• Life Below Water

Marine Life Protector Sea Turtles

location
2 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
rating  Perfect 4.6  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Very high response rate

Highlights

  • Be a guardian for endangered marine species and share moments with captivating aquatic creatures.
  • Showcase your social commitment and be a force for good on a global scale, leaving a legacy of positive change.
  • Explore Costa Rica's natural wonderland, renowned for its rich biodiversity and pristine beaches, where each day is a postcard-worthy adventure.
  • Elevate your CV with international volunteer experience, demonstrating your dedication to meaningful causes.
  • Immerse yourself in a new culture, opening your heart and mind to fresh perspectives, creating lasting memories and global connections.

Especially good for

Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Groups
50+

About the program

Spotting and observing sea turtles in their natural habitat is an experience that really gets under your skin. Help to protect endangered marine life in Costa Rica. 🐢

Encountering sea turtles in their natural habitat is an experience that really will thrill you. It is indescribably impressive to see these huge creatures in real life and to contribute to their protection.

The Placement
With this volunteer project you will help protect sea turtles on the picturesque ...

About the program

Encountering sea turtles in their natural habitat is an experience that really will thrill you. It is indescribably impressive to see these huge creatures in real life and to contribute to their protection.

The Placement
With this volunteer project you will help protect sea turtles on the picturesque Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. The project was founded in 1984 and serves to protect the sensitive ecosystem on land and in the sea, in particular the habitat and breeding grounds of sea turtles. The project site includes an area of over 500 hectares made up of a marine and land reserve. The dreamlike landscape is characterized by mountains, small bays, beautiful beaches, mangrove forests and countless small islands. Local communities support and benefit from this project through sustainability work such as ecotourism, environmental education, beach cleaning and similar efforts. The reserve is located on the coast where the so-called "arribada" takes place. This is a natural phenomenon and describes the natural synchronized mass nesting of the olive ridged turtle. In the main season, an average of 200,000 turtles come to the beaches, making the region the second largest sea turtle breeding site in the world. In addition to the olive ridged turtle, there are two other species of turtles that nest in this region. The leatherback turtle and the green sea turtle are also among the 7 turtle species worldwide that can be found on this part of the coast of Costa Rica. In this Sea Turtle protection project you will learn a lot about the habitat and threats of these wonderful animals. 

Location
The turtle protection project is located on the Nicoya Peninsula, in the Guanacaste Province in the north-west of the country. The capital San José is about 5 hours away by car. The beautiful seaside resort of Nosara is close by. Especially in the last 10 years, Nosara has turned out to be a very popular holiday destination for tourists from Costa Rica and abroad. Samara is the next larger town and is about 45 minutes away by car/taxi. Samara is a laid-back sunny town with beautiful beaches as far as the eye can see and a variety of outdoor sports, mainly water sports. The Sea Turtle Project and its surroundings offer the ideal place to relax and enjoy. Species-rich flora and fauna, impressive coral reefs near the coast, evergreen landscape in the hinterland, great national parks and a wide range of outdoor sports await you here.

Typical day

After arriving at the nature reserve, all new volunteers will have a welcome talk and project introduction. You will learn important things about the project and the sea turtles, their habitat and dangers.

Volunteers have different tasks
  • On one side, there are the exciting night patrols on the beaches ...

Typical day

After arriving at the nature reserve, all new volunteers will have a welcome talk and project introduction. You will learn important things about the project and the sea turtles, their habitat and dangers.

Volunteers have different tasks
  • On one side, there are the exciting night patrols on the beaches to observe rare species of turtles and to monitor their habits and behavior. These inspection rounds are always carried out in teamwork with other volunteers and/or with local project staff. Although in this area sea turtles come to the beach to lay their eggs all year round, the high season is from August to January (olive ridged turtle, leatherback turtle).
  • On the other side there is the project's research program that is extremely important for long lasting sea turtle preservation. Volunteers and local staff collect data on the population and the success of breeding. In order to protect the eggs of the sea turtles from natural and human predators and illegal theft (turtle eggs are traded as delicacies) and to ensure the growth of the animal population in the Pacific, some of the turtle eggs are collected by the volunteers and kept in incubators until the baby turtles hatch after about 45-60 days. After successful breeding, the hatchlings are then released into their natural habitat again.
  • Beaches have to be kept clean. So, during the day volunteers are also instructed to help with beach cleaning and collecting garbage. It is very important that the breeding grounds of the sea turtles are free of garbage. Great importance is attached to the recycling of the various materials such as plastic, glass and aluminum.

