• Life On Land

Wildlife Rehabilitation Supporter

location
4 - 24 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
rating  Perfect 4.6  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Very high response rate

Highlights

  • Delve into the wonders of Costa Rica's unique biodiversity, nurturing your passion for nature and animals.
  • Live and work near dream beaches, embraced by lush rainforests, making paradise your everyday reality.
  • Discover the breathtaking landscapes, from volcanoes to jungles, igniting your sense of wonder.

Highlights

  • Delve into the wonders of Costa Rica's unique biodiversity, nurturing your passion for nature and animals.
  • Live and work near dream beaches, embraced by lush rainforests, making paradise your everyday reality.
  • Discover the breathtaking landscapes, from volcanoes to jungles, igniting your sense of wonder.
  • Fuel your zeal for animal protection, contributing to the preservation of Costa Rica's remarkable fauna.
  • Elevate your resume with international volunteer experience, showcasing your dedication to global impact.

    • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Support wildlife protection in Costa Rica. Help provide care for exotic rescued animals in this meaningful wildlife sanctuary. Great location close to the dream beach🦥

    The Program 

    The wildlife sanctuary is run by a Costa Rica-based nonprofit focused on rescuing and restoring native wildlife. This animal rescue center is located on the beautiful Caribbean of Costa Rica, near the Talamanca Old Port Beach Resort. The sanctuary provides temporary or permanent shelter ...

    About the program

    The Program 

    The wildlife sanctuary is run by a Costa Rica-based nonprofit focused on rescuing and restoring native wildlife. This animal rescue center is located on the beautiful Caribbean of Costa Rica, near the Talamanca Old Port Beach Resort. The sanctuary provides temporary or permanent shelter for sick, injured and orphaned animals that cannot survive in the wild. Many monkeys and sloths have found a safe home here, as have other mammals, birds and reptiles.

    The center has cared for thousands of animals since it opened about 15 years ago. It can look back on years of experience and has professional staff in all areas of rehabilitation. The sanctuary is the only center in this region of Costa Rica and helps more than 800 animals each year.

    The Animal Rescue Center provides 24-hour veterinary care and comfort to these animals. The main goal is to rehabilitate and reintroduce animals to their natural habitat. The rescue center has its own nature reserve to serve this purpose. It is not always possible to reintroduce animals into the wild for health or behavioral reasons though. The animals have found their new home in the sanctuary, and although they are kept in captivity, they can still live safely and be well cared for.

    The center houses about 100 animals that cannot be released (number may change at any time). These animals play an important role because with them, through environmental education, people can become aware of the problems that local wildlife is facing every single day. Sloths, monkeys, ocelots, reptiles and many others live with a high quality of life in over 20 facilities prepared and conditioned for each animal species.

    The center is open to day visitors who want to learn more about the flora and fauna of Costa Rica. Visitors come from all over the world to learn more about the reasons why animals enter the sanctuary and why, unfortunately, these animals have become permanent residents here. Admission fees for visitors are an important source of income to enable the Center to continue its wonderful work in animal welfare and conservation.

    The Location

    The animal rescue center has a truly privileged location on the coast of the Caribbean Sea, close to the beach town Puerto Viejo de Talamanca surrounded by spectacular beaches and lush green rainforests full of exotic flora and fauna. This is a haven for those looking for fun and relaxation.

    It is a paradise for beach and surf lovers thanks to crystal clear waters and great waves for beginners and experts. In addition to surfing and sunbathing, this area offers activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, bodyboarding, mountain biking, kayaking, horseback riding, canopy tour, cultural tours to indigenous communities, and visits to National Parks and Nature Reserve. Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is a lively beach town that still maintains an authentic feel. Before it became a tourist attraction, it was a small fishing village. Today, you will find many restaurants, bars, nightclubs and shops selling local crafts and products. It is located 55 kilometers southeast of Puerto Limón and about 16 kilometers south of Cahuita. San José, the country’s capital, is about a 4-hour drive away.

    Typical day

    At animal rescue centers, volunteers help with the daily work of cleaning and maintaining the facility, as well as caring for and feeding the animals. Volunteers learn a lot about caring for and respecting Costa Rica's wildlife. Volunteers usually work from 7:00 AM in the morning until 4 PM in the ...

    Typical day

    At animal rescue centers, volunteers help with the daily work of cleaning and maintaining the facility, as well as caring for and feeding the animals. Volunteers learn a lot about caring for and respecting Costa Rica's wildlife. Volunteers usually work from 7:00 AM in the morning until 4 PM in the afternoon with a very long lunch break. As the sunrise is very early in Costa Rica, the activities also starts quite early throughout the country.

    Intensive care of temporary and permanent animal residents would not be possible without the great help of dedicated volunteers. Animal lovers from all over the world are invited to volunteer at this animal rescue center and gain a truly life-changing experience. Age and origin have nothing to do. All volunteers who are interested in participating in animal welfare are welcome to join this amazing volunteer project.

