from 989€

Perfect 4.6rating (116)

Community Environmentalist

location
2 - 24 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Perfect 4.6  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Very high response rate

Highlights

  • Experience one of the most pristine areas of Costa Rica
  • Support the local community in their efforts to protect the local flora and fauna
  • Improve your Spanish skills while using it on an everyday basis
  • Boost your CV with international volunteer experience showcasing your commitment to positive change and adaptability to different environments
  • Learn first hand from the pura vida lifestyle, which is very typical for Costa Rica

Especially suitable

Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Groups
50+

About the program

You will live and work at an amazing place on the Osa Peninsula. You will support activities like forest restoration, regenerative agriculture and community work.

Experience unadulterated wildlife in an almost infinitely green setting and help with its preservation. Volunteers support a community-based organization that strives to preserve the fragile biodiversity of Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula. Originally founded to put an end to hunting and illicit logging, ...

About the program

Experience unadulterated wildlife in an almost infinitely green setting and help with its preservation. Volunteers support a community-based organization that strives to preserve the fragile biodiversity of Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula. Originally founded to put an end to hunting and illicit logging, the organization now collaborates closely with the neighboring Corcovado National Park and the Ministry of the Environment. They promote sustainable, equitable, and balanced development because they think that education can bring about transformation. Though the impact is worldwide, the focus is local.

The nonprofit organization works to preserve Costa Rica's natural heritage for future generations by encouraging nature reserves, sustainable tourism, and the development of local communities via education and empowerment, with a focus on women and children.

The original idea behind this program was to preserve the environment in one of the world's most biologically diverse areas while also giving the locals a means of subsistence so they wouldn't have to resort to overfishing, poaching, hunting, or deforestation. The potential for sustainable agriculture and rural tourism in the local communities is enormous.

Through our volunteer program, local small businesses and community members are taught "best practices for sustainable tourism and agriculture." This will lessen poverty and the negative effects of human activity on the environment, enabling Costa Rica to experience sustainable and ethical economic growth. 

Typical day

You will assist with a mix of community service projects, regenerative agriculture, and forest restoration through this volunteer program. Regenerative agriculture is transforming the farming practices of the local families involved in the project. Your assistance with this project has a significant ...

Typical day

You will assist with a mix of community service projects, regenerative agriculture, and forest restoration through this volunteer program. Regenerative agriculture is transforming the farming practices of the local families involved in the project. Your assistance with this project has a significant impact on the local wildlife and flora.

Volunteers for this project put in four to six hours a day, with the weekends off. After that, you have the option to unwind, engage in independent activities, or join one of the project's excursions (water sports, snorkeling, diving, swimming, hiking, horseback riding, etc.).

Reforestation: The group in charge of reestablishing the regional ecology engages in the following tasks:
Building perches for birds to aid in seed dispersal; planting specific plants that serve to attract pollinator insects; laboring in the tree nursery, planting trees; gathering seeds and planting seedlings; installing camera traps to track wildlife activity

Organic regenerative agriculture: Every day, the organic farming crew transforms both the land and lives. Local families are able to use their resources more sustainably thanks to regenerative agriculture. Building beds and getting them ready for seeding; creating compost and creating organic fertilizers; distributing microorganisms; and dealing with aromatic and medicinal plants

Work in the Community: Bahía Drake is a remote community with a lot of social and educational needs. The community work team wants to encourage sports, education, and cultural events for kids, teens, and adults. Encouraging programs for both boys and girls; Art, Sports, and Craft workshops; Children's environmental education; and Participating in the beautification of public spaces

In Costa Rica the sun is out very early and so are the people. Work usually starts early at about 7:30 a.m. after a hearty breakfast. At around noon volunteers have lunch time with a short siesta time to rest. The afternoon shift goes approximately from 2 p.m. to approx. 4:30 p.m. We would like to highlight that the work schedule can vary and the times mentioned are not fixed work shifts. 

Note: There may be variations in the tasks. The quantity of volunteers, the climate, the time of year, the project's present requirements, and self-motivation are some of the variables that affect them. Maybe not every volunteer will take on all of these responsibilities.

Free-time activities

The lovely Osa Peninsula serves as the foundation for the volunteer project. Despite its small size, the region is home to a wide variety of tropical habitats and a vast biodiversity. Mountain forests, coastal wetlands, and rainforests are a few examples. The well-known Corcovado National Park, the ...

