' I LOVE this experience in chitwan for though short period! '

Xue Ying Fiona Wang

Butterfly Garden & Rainforest Conservation Volunteer Program

The Most Affordable

Volunteer fees starting at just
$320

The Most Reputed

Since 1998, over 18,000 Volunteers, hundreds of online reviews

The Most Transparent

No Middlemen. Pay your fees directly to host families and projects.

Project Summary

The Butterfly Garden & Rainforest Conservation Volunteer Program invites individuals passionate about conservation and biodiversity to join efforts in Costa Rica. Renowned for its rich ecosystems, Costa Rica boasts diverse flora and fauna, making it an ideal setting for environmental enthusiasts.

Volunteers participate in maintaining the garden's ecosystem, engaging in activities like planting and reforestation to contribute to ongoing conservation efforts. Additionally, volunteers have the opportunity to educate visitors at the Butterfly Educational Tourism Center, fostering awareness about the importance of protecting natural habitats.

Living amidst the beauty of Costa Rica's rainforests, volunteers gain hands-on experience while ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come. This program offers a unique blend of adventure, education, and conservation, providing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make a meaningful impact in one of the world's most biodiverse countries.

Volunteer Responsibilities & Impact

  • Assisting with the maintenance of native and indigenous plant species
  • Creating vital habitats for local wildlife such as birds, butterflies, and bees
  • Planting, reforestation, and garden care activities
  • Learning about the ecological significance of the gardens, particularly in supporting butterfly populations
  • Garden maintenance tasks such as watering, composting, and propagation of plants
  • Working under staff supervision in laboratory duties
  • Prepping materials and supplies in the laboratory and production garden
  • Pinning insects for displays
  • Creating educational signs throughout the center
  • Filling and cleaning of feeders
  • Revising host plants for eggs

Skills and Qualifications:

Volunteers participating in the Butterfly Garden & Rainforest Conservation Program in Costa Rica can anticipate working outdoors, often in sunny conditions, while undertaking physically demanding tasks like standing, squatting, and lifting.

Previous experience isn't necessary, but a deep enthusiasm for the environment and sustainability is greatly valued. This experience offers an opportunity to gain practical skills, learn about conservation firsthand, and contribute meaningfully to safeguarding Costa Rica's breathtaking natural environments.

Accommodation and Meal

During project days, volunteers will receive two daily meals provided in shared group housing. Accommodation options include dormitory-style living or upgraded private accommodations for those seeking added comfort. Additionally, participants will benefit from educational presentations and practical training to guide them through their tasks.

The Fee and Dates

RCDP Costa Rica Volunteer Programs start every Monday throughout the year.

Volunteer Program In Costa Rica

Every year hundreds of volunteers working with UK and USA based organizations end up paying up to $2500 to volunteer in Costa Rica for 2 weeks. Unfortunately, only a small portion of that money actually goes to host the local projects and host families. The local host projects, childcare centers, schools, and local NGO’s in Costa Rica are poor and need external support to run their programs. In our program, you will pay your fee directly to host families and projects upon arrival in Costa Rica. When you join our program, we will make sure that all of your money goes to the projects and host families. Part of your fees also helps us to cover our expenses. The program fee is divided into a registration fee ($279) and weekly fee for room, food, coordination, and project donation.

Click to find the allocation of $279

In Costa Rica, the weekly program fee is divided between coordination (services of local staffs), host family (room/2-3 local foods a day depending on the project), and project donation. Costa Rica is an expensive tourist destination; therefore, nearly 90% of your weekly fee goes to covering your food, room, and coordination. While 10% of your fee goes to the project as a material donation (not cash). Below is the breakdown of cost in on a weekly basis.

Program Fee (US$)
Duration Project Fee (US$)
  1 Week   $320
 2 Weeks   $640
  3 Weeks   $960
  4 Weeks   $1,280
  5 Weeks   $1,600
  6 Weeks   $1,920
  7 Weeks   $2,240
  8 Weeks   $2,560
  9 Weeks   $2,880
  10 Weeks   $3,200
  11 Weeks   $3,520
  12 Weeks   $3,840
  • Comprehensive Travel Insurance $3.49/day ( below 28 years) and $4.49/day ( above 28 years) »
Program fees cover:
  • Shared Accommodation with host family from Sunday to Saturday
  • 2 meals per day (Breakfast & Dinner)
  • Airport Pick up
  • In-country support
  • Program Orientation, Walking Tour, Safety Presentation
  • Project Management
  • Volunteer Certificate
  • Discount for returning volunteers
  • Letter of Recommendation (upon request)
  • Emergency contact 24/7
  • Access to computer lab, high-speed office-wide wifi at the institute, and access to weekly salsa dance classes and cooking classes
  • Free coffee and tea at the on-site snack bar
Program fees dont cover:
  • Visas
  • Airfare
  • Personal expenses such as soft drinks and snacks
  • Daily transportation
  • Airport return transfer
  • Extra nights of housing (can be booked at an additional cost)

On-going volunteer programs in Costa Rica