Nature Conservation for Teenagers
Coordinator | Bethany
Coordinator | Bethany
Book with Flex Option!
Choose new departure dates or change to a different volunteer program at no extra costs.
Highlights
Help us in striving towards long-term, sustainable goals to protect the tropical dry forest ecosystem
Through wildlife surveys, you’ll collect data on indigenous species which helps the reserve develop effective conservation strategies
Survey bats in the depths of the caves, accompanied and supported by experienced professionals
You’ll be based in Barra Honda National Park, a government-run wildlife reserve made up of lush forests and deep cave networks
Have plenty of time to explore the park and connect with your fellow volunteers
Team up with teenagers from around the world to protect the majestic wildlife of Costa Rica
This volunteer program is especially suitable for:
Age 15+
Singles
Couples
+++ PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS PROGRAM IS EXCLUSIVELY FOR 15-18 YEAR OLDS +++
This project is ideal for adventurous teens who are passionate about protecting our planet. If you’re looking to pursue a career in environmental studies, zoology, or botany, this is for you! You’ll gain practical experience working on conservation initiatives in the heart of the tropical dry forest.
Thrill-seekers and nature lovers are welcome! You’ll trek through the forest and explore caves, so be prepared for a step out of your comfort zone and into something extraordinary. This is a completely safe and secure way to experience this breathtaking ecosystem.
You don’t need any skills or qualifications to join. You just need to be physically fit and willing to skip some of your home comforts, like regular Wi-Fi access and hot showers. But you’ll find that in the heat of the forest, a cool, refreshing shower will be exactly what you need at the end of the day.
Travelling abroad for the first time? This project is ideal if you’re looking for a bit of extra support while you’re abroad. Our hassle-free approach means our staff will be on-hand 24/7 to guide you.
#Hotspots
Monkey Conservation
Bird Conservation
Activities
Bat Conservation
National Park
Spider Monkey
Macaw
Howler Monkey
Planting Trees
Hiking
Bat
Reforestation
Typical day
You’ll spend your days working with other teens to protect the wildlife of Barra Honda National Park. Here are some of the tasks you’ll do:
- Collect data on wildlife to help create effective conservation plans
- Run workshops and presentations to teach people about the environment
- Do community work and maintenance work to keep the park running
- Plant trees to help combat habitat destruction and climate change
- Explore the beautiful reserve and bond with your fellow volunteers
Your work will focus on five main areas:
Collect data on wildlifeOne of your main tasks will be to collect valuable data on different species. You’ll do this during hikes through the forest, night walks, and trips into the park’s caves. You’ll also help with setting up butterfly traps, which safely catch butterflies so that you can record details about them. Once, you’ve collected this data, you’ll release them unharmed.
The data you collect will tell us more about the behaviour and distribution of species. With these information, we can create and implement more effective conservation strategies.
Some of the species you’ll survey include:
- Bats
- Scarlet macaws
- Monkeys
- Butterflies
During your trip, you’ll be learning a lot about Costa Rica’s unique plants and animals. Experts will also equip you with details about conservation strategies. You’ll then share this information with locals in the communities surrounding the reserve.
You’ll take trips to schools or community centres, where you’ll give presentations on topics like organic farming or recycling. This work ensures surrounding communities are invested in protecting the forest. It also means they’ll carry on important conservation work after you’ve finished your project.
Do community and maintenance workGet your hands dirty and use your energy to make a tangible difference! During your project, you’ll dedicate some of your time to community initiatives. This could include planting vegetable gardens or painting environmental education murals at schools.
You’ll also help with park maintenance. Barra Honda relies heavily on volunteers to keep up it’s amazing work. You’ll play a vital role in maintaining the park by clearing trails, maintaining fire breaks, and renovating the camp.
Help with reforestation workThe tropical dry forest is threatened by deforestation. Cutting down trees and clearing land for farmland and urban expansion leaves many creatures without homes. You can make a difference by helping with reforestation initiatives.
As a volunteer, you’ll tend to young saplings in the tree nursery. You’ll also help with planting the larger saplings in the forest. This initiative helps rebuild this vital habitat.
Reforestation also helps combat climate change. More trees means more carbon dioxide absorbed, which helps reduce the catastrophic environmental consequences of this greenhouse gas.
Free-time activities
Explore the surrounding nature
It’s not all work and no play! You’ll also have plenty of time to explore the park and connect with your fellow volunteers. This project has a set itinerary, with time set aside for social activities. This includes meals shared with your group, late night cards and board games, and even a trip to Rincon de la Vieja Volcano!
Sightseeing
Safari/
Zoo
Zoo
Hiking
Requirements
In order to join the program you need to be at least 15 years old on the program start date.
You need to speak English (basic level)
No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.
Your helping hand will be required on
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
What's Included
Accommodation
Food (three meals a day)
Airport pick-up and drop-off
Full induction and orientation by an experienced staff member on arrival
Transport to and from your work placement
In-country support and 24-hour back-up from our team of full-time local staff
Emergency assistance from our international emergency response team
Project equipment and materials, including access to our database with thousands of resources
Regular social events and community activities with other volunteers and interns
Training and workshops from our experienced local staff
Access to our local office with internet connection
Certification of project completion
A cultural awareness course
Membership to our volunteer social media groups, to share information and to get in touch
Organised weekend tourism trips
Dedicated full-time staff members with you 24 hours a day
Your arrival airport in Costa Rica will be Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO). Our in-country staff will be there to greet you at the airport. They’ll be holding a Projects Abroad sign so you can spot them easily.
From the airport, our staff will arrange your transport to your accommodation.
If you’re joining our Conservation Project, you’ll likely spend your first night in a hotel. The following day, local staff will take you to the bus station. From there, you’ll catch a bus to our Conservation placement in Barra Honda National Park. The bus ride will take approximately four hours. Our Conservation staff will be waiting to welcome at the end of your bus journey.
We cover the cost of your transport to and from the airport, giving you one less thing to worry about when you arrive in Costa Rica.
You'll share accommodation with other Projects Abroad volunteers during your stay at Barra Honda National Park. This is a great way to get to know your fellow volunteers, share experiences, and explore your surroundings in your time together.
On our High School Specials, we will always try to have you share a room with at least one volunteer of the same sex and approximate age. Your room will be modest, but comfortable, clean, and safe.
Your programme fees include three meals a day.
Good access at the project site
Visa, flights, travel insurance or vaccinations are NOT included in the program fees.
The nearest airport is Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose. We assist you to find cheap flights to Costa Rica.
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.
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.
Dates & Fees
NO CREDIT CARD FEES
Details on arrival
Conservation volunteering in Costa Rica for teenagers is available for two weeks over your summer holiday. This project has fixed dates and a set itinerary, filled with plenty of exciting activities to keep you busy.
This program is paused due to COVID-19 and reopens August 2020. Apply Now!
2 - 2 weeks
Program fees
2 weeks
(min. stay)
$2,388
2 weeks
(max. stay)
$2,388
Average fees
$1,194
/week
The organization charges its fees in GBP. The price table in USD is subject to currency fluctuation.
Projects Abroad
will let you know about the final price during your application process.
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.
Your final payment will be agreed with Projects Abroad during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.
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Nature Conservation for Teenagers
Team up with teenagers from around the world to protect the majestic wildlife of Costa Rica
$948/week
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