Wildlife Volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica
Welcome
to Natuwa!
We extend to you a warm invitation for an exhilarating experience volunteering to help the wildlife of Costa Rica. Embark on the journey of your life in one of the safest countries in Latin America, renowned for its effervescent culture and warm hospitality. Situated in a tropical utopia, Costa Rica boasts a rich tapestry of landscapes that include the fiery spectacle of active volcanoes, majestic mountain ranges, lush valleys, expansive plateaus, and the stunning coasts of both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Explore our pristine beaches with their unique volcanic sand, and the lush mangrove forests that surround them.
Every week we visit the Monteverde Natural Reserve.!
Discover Costa Rica with your new friends.
In the heart of this diverse geography lie our incredible ecosystems: the rainforest, the highland moor, and the delicate dry forest. To ensure their survival, 25% of our territory is dedicated to protected wilderness areas to preserve our valuable biodiversity. With over 5% of the world’s biodiversity, Costa Rica stands out as one of the wealthiest places in flora and fauna.
Discover our rich biodiversity.
Be amazed by our natural jewelry.
We warmly invite you to immerse yourself in the splendor of natural diversity and contribute to a meaningful cause by participating in our volunteer program at the NATUWA Sanctuary. In the heart of Costa Rica’s ecotourism haven, you will aid in wildlife preservation and gain invaluable insights into conservation. As you nurture and protect our wildlife, you become part of a community dedicated to active stewardship the environment.
Wildlife volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica are an experience that provides knowledge on the management of wild animals in the Neotropic region. If you are looking to work with wild animals, in NATUWA, you can have the opportunity to learn about the ethology and management of animal species such as jaguars (Panthera onca), sloths (Choloepus hoffmanni), macaws (Ara macao and Ara ambiguus), tapirs (Tapirus bairdii), anteaters (Tamandua mexicana) and more.
The custody of animals and the environmental care that NATUWA develops require people with a high standard of commitment and cooperation.
You can perform numerous and diverse functions to improve animals’ lives, so you are not required to have specific knowledge about animals. But willing to understand how to manage wildlife appropriately in a Wildlife Sanctuary.
All activities will always be carried out under the company and the guidance of the organization’s staff.
Unique volunteer opportunity in Costa Rica: Learn, protect, and conserve with Natuwa and wild animals.
NATUWA’s commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental protection relies on passionate volunteers’ active and collaborative participation.
We offer a wide array of tasks, all crucial for the care and support of our animals. No previous experience in wildlife management is required; we place the highest value on respect for the animals and a sincere commitment to activities that promote their well-being.
Every minute you spend helping, whether it’s for a day or a year, significantly contributes to our mission.
All tasks are performed under our wildlife specialists’ strict guidance and supervision, including natural resource managers, biologists, and veterinarians, ensuring the best practices in animal care and management.
Engage actively with people from all around the world.
Experience living in a new culture.
The volunteer program for wildlife conservation in Costa Rica offered by the Natuwa Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique gateway to a cultural and natural experience in a country brimming with biodiversity. This program steers clear of wildlife domestication and is thoughtfully crafted for individuals or families — seeking a transformative experience.
Our mission is to educate about the importance of not removing organisms from their ecosystems and promote harmonious coexistence with species in their natural habitats. By participating in our program, you will develop practical skills to assist animals in need while respecting their natural behaviors and instincts.
If you seek an experience involving close physical interaction with animals, such as direct contact (kissing, hugging, etc.), we encourage you to find a project more aligned with those expectations. However, suppose you wish to invest your time meaningfully, learning about and contributing to the well-being of these beautiful creatures. In that case, we welcome you to NATUWA, where your effort translates into positive change for wildlife and their ecosystems.
Be the Change: Secure Your Spot at NATUWA Sanctuary Today
Wildlife Rescue Team
Wildlife Rescue Sanctuary
Wildlife volunteers who come to NATUWA join our team to help with the daily routine of caring for the animals. Volunteers actively participate in various tasks, including feeding monkeys, jaguars, tapirs, macaws, sloths, and many other species. Additionally, volunteers take part in the animal rehabilitation and rescue process.
They also carry out maintenance work in enclosures and conduct environmental enrichment activities to enhance the well-being of the animals permanently housed within the compartments.
All tasks are carried out under the guidance of veterinarians, biologists, the center director, and other professional NATUWA staff.
This volunteer opportunity provides valuable experience in managing wild animals while preventing accidents that could endanger both the animals and the caregivers and contributes to our conservation efforts.
