GoAbroad

Volunteer Abroad in Costa Rica - United Planet - 6/12 Months

by: United Planet

4.75 (4)VerifiedSince 2001

Volunteer in Costa Rica and immerse in the nation’s “Pura Vida” lifestyle while exploring unspoiled rainforests and basking in the peaceful atmosphere (with the Costa Rican army abolished in 1948). Costa Rica is renowned around the world for its biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, eco-tourism, and warm culture. Local people are friendly and eager to lend a hand, even a home, in times of need. Slow down and appreciate a different pace of life; you’ll feel at home in this family-oriented culture. United Planet is the US and Canadian member of the International Cultural Youth Exchange or ICYE. As a volunteer in Costa Rica, you will be hosted by ACI, ICYE’s Costa Rican partner organization. As an international non-profit, ACI has promoted cross-cultural exchange between young people all over the world since 1967.

Program Highlights

Choose from projects that focus on global health, children and education, and environmental sustainability.

Join a two-day orientation and experience a walking tour of San José.

Attend six hours of small group Spanish lessons, allowing you to immerse more confidently in local surroundings.

Go on a trip to national parks and bask in Costa Rica’s stunning natural environment and biodiversity.

Make new friends with other volunteers and the local people you meet along the way.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Costa Rica
Availability
Duration:
  • 7-12 Months
Age Requirement: 18-30
Types & Subjects
Causes:
  • Animal Welfare
  • Childcare & Children
  • Conservation
  • Environment
  • Senior Citizens
  • Social Work
  • Street Children
  • Trail Building
  • Tree Planting
  • Wildlife
  • Youth
  • Youth Development
Guidelines
Nationalities:
  • American
  • Canadian
See all program details
Last Updated: Dec 31, 2025

Awards

GoAbroad Innovation Awards 2024 Finalist - Innovation in PhilanthropyInnovative Volunteer Abroad Program 2023 WInnerUnited Planet

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

4.75

Total Reviews

4

I loved my project, the people and the country

November 10, 2018by: Laura
5

It was amazing. There are so many beautiful places and I believe the volunteers should be given the opportunity to be taken to some of them. I'm always super happy but now I definitely feel like I have a more "simple" perspective on things. I appreciate little things way more now and I'm glad it is that way.

I had a great time and learned so much

November 05, 2018by: Laurent
5

I discovered some beautiful places with other volunteers. The transport facilities helped us to move to different locations and see the beauty of the Costa Rican's nature.

The ability to understand a new culture and help those who need it most. Really amazing.

February 18, 2016by: Brett C.
5

The ability to go to another country and help was amazing. That mixed with the amazing support I received from you guys and my in country organization made me feel so safe. My host family made me apart of there family and that has not ended since I've come home. They will be family forever.

A great experience. I loved it!

November 26, 2014by: Sanford Melder
4

The program was great on the ground in Costa Rica. The housing and working with the kids at the orphanage was one of the best experiences of my life. The co-ordination was a little spotty at first. I got the feeling I was lost in the system Then I was found and all was made right. My residence housing , in country care and overall support was great. My host family made me feel like a member of their family(they were the best).

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Costa Rica

Types and Subjects

  • Causes
  • Animal Welfare
  • Childcare & Children
  • Conservation
  • Environment
  • Senior Citizens
  • Social Work
  • Street Children
  • Trail Building
  • Tree Planting
  • Wildlife
  • Youth
  • Youth Development

Availability

Duration:
  • 7-12 Months

Age Requirement

18-30

Guidelines

Nationalities:
  • American
  • Canadian

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • Some Accommodation
  • Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Tuition & Fees
  • Training
  • Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • All Program Activity Costs
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • Certificate of Completion
  • Travel Insurance
  • Medical / Accident Insurance
  • Language Lessons
  • Emergency Support
  • Internship Placement
  • Cultural Training / Program / Orientation

Accommodation Options

  • Guest House
  • Home-stays

Qualifications & Experience

      Accepted Education Levels

    • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

    Application Procedures

    • Phone/Video Interview
    • Physical Exam/Health Records
    • Online Application

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