Animal Welfare Volunteer Programs in Central America

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84 Animal Welfare Volunteer Programs in Central America
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
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At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservatio
See All 8 ProgramsMAXIMO NIVEL
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Maximo Nivel is a locally based organization in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Volunteer abroad—get involved, make an impact, and learn to serve by working on local projects: - Working with Kids - Teaching English - Conservation - Construction - Animal Care - Eco-Agriculture - Medical and Healthca
See All 5 ProgramsGoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
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GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and med
See All 11 Programs5
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The lively beach town of Santa Teresa in Costa Rica is world famous for surf breaks across pristine, uncrowded, and seemingly endless beaches. After surfing and sunbathing are over for the day, it's time for Spanish lessons and volunteering! – The town comes alive with funky surf shops, cafes, resta
See All 2 Programs4.7
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Find out why more and more people are choosing to become a Love Volunteer! Love Volunteers is the most affordable way to volunteer and help local communities in developing countries! Why are we cheaper than other organisations? Firstly, we are just a handful of passionate people working hard to h
See All 4 ProgramsWorld Endeavors
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World Endeavors offers exciting programs that allow participants to experience Costa Rica while contributing meaningfully to the community. Volunteers can choose from various projects, including teaching, orphanage assistance, environmental conservation, wildlife conservation, and community developm
Global Leadership Adventures
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Travel to Costa Rica and make a difference in a subject area you are passionate about! Choose from program themes ranging from Public Health and Medicine to Animal and Wildlife Conservation to Language Immersion and everything in between. GLA's offerings include: - Animal Rescue & Veterinary Projec
Rustic Pathways
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Costa Rica is where adventure, service, cultural immersion, and the wonders of nature intersect. Our programs focus on turtle conservation, surfing, and connection with the local communities. With programs for high school students, college students, and young explorers, there’s an exciting opportuni
Pacific Discovery
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Uncover the spirit of Central America on a 10-week journey through Mexico, Guatemala, and Costa Rica. Trek lush rainforests, hike volcanoes, raft wild rivers, and explore ancient Mayan ruins. More than just adventure, this program invites you to live alongside local communities, learn Spanish throug
See All 2 Programs4.29
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Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller g
See All 5 Programs4.83
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Embrace "pura vida" and travel across the country of Costa Rica. This transformative experience takes you through the highland jungles of the cloud forest to the culturally diverse Caribbean beaches. This journey includes zip-lining, night safaris, a 2-day white-water rafting trip, and incredible wi
Travel For Teens
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Would you like to bottle feed a baby monkey? Do you want to stand guard over baby sloths learning to climb? How about making sure the deer wandering the property have a salt lick? Come and spend the summer in Costa Rica volunteering at a wildlife rescue center and do just that while making friendshi
Kaya Responsible Travel
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Be a part of the conservation and protection of sea turtles in Costa Rica! Join Kaya on its Turtle and Marine Conservation Project located near Bataan in the Limon Province of Costa Rica. This is an opportunity to help protect sea turtles and their eggs while learning more about these magnificent
Westcoast Connection
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Travel to Costa Rica this summer for a teen community service program you won’t forget! Work alongside some of our long-standing service partners on projects such as building infrastructure in the Central Valley. The trip uses a service-learning framework tailored for high school students, wherein
See All 3 Programs5
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Sea turtle and marine conservation volunteer abroad projects are fun and combine your beach vacations with meaningful work which goes a long way in the concentrated efforts globally to prevent these enchanting marine creatures from going extinct. All seven sea turtle species are endangered today and
See All 4 ProgramsWorldStrides
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Build your skills through a service-learning experience in San José, Costa Rica’s vibrant capital and cultural, economic, and political center. Work alongside local NGOs, schools, clinics, and community organizations while exploring fields like education, museums, youth services, and healthcare. Thr
Global Work & Travel
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Think of an animal cuter than a sloth. Hard, right? We agree! Here is your chance to help these iconic and adorable South American creatures. Our volunteer placement is with a carefully selected partner known for their incredible and impactful work. Make a genuine difference, not only for sloths but
See All 3 Programs4.2
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Calling all aspiring wildlife conservationists! If you want to experience working with animals, build skills in wildlife husbandry, and gain insight into nonprofit conservation work, this is the program for you. This internship places you in a wildlife sanctuary in the Alturas region of the Punt
See All 3 Programs0
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Venture to some of the world’s most exotic and intriguing regions, ranging from the turquoise waters of Panama, the lush jungles of Costa Rica, and the white-sand beaches of Belize. Shadowing doctors in the Bocas del Toro islands off the coast of Panama, we understand the barriers to medical access
Volunteers For Peace
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Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Volunteers For Peace (a Vermont-based nonprofit) can place you on a team of international volunteers who contribute to a meaningful community service project designed, planned, and hosted by local partners. We offer the most affordable projects and the best w
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Loop Abroad offers both a one-week and two-week version of the Sea Turtle Conservation Costa Rica. These programs are open to participants ages 16 and up. Your group works with LAST, Latin American Sea Turtles, helping with their sea turtle conservation projects on the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica.