Supporting Local Families
As a volunteer, your role goes beyond assisting the animals; you are making a meaningful difference in the lives of families responsible for caring for these creatures.
By participating in the maintenance and restoration of nature, you are directly helping families who rely on employment at the NATUWA Wild Animal Sanctuary.
This essential source of livelihood is the only one of its kind in the community of Aranjuez, focusing on restoring nature and preserving wildlife.
When you invest in our Volunteer Program, you contribute to the well-being of the animals and support the livelihoods of the workers’ families involved in this noble endeavor.
We invite you to learn more about the symbiotic relationship between wildlife conservation and local human welfare at the best wildlife animal sanctuary in Costa Rica, NATUWA. Your dedication and support make a significant difference for the wildlife and the people involved.
Volunteer with sloths in Costa Rica
Characteristics of sloths
The sloth is one of the most emblematic creatures of the tropics in Costa Rica. These charismatic animals with dense hair live in the forest, immersed in the vegetation; sometimes, they are confused with mounds of termites or imitate the environment very well, which makes it very difficult to spot them.
Learn more about our sloths here!
In Costa Rica, there are two species of sloths; a kind is of daytime habits, the three-fingered sloth Bradypus tridactylus) while the other, the two-fingered sloth (Choloepus hoffmanny), prefers to be active during the quiet of the night.
The roads go through the natural habitat of the sloths; often, they are trying to understand this giant asphalt mace in the middle of their house, their forest. Many are injured, and others are orphaned due to different reasons (dog attacks, road raids, destruction of their habitat), where the human being is always responsible.
Costa rica animal rescue center
Volunteers play a vital role in rehabilitating these beautiful creatures, dedicating countless hours of work, both day and night, to ensure that sloths can be returned to their natural habitat. At NATUWA, volunteers gain comprehensive knowledge about the management and care of these charismatic sloths.
Caring for the baby sloths
Caring for animals is a challenging task that requires dedication and responsibility. However, the challenge becomes even more remarkable when caring for baby sloths who cannot feed themselves and entirely depend on human assistance to survive.
Tragically, many baby animals are removed from their ecosystem, often because people see them as “adorable” pets. The illegal pet trade takes a toll on Costa Rica’s fauna, with parrots, monkeys, parakeets, and others being sold locally or taken out of the country.
Wildlife Volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica offer a unique chance to help these fragile creatures at rescue centers and sanctuaries, providing them with the care and support they need to thrive.
Wildlife Rescue Sanctuary
For these baby sloths and other orphaned animals, animal refuge centers become their only chance at life, offering them safety from violent deaths and the opportunity to return to life in the trees again.
At NATUWA, with the dedication of our Volunteers and Interns, we prevent these animals from suffering and provide them with the chance to return to their natural habitat through the NATUWA Wildlife Rescue Sanctuary. By supporting our efforts, you contribute to the conservation and well-being of these incredible creatures.
A Typical Day as a Volunteer at Natuwa
A Unique Wildlife Conservation Experience
At the Natuwa Wildlife Sanctuary, every day is a unique adventure in conservation. Unlike other sanctuaries in Costa Rica, we never run out of work. With over 500 animals requiring daily care, we seek volunteers who are dedicated and passionate about animal care and conservation.
If you don’t find these challenges motivating, this project might not be for you, and that’s okay! Our daily schedule can be intense, but the work is gratifying.
Diverse Activities for a Significant Impact
At Natuwa, we tirelessly work to improve the lives of jaguars, tapirs, sloths, macaws, and many other Costa Rican wildlife. As a volunteer, you’ll be involved in vital activities such as:
- Feeding animals.
- Cleaning enclosures.
- Assisting animals in emergencies.
- Participating in rehabilitation and release efforts.
- Tree planting.
- Assisting in conducting sanctuary tours.
- Maintaining animal enclosures and the property.
- Constructing organic structures for the animals.
- Participating in environmental enrichment for various species.
- Agricultural production (for both volunteers and animals).
- Cleaning the animal feeding stations.
- Providing water to animals.
- Washing enclosure floors.
- General sanctuary maintenance.
- Feeding baby animals.
- Providing fresh grass to our herbivores.
- And any other tasks that arise!
Every day at Natuwa is an opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute significantly to the wellbeing of Costa Rica’s wildlife. We invite you to be part of this exciting and enriching experience.
Daily schedule for Volunteers.