Free-time activities

The lovely Osa Peninsula serves as the foundation for the volunteer project. Despite its small size, the region is home to a wide variety of tropical habitats and a vast biodiversity. Mountain forests, coastal wetlands, and rainforests are a few examples. The well-known Corcovado National Park, the largest protected area in Costa Rica and one of the "most biologically active regions in the world," according to National Geographic, is bordered by the volunteer project.

Since the national park's establishment in the 1970s, efforts have been made to preserve the natural resources of this species-rich peninsula by both foreign and Costa Rican organizations and authorities. 

The volunteer program is situated in the Bahía Drake neighborhood. It is situated 20 kilometers north of Corcovado National Park on the Pacific coast. Reached only by boat from Sierpe, it's a very unique and secluded area 45 minutes from the city. Caño Island, a marine protected area about 25 km west of Bahía Drake, is home to many kinds of corals, whales, dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, and an abundance of colorful fish. 

The Bahía Drake is home to the volunteer program, which is particularly active in smaller towns like Los Ángeles, Caletas, Los Planes, El Progreso, and Agujitas.

The breathtaking scenery, which combines a tropical rainforest with idyllic beaches with crystal-clear turquoise water, is the main draw for tourists. Here, visitors will discover exceptional tranquility and rich biodiversity. The largest town, Agujitas, has 400 residents. It has three supermarkets, three small hotels, a church, gift shops, an ice cream shop, bars, and medical services.

One of the primary entry points to the marine reserve that encircles Caño Island and Corcovado National Park is Agujitas.

Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 18 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

Language Skills

You need to speak English (basic level) or Spanish (basic level)

Required Documents

CV and Volunteer Questionnaire

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 08:00 - 14:30

What's Included

What's Included

Services by South America Inside

The volunteer program in Community Work & Nature Conservation in Costa Rica includes:

  • Volunteer House, shared room
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner
  • Advice from our experienced staff
  • On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
  • Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
  • Your placement in the volunteer project
  • Pre-departure information
  • Packing list
  • Country handbook
  • Intercultural guide
  • On-site volunteer coordinator
  • 24/7 emergency number
  • Advice on travel insurance
  • Certificate of participation

Accommodation

An effective means of achieving intercultural integration is through community involvement. The volunteers can pick up a lot of knowledge about local customs, way of life, and difficulties.

In Bahía Drake, the volunteers live in a comfortable guest house. Volunteers have access to shared restrooms and common areas. Warm water is available. A common area is also accessible for volunteers. There is Wi-Fi for the internet.

Food & Beverages

Three delicious meals per day are part of the volunteer program. Please notify us in advance if you are on a special diet (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or allergy-friendly).

Internet Access

Good access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Airport Pickup at Juan Santamaria International Airport

An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose. We assist you to find cheap flights to Costa Rica. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Costa Rica provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in Costa Rica you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Costa Rica. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

The volunteer project takes place all year round, with the exception of mid-December to mid-January

Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

2 weeks (min. stay) 989€
3 weeks 1,267€
4 weeks 1,546€
5 weeks 1,824€
7 weeks 2,381€
9 weeks 2,938€
24 weeks (max. stay) 7,114€
Average fees 395€/week

Program fees

395€ per week 2 - 24 weeks Age 18 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES


Duration

2 - 24 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with South America Inside during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


Meet your organization

South America Inside

Perfect 4.6 rating (116 reviews)

Agency - founded in 2003

Verified by Volunteer World

  Very high response rate

Coordinated by

Marion

Spoken languages: English, Spanish, German

About the project

South America Inside promotes intercultural, linguistic and educational exchanges. Its volunteer programs are addressed to students, professionals and retirees.

Meet your organization

South America Inside is an intercultural management agency, founded back in 2003, which specializes in the promotion of programs abroad, language travel and educational programs throughout Latin America.

Since 2007, to enrich the experience of our global-minded clients and to provide them with even more possibilities, South America Inside has been expanding their program offerings throughout South and Central America.

Working together with some of the best language schools in Latin America, South America Inside provides high quality language courses in almost every Latin American country.

Thanks to a professional team of motivated and friendly staff, South America Inside has been very successful over the past several years and have been able to establish an outstanding network of what we call "Insider Contacts." To enrich the experience of their clients and to provide them with more possibilities, South America Inside has been expanding our program offerings throughout Central and South America, in addition to our well-established Chilean programs.

Volunteer Work

Do you dream of staying abroad while doing something positive? Are you looking for a unique experience that will leave a mark on your life? Then a Volunteer Work program in South America or Central America is perfect for you!

With South America Inside you can combine an adventure abroad with social commitment, and create lasting memories in Latin America. Support the protection of endangered species; help a local community construct new homes; give new hope to impoverished children.