We would like to point out that mother nature is unpredictable and we cannot give any guarantee about the number of sea turtles for a certain period of participation. This is also why it is not possible to divide a typical work day into predetermined working hours. If volunteers go on patrols after dark, work shifts are much shorter during the day. On the other side, if volunteers do not have beach patrols in the evening/at night, working hours will be during the day. Volunteers do not work longer than 35 to 40 hours / week.

Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as the number of volunteers, time of year, weather, current needs of the project and self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.

Free-time activities

The project is located at the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica surrounded by dream beaches and a rich vegetation. Things to do include:

  • For surf enthusiasts, the Pacific Ocean beckons with its world-class waves. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or just learning the ropes, nearby beaches like Playa Guiones ...

Free-time activities

The project is located at the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica surrounded by dream beaches and a rich vegetation. Things to do include:

  • For surf enthusiasts, the Pacific Ocean beckons with its world-class waves. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or just learning the ropes, nearby beaches like Playa Guiones and Playa Nosara offer the perfect setting to catch some breaks. 
  • With miles of untouched coastline, Ostional Beach is a haven of tranquility. Sink your toes into the soft, golden sands, bask under the warm sun, and let the rhythmic sound of the waves soothe your soul. These uncrowded shores are where you can truly unwind. Beautiful seaside resorts like Samara and Nosara are close by with dream beaches as far as your eye can see.
  • Adventure seekers, gear up for thrilling mountain biking expeditions. Explore the rugged Costa Rican terrain as you pedal through scenic trails, taking in the breathtaking landscapes that make this region so special. 
  • As the day winds down, don't miss the mesmerizing sunsets on the beach. The sky transforms into a canvas of colors, casting a spell of serenity over the coastline. It's the perfect backdrop for evening strolls and creating picture-perfect moments. 
  • Nature enthusiasts can embark on birdwatching excursions, exploring the lush tropical surroundings. Keep an eye out for vibrant avian species as they flit among the vibrant foliage. 
  • Lace up your hiking boots and venture into nearby trails. These paths lead you to hidden waterfalls, cascading down through emerald canopies, and open up to secluded, natural beauty waiting to be discovered. 
  • Satisfy your palate with the flavors of Costa Rica. Try fresh seafood, indulge in traditional Costa Rican dishes, and dine at charming local restaurants and beachfront eateries. The cuisine is a delightful blend of cultural influences, reflecting the nation's rich heritage.

Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 18 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

Language Skills

You need to speak English (basic level) or Spanish (basic level)

Required Documents

CV and volunteer questionnaire

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

What's Included

What's Included

Services by South America Inside

  • Shared room in Volunteer House
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner
  • Airport pick-up in San José with 2 overnight stays in San José (single room, breakfast & dinner)
  • Transfer from San José accommodation to bus terminal for journey to project site *
  • Advice from our experienced staff
  • On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
  • Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
  • Your placement in the volunteer project
  • Pre-departure information
  • Packing list
  • Country handbook
  • Intercultural guide
  • Welcome meeting in San José
  • On-site volunteer coordinator
  • 24/7 emergency number
  • Advice on travel insurance
  • Certificate of participation

*the costs for the bus ticket to the project site are not included.

Airport Pickup at Juan Santamaria International Airport

Airport pick-up in San José with 2 overnight stays in San José, incl. homestay single room, breakfast, dinner. The day after the orientation session, you will be brought from you San José accommodation to the bus terminal for the onward journey to the project site. The costs for the bus ticket to the project site are not included.

Please keep in mind that the check-in for new volunteers at the Sea Turtle Center is always on Mondays. This having said, when you arrive earlier than a Saturday, you will be staying more days in San José instead of the Sea Turtle project.

