I was nervous about doing a medical mission on my own but after this experience I have the confidence to do another one. I loved immersing myself into a new culture and I learned so much living with the host family and volunteering. I enjoy traveling on the weekends. I also started learning a new language which I hope to continue when I go back home. This is one of my favorite memorable experiences I’ve ever had.
Healthcare Volunteer Project in Costa Rica - Manuel Antonio
Interested in Healthcare volunteering in Costa Rica - Manuel Antonio? International Volunteer HQ’s Healthcare project empowers volunteers to assist with caring for people with disabilities and the elderly. With one of Costa Rica’s most idyllic national parks as a backdrop, volunteers will be able to observe clinical practice and learn from local medical professionals while helping provide better access to quality healthcare for the people of Manuel Antonio.
Highlights:
- Programs start every Monday
- Affordable fees from $1507 for 3 weeks
- Includes accommodation, breakfast and dinner, airport pick up, orientation and 24/7 support
-
Provide care and support in an elderly home or clinic
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Discover Costa Rica’s amazing natural environment
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Experience daily life staying with a local family in Manuel Antonio
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.
Key information
This program is ideal for:
Suited to qualified professionals as well as medical and nursing students at any level, and individuals with a keen interest in learning more about the medical field. Local regulations typically prevent hands-on treatment of patients. Physical and occupational therapists are in demand for this project.
What to expect and how you'll make an impact
IVHQ’s Healthcare project in Manuel Antonio is set in community facilities that care for disabled people and the elderly. The healthcare system in Costa Rica is relatively well developed, however local staff work hard and appreciate the assistance of volunteers as well as the opportunity for cross-cultural learning.
As a Healthcare volunteer you’ll shadow local staff and observe clinical practice in action. Local regulations mean even qualified volunteers can only provide the most basic care to patients, under the supervision of local professionals. Volunteers who speak Spanish, are there for longer stays and who show initiative are likely to have a more hands-on role.
Volunteer with no previous Healthcare experience, students enrolled in pre-medical and nursing programs, first and second year medical students, Health Science professionals, and medical professionals such as EMTs, CNAs or Medical Assistants can can assist with:
- Providing much-needed companionship to patients
- Engaging in conversation-talk therapy
- Supporting staff with feeding, bathing, and changing beds
- Distributing medication
- Assisting residents during exercise programs and arts and crafts projects
Fully licensed medical professionals and students in their third year of study or above can expect to perform tasks as:
- Shadowing doctors and nurses
- Assisting with checkups
- Taking vitals
- Triaging patients
- Preparing medical equipment
- Assisting with physical therapy
Volunteers are required to bring their own PPE (Personal Protection Equipment) to the program, including their own scrubs, disposable aprons, disposable latex gloves, surgical masks, and closed-toed shoes.
Why do Healthcare volunteering in Manuel Antonio with IVHQ?
By doing medical volunteering in Manuel Antonio, you’ll be improving access to healthcare for the local community, while also gaining experience through:
- Assisting qualified medical professionals
- Gaining healthcare experience and skills
- Getting exposure to different clinical practices
- Practicing your Spanish
- Developing your cross-cultural communication skills
- Immersing yourself in Costa Rican culture
- Exploring Manuel Antonio’s natural beauty
Volunteer requirements
- Volunteers need to be 18 years or over to participate in this program. If you are under the age of 18, IVHQ offers alternative volunteer opportunities for teens. Visit our High School Volunteer Abroad page to learn more.
- All volunteers are required to speak fluent English, have adequate volunteer travel insurance and provide a criminal background check to IVHQ before departure.
Are you eligible to volunteer?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Apply For FreeNot sure which program to join?
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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.