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Green Life Volunteers is a registered non-profit organization or association in Costa Rica. We just earn enough to cover operational expenses, like payments for office space, employee services, and basic organizational costs. We work hard to provide volunteers with an amazing experience, with a lot
See All 2 ProgramsOyster Worldwide
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Spend some time in the wild coastal areas of Costa Rica, working with a local charity to help protect adult and baby turtles facing extinction and are increasingly at risk. This programme offers you the opportunity to be part of a vital project that aims to ensure that as many turtles as possible ma
Outward Bound Costa Rica
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We believe that the best things in life are personalized; so we’ve launched our custom courses for 5 or more people. Tell us your dates, duration, and activities—we’ll do the rest! Step by step, we’ll create an unforgettable adventure to Costa Rica or Panama. Bring 7 others on your custom course and
See All 2 ProgramsUnited Planet
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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,
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Costa Ricans greet and encourage each other with Pura Vida – a phrase that means much more than its literal translation of Pure Life. As a volunteer with GCAC, you feel the emotions of those words as you work with our partner nonprofits. You could collaborate with an animal rescue center dedicated t
See All 2 ProgramsA Broader View Volunteers Corp
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Volunteer in Costa Rica with A Broader View Volunteers, a highly rated non-profit charity organization. Volunteer placements are available throughout Costa Rica, mainly in San Jose and Escazu and the Pacific and Atlantic coastal regions. There are 19 program options available for volunteers to choos
See All 2 Programs5
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We are a non-profit organization with the mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release as many animals as possible back into the wild. We are located in Portegolpe, Guanacaste, one of the most biologically rich regions in our country. We are also on a main route to many touristic destinations, such
Globalteer
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Contribute to the Sea Turtle Conservation Project in Costa Rica, which helps preserve the country's incredible biodiversity through the protection of endangered sea turtle nests and the release of turtle hatchlings into the wild. The program was established in 1989 and has more than 20 years of expe
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Join our Conservation Volunteer Program at the Macaw Breeding Center, located in a beautiful coastal area of Costa Rica. The program runs year-round and offers stays from 1 to 6 months. Our center is home to more than 80 rescued macaws that cannot be released into the wild. Through our breeding and
Involvement Volunteers International
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Costa Rica faces a significant challenge in caring for orphaned or abandoned domestic animals, including dogs, cats, and others. Sadly, these animals are often in poor health, suffering from unattended injuries and hunger. To provide care and love for these lonely and vulnerable animals, veterinary
See All 4 Programs0
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Volunteer in Costa Rica's Ostional Wildlife Refuge and contribute to the conservation of olive ridley sea turtles at one of the world's most important nesting beaches. Working alongside local conservationists, you'll participate in day and night patrols, beach monitoring, nest protection, data colle
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Floating Doctors is a team of veterinarians, physicians, nurses, public health specialists, and students that provides primary care, advanced care, education and community development to remote rural indigenous communities in Bocas del Toro, Panama. With few resources and little access to care, ther
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Get involved in endangered wildlife protection in Guatemala and experience a tropical adventure in the service of species conservation! Volunteers support the care and rehabilitation of rescued animals such as parrots, macaws, monkeys, reptiles, and more while learning about the threats to these a
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Embark on a life-changing journey through Asia, Africa, and South America, where you'll make a positive impact and create lasting memories. Beginning in Nepal, you will get involved in various volunteer roles, like teaching at local schools, and taking care of rescued pets. Next, you will head on t
