Learn as much about your program as you can. As a second time IVHQ volunteer, I would say do your research. I cannot compare my 2023 Jamaica trip to my 2024 Costa Rica trip, as they couldn't have been more different. Despite the differences, both trips hold very fond memories and unique experiences and challenges. I feel extremely grateful to have participated in both programs, and plan to continue to travel the world for one week each year through IVHQ.
Animal Care Volunteer Project in Costa Rica - San Jose
Purpose
Care for & rehome abandoned animals
Start dates
Programs start every Monday
Duration
Choose from 1-24 weeks
Volunteer hours
Up to 5 hours a day
Age
Volunteers aged 16+ and families
Accommodation
Local homestay
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.
This program is ideal for:
Volunteers who are patient, physically active and love caring for and playing with animals. No experience is needed as you’ll be working closely with project staff.
Project details
Want to make some four-legged friends as an Animal Care volunteer in Costa Rica - San José? International Volunteer HQ’s Animal Care project sets volunteers up to assist at animal welfare organisations and vet clinics that aim to rehabilitate, care, and re-home abandoned or stray animals. Volunteers gain experience caring for animals while helping to provide them with medical treatment, companionship, and playtime so they are ready to find their forever homes.
What to expect and how you'll make an impact
Domestic animals that are abandoned by their owners often become stray and cause problems for local communities in Costa Rica. Vet clinics and animal welfare organizations take these animals in and nurse them to full health before finding them new, loving homes.
As an Animal Care volunteer, you’ll assist local organisations to improve the health and well-being of dogs, cats, and other domestic animals in need.
Duties at welfare organisations caring for dogs and cats can usually include:
- Bathing and grooming animals
- Helping with training
- Feeding animals
- Cleaning cages and kennels
- Exercising, walking, and playing with animals
- Talking to visitors
- Assisting with neutering and spaying
- Assist with the care of wounds and injuries
- Building dog runs and fences
- Creating community education campaigns
- Assist with fundraising initiatives
In addition to cleaning and interacting with dogs and cats, volunteers at vet clinics might also be:
- Shadowing vets during consultations and assisting to hold patients still
- Assisting vets to take temperature and assessing pain in patients
- Documenting whether the patients have eaten their food or drunk any water
Why do Animal Care volunteering in San Jose with IVHQ?
When you volunteer with animals in San José you’ll be adding value to the local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:
- Helping care for and rehome abandoned animals
- Practicing your Spanish
- Developing your communication skills
- Gaining experience caring for animals
- Immersing yourself fully in the Costa Rican culture
- Exploring San José, Costa Rica’s thriving capital
Volunteer requirements
- Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to participate in this program
- Volunteers aged 16 or 17 on their program start date are required to provide IVHQ with parental consent in order to participate on the program, and may be asked to provide additional document to the local team.
- All volunteers aged 18+ are required to provide a criminal background check to IVHQ prior to departure. Those aged 16 and 17 will need to provide 2 character reference letters to participate.
- All volunteers are required to have adequate volunteer travel insurance
- All volunteers must speak fluent English.
Are you eligible to volunteer?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Not sure which program to join?
Get personalized recommendations >
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.
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IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Dentistry project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Construction and Renovation project
IVHQ Holiday Experience project
IVHQ Construction and Renovation project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Dentistry project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Holiday Experience project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Holiday Experience project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Construction and Renovation project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Holiday Experience project
IVHQ Holiday Experience project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Medical project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Dentistry project
IVHQ Construction and Renovation project
IVHQ Holiday Experience project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teaching project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Holiday Experience project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Dentistry project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Dentistry project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Dentistry project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Turtle Conservation project
IVHQ Teen Summer Camp project
IVHQ Holiday Experience 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
KH
Karin Hiltbrand
10 Sep 2024
...
SW
Sanya Weerasuriya
14 Aug 2024
I feel I was able to gain lots of independence and insight throughout this program. Im glad I was not only learning how to take care of myself in other environments but I was also able to immerse in local culture and gain a perspective on how other people in the world live their lives.
...
LR
Lucy Row
24 Jul 2024
I've now done two IVHQ programs (Morroco and Costa Rica) and I reccomend it to everyone. I still talk to my Morrocan host family from over a year ago, I had such an amazing experience with both countries and its a fantastic, affordable way to both see the world, and make a differene in it.
...
CD
Christine DeBerry
13 Jun 2024
Volunteering at the therapy horse ranch was so fulfilling. I hope their experience with me was as positive as mine. The therapy horse ranch was not only good therapy for me but for the special needs children that are able to participate in this program. The director is absolutely amazing, along with her husband and the workers on the ranch. I learned so much from these loving people. Not only I gained confidence, strength and learned about different cultures and ways of living, but l also made new life-long friends.
...
LB
Lorenzo Balini
14 Sep 2023
For me, it was my first volunteering experience and I am satisfied with the program choice made. What I found was an environment where you have to work hard, even with menial jobs, which perfectly reflected the idea I had of what I was going to do. I love animals and for the first time, I found the satisfaction of helping animals in shelters, the type of help that goes far beyond simple caresses and cuddles.
...
AS
Amy Steger
31 Aug 2021
IVHQ was one of the best experiences I’ve had. It’s unique and it’s so rewarding. Immerse yourself in the culture, the people and the language. Make the most of it and whatever period of time you opt to stay for! My only regret is not allowing myself more time to stay longer.
...
To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Academic course credit
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 creditLocation
Location
San José is Costa Rica’s modern, metropolitan, cultural hub. The capital city has been hailed as one of the most visited destinations in Central America and is the central point for tourists arriving in Costa Rica. It’s got excellent eateries, an interesting variety of museums, markets, shops, parks and nightlife and is only a short trip to any of the numerous natural attractions and adventures in the region.