A Day Full of Activities and Restful Moments
Morning Feeding and Daily Tasks:
- 6:00 am – 8:00 am: Start your day with the morning feeding of the animals under expert supervision. This is a unique opportunity to see the animals at their most active.
- 8:00 am – 8:15 am: Breakfast time! A well-deserved break to recharge your energy.
- 8:15 am – 10:30 am: Engage in daily tasks (details provided in the list).
- 10:45 am – 12:00 pm: Continue with the morning’s assigned tasks.
Lunch and Relaxation Time:
- 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: Time for a nutritious lunch, followed by free time to use the WiFi or enjoy a restorative nap.
Afternoon Feeding and Free Time:
- 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Afternoon feeding for the animals, again with supervision. These hours are crucial for maintaining the routine and care of our residents.
- After the Afternoon Feeding: Volunteers have free time to explore, rest, or engage in recreational activities.
- 6:00 pm: Dinner is ready, a perfect time to share experiences with other volunteers and unwind after a productive day.
Your Day-to-Day at Natuwa:
This schedule is a guide to what you can expect on a typical day at Natuwa. We are committed to the well-being of both our animals and our volunteers, ensuring that each day is enriching and balanced.
Wildlife Volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica
Animal enclosure maintenance
Animal feeding
Cleaning enclosures
Ecological restoration
Make tours
Environmental enrichment for animals
Acommodation for Volunteers
Comfortable and Authentic Living Spaces
Dormitory Style Accommodation:
Country Style House:
- This typical Costa Rican country-style house is designed for long-term volunteers (staying four weeks or more) and offers a charming and authentic living experience.
- Features include:
- One room equipped with bunk beds
- Three fans for comfort
- Ample storage space
- Windows allows natural light and air
Modified Shipping Container:
- A unique and modern twist, this accommodation is divided into three rooms within a modified shipping container.
- Each room is outfitted with:
- Two bunk beds
- A fan for air circulation
- Storage space for personal items
- Accommodates up to four people per room
- We advise volunteers to bring their mosquito nets for additional comfort.
General Facilities:
- Bathrooms and showers are conveniently located in a separate building adjacent to the sleeping quarters.
- Please note hot water is not available in the showers.
- Laundry facilities include a washing machine and clotheslines for drying.
- WiFi access is provided in the volunteer housing, ensuring you stay connected.
Environmental Responsibility:
- Volunteers are expected to maintain their living spaces by keeping them free of plastic litter and respecting the belongings of others.
Embrace the Natuwa Experience: Our accommodations are designed to enhance your connection with nature and the local culture while providing the essential comforts needed for a fulfilling volunteer experience.
Loundry service
There is a sink for washing clothes, however we offer laundry service at very low cost of 3$ by one kilogram.
Arriving at Natuwa: Transportation from the Airport
Seamless and Secure Transport for a Stress-Free Start
Airport to Natuwa: Exclusive Transportation Service
- For a smooth and secure transition, all participants of the Natuwa Volunteer Program must use our designated transportation service directly from the airport to Natuwa.
- Why Exclusive Transportation? We prioritize your safety and convenience. To ensure a seamless and secure arrival, we have arranged a dedicated transport service that understands our volunteers’ specific needs and the sanctuary’s location.
- Cost: The transportation service is available for USD 120 by person, ensuring a private and comfortable journey to the sanctuary.
Already in Costa Rica? Coordinate Your Arrival
- If you’re currently in Costa Rica and wish to join our volunteer program, you can easily coordinate your admission by contacting us at +506 86444666.
- Our team is ready to assist you with the necessary arrangements to ensure a smooth start to your volunteer experience.
Begin Your Journey with Ease
- We aim to make your journey to Natuwa as effortless and pleasant as possible, allowing you to focus on the exciting volunteer experience that awaits you.
Services Included in Your Volunteer Experience
Stay Connected and Comfortable
WiFi Access:
- Stay connected with the world and share your experiences! WiFi is available at the reception and volunteer facilities, ensuring you can easily communicate with loved ones and access online resources.
Accommodation:
- Dorm Room Style Living: Experience community living in our dormitory-style accommodation, designed to offer comfort and a sense of camaraderie among volunteers.
Nutritious Meals:
- Three Meals Daily: Enjoy three wholesome meals daily to energize you for your volunteer activities.
- Vegetarian Options: We cater to dietary preferences. Vegetarian options are available upon request, ensuring that all our volunteers have delicious and nutritious meal choices.
Training and Education:
- Everyday Wildlife Management Training: Engage in daily training sessions in wildlife management, gaining valuable knowledge and practical skills in animal care and conservation practices.
