Volunteer Programs in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

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5 Volunteer Programs in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica

Travel For Teens

9.5

Travel For Teens: Costa Rica Animal Rescue Service

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 friendships to last a lifetime! You will help out at the shelter in the morning, preparing breakfast for the animals and helping them heal on their road to recovery. You will also assist with a variety of tasks imperative to the running of the shelter such as cleaning the animals’ cages, preparing medicine, light construction, or any other work that is needed. After lunch, there will be a choice to take Spanish lessons at our school in the village, or to return to the rescue center for more work with the animals.* By mid-afternoon, we will head to the beach to relax, snorkel and surf. We will also go whitewater rafting and biking, and visit the local indigenous BriBri tribe. Evenings are spent embracing the beat of the Caribbean by listening to village music, enjoying authentic dinners, and strolling the streets of the village.

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Volunteer World

9.6

Best Volunteer Programs in Costa Rica

Volunteer in Costa Rica and discover one of the most sustainable countries on earth. Save baby sea turtles or work with Costa Ricas unique wildlife. It is the home of lush jungles and the most exotic animals on earth. Find the best places to see toucans, sloths, capuchin monkeys and even the critically endangered jaguars that live in high trees in the tropical rainforest. Most of the teaching and community projects are typically based in and around the capital city, San Jose. Experience numerous volunteer opportunities while living Costa Rica's 'Pura Vida' - the pure life!

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Planet Conservation Volunteers

0

Plastic-Free Planet Recycling Program

This project, implemented in 2019, is vital to the national program aimed at eliminating single-use plastic products. Our team is always looking for motivated volunteers—helping hands to work on the following: - Sustainable practices among the local population - Plastic-free campaign that organizes bi-weekly beach cleanups - Workshops within the community and local schools - Creative plastic recycling machine Together, we will create a weekly program and distribute the workload among all participants and the guiding team. New ideas are welcome, and experience in a sustainable lifestyle is preferred. As we aim to expand our production of recycled plastic products, we welcome participants with expertise in project management and production, as well as young volunteers who wish to join our team and take action.

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Latest Program Reviews

A Life-Changing Adventure: My 21 Days with TFT in Costa Rica

November 12, 2025by: Cassie Forestal - United StatesProgram: TFT Costa Rica: Spanish Language Immersion & Service 21 Days

The TFT Costa Rica: Spanish Language Immersion & Service program is an incredible three-week experience that combines learning, service, and adventure. The daily Spanish classes are interactive and fun, helping everyone improve their language skills quickly. The teachers are patient and encouraging, and we had many chances to practice speaking Spanish in real-life situations with locals. One of the best parts of the program was the community service projects. We worked together on meaningful activities that helped local communities, which made the experience feel rewarding and purposeful. Between classes and service, we also got to explore Costa Rica’s beautiful landscapes—rainforests, beaches, and volcanoes. Instead of homestays, we stayed in comfortable hotels throughout the trip, which made it easy to relax after busy days. The accommodations were clean, safe, and well-organized. The group leaders were friendly and supportive, always making sure everyone felt comfortable and included. Overall, this 21-day program was an unforgettable adventure. It improved my Spanish, taught me about Costa Rican culture, and allowed me to make great friends. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who wants to learn, travel, and make a positive impact while exploring one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

A life-changing experience that exceeded all my expectations

November 08, 2023by: Gabrielle Zimerman - United StatesProgram: Travel For Teens: Costa Rica Animal Rescue Service

Travel for Teens Costa Rica Animal Rescue Service was a life-changing experience that exceeded all my expectations. From the moment I arrived, I felt a strong sense of camaraderie and friendship that continues even after the trip. Engaging with exotic animals sparked a deep passion for veterinary medicine within me, fueling my aspirations for future volunteer work in Costa Rica. However, this journey meant more than just volunteering; it allowed me to fully immerse myself in the vibrant Costa Rican culture, embark on thrilling day trips, bask in the surreal beaches, and create lasting connections with my fellow teenage volunteers. Beyond the volunteering aspect, the trip was brimming with unforgettable moments. Exploring Panama and its picturesque islands, delving into the intricacies of cocoa farming and crafting chocolate from scratch, and visiting the BriBri tribe left an indelible mark on my heart. Witnessing the daily life of the BriBri people provided a unique perspective, enriching my understanding of diverse lifestyles. Above all, the trip felt like a voyage with close friends I had known for years, fostering an environment of mutual support and adventure. Travel for Teens Costa Rica Animal Rescue Service has undoubtedly left an indelible imprint, igniting within me a desire to continue exploring and contributing to the world in meaningful ways.