Quick Facts
Program code
CR-WN120
Category
Volunteer Work, Animal Welfare
Country
Costa Rica
Location
San Isidro, Heredia
Program start
flexible start and end dates, year round
Minimum duration
4 weeks
Minimum age
18 years
Contact us
Happy to help you
(+1) 954 762 7607
(+56) 9 7516 9816
(+49) 7735 425 339
skype: chileinside
8 am - 4 pm EST
Project details
Experience an unforgettable and enriching adventure in Costa Rica. Become active in animal protection and immerse yourself in the fascinating Costa Rican wildlife. In this volunteer program you will support a local animal rescue center.
The mission is to rescue, rehabilitate and, ideally, release wild animals native to Costa Rica back into the wild. Currently there are about 150 animals at the center (this number can change up and down). The Animal Rescue Center's philosophy includes a model that focuses on species conservation (plants and animals), education and research to strive for a better future for local wildlife. An important component is raising public awareness of issues such as animal and nature conservation. The center is open to visitors and there are educational events, workshops and guided tours for young and old.
The animal rescue center works closely with the Ministry of Environment and Energy of Costa Rica (MINAE). After being rescued, wild animals in need (due to illegal trade, sick, wounded or abused animals, etc.) reach the center via various routes, primarily via MINAE, in order to receive veterinary care and be rehabilitated. Here they find refuge and at the same time medical treatment, rehabilitation and ultimately release into their natural environment.
We would like to point out that not every animal can be released again. Animals that have had serious injuries that prevent them from climbing, flying, hunting, searching for food, or moving independently and safely in the wild in the long term are considered unreleaseable. In addition, animals that are desensitized to humans due to human interaction (e.g. by being kept as pets) are not considered suitable for release. The rescue center offers refuge and a lifelong home for these animals in their protected areas.
Around 25 people, both permanent employees and volunteers, work for the welfare of the animals. The multidisciplinary team has been dedicated to this task with great passion for over 20 years and has been able to give countless wild animals a second life. The animal rescue center specializes in animals such as toucans, sloths and owls, but also helps a large number of other wild animals such as weasels, porcupines, wild cats, kinkajous, parrots, otters, armadillos, raccoons, reptiles, etc.
The animal rescue center is idyllically embedded in evergreen tropical nature in the Alajuela region. The surrounding area offers a breathtaking backdrop of mountains, rivers and waterfalls and is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here life pulsates in all shapes and colors!
Tasks
Volunteers from all over the world who have a deep desire to become active in animal protection and who want to learn more about the local flora and fauna in Costa Rica are welcome at the animal rescue center. You have the opportunity to take part in activities that contribute to animal protection, animal care and the continued existence of the animal rescue station.
Volunteers help with everyday activities such as providing proper nutrition for wildlife and play a key role in other important activities such as: supporting animal husbandry, coordinating events for the educational program or improving animal enclosures.
You will work with a team of experienced animal keepers and veterinarians. The tasks are interesting, exciting and definitely life-enriching. Volunteers are divided according to their skills and knowledge. The current needs of the center and the personal interests of the volunteers are taken into account.
Responsibilities include:
Animal husbandry and care:
Volunteers are an essential part of the area of animal husbandry. This includes cleaning the enclosures and monitoring the animals' behavior to ensure they are safe and well. Daily tasks include preparing and providing food tailored to the specific needs of different animals. Chopping fruit, preparing fish or meat for the animals is just as much a part of it as cleaning and disinfecting the animal enclosures, food and water bowls and other areas where the animals are kept.
Support for educational programs:
Another important role of volunteers is supporting educational programs. This includes helping to coordinate events, preparing educational materials, or even participating in outreach activities. Educating the public about species conservation is a central part of the animal rescue center's mission.
Maintenance and enrichment projects:
Animal enclosures must be regularly inspected, improved and repaired. For many animals it is important that they do not get bored in captivity but rather stay busy. Enrichment projects are important, such as setting up climbing branches, providing objects that can be used as toys, preparing places to sleep, etc. Engaging with objects/toys is crucial for the animals' mental and physical stimulation. Their creativity in developing and implementing these activities improves their quality of life.