Travel Support Within Costa Rica:
- Information and Assistance: Receive comprehensive information about traveling within Costa Rica.
- Reservation and Transfer Support: Our team is here to assist with your travel reservations and transfers, making it easier for you to explore and enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica during your free time.
Embark on a Journey of Learning and Discovery
As a volunteer at Natuwa, you’re contributing to wildlife conservation and immersing yourself in a well-supported, educational, and fulfilling experience. We ensure that every aspect of your stay contributes to your personal growth and enjoyment.
Food & Drink
Food & Drink Details
The meals are typical dishes of Costa Rica. Almost every meal includes rice, beans, or salad. Juice or coffee is offered for every meal. It is very important that you inform us if you have any special diets or food allergies.
Example Breakfast Meals: (8:00am)
1. “Gallo pinto” with: egg, plantain, or sausage.
2. Or cereal.
3. With watermelon or banana or papaya.
Example Lunch Meals: (12:00md)
1. Rice and beans with a meat.
2. Or rice and beans with spaghetti.
3. Or meat and vegetable soup with rice.
Example Dinner Meals: (6:00pm to 7:20pm)
1. Rice and beans with vegetables.
2. Or hamburger.
3. Or cold cut sandwich.
NATUWA´s Rules
It is essential that before making the decision to be part of our wildlife management program, you agree to follow the following rules.
- No smoking inside or outside of NATUWA´s property.
- In order not to tame the animals, do not talk to them.
- Do not feed the animals (outside feeding time).
- When taking pictures, the use of flash is prohibited.
- The use of any type of ilegal drug is prohibited.
- Alcoholic beverages are not allowed.
- Be respectful of the staff of the sanctuary (sexual harassment, racism, homophobia or xenophobia will not be tolerated).
- Do not allow strangers (outsiders) to enter the sanctuary.
- People working in shorts are not allowed.
- Follow the safety rules according to the activity (gloves, helmet, eyeglasses, boots, pants).
- Do not carry any electronic device during working time (Cell phones and camaras).
- Insect repellents containing DEET are strictly prohibited.
We deeply value your collaboration with us. However, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of remembering that the sanctuary’s core mission is to ensure the well-being of all the wildlife species we shelter, as detailed in the attached list of animals. Thus, our regulations are designed to favor the interests of the species residing in NATUWA and those of the people dedicated to their care. Therefore, all our volunteers must understand and familiarize themselves with these rules before joining our volunteer program in Costa Rica, which focuses on the ethical and respectful management of wild animals.
We have a critical natural process to ensure the best care and welfare for the animals. We invite you to participate in this process. However, failing to follow the rules interferes with this process.
If you intend to touch or pet the animals, such practice cannot be conducted in our program as it puts your health, that of others, and the animals we shelter at risk. Additionally, Costa Rican regulations prohibit such practices.
It’s important to clarify that you will be joining a team of wildlife management specialists, interacting constantly with wild animals in a respectful and ethical manner, aiming to benefit the animal.
Thank you,
Director
Rodolfo Orozco Vega
Natural Resourses Manager
Essential Packing List for Volunteers
Preparing for Your Tropical Adventure at Natuwa
Welcome to the vibrant tropics of Natuwa! As you embark on this extraordinary journey, it’s essential to pack smartly to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. Our environment, rich in biodiversity, is also home to unique climatic elements – from dense vegetation and abundant wildlife to seasonal rains and intense sun. This packing list is carefully curated to help you adjust seamlessly to the tropical ecosystem. You’ll encounter a variety of conditions, including mosquitoes, pollen, and beach environments. By bringing these recommended items, you’re equipping yourself to fully embrace the beauty and challenges of the tropics, ensuring a rewarding and memorable volunteer experience.
Mandatory Items:
-Rubber boots
-Natural repellent (DEET-free)
-Sunscreen
-Mosquito net
-Long pants (suitable for work)
-Quick-drying clothing
-Hat
-Afterbite treatment
-Shower sandals
-Quick-drying towel
-Multiple pairs of socks
-Reusable water bottle
-Topical allergy medication
-Allergy pills
-Hydration powder packets (for adding to water in case of dehydration)
-Sunburn relief cream or gel (such as aloe vera)
-Beach gear
*Optional Items:*
– Thin bed sheets (one set provided)
– Bandana
– Sleeve shirts
– Rain jacket
– Work gloves
– Books
Donations (Amazon wish list)
There are a few items that would help the animals that are difficult to purchase in Costa Rica. These items are on the list of our Amazon wish-list. Items most accessible to carry in luggage are Harrison’s Organic Juvenile Bird Formula and the Meyenburg’s goat milk powder. Volunteers are encouraged to bring these items to help the animals!