Costa Rica photo gallery
IVHQ Teaching project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Construction and Renovation project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Dentistry project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Construction and Renovation project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Dentistry project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Special Needs project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Medical project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Dentistry project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teaching project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Dentistry project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Special Needs project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Dentistry project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Construction and Renovation project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Construction and Renovation project
IVHQ Dentistry project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ volunteer orientation
Exploring Costa Rica during the weekend
Exploring Costa Rica during the weekend
Exploring Costa Rica during the weekend
Exploring Costa Rica during the weekend
Exploring Costa Rica during the weekend
Exploring Costa Rica during the weekend
Exploring Costa Rica during the weekend
Exploring Costa Rica during the weekend
Exploring Costa Rica during the weekend
Exploring Costa Rica during the weekend
Exploring Costa Rica during the weekend
Exploring Costa Rica during the weekend
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
LC
Laura Carpenter
04 Apr 2024
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LH
Loahni Hernandez
20 Mar 2024
I feel as though I gained a new understanding of the various cultures around me and this trip further reinforced my belief that practicing my Spanish is worth it. I left with many valuable memories.
...
WD
William Delmage Jr
19 Mar 2024
I gained a lot from expanding my boundaries and putting myself in uncomfortable situations!
...
JB
Jenna Birdsell
14 Mar 2024
I truly believe that everyone should go on a trip through IVHQ, whether it is a week or a year, you will come back from it a better person. I have gained more knowledge in the 6 days I was in San Jose than I have all year at school. There are lessons that I learned that cannot be taught in a classroom, or on google, or reading a book. There is just something so different and astonishing about immersing yourself in a completely different culture than you are used to.
I took a leap of faith and truly did not know what I was about to embark on, but after adjusting and getting used to everything there, I was in heaven and wish with all my life I could have stayed longer. There is an adjustment period of about a day or two to get used to the life there but after that, I was living my best life and have never felt so content before. There is something so special about putting yourself out there and getting to know people from all around the world, being in a country that speaks a different language, all while making an impact on the lives of others who so desperately need the love and support from us.
I will never stop talking about this experience and pushing others to do it because I have such a greater appreciation for life itself. A piece of my heart is left with the kids I was lucky enough to teach, the family that I had the honor of staying with and getting to know, and all the beautiful humans I met from across the world, all while being immersed in a culture of truly living life to the fullest.
...
AT
Arnold Teixeira
29 Feb 2024
The program gave me a better perspective into my life and reawakened some capabilities I had forgotten about. My Spanish improved tremendously, as both host families spoke little English. Learning about how other cultures live is not always comfortable but it provides you with a better understanding about who you are as a person and how much we ALL have in common.
...
HT
Holly Tyte
21 Dec 2023
This was an amazing experience and I’m so glad that I chose to volunteer with IVHQ. Having done 2 projects (Childcare and Healthcare) I felt I was able to learn so much about different systems in Costa Rica. Staying with a host family was so good to be immersed in the culture and learn more Spanish. I’ve met some incredible people and learned lots more about myself as a person.
...
To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Medical specialities
In Manuel Antonio you may have the opportunity to volunteer in the following medical areas:
- General medicine
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
Please be sure to note your area of speciality, relevant qualifications and experience in your application.
Academic course credit
Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!
Learn about course credit
Location
Costa Rica is in the true heart of Central America, and halfway down its stunning southwestern coast is the popular tourist destination of Manuel Antonio where several IVHQ projects are located.
Manuel Antonio’s main attraction is a small but glorious national park known for the unparalleled biodiversity found at its forests, beaches and coral reefs. It’s a nature-lover’s paradise and adrenaline junkies will also find plenty of adventure to be had in the surrounding area. The small local population relies on the tourism industry for jobs and economic growth.
Arrival and orientation
After you have registered for the program, please book your flights to arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose on the Saturday before your start date. Volunteers who fly into San Jose before midday on Saturday will travel to Manuel Antonio that day. Volunteers who arrive into San Jose after midday on Saturday will spend the night in San Jose and travel to Manuel Antonio on Sunday morning. When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and taken to the local team’s offices. This is included in your Program Fee.
We recommend that volunteers under the age of 18 travel internationally with a notarized letter from their parents to support their documentation. If you are traveling in Costa Rica prior to your program, you can meet the local team in Manuel Antonio on the Saturday before your program starts.
The program orientation is hosted by our Costa Rica team at their offices in Manuel Antonio. Orientation is compulsory to attend and is held on Sunday morning or afternoon, depending on what time you arrive in Manuel Antonio.
