Dream of working alongside Costa Rica’s incredible wildlife? International Volunteer HQ’s Wildlife Conservation project gives volunteers the opportunity to support a conservation, rescue and rehabilitation center that cares for species such as scarlet macaws, sloths, parrots, monkeys, tapirs, and wild cats.

What to expect and how you'll make an impact

As a Wildlife Conservation volunteer, you’ll support a long-running conservation organization that has been protecting Costa Rica’s wildlife and natural habitats since 2001. This hands-on role involves a variety of daily tasks, including preparing food for rescued animals, providing direct care, maintaining enclosures, and assisting with conservation and reforestation projects.

Your efforts will provide vital care for animals affected by habitat loss, illegal wildlife trafficking, hunting, and other threats, while contributing to broader conservation initiatives that protect Costa Rica’s biodiversity for future generations.

Volunteer tasks may vary, but typically involve:

Preparing and distributing food for rescued animals
Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures
Creating enrichment activities that support animal welfare
Assisting with sanctuary maintenance and improvement projects
Taking part in reforestation and habitat restoration efforts
Helping staff monitor animal behavior and well-being
Supporting environmental education and community outreach initiatives
Contributing to conservation projects that protect Costa Rica’s native wildlife

Contributes to United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal #15: Life on Land

Human activity has altered almost 75% of the earth’s surface and around 1 million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction. Nature is critical to our survival. We must promote kindness to animals and use regenerative techniques to combat deforestation, conserve biodiversity and protect wildlife.

Why do Wildlife Conservation volunteering in Puntarenas with IVHQ?

As a wildlife volunteer in Costa Rica, you’ll be adding value to the local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:

Supporting conservation and wildlife rehabilitation efforts
Helping protect endangered animal populations
Developing your communication skills
Gaining a wide range of conservation volunteer experience
Learning about wildlife and the challenges it faces

Volunteer requirements

Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, provide IVHQ with parental consent in order to participate on the program, and may be asked to provide additional document to the local team.

Those aged 16 or 17 on their start date, if unable to obtain a criminal background check, can provide two character reference letters instead.

Volunteers aged over 18 on their start date are required to provide a criminal background check to IVHQ before departure.

All volunteers must speak English and have adequate volunteer travel insurance.

Are you eligible to volunteer?

Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.

Who is going?

Group video calls

Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.