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.
Ready to dive deeper into this program?
Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.
Updated Dec 31, 2025
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
Eligible Nationalities
Education Levels & Language
Accommodation Options
Application Procedures
Age Requirement
18-30
Duration
Starts At
Hear what past participants have to say about United Planet
Rating breakdown
Top categories
Participated in this program? Share your experience now.
Review this ProgramShowing 1-4 of 4 reviews
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 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 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.
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).
Inquire
Have a question? Send us a message and the program team will get back to you.
Awards and accreditations earned by this provider
Browse programs you might like
MAXIMO NIVEL
597 reviews
Turn your passion into action with Maximo Nivel’s top-rated Volunteer Abroad programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru! Volunteering abroad is...
![International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] logo](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.goabroad.com%2Fimage%2Fupload%2Fc_pad%252Cf_auto%252Cw_100%252Ch_100%2Fv1%2Fimages2%2Fclients%2Flogos%2FMAIN%2Fb7aQwxqKkTQs1TCbQKDnmQAVGPjGCilE6Nj4ktx5.jpg&w=96&q=75){kind=small}
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
834 reviews
At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. ...
GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
25 reviews
Volunteer for wildlife in Costa Rica! This program works with three wildlife sanctuaries, in the Alajuela and Puntarenas Provinces. Many anima...
Have more questions?
The GoAbroad team is here to support you as you choose the best program for you, and United Planet is also happy to answer any questions you have.
Trusted by millions of travelers worldwide since 1997