Volunteers will be working with staff to keep farm land in the hands of local families, so real estate developers will not be able to take over their community. Volunteers are dedicated to the vast adaptation of tropical forest to farmland. The forest or farmland volunteers will be protecting the habitat of familiar species, which serves as a safe place for species that have been unseen for generations. Also, the area makes it safer for endangered species to prosper and migrate.
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Where will I be volunteering?
You will be volunteering in Tilaran, Costa Rica, which is about 2 miles away from Lake Arenal, the largest inland body of water in Costa Rica. Tilaran attracts many tourists, due to its laid back attitude, and perfect temperature for walking around town. The city is also known for the hiking trail where you can see Volcano Arenal.
Project Testimonial: Matthew Lee, USA
My time is coming to an end here at the reserve. I have had a great experience working here! Read My Full Testimonial »
What will I be doing?
You will be protecting the tropical forests in Tilaran, Costa Rica, that are rich with diversity.
Your daily tasks will include:
- Trail construction and maintenance
- Construction of bridges
- Cleaning and maintenance of the facilities
- Cleaning of beaches
- Support in research projects
- Collaboration with the environmental education program
- Attention of tourists
- Housekeeping and infrastructure maintenance
- Cooking or helping the cook
What is required to volunteer on this project?
- Language Requirement: Basic Spanish
If you are interested in learning more Spanish, we offer Spanish Language Courses that can be taken prior to project placement. - Must be 18 years or older.
What will my schedule be like?
uVolunteer believes that you should have a well balanced work and play schedule. This means you will only be required to work 4 days per week (Monday to Thursday) for a maximum of 6 hours per day. For the remainder of your time, you will be free to enjoy the vacationing aspects of your trip.
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Will I be able to communicate with family and friends?
In the city of Tilaran, there are numerous internet cafés and public phones. You can purchase an international phone card once in Costa Rica.
Project Testimonial: Chris Long, USA
It took a four and half hour flight, one night in San Jose and a four hour bus ride to Tilaran, but I finally made it! Read My Full Testimonial »
What can I do in my free time?
uVolunteer anticipates and encourages your desire for travel and adventure. Your time away from volunteering is open for you to decide your activities. You may decide to take advantage of the local culture and spend time within the community over the weekend. Otherwise, there is ample opportunity to explore Costa Rica and all it has to offer.
Great weekend trips include:
- Arenal Volcano National Park in La Fortuna
- Póas Volcano National Park in Cartago
- Canopy tours in Monteverde
- Museums in San José
- Rafting on the Pacuare River in Turriabla
- Surfing in Jacó, Puerto Viejo, Tamarindo, and Montezuma
- Program Name: Volunteer Costa Rica
- Project Name: Volunteer at the Tropical Reforestation Project in Costa Rica
- Project Category: Conservation
- Project Location: Tilaran
- Program Fee: A 2 week experience starts from $850; add $126 for each additional week
- Program fees include:
- Airport Pickup Service
- Welcome Orientation and debriefing
- A volunteer project
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Program Activities
- Project Donation
- The best in-country coordination support
- 24/7 emergency hot line
- Letter of Recommendation
- Certificate
- Items not included: Flights, travel insurance, visa costs, and transportation (except airport pickup)
- Project Transport Arrangements: Public bus, taxi,or walking
- Suggested transportation budget: Approximately $20 per week (does not include weekend travel expenses)
- Working Schedule: Monday through Thursday; 4-6 hours per day EMPTY
- Language Requirement: Basic Spanish
- Accommodation Type: Dorm
- Meals: 3 Meals Daily
- Start dates: Fortnightly, on Fridays
- Volunteer Gender: Male & Female
- Minimum age: 18
- Minimum project length: 2 Weeks
- Maximum project length: 52 Weeks
- Maximum number of volunteers: 10
- Resume or CV required: No
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Project Start Dates and Fees
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Costa Rica's Projects
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- Special Needs School
- Daycare Center
- Environmental Conservation
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- Teaching English Monteverde Cloud Forest