Best season to be a Wildlife volunteer
Discover the Seasons of Costa Rica: Choose Your Ideal Time for Volunteering
In the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Costa Rica, two distinct seasons shape our environment and your volunteering experience at NATUWA.
Embrace the Lushness: The Wet Season (May to November) The wet season, extending from May through November, is a time of rejuvenation and vibrant greenery. While rain is a frequent companion during these months, it also unveils the true splendor of Costa Rica’s lush landscapes. The cooler weather during this period is a welcome relief, making outdoor activities and wildlife care more comfortable and enjoyable. It’s a time when the sanctuary teems with life, offering a unique perspective on the natural world.
Bask in the Sunshine: The Dry Season (November to May) Conversely, the dry season, spanning from November to May, promises sun-filled days and clear blue skies. It’s the season of abundant sunlight, where the landscape transforms, showcasing a variety of fruits like mangos and a tapestry of multicolored flowers. Located in the dry forest, NATUWA becomes a warm haven, particularly in these months, offering a different yet equally enriching experience.
Your choice of season for volunteering in Costa Rica at NATUWA will shape your experience, each with its unique charm and set of experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the verdant beauty of the wet season or the warm, sunny allure of the dry season, your time at NATUWA will be an unforgettable chapter in your journey of wildlife conservation.
How to travel to NATUWA ?
Public buses run daily (except Sunday) to and from the sanctuary for the volunteers. At 6:00 am, the public bus arrives in front of the sanctuary to transport people to Puntarenas, a bus station with busses to travel around Costa Rica. The bus leaves from Puntarenas to Aranjuez at 11:30 am and arrives at the sanctuary around 1:00 pm. The price of the public bus is about 1000 colones (equal to about $2).
A taxi service can be requested to bring volunteers to the sanctuary. From Puntarenas to the sanctuary, volunteers can expect to pay about $50. The cost from the Juan Santamaria Airport to NATUWA is $120 by person.
Places to visit near NATUWA and Free-time activities
Volunteers will receive a day off to relax and explore the surrounding areas every week. The staff of the sanctuary can help organize places to visit. Options include the beach, local river, Puntarenas, Monteverde (two days), Volcano Arenal and others.
A taxi service can be requested to bring volunteers to the sanctuary. From Puntarenas to the sanctuary, volunteers can expect to pay about $50 for a taxi and about $120 from the airport (Alajuela) to NATUWA.
Overview
We need you!
Every volunteer at Natuwa becomes a vital force for the welfare of our wildlife. Your participation enables us to ensure an exemplary quality of life for the animals through environmental enrichment, proper nutrition, vigilant supervision, and comprehensive care.
Together, we can make a substantial difference in the lives of animals in captivity and focus our efforts on their rehabilitation and potential return to the wild.
Natuwa: A Commitment to Wildlife
Natuwa is more than a volunteering program; it’s an invitation to dive into the conservation of incredible species and to understand their essential role in ecological balance.
Why you should volunteer at NATUWA?
Why Volunteer at Natuwa?
At Natuwa, we share a common passion: love for animals and the resolve to help them. We recognize that many wild species depend on our thoughtful and respectful intervention, without disturbing their natural interactions with the ecosystem. True love for animals goes beyond physical contact; it is based on applying scientific knowledge to their care, aiming to prepare them to thrive in their natural habitat.
Become an Agent of Change
We invite you to Natuwa to learn what it means to be a real wildlife volunteer and how we can coexist in harmony with the natural world around us.
Volunteering at Natuwa is an enriching and unforgettable experience, perfect for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. As a volunteer, you will have a direct impact on the lives of the sanctuary’s animals, gain knowledge, practice Spanish, meet people from different cultures, and immerse yourself in the rich Costa Rican culture.
Interested in the Wildlife Volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica?
Please fill out the contact form.
Price of our wildlife volunteer program
Ask how to get a discount-
Wifi
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Three meals a day
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Acommodation
I volunteered at Natuwa for 3 weeks and it was an amazing experience. The staff of Natuwa are great people and they all care so much about the animals. I would recommend this program to anyone who has a love for animals and nature and wants to see them where they belong, in the wild. The housing was basic but had everything I needed and the food was delicious. If you decide to volunteer during the rainy season I would highly recommend rain gear and rain boots. I promise that if you decide to volunteer at Natuwa you will not regret it!
