Volunteer with us in Costa Rica

Environmental and social volunteer programs

Planet Conservation volunteers work in different areas of Costa Rica, specializing in environmental and educational projects.

Our programs have the support of many international volunteers and responsible travelers who want to be part of our team, in projects that seek solutions to protect local environments and promote sustainable development. of the communities, according to the needs of each place.

Why volunteer in Costa Rica?

Volunteering is a great opportunity to support a cause, make an impact and receive in return an unforgettable experience of a lifetime. Volunteering allows you to discover new places and cultures, make new like-minded friends while developing new skills.

You have the opportunity to participate in educational programs by helping in schools, kindergartens or our Casita Caribe, supporting environmental and wildlife protection programs, urban development, agriculture, rural tourism and cultural preservation of indigenous communities.

If you want to apply or obtain more information about our projects and activities, send us a message on Whatsapp.

You can also take a trip with more people and combine adventure, volunteering, Spanish classes and/or surf camps. Write to us!

Frequent questions

What volunteer projects do you offer?

We offer projects in conservation and environmental education, wildlife rescue, research programs, sea turtle conservation, projects in recycling and sustainable tourism or other internship opportunities. Learn more here.

Where are the projects located?

We offer programs throughout the country, especially we work in the southern Pacific and Caribbean side of Costa Rica. Come meet him and live adventures that you will never forget!

Do I have to speak Spanish?

In most programs it is useful to have basic knowledge of communicating with the team and the local population. We also offer Spanish immersion classes before or during your stay.

Can I participate with my family?

Of course, we have family-friendly programs and we can customize your program, add accommodation and language classes, as well as practical experience for the whole family. Send us a message on Whatsapp.

Can I get a certificate?

Yes, all our participants will receive a certificate upon completion of the program.

Can I combine volunteering with other activities?

Yes, we can help you organize additional tours and transportation around the country, as well as sustainable adventure trips, so you can combine a fun and exciting tour or cultural experience with your volunteer program. Learn more here.

How far in advance should I make a reservation?

We generally recommend booking your spot at least 2 months before your travel date, but if you have some flexibility, we also have some short-term vacancies wherever we need your help. Please ask us!

Do I need a specific visa?

In Costa Rica you do not need a specific visa. You can participate on a regular tourist visa and will not need to apply for a volunteer visa if you stay less than 180 days. If you stay longer, you may have to leave the country for 72 hours and then continue with the program. It depends on which country you come from, it may vary: you can check here.

Can I combine several projects?

You can do it. Please note that some projects have a minimum participation of 1, 2 or 4 weeks.

When is the best time to travel to Costa Rica?

Costa Rica is always nice and warm. It has different climatic zones, mostly dry on the Pacific side during December to March, while the dry season in the Caribbean is from September to mid-November. It may also rain, but that's why it's always green.

Can I book a surf course?

Yes, we have several partner schools and can recommend you try out or perfect your surfing skills while you are here.

Can I organize a group trip or volunteer experience with my family with you?

We have experience in group or family trips. We will be happy to help you customize your itinerary. Write to us on Whatsapp!

Do you offer corporate volunteer experiences?

Yes, we have experience in corporate volunteering activities and we will be happy to be your partner to make a difference and BE PART OF THE SOLUTION!

Volunteer programs

Learn more about the programs, their locations, schedules and required skills to find your perfect place to volunteer.

Assistance in public schools (primary 1-6th grade)

This project supports elementary rural schools located in the South Pacific and Caribbean of Costa Rica.

Assistance in private schools

This project supports elementary private schools located in the South Pacific and Caribbean of Costa Rica.

Assistance in public pre-school

This project supports preschool groups (children aged 4-6) in rural public schools located in the South Pacific and Caribbean of Costa Rica.

Assistance in private pre-school

This project supports preschool groups (children aged 4-6) in rural private schools located in the South Pacific and Caribbean of Costa Rica.

Assistance in public kindergarten (education)

This project supports the public children’s day care facility in Hone Creek, Puerto Viejo, in a public institution for children from working class families.

Assistance in public kindergarten (nutrition)

Social project where volunteers support rural nutrition project in a public institution for children from 2-6. Volunteers will participate on a daily to support staff.

Environmental Education Program

The Environmental Education program was established as the Environmental Kids Club that aims to generate consciousness about environmental issues, providing the necessary knowledge to children and generating sensitivity towards environmental solutions and healthy actions.

Sea Turtle Conservation

Volunteers will participate in a variety of tasks around the project which includes beach patrol, observation of the nests and sea turtle eggs in the season.

Reforestation program

Volunteers will be working on a variety of projects e.g. provide assistance on the reforestation planning, helping the local workers tend the saplings in the greenhouse, hike into the mountains and plant the trees and assist in the monitoring of the reforestation progress.

Bird rescue and observation program

Volunteers will be working alongside a team of international professionals and local workers. Using their skills to enrich the lives of the birds.

Animal rescue and liberation program

Support daily work in one of the rehabilitation centres of wild species with the end goal of releasing the animals back into the wild.

Environmental campaigns and sustainable development

We work on several Environmental campaigns to promote the reduction of disposable plastics, provide alternatives, and achieve awareness about how plastics are affecting our daily life and harming the natural environment.

Sustainable urban development

Plan and execute activities that have a transformative impact in helping Costa Rica move towards a low-carbon development.

Farmstay and Organic Agriculture

Support and learn about environmentally sustainable agricultural methods to maximize farm production in an ecological way.

Indigenous communities

Volunteer in an indigenous community, a unique experience as participants will live within the community and experience another culture.

Rural Tourism

The focus of the project is to support communities and sustainable tourism destinations and their specific tasks.