Costa Rica

Costa Rica has a total area of 51,100 square kilometers, making it 19,730 square miles.

Costa Rica is a relatively affordable destination, depending on your lifestyle choices. As a popular tourist destination, it holds luxury and convenience outlets that allow visitors to enjoy more exclusive services. It also hosts visitors looking to explore its natural beauty without breaking the bank through affordable living options.

Costa Rica is generally considered a safe travel destination for tourists. It has a reputation for being one of the safer countries in Central America. However, like any travel destination, it’s essential to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

The official language spoken in Costa Rica is Spanish. Spanish is the country’s primary language for communication, government, education, and business. While Spanish is the dominant language, you may also find some English speakers in tourist areas, particularly in the hospitality and tourism industries.

Costa Rica’s official currency is the Costa Rican Colón, often denoted by the symbol “₡” or the code “CRC”. However, despite the official currency, US dollars are widely accepted in many tourist areas, and it’s common for businesses, hotels, and restaurants to display prices in both Colónes and US dollars.

In Costa Rica, wear lightweight clothing like t-shirts, shorts, and dresses in breathable materials. Use sandals or water-resistant shoes for beaches and closed-toe or hiking sandals for activities. Sun protection with a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen is vital. Also, pack lightweight long-sleeve clothes for insect protection and cooler evenings.

To get an internship in Costa Rica through World Endeavors, you must be at least 18 years old and have a passport valid for at least six months from your program start date. While a background in your chosen field is helpful, it’s not required; relevant experience or coursework can improve your placement options. Start by choosing a program that aligns with your goals, such as marine conservation, healthcare, or sustainability. Once you submit your application, World Endeavors will guide you through placement, housing, orientation, and other logistics.

Costa Rica offers a diverse array of internship opportunities, catering to various professional interests. Popular fields include marine and environmental conservation, where interns can engage in hands-on projects to protect ecosystems and wildlife. Healthcare internships are also available, providing experience in public health initiatives and medical research. Opportunities in occupational therapy allow interns to assist with therapeutic practices for children and the elderly. For those interested in education and community work, youth development programs involve organizing workshops and activities within local communities. Internships are also available in veterinary science, offering experience in animal care and health. Those with creative or technical skills can explore opportunities in web and graphic design, while social work placements provide the chance to support community outreach and development programs. Each internship offers immersive, real-world experience that contributes to both personal and professional growth.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and possess a passport valid for at least six months beyond the program’s start date. While prior experience or academic background in your chosen field is recommended, it’s not mandatory; relevant coursework or experience can enhance your placement options. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, and each internship program may have specific eligibility criteria.

For personalized guidance or to confirm your eligibility, you can contact us directly to assist you with your program selection and application process.

Internships in Costa Rica through World Endeavors are unpaid. Paid placements are uncommon abroad due to strict visa regulations and the administrative burden on host organizations. Instead of financial compensation, these internships offer valuable hands-on experience, professional growth, and full support before, during, and after the program.

Yes, you can get an internship in Costa Rica if you don’t speak Spanish. Most Costa Ricans use Spanish in their everyday lives, and knowing the language may offer more opportunities for your internship placement. However, interns placed through World Endeavors only need to speak English in order to participate in one of our programs. Internship programs in Costa Rica that meet our duration requirments include 15 hours of Spanish language classes that introduce you to the basics!

It’s recommended to apply for internships in Costa Rica with World Endeavors at least 16 weeks before your intended start date. This allows ample time for visa processing, placement coordination, and travel arrangements. Applications are accepted up to a year in advance, and early submission is encouraged due to limited placement availability. While last-minute placements may be possible in some cases, applying early increases the likelihood of securing your desired internship.