from 1,131€

Perfect 4.6rating (128)

Wildlife Rescue Assistant

location
2 - 24 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Perfect 4.6  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Very high response rate

Highlights

  • Experience an up-close encounter with exotic wildlife.
  • Immerse yourself in the relaxed "tico way of life," as the locals affectionately call themselves.
  • Ignite your passion for cultures and countries beyond your own. You'll gain invaluable insights into the world's rich tapestry, nurturing your curiosity for international diversity.
  • Embark on extraordinary journeys through Costa Rica's breathtaking National Parks and pristine beaches.
  • Elevate your resume with international volunteer experience that showcases your commitment to positive change and adaptability to different environments.

Especially good for

Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Groups
50+

About the program

Help take care of exotic animals that have been rescued. Learn about the different animal species of Costa Rica. Assist with environmental education.

If you are an animal lover and you always wanted to be around exotic animals, this project in the rainforest of Costa Rica is just the thing for you! Here you can immerse in a fascinating world and promote animal protection. 

The Issue

This privately owned animal Wildlife Rescue Center in Costa ...

About the program

If you are an animal lover and you always wanted to be around exotic animals, this project in the rainforest of Costa Rica is just the thing for you! Here you can immerse in a fascinating world and promote animal protection. 

The Issue

This privately owned animal Wildlife Rescue Center in Costa Rica receives no funds from the government, depending solely on volunteers, entry fees and donations. Limited by a tight budget, the center has been working hard to improve the conditions of the animals little-by-little. The center strives to conserve, protect, and raise several wild species that have been removed from their natural environment as a result of repossession, hunting, habitat destruction, and the ignorance of humans.

The Center

In 2006, the center won the Ford/Jaguar Cars International Conservation Award from the Jaguar Conservation Trust, a grass roots program dedicated to providing grants and funding projects that promote the preservation of the company's namesake and the jaguar’s habitat. The staff also runs an environmental education program to promote awareness among local citizens. The Wildlife Rescue Center is home to approximately 500 animals, over 100 of which are free to roam on the 11 hectares (27 acres) of the property. There are over 80 species, such as, monkeys, tapirs, birds (green macaws, scarlet macaws, toucans, etc.), various reptiles (snakes, crocodiles, iguanas, etc.), spiders and different types of felines (numbers and species are subject to changes!).

The Location

The volunteer project is located near Aguas Zarcas de San Carlos, La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano, about halfway between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and about 100km north of San José. Due to the many scenic attractions, this area is very popular among tourists and offers good touristic infrastructure. On excursions you can discover the evergreen nature with its exciting wildlife, visit national parks and do lots of outdoor sports and outdoor activities. 

From the capital, San José, you will need about 2.5 hours by bus to the volunteer project site. The province of Alajuela has a tropical rainforest climate. This type of climate is characterized by rather warm temperatures and regular rainfall throughout the year.


Typical day

During this project, you will work on teams and help make a difference while also raising awareness for the protection of animals in Costa Rica.

The main focus of work at the rescue center is the well-being of the animals. Project staff, employees, and volunteers work hard every day to improve the ...

Typical day

During this project, you will work on teams and help make a difference while also raising awareness for the protection of animals in Costa Rica.

The main focus of work at the rescue center is the well-being of the animals. Project staff, employees, and volunteers work hard every day to improve the living conditions of the animals. Daily tasks may vary, but will most likely revolve around reintroducing animals into the wild and caring for injured animals. The tasks are divided into different areas: 

  • Reintroduction into the Wild 

The rescue center’s highest priority is to reintroduce as many animals as possible back into their natural habitat. In order for this to be possible, the center has to meet certain requirements and the animals’ natural instincts have to be trained. The project staff take special pride in the number of cubs born at the center each year. These animals in particular need extra training and help in discovering natural instincts, such as hunting, so that they can live an independent life in the wild one day. 

  • Reintegration 

Animals that have been quarantined are nursed back to health and reintegrated into the group as soon as they are back on their feet. 

  • Rescue 

It is also a major concern of the project to help animals that are threatened, hunted or mistreated by humans and to enable them to live in a sheltered and species-appropriate habitat in the sanctuary. 

  • Safe Custody 

Animals that are unfit for reintroduction into the wild due to heavy injuries, abnormal behavior, or non-existent natural instincts are thoroughly being taken care of by volunteers at the center. As a volunteer at this project, you will assist the team of the rescue center where ever help is needed. Your main tasks will involve preparing food, helping the employees with feeding the animals, and maintaining enclosures, cages, and the grounds of the center. Since the center also gets visited by tourists and students on a regular basis, guiding them through the park and helping raise awareness for animal and nature protection could also be within your duties. Take action, be active, and help raise awareness for animal protection and welfare in the middle of Costa Rica's rainforest! Breath taking views and an experience that will last a lifetime are guaranteed. 

