Costa Rica – Family-Friendly Animal Rescue and Conservation

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, home to an estimated 5% of all known plant and animal species. Its name translates to “rich coast,” a reflection of its diverse landscapes, rainforests, volcanoes, beaches, mountains, and wetlands.

The project is located in Alajuela Province, surrounded by tropical gardens and forest trails. Colorful birds, howler monkeys, and butterflies are common sights. Families can also visit nearby coffee farms, waterfalls, and volcanoes, combining accessibility with immersion in nature.

About the Program
This program takes place at one of Costa Rica’s most respected ethical wildlife rehabilitation and rescue centers, providing a safe home for injured, orphaned, or displaced animals that cannot survive in the wild. The center’s team focuses on rehabilitation, education, and creating sustainable habitats for the animals in their care. Families are welcomed as valuable members of the community, contributing to the ongoing welfare and enrichment of rescued species while learning about Costa Rica’s commitment to conservation.

Volunteer Tasks
Families work side by side with the local staff and other volunteers on a variety of tasks that combine learning with fun. Adults and children can take part in animal feeding, habitat cleaning, enrichment creation, and light maintenance. Short educational workshops and enrichment projects designed especially for children add meaningful learning moments.

Sample tasks include:

• Helping prepare fruit and vegetables for over 150 animals
• Cleaning and refreshing animal enclosures
• Creating enrichment toys from recycled materials
• Collecting branches and leaves for habitats
• Assisting with planting and maintenance projects
• Helping with basic reforestation or gardening work
• Participating in family-friendly construction or improvement projects led by the local team
• Special family activities may include small group projects and wildlife lessons designed to engage children in conservation in a hands-on way.

A Typical Day

• 6:45 – 8:00: Regular volunteer work begins at the center
• 8:00 – 8:45: Breakfast (families usually eat at their hotel or Main House)
• 8:45: Families picked up from hotel or join morning activities if staying at the center.
• 9:00 – 11:30: Animal care and enrichment tasks
• 12:00 – 13:30: Lunch and short rest
• 13:45 – 16:30: Afternoon activities such as maintenance, enrichment, or family projects
• 18:00: Dinner at the rescue centre
• 18:30: Return transfer to hotel (if applicable)

Schedules may vary depending on weather, staff guidance, and animal needs. The local team will also take your family’s needs and preferences into careful consideration when planning daily activities.

Internet: Wi-Fi is available in communal areas.

Laundry: Laundry service available for a small fee.

Accommodations: Families stay in the Main Volunteer House or Side Rooms, both spacious buildings offering comfortable dorm-style accommodations. Each family will have a private dorm room with up to six bunk beds and a fan. Bathrooms are shared, as well as the communal kitchen and lounge area, providing a welcoming space to relax and connect with other volunteers. Private en-suite dorms are available if booked in advance, though availability is limited. For families seeking additional comfort, an upgrade to a nearby hotel is available. The hotel offers ensuite rooms and air conditioning, with daily transfers to and from the rescue center included. Travel time is typically around 10 minutes or less, and may take up to 30 minutes during periods of heavy traffic.

Food: Enjoy three freshly cooked meals daily served at the rescue center. Meals feature a mix of Costa Rican and international dishes, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Filtered water, coffee, and tea are available throughout the day.

• GoEco interview
• Minimum age 6 for kids
• Fitness and comfort while working outdoors
• Love and respect for animals
• Flexible and open-minded to do all kinds of chores, depending on the project needs
• Adaptability to the weather in Costa Rica (tropical climate – high temperatures and humidity during the rainy season)
• All volunteers coming from South America or Africa must have a yellow fever vaccination certification in order to enter Costa Rica
• Respectful of the no-selfie rule, understanding that photos holding or posing closely with animals are not permitted, in support of the fight against the illegal wildlife pet trade

It’s important to understand that this is a working rescue center and sanctuary, where the animals’ wellbeing always comes first. Family volunteers play a supportive role in maintaining high standards of animal care and conservation ethics, ensuring that every activity benefits the wildlife above all else.

Once every week, families and volunteers join a full-day guided tour to explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica. Destinations vary weekly and may include volcanoes, waterfalls, or beaches.

Sample excursions included in your program fee:

• Exploring Poás Volcano National Park and visiting a local coffee plantation
• Hiking through La Paz Waterfall Gardens and wildlife exhibits
• Tortuga Island Tour

Transportation, meals, and entrance fees are included for one tour each week. Tours are suitable for children ages six and above.