Globe Aware
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Volunteers will spend the week supporting scientists and research assistants in their fieldwork. Volunteer work will usually run from 7:30 am-3:00 pm each day. Globe Aware volunteers will collaborate with a grassroots organization established in 2010. This organization has formed a network compri
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Join us in Osa, Costa Rica, for an unforgettable volunteer experience where you’ll play a vital role in protecting sea turtles and their habitats. Nestled on the stunning Osa Peninsula, home to 2.5% of the world’s biodiversity, you’ll patrol pristine beaches, safeguard turtle nests, and release hatc
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Embark on an exciting journey that combines travel and conservation through STC's Green Turtle Eco-Volunteer Program in Costa Rica. This captivating opportunity allows you to actively participate in the protection of endangered sea turtles while enjoying an exotic destination. Tortuguero's black sa
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Latest Program Reviews
Volunteering at a Dog Shelter
August 19, 2026by: Stuart Pester - United KingdomThis was a memorable and worthy experience. Staying with a local family, getting a taste of how a Guatemalan family live and the type of food they eat. Working at the dog shelter was a very rewarding experience and fun especially with the puppies. It’s hard not to fall in love with the dogs. Definitely will be doing this again.
I had an amazing time
August 16, 2026by: worthy Idahosa - CanadaProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
I really enjoyed becoming interconnected with the Costa Rican experience. My host parents Tulio and Carmen were the best people ever. They became my home away from home. They were so kind and showed me the true Costa Rican kindness everyone talked about!
Amazing
August 16, 2026by: Valerie Casserly - CanadaProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
It was a great experience I would do it again 100 hundred percent would recommend to everyone I know.i loved my host family so much and the food was great the kids were amazing and the people were super friendly
AMAZING
August 13, 2026by: Daniel Abdulla - United KingdomProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I was, probably like some of you, a bit sceptical when initially applying due to the low price compared to other organisations. However, the experience I had was absolutely amazing and I have learnt so much about not only myself, but about different cultures and etiquettes. My program manager, Marissa, was absolutely fantastic at answer all of my questions and adjusting any mistakes I submitted onto my application such as flight number and pick-up time. Despite the huge time difference between Marissa and myself, she was able to reply to my email promptly and with extreme care - I was really at ease throughout the whole process and that made the experience a bunch better. Everything on my volunteering was as described on the program guide and there were no surprises when I landed, everything that happened during my week I was prepared for. I would really recommend this company and I want to thank them once more for the fantastic and truly life-changing experience they provided for me.
An unforgettable experience in Split!
August 12, 2026by: Nicole Boduch - AustriaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I had such a wonderful experience in Split! I met so many amazing people from different countries and made memories that I will definitely never forget. The Youth Support program gave me the opportunity to connect with the local community, experience a different culture and grow personally at the same time. The local team was very welcoming and supportive and I always felt comfortable asking questions or getting help when needed. I especially loved the international atmosphere and meeting people with completely different backgrounds and stories.besides volunteering, I had enough time to explore Split, enjoy the beautiful beaches and nature and experience Croatian culture. This experience helped me step outside my comfort zone, become more independent and see things from new perspectives. I’m really grateful for all the people I met and everything I experienced during my time here. I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who wants to travel, volunteer, meet new people and create unforgettable memories abroad. ❤️
Amazing Family Experience
August 10, 2026by: David Cannon - United StatesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
The support and organization of IVHQ was strong and great. Traveling and volunteering with a family of five, with 3 Jr High School kids but was amazing. Very comfortable and things were laid out well, we all felt extremely safe and comfortable the entire experience.
