wildlife conservation in costa rica

The loss of natural habitats, combined with human population growth, has put increased pressure on wildlife in Costa Rica. Volunteers will help protect wildlife and wildlife habitats, while learning about the relationship between wildlife and environmental conservation. Volunteers have the opportunity to work a variety of wildlife conservation placements.

Our sea turtle project is a great way to learn about wildlife conservation, help to protect these valuable animals, and also enjoy some beach time! Volunteers on this project do night-time beach patrols, count and release baby turtles, build hatcheries, and clean up beaches.

The paca, or tepezcuintle as it is known in Costa Rica, is a mammal found in an area ranging from southern Mexico to Argentina. Volunteers working on this project will feed and care for the animals and assist the biologists who are researching the animals and their habitats.

In addition to our sea turtle project, we also have a project that allows volunteers to work with freshwater and land turtles. Help feed and care for the turtles, work to maintain and update the facilities, and assist the staff at the turtle with research projects.

Volunteers interested in working with tropical birds can assist in efforts to rescue and rehabilitate parrots, macaws, and other tropical birds native to Costa Rica. Duties may include feeding the birds, cleaning the facilities, and assisting with research.

Orientation:

Upon arrival in Costa Rica, volunteers are met at the airport and taken to their host family's home in Atenas. They will receive an orientation that will familiarize them with the town and the surrounding area, the Costa Rican culture, and their program. For placements of one-month or longer, participants will receive two weeks of Spanish language training.

Once the placement begins, participants will receive an additional mini-orientation at the project site that focuses on project opportunities and responsibilities.

Spanish Language Training
For all placements of 4 weeks or longer, volunteers will receive 15 hours of Spanish language training during the first two weeks in Costa Rica. Classes are taught by experienced instructors and certified teachers with an average of 25 years of teaching experience.

Cultural Activities
As part of each placement, volunteers will have the opportunity to experience Costa Rican culture in a unique way through two cultural classes. One class focuses on the art of Costa Rican cuisine. Volunteers work together to prepare traditional Costa Rican dishes in a local home. The other class focuses on Latin dance. Volunteers will have the opportunity to experience the spirited Costa Rican culture through music and movement.

Optional Excursions*
Participants will have the option to enjoy the natural beauty of Costa Rica through guided excursions. These excursions are day trips and guided by the local staff. Excursions include a beach visit, volcano trip, theater performance at the National Theater in San Jose, museum tour and tour of San Jose, and national park visits. Details about current excursions are available to volunteers after arrival in Costa Rica.
*not included

Cost and Dates :

Duration	2 weeks	3 weeks	4 weeks	5 weeks	6 weeks	7 weeks	8 weeks	12 weeks
Costs	$1,455.00	$1,575.00	$1,895.00	$2,005.00	$2,130.00	$2,270.00	$2,375.00	$2,877.00

For 2010, there is an additional $150 housing fee per month for the Sea Turtle projects.

Programs generally start on Monday of each week. Participants can choose when they would like to start and the duration of their volunteer program. A typical program ranges from 4 to 6 weeks. Check with World Endeavors for alternate dates or durations.

We encourage volunteers to apply as far in advance as possible. Generally it is best to submit your application at least 12 weeks prior to your intended start date, but exceptions can be made if the volunteer is willing to work with World Endeavors to expedite the enrollment process. To submit an application, download the application found on the sidebar of this page.

Placement availability may be limited during the Christmas holidays or Easter week, as many Costa Ricans go on vacation at these times. In addition, placements in schools are generally not available (although alternate arrangements can be made) from about December 22nd until the beginning of February.

Cost Includes:

Home stay accommodations

3 meals per day

On-site orientation

Travel medical insurance

Cell phone rental

Pre-departure handbook and pre-trip guidance

English speaking representative in-country for your assistance

2 weeks of Spanish language training (for programs 4 weeks and longer)

Cultural activities (cooking class; dance class)

Volunteer placement

24/7 emergency phone support

wildlife conservation in costa rica

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