VOLUNTEERING ON THE OSA PENINSULA
WE PROTECT THE THINGS WE LOVE
THE EXPERIENCE
FOR THE LOVE OF MOTHER NATURE
Discover “The Experience for the Love of Mother Nature” on the Osa Peninsula through impactful volunteering programs.
Adding a whole new layer to your nature-centric getaway, these volunteer opportunities offer diverse locations, focuses, and structures for a truly enriching experience.
Understanding the unique offerings of each volunteer program is essential. Ask yourself, “What can I bring to the project?” as you delve below the surface of ecotourism and embrace the rewarding opportunity to give back to the natural environment.
Driest Month – March
Wettest Month – October
JUST THE FACTS
Volunteering Osa Peninsula
The story of volunteering on the Osa Peninsula had its roots in the late 19th century when naturalists like Henry Pittier ventured into this untamed paradise. Joined by Adolfo Tonduz, they collected botanical specimens, hinting at the untapped potential for scientific exploration on the peninsula.
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Fast forward to the 1960s, Leslie Holdridge and Joseph Tosi established the Rincón de Osa field station, setting the stage for groundbreaking research by the Organization for Tropical Studies (OTS). Over a decade, more than a thousand scientists flocked to the research outpost, conducting studies on environmental land use and promoting conservation efforts.
Their collective efforts paved the way for a monumental shift on the Osa Peninsula, culminating in the creation of Corcovado National Park in 1976. The incredible journey of two Costa Rican naturalists, Alvaro Ugalde and Mario Boza, who spearheaded the national environmental movement with limited resources, became a source of inspiration for many. The influence of the Tropical Science Center and its Osa Peninsula field station left a profound mark on their vision for conservation.
With over two-thirds of the Osa Peninsula now protected by Corcovado National Park and various private reserves, the people of Costa Rica tirelessly strive to preserve the natural energy that flows through this enchanting region. Volunteering on the Osa Peninsula continues to be an extraordinary experience, offering individuals the chance to be close to nature and contribute to the legacy of protecting this precious ecological wonderland. Conservation efforts, wildlife preservation, marine conservation, and environmental care remain at the heart of this remarkable journey that intertwines humans and nature in a harmonious dance.
Conservation · Wildlife Conservation · Marine Conservation · Environmental Conservation
VOLUNTERRING ON THE OSA PENINSULA
Volunteering is a noble pursuit, but it must adhere to best practice guidelines to ensure its integrity. It should never be exploitative or serve as a substitute for paid employment. Instead, volunteering should be seen as a means to offer substantial benefits to society while also fostering significant advantages for the volunteers themselves.
Acknowledging and nurturing the personal benefits of volunteering is crucial. Volunteers gain much more than just the satisfaction of contributing to a cause; they experience personal growth, develop new skills, and form meaningful connections with their community. By recognizing and supporting these individual rewards, volunteering can truly become a transformative and enriching experience for all involved.
COMUNIDAD PROTECTORA DE TORTUGAS (COPROT)
MISSION STATEMENT – COPROT (Conservation Project for Osa Peninsula):
At COPROT, our mission is rooted in community-driven conservation efforts to tackle the critical issues faced in the breathtaking Osa Peninsula. Our primary goal is to empower and support the local community by offering paid positions and comprehensive training.
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Through these opportunities, we aim to build a strong network of dedicated individuals who will play a vital role in safeguarding the nesting populations of sea turtles at the precious Carate beach. Together, we strive to create a sustainable future for both the environment and the people who call this region home.
FOCUS – Sea Turtle Conservation Program (nesting beach).
LOCATION – Rio Oro, Pacific side of the Osa Peninsula before Carate Beach.
RECOMMENDED FOR – Age 16 – 65, solo or groups.
OPEN – June to March.
MINIMUM STAY – 3 Days.
PRICE – $30 a day or $200 weekly.
TOURS GIVEN – Night Patrol with volunteers $40. Morning Patrol with volunteers $25
LATIN AMERICAN SEA TURTLES (LAST)
MISSION STATEMENT – LAST (Latin American Sea Turtle Initiative):
As a proud member of WIDECAST’s Latin American Program, LAST was established in 2007 with a powerful vision. We firmly believe that by fostering meaningful connections between people and nature, through hands-on experiences, education, and active involvement of local communities, we can create a positive impact on endangered sea turtles.
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Our mission is to be a driving force in reducing the pressing threats that these magnificent creatures encounter today. With unwavering dedication, we strive to safeguard their future and ensure the conservation of these precious marine beings for generations to come.
FOCUS – Sea Turtle Conservation Program (our work takes place on a boat, during the day time to study populations of two species in their feeding grounds).