Arrival and orientation
After you have registered for the program, please book your flights to arrive at Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San José on the Sunday before your start date.
When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and taken to the volunteer accommodation in San José. 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 travelling in Costa Rica prior to your program, the local team will pick you up at your San José accommodation the day before your orientation.
Your check out is at 11am on the last Saturday of your program.
The compulsory program orientation is hosted by our Costa Rica team at their offices in San José on Sunday or Monday.
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 socialising.
Volunteer schedule example
First day
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 5 hours. Your volunteer work and hours are dependent on the location and type of project you are participating in but a typical morning schedule is as follows:
| 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 - 6:00 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
Whether you want to explore or relax on your weekends in San José , there’s plenty of opportunity to do both. Stroll down the bustling Central Avenue in downtown San José and take in a museum, listen to street performers or do some shopping. Then check out the stunning architecture of the National Theater of Costa Rica, taste-test the city’s fabulous coffee or sample a brew from San José ’s blossoming craft-beer industry.
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. Many of these are only a short trip from San José .
Most IVHQ volunteers choose to take advantage of our Costa Rica - Travel and tour add-ons in their free time. Please note that volunteers on more remote projects such as Turtle Conservation and Eco-Agriculture Conservation will only be able to join these activities before or after their program.
Accommodation and WiFi
In San Jose volunteers are accommodated in homestays with local families - it’s an immersive experience that connects you with an authentic insight into the Costa Rican way of life. You will find living conditions are comfortable and you can expect your accomodation to have electricity, drinkable running water and western bathrooms. Low pressure showers are common and the water is not always heated. Bedrooms have single and bunk beds with bedding provided. You can expect to share a room with up to six other volunteers of the same gender in most homestays.
Single occupancy private rooms are available upon request for an additional cost, offering you the ultimate comfort and privacy during your stay.
If you are traveling as a family, the local team will place you in a separate homestay to ensure all family members are accommodated together.
Please note, volunteers under the age of 18 who are traveling solo will be accommodated separately from those over the age of 18. 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.
WiFi is available at the homestays, and you will also have access to computers and WiFi at the local team’s office in San José.
Meals
Volunteers are provided with breakfast and dinner at their accommodation. Breakfast typically consists of toast, fruit, eggs, rice and beans accompanied with tea or coffee. Dinner usually includes: meat (typically chicken), starches and vegetables. Costa Rica’s national dish, Gallo Pinto, is made of rice and beans and served with nearly every meal. Lunches are not provided to San José -based volunteers, as they are typically away from their accommodation at midday. Budget between AU$8 and AU$16 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.
Typical volunteer meals
Typical volunteer meals
Typical volunteer meals
Typical volunteer meals
Typical volunteer breakfast
Typical volunteer breakfast
Typical volunteer breakfast
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Volunteer accommodation dining room
Accommodation homestay kitchen
Volunteer accommodation living room
Accommodation homestay living room
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Accommodation homestay bedroom
Accommodation homestay bedroom
Accommodation homestay bedroom
Accommodation homestay bathroom
Accommodation homestay shower
Volunteer accommodation
Accommodation homestay
Pricing
Secure your place for just US$299 (approximately AU$503), pay your Program Fee later.
Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$299 (approximately AU$503) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.
You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.
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.
|
|---|---|
| 1 week | $555 Equivalent to $79/day |
| 2 weeks | $855 Equivalent to $61/day |
| 3 weeks | $1,165 Equivalent to $55/day |
| 4 weeks | $1,430 Equivalent to $51/day |
| 5 weeks | $1,645 Equivalent to $47/day |
| 6 weeks | $1,860 Equivalent to $44/day |
| 8 weeks | $2,290 Equivalent to $41/day |
| 10 weeks | $2,720 Equivalent to $39/day |
| 12 weeks | $3,150 Equivalent to $38/day |
| 16 weeks | $4,010 Equivalent to $36/day |
| 20 weeks | $4,870 Equivalent to $35/day |
| 24 weeks | $5,730 Equivalent to $34/day |
- All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$299 (approximately AU$503) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
- A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
- Recommended spending money: Volunteers in Costa Rica generally find US$150 - US$200 per week to be sufficient for expenses. Please note this budget is for general expenses and does not include money you will need for any weekend activities you plan to do.
- Breakfast and dinner
- Airport pick-up
- Accommodation
- 24/7 in-country support
- In-country program orientation
- Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
- Personalised 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.
- Lunch
- Transport to and from your placement each day
- Return to the airport when your program finishes
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
- Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.
Popular add-ons & experiences in San Jose
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ San Jose 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
AU$1552
Coffee & Nature Experience - San Jose
Embark on a full-day adventure exploring La Paz Waterfall Gardens, an animal sanctuary, and a Poas Volcano Tour, followed by a Coffee Farm experience.
AU$373
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.
AU$2116
Spanish language lessons
No need to be fluent in Spanish to join the IVHQ Costa Rica program—but imagine how much more you can get out of your experience by learning some basic Spanish! Our tailored language lessons are designed to meet you at your current level and help you feel more confident in everyday conversations. Classes run Monday to Friday, and the best part? They’re super affordable and available exclusively for IVHQ volunteers. Dive deeper into the culture and make your experience truly unforgettable!
Online lessons:
- 1-hour Private Classes: US$75 (approximately AU$126) per week
San Jose Language Lessons:
- 2-hour Small Group Classes: US$158 (approximately AU$265) per week
- 1-hour Private Classes: US$207 (approximately AU$348) per week
- 2-hour Private Classes: US$402 (approximately AU$676) per week
Check what's required to visit Costa Rica
Safety and support
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
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, 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).
Apply to check if you're eligible!
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