    Although no specialized knowledge or professional experience is necessary, volunteering carries a lot of responsibility. The sanctuary takes its responsibility to the animals very seriously. Paying insufficient attention can have detrimental effects. The main duty and emphasis is on caring for the animals. You are in charge of their tiny lives.

    The work of the volunteers may include, but is not limited to:.

    • preparing food for the animals
    • giving food to animals
    • cleaning and maintaining the animals' enclosure
    • constructing and remodeling enclosures
    • ensuring that the animal park's fences are secure so that the animals cannot get out

    Every Monday morning is dedicated to new volunteer training. You will meet the other volunteers, take a tour, and receive all the details you require to begin your volunteer work.

    Free-time activities

    In Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica, you can enjoy a variety of activities: 

    • Explore the stunning beaches such as Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, and Playa Punta Uva for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
    • Puerto Viejo is a surfer's paradise with great waves for all levels. Take a surf lesson ...

    Free-time activities

    In Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, Costa Rica, you can enjoy a variety of activities: 

    • Explore the stunning beaches such as Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, and Playa Punta Uva for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
    • Puerto Viejo is a surfer's paradise with great waves for all levels. Take a surf lesson or ride the waves on your own. 
    • Go on guided jungle and wildlife tours to spot sloths, monkeys, toucans, and other exotic animals. 
    • Hike the trails of Cahuita National Park, where you can see wildlife, snorkel, and enjoy beautiful coastal views. 
    • Visit nearby waterfalls like Uvita Waterfall and Bribri Waterfall for refreshing swims and photo opportunities. 
    • Learn about the chocolate-making process on a cacao farm tour and taste delicious, locally-made chocolate.
    • Rent a bike to explore the area and enjoy the scenic coastal routes. 
    • Puerto Viejo comes alive at night with a vibrant nightlife scene. Enjoy reggae music, dancing, and beachfront bars.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak Spanish (basic level) or English (basic level)

    Education Requirements

    at High School level

    Required Documents

    CV and Registration From

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 07:00 - 16:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by South America Inside

    The volunteer program includes:

    • Shared room in Volunteer House
    • 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

    Accommodation

    The nearby volunteer house is the home for our volunteers. Shared dorm rooms with shared bathrooms are available. Beautiful gardens and a lush jungle can be seen from the house. With views of nature, the rooms are cozy and well-lit.

    Volunteers can store their food and make their meals in the fully stocked kitchen. Mealtimes are typically a wonderful opportunity for the volunteers to cook and interact with one another.

    A short distance from one of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean is the volunteer house, which is situated next to the animal rescue facility. Restaurants and supermarkets are also close by if you want to go grocery shopping or go out to eat.

    There is access to Wi-Fi.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Juan Santamaria International Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Food & Beverages

    Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose. We assist you to find cheap flights to Costa Rica. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Costa Rica provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Costa Rica you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Costa Rica. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    The volunteer work can be joined throughout the year. The arrival at the volunteer house is always on Sundays while the volunteer work itself starts on every Monday with an orientation session for all new arrived volunteers.

    IMPORTANT: Volunteers need to submit a TB test certificate from your country or certificate of being vaccinated against TB a couple of weeks before your arrival!

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    4 weeks (min. stay) 1,536€
    5 weeks 1,721€
    6 weeks 1,905€
    7 weeks 2,090€
    8 weeks 2,274€
    9 weeks 2,459€
    10 weeks 2,643€
    11 weeks 2,828€
    12 weeks 3,013€
    24 weeks (max. stay) 5,227€
    Average fees 300€/week

    Program fees

    300€ per week 4 - 24 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    4 - 24 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.

    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with South America Inside during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.

    Meet your organization

    South America Inside

    Perfect 4.6 rating (128 reviews)

    Agency - founded in 2003

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Very high response rate

    Coordinated by

    Marion

    Spoken languages: English, German, Spanish

    About the project

    South America Inside promotes intercultural, linguistic and educational exchanges. Its volunteer programs are addressed to students, professionals and retirees.

    Meet your organization

    South America Inside is an intercultural management agency, founded back in 2003, which specializes in the promotion of programs abroad, language travel and educational programs throughout Latin America.

    Since 2007, to enrich the experience of our global-minded clients and to provide them with even more possibilities, South America Inside has been expanding their program offerings throughout South and Central America.

    Working together with some of the best language schools in Latin America, South America Inside provides high quality language courses in almost every Latin American country.

    Thanks to a professional team of motivated and friendly staff, South America Inside has been very successful over the past several years and have been able to establish an outstanding network of what we call "Insider Contacts." To enrich the experience of their clients and to provide them with more possibilities, South America Inside has been expanding our program offerings throughout Central and South America, in addition to our well-established Chilean programs.

    Volunteer Work

    Do you dream of staying abroad while doing something positive? Are you looking for a unique experience that will leave a mark on your life? Then a Volunteer Work program in South America or Central America is perfect for you!

