Sloths are native to Central and South America and found in parts of Costa Rica and the Amazon Rainforest of Brazil and Peru. Wildlife organisations and sanctuaries are always seeking volunteers to work with sloths which can be really rewarding and educational experience.
Best Sloth Conservation Programs
Costa Rica Sloth & Wildlife Rescue Sanctuary
• 2-10 weeks
• Price from £1,395
Amazon Shelter Volunteer
• 4-12 weeks
• Price from £1,845
How You Can Help
On incredible projects in places like Costa Rica you can experience front line conservation and help safeguard precious wildlife and unique habitats for future generations. Rescue centres have been set up to provide a sanctuary for animals that have either been rescued from captivity or found injured.
At a centre you will have the opportunity to work hands on with animals like sloths and help improve their lives. Once at a centre they are given superb care and attention in an effort to rebuild their fragile lives, and where possible are re-introduced back into the wild.
Project Highlights
• Gain hands on experience working with sloths and other primates
• Explore the critical ecosystems of Costa Rica
• Work directly with a range of endangered species
What Happens When I Arrive?
Upon your arrival to Juan Santa Maria International Airport in San Jose you’ll be met by a local representative, who will transfer you to the project site.
What Will I Be Doing?
A typical day at the rescue center could consist of the following:
• 7am: Breakfast
• 8am: Morning meeting to allocate chores
• 8am-11am: Morning chores: cleaning enclosures, preparing food, babysitting, etc.
• 12pm: Lunch
• 1pm: Lunch meeting to allocate afternoon chores
• 1pm-3pm: Afternoon chores: continued duties around the sanctuary as required such as cleaning, sweeping, enclosure maintenance.
• 3pm-6pm: Relaxation, reading, swimming, individual projects, free time.
• 18:00-21:00 Dinner & socialising
• 22:00 Bedtime
FAQ
Project Requirements
Minimum age of 17 years
Activities
• Preparing food & feeding the animals
• Cleaning and maintaining enclosures
• Environmental education work
Accommodation
Throughout your stay on the project you will be living in shared dormitory style accommodation at biological centres, with volunteer common room and communal kitchen. You will be provided with a mosquito net, bed sheets and a laundry service once a week. Although basic, your accommodation will of course be clean and comfortable and you will soon feel at home with your welcoming hosts. Sometimes there is the option to upgrade your accommodation including private rooms.
What Will I Be Eating?
While you are on the project, all meals are included in the programme (breakfast, lunch and dinner). These will be based upon a typical Costa Rican diet. Your food will be fairly basic and consist mainly of rice, beans, corn, meat, pasta, vegetables and seasonal fruits, as well as plenty of gallo pinto.
Additional Opportunities
You will have usually have one or two days off per week, which can be arranged with the centre’s administration.
San José is situated in the middle of the country making it a convenient location for travelling to other parts of Costa Rica. In San José you will find buses that will take you directly to the Caribbean coast, the Pacific coast, the famous Arenal volcano, Monteverde Cloud Forest, Manuel Antonio National Park and many other destinations.
There are many interesting sights and activities on the Carribean coast such as the tourist hub of Puerto Viejo, Tortuguero and Cahuita National Park for incredible wildlife viewing, Uvita Island for relaxing days off and even ziplining and river rafting opportunities nearby for the adrenaline seekers amongst you!
Alternatively many international participants have also helped out at local schools and donated time to these incredibly rewarding volunteer programs. Please ask your in-country coordinator for more information if this is something that you would be interested in.
What’s Included:
• Pre-departure support
• Travel & medical advice & documentation
• Equipment advice
• Accommodation
• Food
• Local orientation and training
• In-country emergency support
• Airport pick-up
What’s Not Included
• Flights
• Visas
• Insurance
How to Apply
To apply for this placement, click on the featured programs. Fill in the short application form and an adviser will contact you and help with any questions and to make sure this is the perfect placement for you. Applying doesn’t cost a penny and you won’t pay anything until you’re completely happy and you’re ready to reserve your place.
