Ecology Conservation in Costa Rica

  Costa Rica

Rural Areas

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks and 5-8 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks

Description: For a new generation of travelers the 'must see' lists of the past have been replaced by new 'must help' ones, and on those, the diverse ecosystems of Costa Rica are right at the top. Having disbanded its military and spent the money on education and social services instead, Costa Rica has escaped the civil wars and dictatorships that have troubled its near neighbours; however its natural environment faces a predictable battle for survival. It's certainly worth protecting though; if you ordered a tropical paradise and Costa Rica came, you wouldn't send it back. Splitting your time between national parks, wildlife reserves and eco-tourism projects you will help construct trails, help out with organic farming and develop education programmes.

Project details:
There are a variety of projects located around the country including national parks and community based eco-tourism projects. With the majority of the conservation projects we work alongside a local NGO that was founded in 1989 and are dedicated to volunteer work in protected wilderness areas.

Why the project needs volunteers:
One hundred years ago 14% of the world's surface was rainforest, now this is about 7%. In Costa Rica the remaining tropical forest is disappearing by at least 520 square kms per year. However, about one-quarter of the country is under some form of official protection with the help of many volunteers each year.

Highlights:
* Getting your hands dirty helping preserve this stunning country
* Living in the reserves giving you a true 'back to nature' experience
* Getting used to Tica time - takes a bit of getting used to but really is a relaxed way to live!

Qualifications: What kind of skills you need to go on this type of project:
You must like the outdoors and be happy without any luxuries. You must be prepared to get involved in any activities required to the best of your ability and be prepared for some physically hard work. You will need to be flexible and be prepared to move around the country and stay in various types of accommodation.

Your role as a volunteer:
As a volunteer in the national parks you could be involved in maintenance work, reforestation, community farming initiatives, and clearing trails amongst others. You will work 6 days a week and have one day off throughout the week to be decided with the project host.

Cost in US$: USD 1645.00 for 4 weeks, USD 195.00 for every week

* Accommodation: Dependent on location; shared rooms, dormitories or homestay
* Food: All meals
* Airport Pickup: Included on arrival date. Ask us for details if you're arriving early!
* Training: In-country orientation
* Support: Pre-departure helpdesk, Local in-country team and 24hr emergency support

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 17-80

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Costa Rica Independently

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

i-to-i Meaningful Travel's Mission Statement: i-to-i is an award-winning organization providing unique opportunities for you to travel, work and live abroad. Thousands of travelers aged 18 to 80 have joined our volunteer vacations and over 50,000 have learned to Teach English as a Foreign Language through our tailor-made TEFL courses. With over 400 projects on 4 continents, you can join the worldwide i-to-i volunteer community on an extended adventure in areas such as teaching, community development, sports coaching, conservation, building or internships in tourism, marketing, journalism, or health.

Year Founded: 1994