Accommodation

Volunteers live in the volunteer house on site on the grounds of the natural reserve at the Pacific beach, surrounded by evergreen nature. 
  • The Volunteer house has dormitory style rooms, a kitchen and shared bathrooms. 
  •  The volunteer house is simple but cozy according to local standards
  • The spacious terrace is a popular meeting point and serves as a communal area. The volunteer house is simple but cozy according to local standards.
  • Internet connection is available, but might not be stable all the time. 
In order to promote intercultural exchange with the local community there are also single rooms available with host families in the vicinity if the volunteer house. 
  • This type of accommodation is used in case the volunteer house would be fully booked. 
  • The families are only a few minutes' walk away. 
  • You will have your meals at the family's house or at the volunteer house.

Food & Beverages

The program includes full board with breakfast, lunch and dinner, prepared by the local kitchen staff. Water and fruits are also available during they day. There is also a refrigerator that volunteers can use to store personal groceries.

Internet Access

Good access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose. We assist you to find cheap flights to Costa Rica. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Costa Rica provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in Costa Rica you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Costa Rica. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

The project is up and running all year round. Your arrival to San José is ideally on a Saturday, as the onward journey to the volunteer project takes place on a Monday. Depending on the day of arrival in Costa Rica, the program includes 2 or more overnight stays in San José (single room in a homestay with breakfast and dinner).

In addition to the assistance given by our office staff you will be supported by our local team in Costa Rica located in San José, as well as the volunteer coordinator on-site. Before you leave for the project site, you will take part in an orientation talk with our local team in San José. 

Please note that the local travel costs from San José to the project site on the Pacific coast are not included in the program costs.



Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

2 weeks (min. stay) 1,108€
3 weeks 1,397€
4 weeks 1,685€
5 weeks 1,973€
6 weeks 2,262€
7 weeks 2,550€
8 weeks 2,838€
9 weeks 3,127€
10 weeks 3,415€
11 weeks 3,703€
12 weeks (max. stay) 3,991€
Average fees 443€/week

Program fees

443€ per week 2 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES

Duration

2 - 12 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.

Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with South America Inside during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.

Meet your organization

South America Inside

Perfect 4.6 rating (128 reviews)

Agency - founded in 2003

Verified by Volunteer World

  Very high response rate

Coordinated by

Marion

Spoken languages: German, English, Spanish

About the project

South America Inside promotes intercultural, linguistic and educational exchanges. Its volunteer programs are addressed to students, professionals and retirees.

Meet your organization

South America Inside is an intercultural management agency, founded back in 2003, which specializes in the promotion of programs abroad, language travel and educational programs throughout Latin America.

Since 2007, to enrich the experience of our global-minded clients and to provide them with even more possibilities, South America Inside has been expanding their program offerings throughout South and Central America.

Working together with some of the best language schools in Latin America, South America Inside provides high quality language courses in almost every Latin American country.

Thanks to a professional team of motivated and friendly staff, South America Inside has been very successful over the past several years and have been able to establish an outstanding network of what we call "Insider Contacts." To enrich the experience of their clients and to provide them with more possibilities, South America Inside has been expanding our program offerings throughout Central and South America, in addition to our well-established Chilean programs.

Volunteer Work

Do you dream of staying abroad while doing something positive? Are you looking for a unique experience that will leave a mark on your life? Then a Volunteer Work program in South America or Central America is perfect for you!

With South America Inside you can combine an adventure abroad with social commitment, and create lasting memories in Latin America. Support the protection of endangered species; help a local community construct new homes; give new hope to impoverished children.

The possibilities to lend a hand are diverse, as there are the many places where help is needed. We have classified our volunteer projects in different areas so you can easily find the one (or more!) projects that best match your needs and interests.

Why with us

There are many persuasive reasons that speak in favor of South America Inside when it comes to selecting your perfect provider of language, study and volunteer travel abroad. Following, we have prepared a short summary so that you can get us to know a little better.

Our Insider benefits at a glance:

•  Regional Experience
Over one decade (established in 2003) of dedication to language, work and study travel programs in Latin America. Thanks to our long standing work and life experience in the South American continent, we know this region really well. Therefore, we can help and inform you in a professional and competent way.