Happy
August 09, 2026by: Hamza Talhawi - MoroccoProgram: Explore Latin America! Volunteer, Internships, TEFL, Spanish
Lettre de motivation – Candidature pour une mission de volontariat Madame, Monsieur, Je souhaite vous présenter ma candidature pour participer à votre programme de volontariat. Motivé, sérieux et ouvert d’esprit, je souhaite vivre une expérience internationale qui me permettra de développer mes compétences, de découvrir une nouvelle culture et surtout de contribuer activement aux activités de votre organisation. Je suis une personne dynamique, responsable et capable de m’adapter facilement à de nouveaux environnements. J’apprécie particulièrement le travail en équipe, la communication avec les autres et l’apprentissage de nouvelles compétences. Je suis également prêt à participer aux différentes tâches proposées et à m’investir pleinement dans la vie quotidienne du projet. Pour moi, le volontariat représente bien plus qu’un simple voyage. C’est une occasion de rencontrer des personnes venant de différents horizons, de partager nos expériences et de contribuer positivement à la communauté d’accueil. Je suis prêt à sortir de ma zone de confort, à apprendre et à donner le meilleur de moi-même. Je serais très heureux d’avoir la possibilité de rejoindre votre projet et de mettre ma motivation, mon énergie et mon sérieux au service de votre équipe. Je vous remercie pour l’attention portée à ma candidature et reste à votre disposition pour tout entretien ou information complémentaire. Cordialement, Hamza Talhawi

It was an experience amazing
August 07, 2026by: Adélaïde Graux - FranceProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
It was amazing to meet all these People ! meeting these children and teaching them was incredible. I learned every day. My family was really Nice ! I made friends for life !! I recommend this trip for everyone !
A great experience!
August 01, 2026by: Max Otto - SwitzerlandProgram: Explore Latin America! Volunteer, Internships, TEFL, Spanish
Honestly, I went into this with no expectations and then was really surprised with the beauty of peru. We got to see evey hike that we wanted to see, and they were all so beautiful! I also got a great room allocation with a lot of friends and made new ones as well! My first time in South America was such a different experience toi what I had known before and I was happy to contribute, if only for such a short time to this project.
A great trip and voluteering experience in Cusco
August 01, 2026by: Antoine Khatchatourian - United StatesProgram: Explore Latin America! Volunteer, Internships, TEFL, Spanish
This experience was my first time in South America and I couldn´t have wished for a more satisfying visit. Maximo was very helpfull in any inquiries I had and provided a tremendous amount of aid with city life, exploration, and my construction project. Finally, my host family was great and made me feel comfortable and welcomed me to the new country.
Best trip ever
August 01, 2026by: Julian Rousseau - United StatesProgram: Explore Latin America! Volunteer, Internships, TEFL, Spanish
best time ever, everything was great. saw amazing things, and was able to do amazing things. The host house was amazing with really cool people. We were able to do our own thing and that made my trip just amazing. Maximo was just great.
Everything I wanted and More
August 01, 2026by: Miriam Raymond - United StatesProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
I have traveled before and Iove to experience new cultures. Learning spanish, talking to the locals, and getting to know everyone at Maximo Nivel was amazing! The staff were patient and listened whenever I had a problem, the tourism mixed with volunteering was a perfect mix. I learned so much from the children I taught and the teachers I got to know. I really loved the enviroment and feel this is a place anyone could thrive. Would not suggest coming for just one week, the longer you stay the better as theres so much to do, see, and learn!
Preparation before trip
July 30, 2026by: Yuange LiuProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
The preparation before trip was so detailed that I don’t have anything to worry about. It got everything listed and made it so much easier to tick off what I’ve done and what they need. The communication with the manager for the volunteer was so smooth and fast, and I was able to get a reply current evening or next morning (due to different timing in different countries). I wanted to change my volunteer from rural teaching to turtle reservation, it was so fast that there wasn’t any problems with the money nor arrangements, everything just went so smoothly, really impressed. The local team there really helped a lot, the driver, the leader, everyone was just so nice, even the cook and the receptionist. This volunteer as itself also helped me a lot on raising awareness for the sea turtles, learnt a lot and really hope to help them consistently. This is such a memorable trip and I hope to do these volunteers with IVHQ next summer with my friends.
