Step 1
Step 3
Step 2
You’ll be matched with your personal volunteer travel expert who’ll guide you every step of the way.
Meet Your Travel Expert
Receive your welcome pack with everything you need: arrival info, contacts, visa and insurance help, packing tips, vaccines, language basics, and so much more.
Get Ready to Go!
Choose your dream project and apply for free—no commitment, just excitement!
Pick Your Destination & Apply
Step 2
Step 3
Once your dates are confirmed, pay your program fee—choose to pay in full or in easy installments.
Secure Your Spot
Step 4
Want to volunteer with wildlife in Costa Rica? Our Travel Roots Animal Rescue Centre Assistant program gives you the chance to directly support the care, recovery, and rehabilitation of native wildlife affected by deforestation, illegal trade, and urbanisation.
You’ll assist local staff in feeding routines, enrichment, cleaning, and habitat maintenance for animals like sloths, monkeys, parrots, coatis, and reptiles.
Gain experience in hands-on wildlife care
From food prep to wound care assistance, you'll learn real animal husbandry skills while helping rehabilitate species for possible release back into the wild.Support ethical rescue and rehabilitation
The centre works to rescue and rewild animals harmed by habitat loss and illegal trafficking. Your presence helps reduce pressure on staff while increasing capacity to care for more animals.Learn about Costa Rica’s unique ecosystems
Gain a deeper understanding of tropical biodiversity and species conservation through daily care tasks and staff guidance, all while surrounded by rainforest and rich coastal habitat.Be part of a close-knit, animal-loving team
Volunteers form an essential part of this mission-driven environment—whether you’re mucking out enclosures, creating enrichment toys, or watching a sloth take its first steps to recovery.Key Activities Include:
• Preparing daily food and feeding schedules
• Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures
• Providing enrichment and stimulation for animals in recovery
• Assisting with observational reports and rehabilitation support
• Learning from trained local staff on species-specific care techniquesEvery day is different—but every action you take directly supports animal survival and recovery.
By volunteering on our Animal Rescue Centre Assistant Program in Costa Rica, you will:
• Care for rescued wildlife including sloths, monkeys, parrots, and reptiles
• Gain real-world experience in animal care, feeding, and rehabilitation
• Support ethical conservation efforts against wildlife trafficking
• Learn from experienced local staff and conservation professionals
• Help create a safe, enriched environment for animals in recovery
• Build lifelong friendships with other like-minded volunteers
• Immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s lush tropical surroundings
• Be part of a meaningful project making direct impact on local biodiversityWhat to Expect: A Day in the Life of an Animal Care Assistant
Every day at the rescue centre brings new challenges, surprises, and rewarding moments. Your routine will vary depending on the animals in care, but here’s what a typical day might look like:
7:00 AM – Morning Feed & Check-In
Start the day by preparing food and delivering breakfast to the animals. You'll help check each enclosure and observe the animals’ condition and behaviour.8:30 AM – Volunteer Breakfast
Return to the volunteer house for a hearty breakfast with your team—recharge and get ready for the day ahead.9:30 AM – Habitat Cleaning & Enrichment Prep
Assist in cleaning enclosures and preparing fresh bedding or perches. Then move on to preparing enrichment—this could include creating feeding puzzles or collecting natural items from the environment.12:00 PM – Lunch Break
Enjoy a relaxed lunch and take time to unwind. Use this time to connect with fellow volunteers or explore the local area if nearby.1:30 PM – Animal Health & Rehab Support
Depending on the centre’s needs, you may assist in basic medical routines (under supervision), support with special feedings, or observe animal behaviour for progress tracking.3:30 PM – Afternoon Feeding & Final Checks
Prepare and deliver afternoon meals, top up water supplies, and help settle the animals for the evening.4:30 PM – End of Day Duties
Tidy workstations, wash up food prep tools, and review the day’s progress with the local staff.Evenings & Days Off
Your evenings are free to relax at the volunteer house, walk along the beach, or enjoy cultural activities nearby. On your days off, you’re encouraged to explore Costa Rica’s waterfalls, national parks, and coastal towns.No two days are the same, but every one is impactful. Whether you’re feeding sloths, cleaning enclosures, or crafting toys for monkeys, you’ll be helping vulnerable animals on their path to recovery.