    With South America Inside you can combine an adventure abroad with social commitment, and create lasting memories in Latin America. Support the protection of endangered species; help a local community construct new homes; give new hope to impoverished children.

    The possibilities to lend a hand are diverse, as there are the many places where help is needed. We have classified our volunteer projects in different areas so you can easily find the one (or more!) projects that best match your needs and interests.

    Why with us

    There are many persuasive reasons that speak in favor of South America Inside when it comes to selecting your perfect provider of language, study and volunteer travel abroad. Following, we have prepared a short summary so that you can get us to know a little better.

    Our Insider benefits at a glance:

    •  Regional Experience
    Over one decade (established in 2003) of dedication to language, work and study travel programs in Latin America. Thanks to our long standing work and life experience in the South American continent, we know this region really well. Therefore, we can help and inform you in a professional and competent way.

    •  Multifaceted Offers
    Over time we have developed new programs to offer a wide array of work abroad opportunities to our clients. We have been pioneers in launching new exchange programs, as we have been the first in offering Work & Travel/Working Holiday and Farm Stays in Chile and successfully introduced these programs into the market back in 2005. Since 2012, we are the only agency to offer this type of program in Costa Rica.

    •  Insider Advice
    Despite living in the modern era of the internet, we know that reliable and competent advice is still an important criterion for most of us. At South America Inside, you will find the benefits of an internet provider and an independent travel agency. We will be glad to pass on our extensive knowledge and regional experience.!

    •  Location
    It is difficult to run programs when there is nobody “on the ground” to evaluate existing options and search for new opportunities. So, we are located in Chile, on location, and we know everything that is going on first hand. We know what it is like to live as a foreigner in South America and will be happy to assist you in making your stay unforgettable!

    •  Independence
    South America Inside is an independent provider of language courses, internships, volunteer work, Farm Stays and Work & Travel programs in Latin America. We neither depend financially nor structurally on any other company, language school, association or organization. Therefore, we are able to give personalized information in accordance to your needs and availability.

    •  Multilingual Team

    Our team is multilingual and international! We speak fluent English, Spanish and German, as well as some French and Portuguese. With our customers, we can communicate in their native language and we avoid misunderstandings with local partners by communicating in Spanish with them. You can be sure that there will be an English-speaking contact person for you before, during, and after your stay.

    •  Customer Service
    Excellent customer service is one of the most important goals for South America Inside, and this is evident with the positive feedback we regularly receive from our many happy clients. Emails are answered within 48 business hours and every client is treated with the same friendliness and expertise.

    •  Gapless and Accurate Information flow
    With South America Inside you will have one and the same contact person before, during and after your trip. With that said, we guarantee a gapless and accurate information flow and you will always be very well informed.

    •  Approved Program Places
    Many of our program places, especially in the area of internships and volunteer work, are designed in the way that they will be recognized by most universities, colleges or academies.

    128 reviews · rating4.6

    Laura & Emma rating5

    2024 at Wildlife Rehabilitation Supporter

    Bei uns ist alles super, wir sind mega zufrieden und haben viele Leute kennen gelernt. Es waren jetzt einfach schon zwei Wochen und die Zeit ist so schnell ...
    Cymoril Binder rating3.6

    2024 at Wildlife Rehabilitation Supporter

    I was with JRC for three months, staying in the JRC hostel. I will talk about the program and hostel separately. The program was amazing! I got to know Willy, a very shy parrot, who, after some treats, ate out of my hand… after a while, he trusted me enough to pet his neck. I also worked with ...
    Laetitia CRÉTÉ rating1.6

    2021 at Wildlife Rehabilitation Supporter

    I applied to this project in order to provide care for exotic rescued animals. However I had no contact with animals. The mainly reason is because I only staid 2 weeks and the staff did not want to teach to everybody how to feed animals. My tasks were to clean areas of the center, paint, find some ...
    My stay was really great! The host families were super nice. The Spanish school was very good (and really great!) ... even if it was quite difficult at the beginning, if you do not speak any Spanish, because the lessons take place exclusively in Spanish ....! But the classmates helped out in English ...
    Stacey Garratt rating5

    2024 at Local Women Empowerment Supporter

    I have been travelling for 7 months in total and just had the most wonderful experience in Ecuador. I can confidently say in the last 6 weeks I have created my favourite memories of this journey in an all-encompassing way. Firstly, the program itself was incredible, I constantly felt supported, ...
    Regina N. rating5

    2024 at Help Stray Dogs

    Die Arbeit gefällt mir sehr gut! Ich bin super reingekommen und fühle mich sehr wohl 🙂 Die Menschen sind sehr offen und freundlich! Herzlichen Dank! ...

    Location

    Americas > Central America > Costa Rica > Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

    You might also be interested in

    Volunteer Abroad  >  Animals  >  Wildlife Conservation in Costa Rica
    Contact Marion
      Very high response rate
    English, German, Spanish

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