LOCATION – Playa Blanca, La Palma.
RECOMMENDED FOR – Age 16 – 65, solo or groups.
OPEN – Year Round.
MINIMUM STAY – N/A.
PRICE – From $55 a day + 13% IVA.
TOURS GIVEN – Day tour with volunteers $35.
TORTUGAS PRECIOSAS
MISSION STATEMENT – Playa Preciosa Sea Turtle Conservation Program:
Nestled in the pristine Osa Peninsula, Playa Preciosa holds significant importance as a crucial nesting ground for three endangered sea turtle species with a global presence.
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Our unwavering commitment lies in safeguarding these remarkable creatures through a holistic approach that seamlessly integrates conservation, research, and education.
FOCUS – Sea turtle conservation program, nesting beach.
LOCATION – Playa Preciosa, 10 mins from Puerto Jimenez.
RECOMMENDED FOR – Age 18 – 65, solo or groups.
OPEN – June to March.
MINIMUM STAY – 1 week.
PRICE – $200 weekly (food not included but onsite cooking possible. Near town so options available).
TOURS GIVEN – Night Patrol with volunteers $20. Morning Patrol with volunteers $20. Hatchling Release $35.
OSA CONSERVATION
MISSION STATEMENT – Osa Conservation:
At Osa Conservation, our unwavering dedication lies in the preservation of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, a globally significant hub of biodiversity, boasting a remarkable 2.5% of all the world’s species.
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With a deep sense of responsibility, we strive to safeguard this precious ecosystem, ensuring the continued existence of diverse and unique life forms.
By employing cutting-edge research, innovative conservation practices, and community engagement, we work tirelessly to protect the natural wonders that call the Osa Peninsula home. Our mission is to create a sustainable future where both wildlife and human communities thrive harmoniously, ensuring that this breathtaking region remains a haven of biodiversity and a beacon of hope for our planet’s ecological heritage.
FOCUS – Sea turtle conservation program, nesting beach. Plus restoration and biodiversity monitoring, organic farming, and general station maintenance.
LOCATION – Piro, on the road from Matapalo to Carate.
RECOMMENDED FOR – Age 18 – 65, solo or groups.
OPEN – Year Round.
MINIMUM STAY – 6 weeks.
PRICE – $2,500 for the 6-week experience.
OSA INTERACTIVE GARDENS
MISSION STATEMENT – Osa Interactive Gardens:
At Osa Interactive Gardens, we pride ourselves on being a modern and immersive nature center nestled within the enchanting rainforest.
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Our unique establishment showcases breathtaking botanical gardens and a captivating butterfly habitat, where visitors can experience the wonder of these delicate creatures up close.
With our innovative treehouse platforms, we aim to provide an unparalleled opportunity for individuals of all ages to connect with nature in a truly interactive and engaging way. Through education, exploration, and appreciation of the natural world, we strive to inspire a sense of awe and reverence for the beauty and importance of our delicate ecosystem.
Our mission is to create an enriching and unforgettable experience that fosters a deeper understanding of the environment and encourages a commitment to its conservation. At Osa Interactive Gardens, we are passionate about promoting ecological awareness, conservation ethics, and a profound love for the wonders of the rainforest.
FOCUS – Environmental education program, butterfly garden
LOCATION – Puerto Jimenez
RECOMMENDED FOR – Age 18 – 65, solo
OPEN – Year Round.
MINIMUM STAY – 2 weeks
FUNDACION SAIMIRI
MISSION STATEMENT – Nonprofit Organization on the Osa Peninsula:
Our mission is dedicated to the health and well-being of the Genus Saimiri, a group of primates commonly known as squirrel monkeys.
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Situated on the captivating Osa Peninsula, we are a nonprofit organization committed to the conservation and protection of these fascinating creatures.
Through scientific research, community engagement, and proactive conservation initiatives, we strive to ensure the sustainable existence of the Genus Saimiri and their thriving habitat. By fostering awareness and promoting responsible practices, we aim to create a harmonious coexistence between humans and these valuable members of our natural heritage.
At our core, we are driven by a deep appreciation for the diversity of life on the Osa Peninsula and a determination to safeguard the unique and precious wildlife that calls this region home. Together, we endeavor to preserve the rich biodiversity of the area and contribute to a sustainable future for both the Genus Saimiri and the local community.
FOCUS – Squirrel monkey (genus Saimiri) conservation program.
LOCATION – La Palma.
RECOMMENDED FOR – Age 18 – 65, solo.
OPEN – November to August.
MINIMUM STAY – 2 weeks.
