We are a grass-roots community-led sea turtle conservation organization that aims to tackle a number of environmental and social issues that occur in the developing Osa Peninsula. We aim to provide employment opportunities to local people in conservation; that would otherwise be involved in environmentally damaging activities (gold-mining; hunting; nest-poaching etc.). Our principal project is sea turtle conservation; as we are located right on a nesting beach for the Green and Olive Ridley species. We will be conducting night patrols and morning census to collect important data on nesting females; applying metal tags to Pacific green turtles; releasing and monitoring hatchlings; raising awareness through talks and tours; and training and empowering local staff to take on paid positions within the association. We are looking for self-motivated; dynamic individuals that are up for a challenge and want to make a difference! Experience with sea turtles is not essential; but we need people that at least have basic skills in data collection; field work or biology if you are wishing to work on the conservation element. We will also have a number of other areas that will require volunteer assistance that relates to developing the project and supporting the community; social media/marketing; fundraising; environmental education; English language teaching (local staff); construction and Permaculture (developing our camp); project coordination.
Our sea turtle conservation project also looks for Research and Conservation Assistants throughout the year; however extra qualifications are necessary in order to apply for these positions.
Year round
1 week minimum
Adults of both sexes 18+ (under 18’s can join the project if accompanied by a responsible adult)
Volunteers of 18+ years with suitable references. A good command of Spanish would be a huge help for you to get the most out of your placement. This is by no means essential, but in order to engage with the community we ask that you immerse yourself as best you can and make a big effort to learn upon arrival.
US$290 per week which covers accommodation, food, and all necessary training to work on the project. All proceeds go directly to the running of the project and payment of local staff.
Playas Carate and Rio Oro, Osa Peninsula