Volunteers are not expected to have any special experience or knowledge. What is important is a sense of responsibility, team spirit and a healthy work attitude. The most important requirement is certainly a heart for animals and the desire to help them.
A typical working day lasts from approximately 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Please note that working hours may vary depending on workload and number of volunteers. Two consecutive days per week are free - not necessarily on weekends.
Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, weather, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.
Accommodation
The volunteers live together in the Volunteer House very close to the animal rescue center. The house has a total of 4 shared rooms with sleeping accommodation for up to 16 volunteers, 3 bathrooms and a large living area with a kitchen. The Volunteer House is modern and has ample common areas. It offers space to relax after work and exchange ideas with other volunteers, chat, play or make plans for your free time. A washing machine and Wi-Fi internet are available in the Volunteer House.
The volunteer project includes daily breakfast, lunch and dinner. Traditional Costa Rican dishes are primarily served. Tasty and healthy.
As an alternative, or if the volunteer house is full, volunteers can also stay in a local homestay. In this case, they live with local families in a single room with a private or shared bathroom. Meals are provided at the homestays. All homestay are within walking distance of the animal rescue center or just a short bus ride away.
Note: In Latin America, especially in remote areas where many of our volunteer projects take place, the cellular or internet connection is not always reliable and fast.
Location
The animal rescue center is located in San Isidro. The town of Heredia is about 20 minutes away. It takes around 30 minutes to the capital San José and around 45 minutes to the international airport.
Despite its proximity to the capital, this area is characterized by lush greenery and lovely landscapes. With the harmonious mix of urban flair and rural idyll, tropical vegetation and an eventful history, the region offers optimal conditions for an exciting volunteer program. The animal rescue center is located in the heart of the so-called "Valle Central" at an altitude of approximately 1,400 meters, surrounded by green hills and coffee plantations.
The center of the nearest town is lined with shady trees, colorful flowerbeds and the central square, which serves as a meeting point for young and old.
This centric location offers volunteers a wide range of opportunities for leisure activities. Outdoor sports enthusiasts and nature lovers as well as volunteers interested in culture and history will find an optimal balance to their work here. The countryâs capital and historical places are just as easily accessible as national parks and nature reserves. Even trips to the Caribbean or Pacific coast can be easily organized.
Language skills
For optimal program preparation and cultural integration in the destination country, we recommend participating in a Spanish course in Costa Rica (optional).
You can book your Spanish course in Costa Rica directly with us!
Requirements
- English skills. At least basic Spanish skills (book your Spanish course in Costa Rica!)
- Minimum age 18 years
- Tetanus vaccination
- Covid vaccination 2 shots
- Application at least 4 weeks before the desired start of the program. Read more about our application process here.
- Completion of a foreign travel health insurance (get your travel insurance here!)
Pre-departure and in-country support
Before arrival, our experienced team will be at your disposal to assist you throughout the booking process and travel planning. With the booking confirmation you will receive our 24-hour emergency number, so that you can reach us in case of emergency on 7 days a week around the clock.
In addition to the assistance given by our office staff you will be supported by our partner organization in Costa Rica located in San José as well as the volunteer coordinator on-site.
Costs & Services
The volunteer project in the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Costa Rica includes:
- Volunteer House, shared room
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Advice from our experienced staff
- On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
- Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
- Your placement in the volunteer project
- Pre-departure information
- Packing list
- Country handbook
- Intercultural guide
- On-site volunteer coordinator
- 24/7 emergency number
- Advice on travel insurance
- Certificate of participation
Costs
Application fee: US$ 150
Program fee: US$ 1,360 (minimum stay 4 weeks)
Each additional week: US$ 225
Airport pick-up at the international airport of San José can be organized for about 45 USD, to be paid to the driver.
Additionally, you can book:
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Volunteer Guide
Find valuable information about volunteering abroad in our program guides. Find out about all the benefits, possibilities and challenges, that a stay abroad offers you. Read more about the great opportunities that South America Inside has at your disposal.
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