Requirements and Training
Costa Rica Rainforest Conservation Internship

Skills Required

Although knowing Spanish is not essential for this internship, interns who have a little knowledge of Spanish find it beneficial as they are able to interact with the local community more freely. All interns should be physically fit as the environment is demanding due to the heat and humidity and the activities involve a lot of strenuous walking. Interns should also be enthusiastic and have a good sense of humour. It is important to be self-motivated throughout the project and all volunteers must be team players who are adaptable and willing to assist each other and the staff to complete the daily tasks.

Interns must be aware that, because of the location of the expedition site, transport is only by motorised boats and canoe. For this reason, all interns must be strong swimmers, able to swim 300m fully clothed. Locals do not swim in the sea due to very strong rip tides that Tortuguero is known for, and we follow the example they set: people can wade but should not swim.

Training and Qualifications

Volunteers receive comprehensive training that is continuous and rigorous, and involves both indoor lectures and field practicals. The first two weeks of training consist of presentations and field lectures, combined with practical field experience to build upon the theoretical knowledge. This provides volunteers with a baseline and holistic understanding of all aspects of the region’s terrestrial and marine environment on which to build throughout your stay.