Your Impact as a Volunteer
Choosing to volunteer at the Animal Rescue Centre is an act of compassion that makes a direct and lasting difference—for the animals, for the community, and for you.
As a volunteer, you’ll become an essential part of the animal care team, supporting overworked staff in their mission to heal and rehabilitate Costa Rica’s injured and orphaned wildlife. Every enclosure you clean, every meal you prepare, and every enrichment item you create contributes to an animal’s physical and emotional recovery. You’re helping give them a second chance—whether that’s release back into the wild or lifelong sanctuary care.
You’ll also be supporting wider conservation efforts. Many of the animals in the centre are victims of illegal trafficking, deforestation, or road accidents. Your contribution helps raise awareness in local communities, increase rescue centre capacity, and inspire long-term change in how people interact with wildlife.
But your impact doesn’t stop there.
Through your time here, you’ll develop practical animal care skills, gain ecological knowledge, and build confidence in yourself and your ability to make a difference. It’s more than volunteering—it’s personal growth through purpose.
Home in Costa Rica
During your stay, you’ll be based in simple but comfortable volunteer housing close to the animal rescue centre. It’s a welcoming, down-to-earth space where volunteers come together to rest, connect, and reflect after a fulfilling day of work.
Sleeping Arrangements
You’ll share a room with fellow volunteers in single-gender dorm-style accommodation. Rooms are basic but secure, and come with fans, mosquito nets, and clean bedding. Living alongside other passionate individuals creates a strong sense of community and camaraderie.Facilities Include:
• Shared bathrooms with showers
• Communal kitchen and fridge space
• Social area with tables and seating
• Wi-Fi (limited signal in some areas)
• Basic laundry facilitiesMeals & Cooking
Volunteers are responsible for preparing their own meals. You’ll have access to a kitchen to cook with others or on your own. Local markets and grocery stores nearby make it easy to source fresh ingredients, and you’re encouraged to try your hand at Costa Rican recipes!Location
The accommodation is located in the same area as the animal rescue centre, reducing commute time and allowing you to stay immersed in your surroundings. Expect tropical greenery, the sound of birds and monkeys, and a calm, nature-rich atmosphere.It’s simple living—but that’s what makes it special. A place to rest, reset, and share meaningful moments with others who care just as much as you do.
History
Since 2004, our trusted local partners have welcomed volunteers from around the world to support both ecological and social change across Costa Rica. What began as a small, family-run initiative has grown into a network of deeply impactful programs rooted in compassion, community, and action. With bases in Escazú (San José) and Playas del Coco (Guanacaste), they’ve built long-standing relationships with day care centres, schools, rescue centres, and conservation areas throughout the country.
Driven by the belief that meaningful change starts at the grassroots level, they’ve empowered hundreds of volunteers to become part of Costa Rica’s future—supporting children, wildlife, and local communities in ways that are ethical, sustainable, and heartfelt.
Mission & Vision
Their mission is to make a tangible difference in the lives of Costa Rica’s people and animals by combining hands-on volunteer work with community-driven solutions. From nurturing young minds to protecting endangered wildlife, every project is powered by the spirit of collaboration and respect for Costa Rican culture.
They envision a world where volunteers are not just helpers—but catalysts for long-term impact. Your time, energy, and curiosity are met with open arms and total dedication. In return, they promise to support your journey with all the tools, knowledge, and heart they have—because together, real change is possible.
Program Fees & What’s Included
Program Fees
Duration Fee (EUR)
1 week €320
2 weeks €640
3 weeks €960
4 weeks €1,280
5 weeks €1,600
6 weeks €1,920
8 weeks €2,560
10 weeks €3,200
15 weeks €4,800
20 weeks €6,400
25 weeks €8,000
Combined Projects
Want to combine this public school teaching program with another Costa Rica program (like sea turtle conservation or childcare program)? No problem—just add €25 total for coordination and logistics.Payment Terms
Program fees are due 30 days prior to your start date.
