Description

Volunteers may work on any number of tasks and projects, depending on the specific needs of the Ranch at the time of their visit, such as:

* Agroforestry
* Basic Carpentry
* Building with Cob and Bamboo
* Soap making
* Designing and Construction of Composting Toilets
* Cooking and Cleaning
* English Instruction (to locals)
* Foundation Work and Basic Masonry
* Gardening
* Greywater System Design and Installation
* Micro-Hydro System Design and Installation
* Permaculture
* Trail Construction and Maintenance
- Tropical Farming
- Yoga Instruction

At this site, volunteers are an indispensable element. One primary goal of this ranch is to facilitate volunteers with experiences and tasks which maximizes his or her learning potential. The ranch is very open to self-initiated projects. If there is something that you are interested in doing or learning, please let us know or talk to the local supervisor so that we can try and set you up accordingly.

Even though volunteers work hard and sometimes long days, the general atmosphere at the ranch is relaxed. Always, hard work is compensated with incredible food, plenty of time to explore the beautiful surroundings and the community and a unique feeling of being part of an incredible movement. Volunteer independence is encouraged as much as possible, though direction and supervision is provided when necessary.

Highlights

The ranch is an environmental learning and sustainable living center, retreat and lodge located in the last virgin rainforest of Costa Rica's beautiful Puriscal County. They advocate organic gardening and farming, the study of medicinal herbs, homeopathy, natural, vernacular building techniques, alternative energy systems, and other educational activities to help facilitate a more sustainable global community in the rainforest.

The staff practices and promotes living responsibly in the tropics while educating the visitors about the significance and majesty of the world's disappearing tropical forests. They serve to educate about the rainforest and create a beautiful, harmonious and exciting community where one can come to share and learn.

The hospitable and attractive agricultural community provides the visitor with a glimpse of "tico" campesino life. The locals invariably spawn the fondest memories for those taking the time to interact with them and are what truly make this corner of Central America a special and exceptional destination for conscientious visitors.

Accommodations:
- Volunteer House
- Shard bedrooms
- Bathrooms & Shower with electricity
- Three meals per day & snacks
- Laundry services (provided by local women)

The project site provides you with a bed in one of the several houses that are located at the Ranch's territory, set on 235 acres of private wildlife refuge, abundant wildlife, waterfalls, rivers, swimming holes and beautiful forests.

All houses are very cosy, quiet and set amongst fruit trees and the forest. During the busiest times at the year you might be ask to be flexible with your accommodation and you may be accommodated either with a local family or the camping ground (tent will be provided by the volunteer). Though this is increasingly less common as the infrastructure is improved every year, volunteers staying in homestays or tents have full access to the houses and their associated amenities.

Qualifications

* Language: English speaking projects however basic Spanish skills are useful to communicate with local communities.

* Skills: No special skills are required; though an interest to work outdoors as well as a commitment to environmental conservation is important.

* Vaccination: Not specified. We suggest vaccination against hepatitis A+B, typhoid or influenza. Additionally, ask for medical advice in your home country.

* Insurance: Full travel & medical insurance for Costa Rica

* Visa: Usually, a tourist visa is fine. However, we recommend consulting the Costa Rican Embassy of your home country about visa requirements.

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

see our website for exact prices

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

18+ years

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Resume
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

Flexible

South America Inside's Mission Statement

Our programs are addressed to the humanitarian traveler, whether you are a student, professional or retiree. Anyone who wants to explore Latin America not as a mere tourist, but rather as an insider through an experience that goes beyond the ordinary, we invite you into our community! We organize Spanish and Portuguese courses as well as internship and volunteer work positions in nearly all countries of Central and South America. We help in organizing language courses, internships, volunteer work projects as well as in choosing the right country for you. We aim to select partners who are just off the beaten path and/or entail unique and special features to make your experience unforgettable!

Year Founded

2003