•  Multifaceted Offers
Over time we have developed new programs to offer a wide array of work abroad opportunities to our clients. We have been pioneers in launching new exchange programs, as we have been the first in offering Work & Travel/Working Holiday and Farm Stays in Chile and successfully introduced these programs into the market back in 2005. Since 2012, we are the only agency to offer this type of program in Costa Rica.

•  Insider Advice
Despite living in the modern era of the internet, we know that reliable and competent advice is still an important criterion for most of us. At South America Inside, you will find the benefits of an internet provider and an independent travel agency. We will be glad to pass on our extensive knowledge and regional experience.!

•  Location
It is difficult to run programs when there is nobody “on the ground” to evaluate existing options and search for new opportunities. So, we are located in Chile, on location, and we know everything that is going on first hand. We know what it is like to live as a foreigner in South America and will be happy to assist you in making your stay unforgettable!

•  Independence
South America Inside is an independent provider of language courses, internships, volunteer work, Farm Stays and Work & Travel programs in Latin America. We neither depend financially nor structurally on any other company, language school, association or organization. Therefore, we are able to give personalized information in accordance to your needs and availability.

•  Multilingual Team

Our team is multilingual and international! We speak fluent English, Spanish and German, as well as some French and Portuguese. With our customers, we can communicate in their native language and we avoid misunderstandings with local partners by communicating in Spanish with them. You can be sure that there will be an English-speaking contact person for you before, during, and after your stay.

•  Customer Service
Excellent customer service is one of the most important goals for South America Inside, and this is evident with the positive feedback we regularly receive from our many happy clients. Emails are answered within 48 business hours and every client is treated with the same friendliness and expertise.

•  Gapless and Accurate Information flow
With South America Inside you will have one and the same contact person before, during and after your trip. With that said, we guarantee a gapless and accurate information flow and you will always be very well informed.

•  Approved Program Places
Many of our program places, especially in the area of internships and volunteer work, are designed in the way that they will be recognized by most universities, colleges or academies.

128 reviews · rating4.6

Sarah M. rating4.8

2024 at Marine Life Protector Sea Turtles

Mir geht es gut und ich bin gut hier angekommen. Die Busfahrt war aber ehrlicherweise ziemlich anstrengend, besonders weil wir umsteigen mussten. Die Arbeit hier macht aber Spaß und ist sehr interessant. Die Leute sind hier auch alle sehr nett! Hier ist gerade Arribada und der Strand ist voller ...
Eric G. rating4.8

2024 at Marine Life Protector Sea Turtles

Hello, everything is fine here, me encanta mucho es un experiencia increible. I always wanted to do something like that. I enjoy knowing the staff here and aprender mucho de los Tortugas. I really enjoy working with Daniel he is very passionate about his work and love sharing his knowledge. I will ...
Anaïs Carles rating5

2023 at Marine Life Protector Sea Turtles

Nous avons passé 2 semaines incroyables à Montezuma au Costa Rica! L'association est Top, tout le voyage a été très bien organisé, les référents sur places sont géniaux! Le lieux est absolument magnifique, les tortues ont remplies mon cœur d'amour. Travailler au bord de l'océan et ...
My stay with the Sea Turtle project, I will rate this a very interesting one, not at least since a good portion of my stay was during the arribada of the Oliver ridley turtles. For me, a spectacular nature experience. Made even greater by the knowledge of how much more we get to see of it as ...
Svenja Damrath rating5

2023 at Marine Life Protector Sea Turtles

alles hat reibungslos funktioniert! Ich bin ganz glücklich hier zu sein und habe gestern Abend sogar schon meine erste Schildkröte gesehen :-) Es ist alles besser als ich es mir vorgestellt habe. Ganz liebe Grüße Svenja *** english *** everything has worked smoothly! I am quite happy to ...

Location

Americas > Central America > Costa Rica > Ostional

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Volunteer Abroad  >  Animals  >  Marine Life in Costa Rica
Contact Marion
  Very high response rate
German, English, Spanish

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