Country Background

Volunteering in Costa Rica is like volunteering in a slice of paradise. One of the most popular destinations for Peace Corps volunteers, Costa Rica fulfills its name in every sense of the word, and the country welcomes the presense of volunteers. The culture in the country is as rich as the coasts, and the Pura Vida spirit (literally translated meaning 'pure life' doesn't fade with inland travel. Peaceful Costa Rica is often referred to as the 'Switzerland of Central America' as it is the only country in the world to have constitutionally outlawed a military. With the Caribbean Ocean to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west, Costa Rica exhibits diverse geography and climate zones from the temperate interior to the tropical coasts. The warm culture of the 'ticos' is as hearty as the national dish of gallo pinto, or seasoned beans and rice. Fairly westernized for a Central American country, Costa Rica's proud heritage is mingled with modern life from the mountain-encircled capital of San Jose to the countless beaches that line the Pacific and Caribbean costs. With all of the diversiry, it's easy to volunteer in Costa Rica.

From lush mountains to balmy beaches, there is never a lack of anything to do in Costa Rica. The extremely laid-back atmosphere in the country offers immersion in flora and fauna, a variety of butterflies and tropical birds, as well as monkeys and crocodiles. Ecotourism and nature tours to waterfalls and volcanoes are quite popular, as well as whitewater rafting. Butterfly and hummingbird gardens are common and tours of the country's many coffee plantations are offered daily. Visitors can also swim in any of the country's natural hot springs and glide through the rainforest on the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. The endless beaches also provide countless opportunities to surf and take in the sun.

Volunteer Projects in Costa Rica

	Teaching Samara, Costa Rica	Starting at $650
	Community Development Samara, Costa Rica	Starting at $650
	Construction and Renovation Samara, Costa Rica	Starting at $550
	Wildlife Conservation Portegolpe, Costa Rica	Starting at $650
	Ecological Farming Perez Zeledon , Costa Rica	Starting at $650
	Turtle Conservation: Pacific Coast Buenavista , Costa Rica	Starting at $650
	Turtle Conservation: Caribbean Coast Tortuguero , Costa Rica	Starting at $650