Join the Journey: Volunteer Travel with Rescue Center Costa Rica

Join us at Rescue Center Costa Rica to protect and rehabilitate endangered wildlife while experiencing the beauty of Costa Rica firsthand.

Rescue

Rehabilitate

Release

Rescue

Rehabilitate

Release

Rescue

Rehabilitate

Release

Rescue

Rehabilitate

Release

Rescue

Rehabilitate

Release

Rescue

Rehabilitate

Release

Connect With likeminded people

Become a part of our vibrant volunteer community, where you'll meet and bond with like-minded individuals dedicated to making a positive impact, all while helping animals in need and contributing to a cause that transforms lives.

Volunteer

our teams

Select a team that aligns with your interests for a more personalized volunteering experience.

01

Animal team

You will assist in the care of the animals, prepare food for them, clean enclosures, construct enrichment toys, and more!

Watch the Experience

02

sloth team

When caring for sloths, you will prepare food for them, take them to our trees for exercise and enrichment, and prepare them for release.

Watch the Experience

03

vet team

You will be able to see things up close while working on the vet team, as you will assist with animal healthcare, surgeries, and x-rays.

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04

construction team

You will help build the rescue center's foundations, enclosures, paths, murals, community areas, and more as a member of the construction team!

Watch the Experience

Got questions?

Find answers to common questions about our rescue center and volunteering program.

Do I need to know how to speak Spanish?

No! You definitely do not have to know how to speak Spanish. Many of our volunteers do not speak Spanish (yet!) . A little knowledge in English or Spanish is sufficient to communicate. Don´t worry – we offer spanish classes daily so you are going to improve your language skills very fast!

What kind of injections do I need before I get there?

A standard set of vaccines is sufficient but if you want to be sure just check the recommendation in the Department of Foreign Affairs. It is not required to have an anti-rabies vaccination because the animals are medically checked by our team of veterinarians. It doesn't hurt to bring antibacterial cream or spray to use for any small scratches or little bites from the animals.

Are there any dangerous animals on the property like snakes, frogs or spiders?

There are poisonous amphibians, insects and reptiles in Costa Rica. However, the property is well-mantained and the likelihood of running into anything poisonous is minimal. If you follow simple rules such as always wearing shoes/flipflops and staying on the marked paths you won't have to worry. Also, keep in mind we have many hospitals and medical centers within a few minutes of the property in case a serious problem does occur. In the past 10 years we are happy to report we have never had a Volunteer seriously injured but we are prepared if it does happen.

Which currency is used in Costa Rica?
Do I have to change my money before I arrive?

Costa Rican natives or "Ticos" use the national currency known as Colones. You are welcome to exchange money if you get the chance but US Dollars are also widely accepted almost everywhere.

Are there banks and supermarkets located close to the Rescue Center?

There is a local bank about 10 minutes away. There is a small convenience store which carries everyday items within walking distance of the property. If you need to go to a larger supermarket for a better selection of items we are happy to arrange transportation for you when you arrive.

Is there WiFi at the Rescue Center?

Yes, we have WiFi on the property and it is free. You will be given the password when you arrive. Keep in mind we are located in a part of the rain forest so the WiFi does go up and down. The gift shop we have on-site sells prepaid phone/internet chips so you are welcome to purchase one and keep if the property WiFi is having issues. In an emergency you can always arrange for a ride into town where many of the restaurants have free WiFi.

What should I bring?

Please try not bring expensive clothes, electronics or other items. However, if you do have things you need to bring and need to keep them safe we do rent lockers in the main office which you can purchase for your stay at a minimal fee. We keep these lockers in the office rather than the rooms to ensure your items stay safe. However, we do not take responsibility if things are stolen which is the reason we ask you to leave them behind if at all possible.
Recommended Packing

ListClosed-toe shoes or hiking boots for muddy days.Sneakers,
flipflops/sandals for free days and relaxing.Shorts and t-shirts for warm days.
Long pants and long-sleeved lighweight shirts.Flashlight/batteries.
Raincoat.Backpack with a rain cover.
Large Zip Lock bags to keep items dry.Reusable water bottle.Towels and toiletries including toothbrush, toothpaste, soap and shampoo.Insect repellent (DEET free repellent is recommended and safer for the animals).
Antibacterial spray/cream and bandaids for small scratches and cuts.
Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses for the beautiful Costa Rican days.

Keep in mind pretty much all of the above items can be bought in our gift shop as well as at the local convenience stores/supermarkets. If you forget any of the above please don't worry just let us know when you arrive and we will help make sure you get what you need immediately.

book your Volunteering adventure today

Book your volunteering adventure today and embark on a journey that promises meaningful impact, personal growth, and unforgettable memories at our rescue center."

Volunteer

Rescue

Rehabilitate

Release

Rescue

Rehabilitate

Release

Rescue

Rehabilitate

Release

Rescue

Rehabilitate

Release

Rescue

Rehabilitate

Release

Rescue

Rehabilitate

Release