5 Reasons to Volunteer in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is known, among other things, for its biodiversity and the associated exotic flair. But a whole range of animals is on the red list - they are threatened with extinction. Including the macaw, tapir, jaguar and many more.

The cause of the problem is mainly the destruction of the rainforest. This is cleared and cut down for many purposes, which means that the animals lose their natural habitat and the search for food becomes almost impossible. In addition, they can no longer hide because the forests are becoming savannahs. The animals are therefore no longer protected from predators.

Often starved or injured animals are found. For rehabilitation, they are taken to sanctuaries where you, as a volunteer, can take care of them by giving them food, medicine and attention.

Another problem is the illegal smuggling of animals. Because a large part of the country is a nature reserve, you need a permit to drive animals out. However, smugglers trade in rare animals to make money. So the animals are kept in captivity, taken to other countries where they don't belong or they die from the stress caused.

If you manage to catch the smugglers, the animals come to sanctuaries or veterinary clinics to be cared for and - depending on the animal's condition - released back into the wild.

Be part of this important work and help the Protecting Animals in Costa Rica!

In Costa Rica, many children live below the poverty line. This means that they do not have access to healthy food or education, for example, as the Convention on the Rights of the Child is not well respected either. This is a UN convention in which children are regarded as autonomous personalities and are granted rights.

Since the observance of rights is not sufficiently formulated, children often have to work on coffee plantations, for example, instead of going to school in order to earn money for the family. They are also often victims of violence or child trafficking.

In school and care projects you can help to give the children a chance for education, to enlighten and encourage them.

The mentality of the residents of Costa Rica may be different than what you are used to at home. It is said that people there need less to be happy. In fact, according to the 2016 Happy Planet Index, Costa Rica was among the happiest countries in the world in terms of perceived well-being, life expectancy and environmental sustainability. 

In Costa Rica people work to live and not the other way around. Money is secondary because people value family and pleasure more. Exactly according to the motto La Pura Vida! That means as much as pure life - enjoy the moment and don't think too far ahead!

It is just as important to live in harmony with nature and leave it as it is. The Ticos – as the people in Costa Rica are also called – succeed well because they don't see it as a challenge, but as a way of life. As a result, they have also become a pioneer in terms of sustainability!

South and Central American countries are often associated with danger and crime - but in Costa Rica you don't have to worry! The country is considered one of the safest in Latin America, which is why it is also for Solo Travelers Destinations suitable is.

Of course, you should also use common sense here and take care of yourself, because petty crime exists here like everywhere else in the world. Take care of your (valuable) belongings, avoid going outside alone in the dark and report any anomalies to the police. It is best to take a look at the information from the Federal Foreign Office before you leave in order to be optimally informed and prepared.

Of course, there are more reasons why it is worth traveling to Costa Rica as a volunteer. But if the five reasons have already convinced you enough, then feel free to take a look at ours Projects in Costa Rica at. There is definitely something here for you!