Orientation covers everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Costa Rica – an introduction to Costa Rica, its customs, language training details, rules and expectations, safety, travel opportunities in Costa Rica, and an introduction to your project and placement. The orientation will also give you a chance to meet other volunteers and swap contact details for weekend travel and socializing.
Volunteer schedule example
First day
On your first day of volunteering, you will be escorted to your placement by a local coordinator and introduced to the placement staff you will be working with.
Weekdays
During the week, you will have a morning or afternoon shift, which will last around 3 to 4 hours. Your volunteer work and hours are dependent on the location and type of project you are participating in. A typical morning schedule is as follows:
| 7:30 - 8:00 AM | Breakfast with your host family. |
| 9:00 AM | Leave home and travel to your placement. You will join the local staff and will receive a duty roster and plan for work. |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch at a local restaurant. |
| 1:00 - 5:00 PM | Work at the placement usually ends. You are free to travel back to your accommodation, go sightseeing or take Spanish lessons. |
| 7:00 PM | Dinner with the host family. |
Weekends
With your weekends free you can strap your boots on and explore the phenomenal natural environment of Manuel Antonio, or choose to put your feet up and relax on the amazingly beautiful tree-lined beaches.
You’ll have the unique opportunity to get well acquainted with the Manuel Antonio National Park where you’ll be able to see a huge array of exotic animals and wildlife including monkeys, sloths, anteaters, ocelots, crocodiles, iguanas, snakes and lizards. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching with the chance to see more than 350 bird species. Outside of the park there’s a wealth of other adventure activities including whitewater rafting, ziplining, snorkeling, hiking, fishing and surfing.
It’s worth noting that Sunday is a religious day of rest and many stores and restaurants will be closed. Costa Ricans tend to devote Sundays to spending time with their family. If you wish, you can accompany your host family to their local church, as a Latin American church service is a unique and special experience for many volunteers.
On long weekends you may choose to travel around the rest of Costa Rica and the many cities, volcanoes, jungles, coffee plantations and beaches which are more than worth a visit.
Accommodation and WiFi
Volunteers who are between the ages of 18 - 27 are accommodated in a larger dorm-style volunteer house that can fit up to 15 volunteers, and is hosted by a local family. Volunteers who are over the age of 27 are accommodated in smaller homestays that can host 2 - 6 volunteers at a time, alongside a local host family.
In all accommodations, living conditions are comfortable and you will have electricity, running water (drinkable) and western bathrooms. Please note, low-pressure showers can be expected and the water is not always heated. Bedrooms are comprised of single beds and bunk beds with bedding provided. Volunteers can expect to share a room with 2 - 6 other volunteers. You will need to bring your own towel and toiletries.
Please note, volunteers under the age of 18 who are traveling solo will be accommodated separately from those over the age of 18, in a homestay. If there are other volunteers under the age of 18 participating at the same time, the local team will do their best to ensure they are accommodated together.
Private room upgrades (double bed, shared washroom) are available in homestays for a cost of $62 per person, per week.
WiFi is available at the accommodation, and you will also have access to computers and WiFi at the local team’s office.
Meals
Volunteers are provided with breakfast and dinner at their accommodation. Breakfast is usually toast, fruit and eggs accompanied by tea or coffee. Dinner usually includes: meat - typically chicken, starches and vegetables. At almost every meal you’ll be offered Gallo Pinto, the national dish of Costa Rica, which is primarily made of fried rice and beans.
Lunches are not provided to Manuel Antonio-based volunteers, as they are typically away from their accommodation at midday. It is recommended you budget between $5 and $10 per day to buy lunch.
If you have specific dietary requirements, our local teams and homestays can cater to you, however keep in mind that as a volunteer, there is a need to be flexible.