I was a volunteer at Santuario de Lapas (SdL) twice. The first time was with International Student Volunteers and the second was on my own. Both trips, SdL was welcoming, encouraged direct involvement in the care of the animals (feeding, cleaning, etc.), and made sure to educate me on the significant issues surrounding the animals, why the issues existed, and how I could continue to help, even after leaving SdL. The food is amazing, the sleeping quarters were great, and the site is pristine. In my opinion, there is no better place to spend a few weeks volunteering, learning about the environment, and becoming a part of the community.
I was at Natuwa in Oct./Nov. 2018 for three weeks and I really loved it. It was one of the best experience in my life. I was so happy that I chose this voluntary project. Everyone was so nice and the work with the animals was just great. I could also work with the babyslots and the babyanteater! Aww… but my favorite was to feed the monkeys (I love monkeys!😍) The chicos are so helpful and funny and they show you everything with a lot patience and answer all your questions. The are so passionate and have a big knowledge about the animals! I really enjoyed my stay there, the park is so nice, the people are so cool and the animals are just amazing! I highly recommend to go to natuwa for voluntary work!😊👍🏻
I volunteered in Natuwa for 2 weeks between December 2018 and January 2019. It was a really great experience! I learn a lot about many things : why some animals can’t be released and others can,
the different behaviors according to the species, how to take care of babies animals (I loooved working with them!), what a person should do and no do if she/he find an injured or orphan animal outside, how they build this place and his vocation, etc. It’s a really nice rescue center, I saw their love for wild animals (not pets). We can see that the place and the cages are build for animals and not for humans. It’s not a zoo, it’s a rescue center, and we learn how to act with wild animals as a volunteer (not talks to them or touch them (the way we usually act with pets)). The owner, Rodolfo, is a really nice person, he know a lot of things about nature and, of course, wild animals. He is careful and open minded to new ideas to improve the place. He is always available to answer questions. I recommend it!
magical is the word to describe this place. I wasn’t able to stay as long as I wanted to but I plan to go again in the future for a long time. Not only were the staff and other volunteers so welcoming, being able to contribute to the well being of these precious animals is a feeling like no other. A huge perk is meeting people from different parts of the world and learning about their different cultures.
I volunteered in Natuwa for my Spring Break ( one week ) and by far has been one of my best experiences that I have had in my life. Everyone is very friendly and the program in Natuwa is very good, Would definitely recommend to everyone. One thing that I learned was that it doesn’t matter where you come from or what your future goal is in life when it comes to the benefit of these animals everyone is welcomed. One week was very short for me and that is why I will return for more time in order to learn more about the animals and on how to help them.
Natuwa was one of my best experiences on my trip. I was here for four weeks and would have liked to stay even longer. If you have time, then visit this place. Here you learn a lot about animals and nature not only in Costa Rica. The history of the animals is interesting and moving. Rodolfo and the staff are super friendly and try to teach you Spanish in a fun way if you don’t speak it;) They are all committed to the cause. The work with the animals and people is just great. Every week you get to know new people from different countries. And even if you don’t have enough time for volunteering, visit the center once. The money is for a good cause!
I had been looking for a meaningful project – one that has its focus not on creating a nice experience for volunteers, but one that is first and foremost a worthy cause, i.e. a real help for animals. Considering the information I had, I felt that NATUWA was the place to go.
And I am so glad to say that I am absolutely happy to have supported NATUWA!! I tried to get to know the sanctuary as well as I could in the one week that I had become part of it. What I found was actually much more than simply a good sanctuary. My main reasons:
1. The animal welfare indeed takes priority and the animals are cared for very well. This ranges from the sanctuary rules over hygiene to the diet they receive. For example the parrots are fed with a plethora of fresh fruits, nuts and more everyday – looks so delicious 😀
You will realize that many, many animals that landed here after their confiscation can not return into the wild, because they are not native to Costa Rica and/or are too used to humans. That is very sad, but NATUWA gives those poor creatures (that had to suffer because of human activity) a new chance and a caring home – probably the best home they could wish for in their circumstances.
2. NATUWA does not only care for the animals, but supports the local community as well – which is so important. With the help of the volunteers for example more jobs can be offered.
3. NATUWA also attaches great importance to education. This is wonderful, as in my eyes education is one of the most important steps on the way towards a sustainable future.
