Bean-to-Bar Chocolate & Sustainable Communities Internship
Program Overview
Gain hands-on experience in artisanal chocolate production, agroecology, and sustainable enterprise on a small bean-to-bar farm in Heredia, Costa Rica. This immersive internship introduces you to the journey from cacao to chocolate while exploring how ethical food production, environmental sustainability, and community education can work together.
HANDS-ON CHOCOLATE PRODUCTION
Learn about the chocolate-making process, from cacao preparation to small-scale production using traditional, human-powered methods, including bicycle-powered equipment. Work alongside the local team to understand the craft behind artisanal chocolate and gain insight into sustainable food production and value chains.
AGROECOLOGY & SOCIAL ENTERPRISE
Contribute to the daily activities of a working farm and educational space through garden maintenance, agroecological practices, content creation, and visitor engagement. Support educational tours and visitor programs while developing practical skills in communication, environmental education, and sustainable tourism.
CULTURAL IMMERSION
Experience daily life in rural Costa Rica while staying with a local host family. Share in everyday routines, practice Spanish, and learn from the people and place behind the products you help create.
PERSONALIZED SUPPORT
Beyond Travels provides pre-departure guidance to help you prepare for your experience, along with local staff and emergency support throughout your placement. We help you navigate the transition into a new environment so you can focus on learning, building connections, and making the most of your time abroad.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
This program is ideal for participants interested in artisanal chocolate, ethical food production, agroecology, social entrepreneurship, or sustainable tourism. Develop practical skills and gain a deeper understanding of how small-scale enterprises can connect sustainable production with education and community impact.
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Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.
Program Highlights
What's Included
Exclusions
Quick Details
- 2-4 Weeks
- 5-8 Weeks
- 9-12 Weeks
- Agriculture
- Business
- Ecology
- Education
- Environmental Management
- Spanish
- Sustainable Development
- Education
- Environment
Updated Oct 26, 2026
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Heredia, Costa Rica
Types & Subjects
- Fields
- Agriculture
- Business
- Ecology
- Education
- Environmental Management
- Spanish
- Sustainable Development
- Causes
- Education
- Environment
Eligible Nationalities
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Solo, Couples
Education Levels & Language
- Language
- English
- Spanish
- Education
- Any/All Education Levels Accepted
Accommodation Options
- Home-stays
Application Procedures
- Phone/Video Interview
- Resume
- Online Application
Age Requirement
18+
Duration
- 2-4 Weeks
- 5-8 Weeks
- 9-12 Weeks
- 1-3 Months
Starts At
Payment Terms
- Scholarships
- Upfront Deposit
- Changes Allowed
Refund Policy
Partial Refund
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all the most common questions about Beyond Travels.
What will I do during the internship?
Participants gain hands-on exposure to bean-to-bar chocolate production, including cacao processing, small-scale manufacturing, and traditional, human-powered systems. Depending on the season, interns may also assist with garden work, agroecological practices, educational tours, content creation, and visitor engagement within the social enterprise.
Do I need experience in chocolate production or agriculture?
No prior experience is required. The program is open to students and early professionals interested in sustainability, agroecology, food systems, and social entrepreneurship. All training is provided on-site by the local team.
What are the living conditions like?
Participants live with a local host family in or near Heredia, Costa Rica. Accommodation is simple but comfortable and includes basic amenities. Living with a host family provides cultural immersion and insight into daily life in a rural Costa Rican community, while allowing easy access to the farm and social enterprise activities.
Do I need Spanish to participate?
We welcome participants with beginner to advanced Spanish skills. Spanish is helpful for daily communication with the local team and community members, but beginners can still participate. Basic Spanish is recommended before arrival.
What support is provided during the program?
Participants receive pre-arrival guidance, on-site orientation, placement support, and ongoing assistance throughout the program. This includes weekly check-ins and access to emergency support from our local team when needed.
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