PRICE – $30 a day.
BIOSUR FOUNDATION COSTA RICA
MISSION STATEMENT – BioSur: Preserving the Costa Rican Rainforest of Osa Peninsula.
At BioSur, we are a dedicated collective working tirelessly to safeguard the Costa Rican Rainforest of the Osa Peninsula.
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Our organization is driven by a deep sense of purpose to protect this ecologically significant region, and we are created by and for this noble cause.
Within our fold, we proudly house the Insectopia Biological Collection, a treasure trove of diverse insect specimens carefully curated to deepen our understanding of the rainforest’s intricate web of life. Additionally, we take great pride in our Río Nuevo Private Reserve, a sanctuary designed to provide a safe haven for the region’s unique flora and fauna.
Through our passionate conservation efforts, scientific research, and community engagement, we strive to create a sustainable future where the Osa Peninsula’s rich biodiversity thrives harmoniously. By fostering a profound connection between people and nature, we aim to instill a shared responsibility in preserving this natural wonder for generations to come. At BioSur, our mission is to stand as guardians of the rainforest, ensuring its protection and prosperity for the benefit of all life it sustains.
FOCUS – Rainforest Nature Reserve & Research Center.
LOCATION – Juanita Mora.
RECOMMENDED FOR – Age 18 – 65, solo or groups.
OPEN – Year Round.
MINIMUM STAY – Open.
PRICE – $20 a day.
TOURS GIVEN – Various tours, check website.
RANCHO QUEMADO
MISSION STATEMENT – Community-Based Project for Inclusive Nature Restoration:
Our mission is a direct outcome of the ongoing growth in rural tourism and the valuable connections fostered by the biological monitoring committee.
LEARN MORE ABOUT RANCHO QUEMADO
We are a dedicated group working towards a community-based project that revolves around the restoration of flora species, while also prioritizing the inclusion and empowerment of individuals with disabilities.
Through collaboration with enthusiastic outside volunteers, our committee is committed to reaching out to this disadvantaged group of visitors. We are steadfast in constructing a nature trail that goes beyond mere sightseeing, as we strive to educate and engage the senses of touch, sound, smell, and sight. By creating an immersive and accessible experience, we aim to foster a profound connection between people and nature.
At the heart of our project lies the belief in the transformative power of nature and the immense benefits it brings to individuals from all walks of life. Through this endeavor, we seek to not only restore and conserve the precious flora species but also to build an inclusive and empathetic community that embraces diversity and respects the environment. Together, we are paving the way for a future where nature’s wonders are accessible to all, ensuring that no one is left behind in our journey of ecological restoration and education.
FOCUS – Rural Tourism.
LOCATION – Rancho Quemado.
RECOMMENDED FOR – Age 18 – 65, solo or groups.
OPEN – Year Round.
MINIMUM STAY – Open.
PRICE – Homestay $30 a day, Private Room $40 a day.
TOURS GIVEN – Various tours, check website.
THE OSA PENINSULA COSTA RICA
Annual Average Daily Temperature
Degrees from the Equator
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VOLUNTEERING ON THE OSA
An Inspiring Experience
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TOP TEN THINGS TO EXPERIENCE ON THE OSA PENINSULA
1. Visit Corcovado National Park: The Park is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet and is home to a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, tapirs, and scarlet macaws.
2. Go Whale Watching: The Osa Peninsula is one of the best places in Costa Rica to go whale watching. You can spot humpback whales, pilot whales, and even orcas.
3. Explore the Beaches: The Osa Peninsula is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. From white sand beaches to black sand beaches, there is something for everyone.
4. Go Sport Fishing: The Osa Peninsula is a great place to go sport fishing. You can catch a variety of fish, including marlin, sailfish, and roosterfish.
5. Visit the Waterfalls: The Osa Peninsula is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Costa Rica. From the majestic King Louis (Matapalo Waterfall) to the awesome Magical Mogos Waterfalls, there is something for everyone.
6. Go Bird Watching: The Osa Peninsula is home to a variety of birds, including toucans, parrots, and oropendolas.
7. Take a Boat Tour of the Golfo Dulce: Take a boat tour of the Osa Peninsula and explore the mangroves, islands, and beaches.
8. Go Kayaking: Kayaking is a great way to explore the Osa Peninsula. You can paddle through the mangroves and explore the islands.
9. Go Hiking: The Osa Peninsula is home to a variety of hiking trails, from easy to difficult. Explore the rainforest and spot a variety of wildlife.
10. Surfing: It is a great destination for surfers, with some of the best waves in the country. The waves here are suitable for all levels of surfers, from beginners to experienced surfers.