Volunteer in Costa Rica | Projects Abroad

Volunteer in Costa Rica with Projects Abroad and support community development and environmental protection in this vibrant country. This is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich, diverse culture by living and working in central America.

We have a range of different volunteer projects, so you’re sure to find the right one for you. Whether you want to nurture children’s development, teach English, or help conserve wildlife, we offer many ways for you to make a difference based on your passions.

Our volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica are based in either Heredia or Barra Honda National Park. In both locations, our local staff will be on-had to guide and support you 24/7.

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.

Can't find what you're looking for?

We have the expertise and staff on the ground to create a custom project for you, or simply help you find the best option.

Speak to one of our Costa Rica experts on:

+353 (0)1 571 5080

or email:

Enquire Now

to start planning your project

Meet the team in Costa Rica

Jessica Pacheco

Volunteer Advisor

Luis Arguedas

Country Director

Daniel Segura

Project Supervisor

Jessica Brenes

Interlocutor

Marcela Esquivel

Volunteer Coordinator

Oscar Rosales

Conservation Coordinator

Meicel Gomez

Conservation Project Cook

SAFETY AND STAFF SUPPORT

Your safety and security is our prime concern. We have many procedures and systems to ensure you have the support you need to enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Our Projects Abroad staff are available 24 hours a day to help, and will be on-hand to make sure you settle in well at your accommodation and placement. If you encounter any problems, they will be available to help at any time.

Find out more about safety and backup.

Where we are based in Costa Rica

During your voluntary work in Costa Rica, you’ll be living in either Heredia or Barra Honda National Park. We have dedicated full-time staff in both locations, so you’ll have plenty of support no matter where you’re based.

Heredia

The city of Heredia, where most of our projects are based, is situated in the heart of Costa Rica’s coffee-growing country. With its large student population and close proximity to the exciting capital city of San Jose, Heredia has an active cultural and social scene.

You can easily reach the impressive Poas and Irazu volcanoes on a day-trip from Heredia. Many other popular tourist destinations, such as Arenal volcano and Monteverde cloud forest, are only a bus ride away.

Barra Honda

The Conservation Project in Costa Rica is based in Barra Honda National Park. You’ll be living and working at the wildlife reserve, which is about a 25-minute drive from the nearest town.

This location is ideal for you if you’re a nature lover looking to take a break from fast-paced daily life. Your free time will be filled with scenic hikes and board games with your fellow volunteers, with the lush forest as your backdrop. For the more adventurous, the network of underground caves and caverns is a highlight.

AIRPORT PICKUP, FLIGHTS AND VISAS Costa Rica

When volunteering in Costa Rica, your arrival airport will be Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). 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.