The possibilities to lend a hand are diverse, as there are the many places where help is needed. We have classified our volunteer projects in different areas so you can easily find the one (or more!) projects that best match your needs and interests.

Why with us

There are many persuasive reasons that speak in favor of South America Inside when it comes to selecting your perfect provider of language, study and volunteer travel abroad. Following, we have prepared a short summary so that you can get us to know a little better.

Our Insider benefits at a glance:

  Regional Experience
Over one decade (established in 2003) of dedication to language, work and study travel programs in Latin America. Thanks to our long standing work and life experience in the South American continent, we know this region really well. Therefore, we can help and inform you in a professional and competent way.

  Multifaceted Offers
Over time we have developed new programs to offer a wide array of work abroad opportunities to our clients. We have been pioneers in launching new exchange programs, as we have been the first in offering Work & Travel/Working Holiday and Farm Stays in Chile and successfully introduced these programs into the market back in 2005. Since 2012, we are the only agency to offer this type of program in Costa Rica.

  Insider Advice
Despite living in the modern era of the internet, we know that reliable and competent advice is still an important criterion for most of us. At South America Inside, you will find the benefits of an internet provider and an independent travel agency. We will be glad to pass on our extensive knowledge and regional experience.!

  Location
It is difficult to run programs when there is nobody “on the ground” to evaluate existing options and search for new opportunities. So, we are located in Chile, on location, and we know everything that is going on first hand. We know what it is like to live as a foreigner in South America and will be happy to assist you in making your stay unforgettable!

  Independence
South America Inside is an independent provider of language courses, internships, volunteer work, Farm Stays and Work & Travel programs in Latin America. We neither depend financially nor structurally on any other company, language school, association or organization. Therefore, we are able to give personalized information in accordance to your needs and availability.

•  Multilingual Team

Our team is multilingual and international! We speak fluent English, Spanish and German, as well as some French and Portuguese. With our customers, we can communicate in their native language and we avoid misunderstandings with local partners by communicating in Spanish with them. You can be sure that there will be an English-speaking contact person for you before, during, and after your stay.

  Customer Service
Excellent customer service is one of the most important goals for South America Inside, and this is evident with the positive feedback we regularly receive from our many happy clients. Emails are answered within 48 business hours and every client is treated with the same friendliness and expertise.

  Gapless and Accurate Information flow
With South America Inside you will have one and the same contact person before, during and after your trip. With that said, we guarantee a gapless and accurate information flow and you will always be very well informed.

  Approved Program Places
Many of our program places, especially in the area of internships and volunteer work, are designed in the way that they will be recognized by most universities, colleges or academies.

116 reviews · rating4.6

Lisa Kohne rating4.8

2024 at Community Environmentalist

The journey of getting to Agjuitas Drake was a great introduction. Loved the boat ride, the bumpy roads and crossing rivers to get to the bio hostel. Everybody was so welcoming and friendly. The food was great. My favorite part about the whole experience was having the opportunity to work with so ...
GERALDINE QUIRKE rating3.2

2024 at Work in a National Park

When I scheduled volunteer time the indication was that there was a limited number of volunteers based on the projects/work to be done. As more and more volunteers arrived i realized that we were more valued for the money we paid than for the limited amount of work to be done. Also, I felt that ...
Nathalie K. rating5

2024 at Local Wildlife Helper

Everything is alright. The family host in San José is very kind. I visited San José yesterday. This morning I arrived at the rescue center and it's amazing! It beautifull, the animals are so cute. And the volonteers are very friendly. Thanks for everything and have a good ...
Stacey Garratt rating5

2024 at Local Women Empowerment Supporter

I have been travelling for 7 months in total and just had the most wonderful experience in Ecuador. I can confidently say in the last 6 weeks I have created my favourite memories of this journey in an all-encompassing way. Firstly, the program itself was incredible, I constantly felt supported, ...
Oihane B. rating4.8

2024 at Nature Park Protector

La estancia está siendo genial, estoy aprendiendo mucho además de pasándolo realmente bien. En cuanto al alojamiento y la comida no tengo quejas, todo está limpio y es cómodo y hay abundante comida. El ambiente de trabajo es muy bueno y siempre hay cosas para hacer y ...
Mattia Malfanti rating5

2024 at Countryside School Assistant

Very good location and people. Really good organization and people are really hospitable. Peumal is a really good alternative school. I sincerely advice if you want help in an alternative school to go ...

Location

Americas > Central America > Costa Rica > Bahia Drake

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English, Spanish, German

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