4. You get the chance of meeting and supporting very good people. You really feel their devotion to the animals and the project. The atmosphere of the team is very positive. Everyone is open- and kind-hearted. Also, I have the feeling that you always get help whenever you need it. The passion behind NATUWA is so inspiring!
Muchas gracias for letting me experience this! I really hope that in the future NATUWA will be able to expand its positive impact on the lives of animals and persons – with the help of many good people, their visits, efforts for example as volunteers,…!!
I`ve been volunteering in NATUWA for four weeks and it has been a wonderfull experience. I learned a lot about the right treatment of wild animals and got to know a lot of friendly and open-minded people. The employeed Ticos are very helpful and diverting so that the work makes a lot of fun. In felt like my help was appreciated, learned some spanish and enjoyed the time with the animals. I definitly will go back to NATUWA.
I just finished up a month-long volunteering stint at Natuwa from mid June through mid July! There were a bunch of things that I was concerned about before arriving like would there be enough food, would the living arrangements be too basic, would the mosquitoes be overwhelming, would the climate be too hot ext. Once I arrived and got comfortable (after about a week) all of my original concerns disappeared. There was always more than enough food, the living arrangements were interesting but more than adequate, and the mosquitoes and climate were totally bearable – as long as you came prepared with proper repellant/clothing. Highly recommend natural repellents with 30% lemon eucalyptus concentration. On days where I was consistent with re-applying every few hours, I was able to avoid being bitten entirely!
The work, as advertised, is not for the faint of heart but is not overly strenuous and is overall quite rewarding. Make sure you keep in mind that you are there to do a job, and that you signed up to work not to have a holiday in a wildlife refuge. There will be days where you will be able to take group trips to the beach in the afternoon, or plan more extravagant all day excursions. These just have to be organized with Rodolfo whom is extremely accommodating, and understanding when it comes to giving his volunteers a reward when they have been consistently putting in solid work.
The key I would say, as with anything is to manage your expectations. What you have signed up for is an experience in a wildlife refuge in the Costa Rican jungle. It is a place that is meant to be challenging, and one should prepare to be challenged upon starting their adventure there. If you are not going to be able to handle a 6- hour work day where you get various breaks all throughout (breakfast, fresco, lunch), and you have to take extra breaks to smoke cigarettes throughout-then don’t bother showing up, because you only shift the burden onto your fellow volunteers whom would be fully able to shoulder the work without you anyways! Besides the fact that this creates a health risk, minor as it may be, for the animals whom we are supposed to be helping-not hurting.
The animals are beautiful, the workers are amazing, helpful, and fun to be around, Rodolfo is extremely caring and does the best that he can for the volunteers and animals every single day, and Minor makes one hell of a piña colata!
P.S
Would recommend staying at least a week and a half as the first week is largely spent getting your bearings, learning names, navigating the park, learning the jobs ext.
I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to work at Natuwa and meet so many wonderful and interesting people! I wish the best to all the people and animals still there, and to all those yet to come!
Con corazon y amor yo digo muchas gracias y buenas suerte a todo quien anda los senderos de el Santuario de las Lapas por ahora y siempre!
Ser parte del grupo de voluntarios en NATUWA ha sido una experiencia que cambió nuestra visión sobre lo que un santuario significa. Es un gran grupo de personas trabajando por un objetivo compartido, esperamos regresar pronto.
Daniela y Daniel.
Hi, I am by now “ bugging” you, just wanted to let you know that we will be staying in town so u don’t have to worry about accommodations for us, we want to help, but not take up space!!!
NATUWA is the perfect place to volunteer if you like animals, nature, and meeting new people. The work isn’t always easy – you will have to wake up early to feed the animals and might even get dirty cleaning the enclosures, but overall it is extremely rewarding. Based on my experience with other similar projects in Latin America, I was actually very impressed with how hands-on volunteers are able to get at the sanctuary. You actually feel like you are making a difference and contributing directly to the animals’ well-being everyday. I definitely learned more at NATUWA than I had expected and would 100% recommend to anyone thinking about going! If you can, stay for at least two weeks. I came to NATUWA on my vacation from work, which was only two weeks, but I would have definitely preferred to stay longer. Keep in mind that it takes about a week to learn the ropes and become comfortable with the work and schedule.
What an experience … I have been volunteering in Natuwa for 2 months between December 2019 and February 2020 and it has been one of the best experience of my life.
First of all, the accomodation: Basic but i never felt uncomfortable, there are a maximum of 4 volunteers per room and space to put your stuff on a shelf and there is one electrical outlet per person to recharge your phone or other stuff.