Volunteer accommodation pool
Volunteer accommodation living room
Typical IVHQ volunteer bedroom
Typical IVHQ volunteer bedroom
Typical IVHQ volunteer bedroom
IVHQ volunteers dining
Typical volunteer breakfast
Typical volunteer breakfast
Typical volunteer breakfast
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Pricing
Duration |
Program FeeDue 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
|
|---|---|
| 3 weeks | $1,507 Equivalent to $72/day |
| 4 weeks | $1,875 Equivalent to $67/day |
| 5 weeks | $2,185 Equivalent to $62/day |
| 6 weeks | $2,495 Equivalent to $59/day |
| 8 weeks | $3,115 Equivalent to $56/day |
| 10 weeks | $3,730 Equivalent to $53/day |
| 12 weeks | $4,350 Equivalent to $52/day |
| 16 weeks | $5,590 Equivalent to $50/day |
| 20 weeks | $6,830 Equivalent to $49/day |
| 24 weeks | $8,070 Equivalent to $48/day |
- Accommodation
- Breakfast and dinner
- 24/7 in-country support
- In-country program orientation
- Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
- Airport pick-up
- Personalized preparation tools, guides and check lists
- Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
- Discounts on language lessons
- Discounts on travel and tour add-ons
- Certificate of International Volunteer Service
Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.
- All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$329 (approximately $329) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
- A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
- Additional things to budget for include: Visa, flights, travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check, public transportation to and from your placement each day and return to the airport when your program finishes.
- Recommended spending money: Volunteers in Costa Rica generally find US$150 - US$200 per week to be sufficient for expenses. For Turtle Conservation and Eco-Agriculture projects, volunteers can bring less spending money as the location is remote and all meals will be provided.
Free-time experiences & tours in Costa Rica
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with IVHQ's affordable activity and tour add-ons in Costa Rica! Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Costa Rica program.
Beach and Jungle Mini Adventure - Manuel Antonio
Immerse yourself in Manuel Antonio’s stunning natural beauty and thrilling activities on this 6-day adventure
$920
Coffee & Nature Experience - San Jose
Embark on a full-day adventure exploring La Paz Waterfall Gardens, an animal sanctuary, and a Poas Volcano Tour, followrd by a Coffee Farm experience.
$220
Mini Adventure - San Jose
Experience a comprehensive 6-day Mini Adventure, featuring Arenal Volcano, the Britt Coffee Tour, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, whitewater rafting, and a visit to the pristine Tortuga Island.
$1255
Beach and Jungle Mini Adventure - Manuel Antonio
Immerse yourself in Manuel Antonio’s stunning natural beauty and thrilling activities on this 6-day adventure
$920
Coffee & Nature Experience - San Jose
Embark on a full-day adventure exploring La Paz Waterfall Gardens, an animal sanctuary, and a Poas Volcano Tour, followrd by a Coffee Farm experience.
$220
Mini Adventure - San Jose
Experience a comprehensive 6-day Mini Adventure, featuring Arenal Volcano, the Britt Coffee Tour, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, whitewater rafting, and a visit to the pristine Tortuga Island.
$1255
Spanish language lessons
Fluency in Spanish is not a prerequisite for the IVHQ Costa Rica program, however, learning basic conversational Spanish will help you maximize the benefit of your program. The language lessons are tailored to each volunteer’s current level of Spanish and classes run from Monday through to Friday. The cost is very affordable and offered exclusively to IVHQ volunteers.
Manuel Antonio Language Lessons:
- 2-hour Small Group Classes: from $200 (approximately $200) per week
- 1-hour Private Classes: from $225 (approximately $225) per week
- 2-hour Private Classes: from $440 (approximately $440) per week
Check what's required to visit Costa Rica
Safety and support
IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.
- All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
- All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
- All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
- All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
Essential country information
| Capital | San Jose |
| Population | 5 million |
| Languages | Spanish |
| Currency | Costa Rican Colón (CRC) |
| Time zone | UTC−06:00 |
Weather and climate: Costa Rica is unequivocally a tropical country. Although you get much cooler temperatures in the mountains above 2000 meters, the average annual temperature for most of the country lies between 71°F (21.7°C) and 81°F (27°C). The coolest months are from November through to January, and the warmest months are from March through to May. San Jose stands at approximately 1170 meters altitude and has a mean annual temperature of 69°F (20.6°C).
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