Marine Conservation Supporter

The program

This essential program aims to conserve Costa Rica's precious marine environment, which has been decimated by human activities to the point of endangerment. Sadly, without preservation, much of this area's  incredible marine life may cease to exist.

Volunteers have the unique opportunity to work alongside marine biologists at a field research station in Playa Agujas. This critical project collates scientific data on endangered species and works to reforest coral species and protect and preserve dolphin and whale populations in the Golfo Dulce. A willing volunteer workforce is critical to completing the many tasks and ambitious goals of this program.

Goals of this Project:

• Assist on projects to improve the environment in which sea turtles, dolphins and whales live, feed, breed and nest 
• Monitor coral, dolphin and whale populations with a view to protection and preservation
• Research these wonderful creatures for a greater understanding of how to ensure their survival
• Enable inter-cultural exchange between international volunteers and locals.

How you can help

Volunteers play an integral role in achieving the goals of this project. Like many conservation programs funds are greatly lacking and a willing volunteer labor force is essential to its success. Those working on this program will support research and conservation efforts across three focus areas: Coral Reef Monitoring and Reforestation, Dolphin and Whale Monitoring and Community Conservation.

Working with recognised national and international marine conservation bodies, volunteers will conduct on-water research in sea kayaks to site and record coral reef species and dolphin and whale activity. On land volunteers will work to improve the marine habitat through reforestation efforts, ensuring beaches are rubbish free and educational activities.   

This is a wonderful program that has a direct impact on the safety and survival of sea turtle, dolphin and whale populations on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. Volunteers will gain unique experience on conservation projects, learn more about the Costa Rican people and culture and travel to beautiful locations.

Volunteers will contribute in a number of ways and can expect to undertake the following tasks:

• Kayak the length of Playa Agujas to site and record coral reef and marine species
• Undertake on-water research tasks to monitor and record dolphin and whale population numbers and ecology data
• Reforestation, beach clean-ups, composting, general maintenance and community outreach as required.

Note: Sea-turtle monitoring can also be incorporated for those able to undertake in-water (snorkelling) activities.  An additional cost of $50 per week applies. 

Volunteers on this critical marine conservation program in the stunning Oso Peninsula work morning and afternoon shifts, Monday to Friday for around 5-8 hours per day. We ask that volunteers be flexible and prepared to work in whichever area they are required. A typical daily outline may look something like this:

7:00am Breakfast at the accommodation

Each day volunteers will do one shift of on-water marine research in the morning or afternoon and one shift of land-based data recording and community development.

VOLUNTEERING DUTIES 8:00am

Work may include on-water research, mangrove reforestation efforts and monitoring grass sea beds as well as ongoing maintenance of turtle conservation facilities and preserving the beach environment.

12:00pm Lunch 

Work may include recording and entering research data, assisting with composting efforts, maintaining the field research station and community activities as required.

Afternoons/Evenings Free time

Volunteers will have part of the day free to relax and explore the local area. Weekends are an opportunity to get amongst the incredible natural beauty and adventure on offer in Osa!

This project is based on stunning Osa Peninsula on Costa Rica's South Pacific coast. Off the beaten tourist track, Osa is a veritable paradise and Costa Rica at its very best! 

The Peninsula is dominated by the Corcovado National Park with its vast array of native wildlife including endangered species and Costa Rica's big cats. Guided jungle adventures can be arranged from Puerto Jiménez. Marine enthusiasts and beach lovers will enjoy the attractions of Drake Bay, Caño Island marine reserve and the surf beaches of Cabo Matapalo and Carate.

Puerto Jiménez is the peninsula's largest town and provides a great base for exploring the region, providing easy access to both the vast expanse of the Parque Nacional Corcovado for hiking and wildlife and the emerald waters of the Golfo Dulce for beaches and surf. Marine Conservation work is based at Agujas.

Immersing volunteers into its unspoilt natural beauty and providing a genuine insight into the 'Tico' way of life; Osa peninsula is the genuine article!