MONDIFY · COSTA RICA
Volunteer and Intern in Costa Rica: Wildlife Research in a Tropical Rainforest
Join real wildlife research on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast. Two programs, one rainforest research base, and a Spanish course included before you fly.
Why Choose Costa Rica?
Hands-on rainforest research with a team that trains you from day one. No degree or previous experience required.
🌿 Real Field Research
Join camera trap studies, bird point counts and wildlife surveys in a tropical rainforest, working alongside a local conservation team.
The research base sits inside a semi-autonomous Indigenous reserve, one of the few places in the world where long-term research happens in this kind of setting.
🏠 Live at a Research Base
Share a dormitory with fellow participants at an off-grid base powered by solar energy, open to the rainforest and staffed around the clock.
Three meals a day are cooked by the host family or staff: rice and beans, gallo pinto, arroz choreado and other Caribbean favorites.
🏠 Live at a Research Base
Share a dormitory with fellow participants at an off-grid base powered by solar energy, open to the rainforest and staffed around the clock.
Three meals a day are cooked by the host family or staff: rice and beans, gallo pinto, arroz choreado and other Caribbean favorites.
🌴 Weekends on the Caribbean Coast
Coastal towns are a short bus ride from base, with hostels and hotels for every budget.
Spend your days off at the beach, visit a nearby national park, go snorkeling or fishing, ride horses, or kayak through the mangroves.
Volunteer or Intern in Costa Rica
Same rainforest research base, two ways to take part. Pick the one that fits your goals and your schedule.
Good to Know Before You Go
Costa Rica is an adventure, not a resort. Here is what to expect.
✈️ Getting There
Fly into San José (SJO). Our staff meet each new group and travel with you to the reserve, a scenic trip of up to 5 hours followed by a walk up a jungle trail with your bags. Airport transfers are included.
🗣️ Spanish Course Included
Every internship, and every volunteer stay of 4 weeks or more, includes a 5-hour online Spanish course to complete before you travel.
🥾 Is It for You?
Life at the base is simple: open-air rooms, limited power and water, and plenty of insects. Good physical condition is a must. Not sure? Ask us before you apply.
Ready to Start Your Costa Rica Story?
30+ years connecting people with Latin America. Talk to our team and find the program that is right for you.
Also explore our Whale and Puma Conservation program in Patagonia and conservation volunteering in the Galápagos.