If applying within 30 days of arrival, full payment is due within 48 hours of confirmation.
What’s Included
Your program fee includes everything you need for a safe, rewarding, and well-supported volunteer experience:
✅ Shared accommodation just steps from the beach
✅ On-site coordination and 24/7 support
✅ All daily project tasks and conservation activities
✅ Pre-departure support and welcome information
✅ Orientation on arrival
✅ Access to communal kitchen and supplies
✅ Emergency assistance and full local guidance
✅ Certificate of completion and reference letter
✅ So much moreYour Investment in Wildlife & Yourself
This program isn’t just about helping animals—it’s also an investment in you. By immersing yourself in hands-on conservation work, you’ll develop critical thinking, teamwork, and cross-cultural communication skills that will serve you far beyond your time in Costa Rica.
Your program fees also make a lasting difference by directly supporting:
• The rescue, rehabilitation, and care of Costa Rican wildlife
• Anti-trafficking and environmental education efforts
• Job creation and training for local animal care staff
• The upkeep and improvement of the animal rescue centreWhether you’re pursuing a career in conservation, veterinary science, or simply seeking personal growth through purpose-driven travel—this program will empower you to grow while doing good.
Where You'll Be – Escazú, Costa Rica
Your volunteer base is located in Escazú, a peaceful and green district nestled in the hills just outside San José, the capital of Costa Rica. Known for its cooler climate, vibrant local life, and sweeping valley views, Escazú blends the charm of traditional Costa Rican culture with convenient access to modern amenities.
The animal rescue centre is set in a serene, semi-rural area surrounded by nature—yet it’s only a short drive to the bustling streets of central San José. This location provides the best of both worlds: a quiet space to connect with animals and focus on your volunteer work, alongside easy access to cafes, supermarkets, artisan markets, and cultural sites.
Whether you're joining the local community for a festival or relaxing after a rewarding day of animal care, Escazú offers a safe, welcoming, and enriching environment.
Costa Rica – A Nation Rooted in Nature and Community
Costa Rica is a small country with a mighty reputation. Known for its lush rainforests, pristine coastlines, and eco-conscious lifestyle, it's a place where "Pura Vida"—the pure life—is more than a saying. It’s a way of being.
You'll be living and volunteering in a country that leads the world in sustainability, peace, and happiness. The people are warm, family-oriented, and proud of their culture. Traditional meals, joyful music, and vibrant festivals are just part of everyday life here.
Whether you're hiking in cloud forests, learning Spanish with locals, or sipping fresh coconut water by the sea, Costa Rica offers a safe, welcoming, and inspiring setting for your volunteer journey.
Volunteering in Escazú offers not only meaningful engagement with local communities but also the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural and natural landscapes of Costa Rica's Central Valley during your free time. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, the area provides a variety of activities to enhance your experience.
Explore the Cerros de Escazú
Embark on hikes through the Cerros de Escazú, a mountain range offering trails to peaks like Cerro Rabo de Mico. These hikes provide panoramic views and a chance to experience the region's diverse flora and fauna.
Visit Local Markets and Cultural Sites
Stroll through the Saturday farmers market behind the Iglesia San Miguel Arcángel to sample local produce and crafts. Explore the town's rich history by visiting traditional churches and adobe houses that reflect Escazú's colonial heritage.
Cultural Experiences in San José
Take a short trip to nearby San José to visit the National Museum of Costa Rica, the National Theater, and the Central Market. These sites offer insights into the country's history, art, and culinary traditions.
Outdoor Adventures at Hacienda La Chimba
Just a short drive away, Hacienda La Chimba in Santa Ana offers hiking trails, zip-lining, and a cultural coffee experience. It's an ideal spot for those seeking both adventure and cultural immersion.
Relaxation and Socializing
Unwind at local cafes or your accommodation, enjoying the serene environment and connecting with fellow volunteers.
These activities provide a well-rounded experience, allowing you to contribute to meaningful projects while exploring the diverse offerings of Escazú and its surroundings.
%20%20%C2%A9%20APE%20Malaysia%20Mark%20Louis%20Benedict%20_JPG.jpg)
