica and learn the true meaning of “pura vida” (pure living). You’ll support community development and environmental protection in this vibrant Latin American country. Volunteer abroad programmes in Costa Rica present an opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich, diverse culture by living and working in Central America.

Volunteer work in Costa Rica can include:

Volunteer to teach English in Costa Rica to improve the career prospects of disadvantaged children
Nurture the early development of children in Costa Rica’s daycare centres
Coach sports to young people, inspiring discipline and healthy living

There are also family volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica. Children under 15 are welcome to join their parents to help with childcare in daycare centres.

Our volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica are based in Heredia. Our local staff will be on hand to guide and support you 24/7. Whether you’re doing short-term volunteer work in Costa Rica or staying for longer, our staff will ensure you have the best experience possible.

With more than 25% of its land protected in national parks, Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise. It has everything from volcanoes to tropical rainforests, and magnificent waterfalls to beautiful sandy beaches.

This small country is also renowned for its biodiversity and boasts an array of wildlife.

Choose a project in Costa Rica

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Map & Location

Thought to be one of the safest countries in Latin America, Costa Rica is a pioneer of sustainable tourism with a gorgeous coastline, incredible active volcanoes, and up-close wildlife encounters. Here, “Pura Vida” is more than just a saying — it’s a way of life.

More than one-quarter of Costa Rica is protected national parks or reserves and about half of it is covered in rainforest. It is also one of only a handful of countries with no army! It’s the perfect place for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Camaquiri

The Camaquiri Conservation Initiative is a rainforest conservation hub surrounded by incredible biodiversity. Just a few hours from San José, it offers direct access to pristine ecosystems full of birds, amphibians, reptiles, and countless plants.

Camaquiri is known as a centre for conservation and research due to its remote location, but also has comfortable amenities. With its warm tropical climate and abundant wildlife, it’s the perfect setting for important rainforest exploration year-round.

Barra del Colorado

Tucked away on Costa Rica’s northeastern coast, Barra del Colorado is a remote fishing village and one of the country’s largest wildlife refuges. The area is rich in rivers, lagoons, and mangroves, with a tropical climate that stays warm year-round.

Despite its seclusion, it’s easily reached by boat or car on dirt roads and rivers. Barra del Colorado is famous for its sea turtles, wetlands, and marine life, making it a core destination for marine conservation efforts.

Monteverde

Monteverde, high in the misty mountains of Costa Rica, is an evergreen region of cloud forests — a paradise for nature and animal lovers. It has a tropical climate with a constant haze of refreshing, cooling fog in the air, and is incredibly biodiverse.

Walk through the forest canopy on suspended bridges and enjoy breathtaking views. See sloths lounging on tree branches, hear the howls of monkeys echo through the trees, and enjoy endless, colourful birdwatching.

Heredia

Heredia, located just 20 minutes north of the capital San Jose, is known as the “City of Flowers.” This charming city of fewer than 20,000 residents has a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful parks and gardens, and enjoys a cool, spring-like climate year-round.

Wander through the historic streets lined with colourful colonial buildings or head further out to visit nearby coffee plantations, national parks, and volcanoes. It’s the perfect place for exploring the natural beauty of Costa Rica!

Your Arrival Made Easy

When volunteering in Costa Rica, you will be met at the airport by a Projects Abroad staff member. You can find more detailed information on flights, arrival airports, orientation, and visas, on our Costa Rica Arrival Procedures page.