Please 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.


Free-time activities

Weekends are the perfect time to enjoy an exciting hike through Costa Rican nature since the main attractions of Costa Rica is its system of national parks and protected areas, which cover around 25% of the national territory, in order to protect the rich variety of flora and fauna, which is ...

Free-time activities

Weekends are the perfect time to enjoy an exciting hike through Costa Rican nature since the main attractions of Costa Rica is its system of national parks and protected areas, which cover around 25% of the national territory, in order to protect the rich variety of flora and fauna, which is estimated to contain 5% of the world's biodiversity in less than 0.1% of the planet's land mass. In addition, Costa Rica has countless amazing beaches on both the Pacific and the Caribbean Ocean. 

Costa Rica is the perfect place to combine volunteer work with tourism, enjoy activities like:

  • Adventure sport
  • Dream beaches
  • Ecotourism
  • Local culture
  • Bird / wildlife watching
  • Visits to unique National Parks
  • Rural tourism
  • Sightseeing and history in San José


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 Volunteer Questionnaire

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

What's Included

What's Included

Services by South America Inside

  • Homestay, single room
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner
  • Airport pick-up in San José with overnight stay in San José (incl. homestay single room, breakfast, dinner )
  • Transfer to bus station in San José from accommodation in San José
  • 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
  • Welcome meeting in San José
  • On-site volunteer coordinator
  • 24/7 emergency number
  • Advice on travel insurance
  • Certificate of participation

                            Airport Pickup at Juan Santamaria International Airport

                            You will be picked up upon arrival in San José and brought to your overnight stay accommodation in San José (Homestay with breakfast & dinner). After your orientation session the day after arrival, you will be brought to the bus station where you start your journey to the volunteer project site (costs for your bus ticket are not included).

                            Accommodation

                            An important part of our volunteer programs has always been to provide an intense glimpse into the culture of the host country. Therefore, our volunteers live in homestays. Living with a local hosts will allow you to experience the country in the most authentic way possible. You can immerse into local customs, taste typical meals, and experience the culture and traditions first-hand. You will quickly realize how much your Spanish skills improve each day. Our homestays are carefully screened and selected, and many hosts have years of experience with our international volunteers.

                            Food & Beverages

                            Breakfast, lunch and dinner is provided. Meals usually consist of typical Costa Rican food, such as rice, beans, sweet corn, meat, pasta, vegetables, and seasonal fruits.

                            Internet Access

                            Good access at the project site

                            What's NOT included?

                            What's NOT included?

                            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 start and end date can be set flexible, according to your availability and travel plans. Ask our experienced staff to coordinate your participation in this meaningful volunteer project.

                             

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

                            Program fees

                            2 weeks (min. stay) 1,131€
                            3 weeks 1,462€
                            4 weeks 1,794€
                            5 weeks 2,125€
                            6 weeks 2,456€
                            7 weeks 2,788€
                            8 weeks 3,119€
                            9 weeks 3,451€
                            10 weeks 3,782€
                            11 weeks 4,113€
                            12 weeks 4,445€
                            24 weeks (max. stay) 8,422€
                            Average fees 458€/week

                            Program fees

                            458€ per week 2 - 24 weeks Age 18 - 50+

                            Payment methods

                            Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

                            NO CREDIT CARD FEES


                            Duration

                            2 - 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: Spanish, English, German

                            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

                            Laurence M. rating5

                            2023 at Wildlife Rescue Assistant

                            The country is magnifique and at this moment all the people who I’ve met are nice. The projet and his place is very cool and the family home stay too! Everything is OK thank you for ...
                            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! ...
                            Nathalie K. rating5

                            2024 at Local Wildlife Helper

                            Everything is alright. The family host in San José is very kind. I visited San José yesterday. This morning I arrived at the rescue center and it's amazing! It beautifull, the animals are so cute. And the volonteers are very friendly. Thanks for everything and have a good ...
                            Alex S. rating5

                            2024 at Help Stray Dogs

                            Mir geht’s prima. War ein langer Tag, bin daher auch gut kaputt 🙂 Sowohl Spanischkurs als auch die Arbeit im Tierheim machen sehr viel Spaß! Ich muss zwar all das bisschen, was ich an Spanisch kann, zusammenkratzen, um durch den Tag zu kommen, aber das wird sicherlich besser mit der Zeit ...
                            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, ...
                            Mattia Malfanti rating5

                            2024 at Countryside School Assistant

                            Very good location and people. Really good organization and people are really hospitable. Peumal is a really good alternative school. I sincerely advice if you want help in an alternative school to go ...

                            Location


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                            Contact Marion
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