Food: You will be able to enjoy the world famous Gallo Pinto (rice and beans) multiple times ! Don’t worry, you will get use to it at some point ! One day per week we had hamburgers or hot-dogs. If you are vegetarian or vegan, you only have to say it to the kitchen ladies and you will get another dish according to your diet.
The sanctuary: As I was saying, it feels so good to be in the middle of nowhere. You will live in a city named Aranjuez (north of Puntarenas). You will live in the sanctuary with all these beautiful animals around you. The sanctuary itself is really beautiful because of the work from the staff and volunteers everyday that are taking care of it. There are animals everywhere, some of them have been released but are still flying around, others are waiting their time in correctly sized enclosures. I will let you discover by yourself the story of the sanctuary and then realise how big it has become now.
Free time: There is a minimarket at 1km, we used to go there a lot to buy some cakes, drink some beers, discussing, play with the children on the football field in front of it. There are severals rivers around the city where you can walk (10-30mn walking) and bathe inside. It happened really often that the staff organized some trips to the beach or other places by calling a minibus (cost around 6-8$ for the roundtrip depending where you go obviously). You are free to join or stay at the sanctuary.
Bus: There is a bus that leads you to the city of Puntarenas where you can grab other buses to get everywhere around (Liberia, Monteverde, San Jose, Quepos, Jaco, etc.) The schedule of these buses is available at the entrance of Natuwa.
Work: You will work 6 days a week, it starts with the feeding of the animals. After breakfast you will be assigned to a task (it changes everyday). Per examples: watch the Tamandua and Sloths during their outside time; pick up leaves on the paths; enclosure maintenance; cleaning cages; turning on the daily showers in the enclosures; water the vertical garden; cleaning the Tapir pool; cleaning the window in the Jaguars and Ocelote enclosures; etc.
One day per week you will be working in the shop of Natuwa for a full day, you will have to clean the benchs, check if there is a potential tree branch falling on the path, cleaning the entrance of the sanctuary, water the plants in front of the shop and doing tours to visitors (can be simple visitors, touristic groups or schools).
Before coming to Natuwa I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy my time there, if the work wouldn’t be to hard… Then after two months i miss every single second of my time in the sanctuary. I met such great people there, the staff which is a real family, the other volunteers that you will share your time with. All of them have been fantastic and my time there has really been fabulous. The staff teaches you so much about all these animals. It has been a real pleasure to feed the animals everyday and helping the staff making their lives better. If you are hesitating to come in Natuwa as I was before… I would say just do it, you won’t regret it for sure. This place is so peaceful and some good memories are waiting for you !
To finish I would like to thank from the bottom of my heart all the staff that are like a family to me now: Rodolfo, Meinor, Beto (mi pollooo), Carlooos, Marta, Mario, Dario, Helen, Coyol, Gina, Margarita.
Gracias por todo
Alex ‘El Gallo’ Baert
With my university, I traveled to Costa Rica. We volunteered at Natuwa for 3 days. Many of us were impacted by their values. Our view for conservation and care of wildlife grew even further. It grew our passion also. We all learned so much and enjoyed the experience at Natuwa. The staff was very welcoming and helped us with all our task for the animals. The only thing I wish out of the experience is to be there for a longer time. Part of my heart is still there, and I hope to return in the near future.
I may have only volunteered at Natuwa for 3 days but it left a lifelong impact. I’ve always been conservation minded but never this extreme, everything they do is either for conservation or their animals that they are taking care of. Nothing goes to waste and everything is given back to the environment. The work experience was amazing and it taught me so much about how animals should be treated. Everyone should be able to experience this type of dedication to animals. Rodolfo and the volunteers at Natuwa have the biggest hearts and are truly great people. I would recommend this trip to everyone and I would love to make it back down someday.
I just got back from a spring break trip with a group of 24 students and faculty. Natuwa was the best part of the trip hands down. Students flourished and gained experience with the keeping staff. We learned about the culture and made new life long friends there. We were treated like family. We can’t wait to go back! We are already discussing when the next trip should be. Thank you all for the great experience. I can’t wait to be back!
I just did 2 weeks of volunteer experience in Natuwa, it was my first volunteer experience and I regret to not doing this before. All the team is so lovely, you work near to wonderful animals, for the animals. You feed them, you try to make their life better digging swimming pool for tapirs, painting the enclosures.. And also improve your Spanish and English with the team and other volunteers. But beyond that you just learn to give, to share and you receive so much in return. Thank you once again! ❤️.