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.
Playas Carate and Rio Oro; Osa Peninsula
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.
