Are you ready to become a wildlife volunteer abroad? We hope so!

Join us in the crucial mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and, whenever possible, releasing injured and displaced wildlife. Your support is vital for our shared goal!

What we are looking for

We need motivated and passionate volunteers to join us here at Rescue Center Costa Rica to take care of our injured and displaced animals. We have monkeys, sloths, kinkajous, coats, exotic birds, and much more. However, in order for us to continue our mission of rescue, rehabilitation, and when possible release we need the kindness and generosity from people like you who want to make a difference.

What you can expect

The volunteer program we run is rewarding, memorable, and a whole lot of fun. In addition to working with our animals, you also get to enjoy great food (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly), meet new friends from around the world, travel to our beautiful country, and create lasting memories. Most importantly, we work out of a safe and secure location and provide private transportation during our excursions.

Once you arrive you will be given your bed and a quick tour of the facility. The first morning you wake up you will enjoy a delicious breakfast before being explained on your first day of work during the induction tour at 11 am. At mid-day we serve lunch and afterward, you have some downtime to enjoy the pool, swing in a hammock, and meet the other volunteers. Afternoon work is followed by dinner and volunteer activities planned by the coordinators which include but are not limited to games, bonfires, dancing lessons, Karaoke nights, etc.

Your tasks

Day work is the most important part when you sign up to be a wildlife volunteer. Workgroups include food prep and feeding, animal enclosure cleaning, animal toy enrichment, and working with the vet team. At every step of the process, we have skilled and endearing coordinators who manage each group and will teach what to do and how to do it. They plan the following day’s work each night so if you prefer to be in a certain group with a certain task feel free to communicate that and we will accommodate.

Packing List:

• Closed-toe shoes or hiking boots for muddy days.
• Sneakers, flip flops/sandals for free days and relaxing.
• Shorts and T-shirts for warm days.
• Long pants and long-sleeved lightweight shirts.
• Flashlight/batteries.
• Raincoat.
• 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 shops 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.