A Character Building Experience
July 27, 2026by: Hannah Williams - United KingdomProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
I had a great time! Living situation was comfortable, the other volunteers I met were all amazing, and the park rangers and dorm we were at were all welcoming, a bit quiet - but friendly and kind. I think from my time here, and having spoken to a few different volunteers about their experience and perspective, my only issue would be that I think Maximo Nivel doesn’t always paint an accurate picture of their programs. Despite this, I still think it’s worth coming here if anyone is thinking about it, but that it’s really important to do your research on the program you want to do. As for example, me and another volunteer were confused as to why over email they’d been led to believe our program was on the Caribbean coast, when it in fact ended up being on the Pacific Ocean Coast. And also that online our sea turtle programs talk about various activities like helping hatchlings etc but doesn’t inform you if the season you are going on is nesting season or not etc. Host family were lovely, and transportation was fairly clear. The online and in person admin team at Maximo were especially helpful, and Kaylie was especially wonderful! Overall, would definitely recommend - just think it’s important to ensure the program detailings are clear to you before you arrive. Thanks! Miss Costa Rica already!!
Trip I Will Never Forget
July 26, 2026by: Matthew Halupka - CanadaProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
Everything was super great. My host family was excellent, Monica was genuinely the sweetest lady ever. I did the Jungle conservation program at pantera sanctuary and it was a once in a lifetime experience. Everything from the food to the people to the work was excellent. Maximo was very helpful with any and all questions or concerns me or my friends had. 100% would recommend.
Incredible Experience!!!
July 25, 2026by: Brooklyn Carr Heuer - United StatesProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
I absolutely loved my time in Costa Rica with Maximo Nivel- amazing program, people, accommodations, and just such a fun experience overall. Was a great program for traveling solo for my first time!!!
A trip of a lifetime
July 25, 2026by: Krystal Starr -Perry - United StatesProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
I absolutely loved my time here! The locals are so nice and Antigua is beautiful. My only complaint is that I wish I had more time here to explore, but I tried to make the best of what time I did have. If you have the opportunity I highly recommend it!
Enjoyed it a lot.
July 24, 2026by: Charlie Arculus - Isle of ManProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
I was welcomed as soon as I arrived in Maximo. I made new friends each week both inside the programme and with locals down the road that I played football and basketball with most days. The programme was both fun and beneficial for my Spanish. Couldn’t recommend it more.
magical and striking
July 24, 2026by: Melanie Claros - United StatesProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
Where to begin? They say we change every day—that we are constantly evolving—and that sums up my first volunteer experience, which certainly won't be my last. I arrived in this country feeling a bit lost, but I’m returning as a completely different person. I came hoping to help, yet I think what I’m taking away with me is far more valuable. I’ve met incredible people who have stolen my heart; I haven’t just made friends—I’ve found family. I felt welcome from day one, and I’m so excited about the future. I’m ready for Guatemala in 2027 with Maximo—we make a great team. This definitely isn't a goodbye, just a "see you soon."



Maximo Nivel the Best to Volunteer
July 23, 2026by: Herminia Guzman - United StatesProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
My experience in Maximo Nivel was wonderful specially with all the personnel in charge of the programs. My choose Child Care and it was a beautiful experience working and helping those precious children were the best of all ( love children) My accommodation in general with my Tica family was great including the time the family used to know more about me..They always game me care and support from day one…I even enjoyed time playing with their little dogs inside the house… I appreciate everything I received from Maximo Nivel here in Costa Rica. Thanks to them I had the great opportunity to visit different places in my free time feeling safe and secure with the tour personnel and drivers always on time to pick me up at my location…. I will recommend any body to who wants to have a beautiful and professional experience traveling as a volunteer to do it with Maximo Nivel with any country on the list to choose Thank you Maximo Nivel / Costa Rica and Pura Vida

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