Costa Rica is a small, safe and politically stable country in Central America that has often been described as one of Central America's success stories. Costa Rica has a total land area of just 51,000 square kilometers (around twice the size of Vermont) and a population just over four million.

Despite its small size, Costa Rica boasts one of the world's most diverse landscapes, with over a dozen individual microclimates. The abundance of wildlife and the lush beauty of the surroundings act as one of the most inspiring and motivating aspects of our programs.

Costa Rica has strongly committed itself to environmental protection and the promotion of eco-tourist practices. However, volunteers are needed to support the advancing number of projects that now exist throughout the country. There are simply not enough people available to support the rapidly growing number of animal protection, conversation, and sustainable development projects, thus our travelers fill a vital need as Costa Rica works to further social programs and protect its natural beauty and wildlife.

Playa Samara

Located on the Nicoya Peninsula in the Northwest of Costa Rica, Playa Samara is an idyllic and inspiring setting in which our travelers spend their days. Nestled between the clear blue waters of the Pacific Ocean and lush, jungle covered hills, Samara is at once a vibrant and tranquil community that our travelers learn to love with the same passion that we possess.

School children racing down to the beach to partake in surf lessons, travelers joining in soccer games in the town square, smiling faces and palm trees swaying in the Pacific breezes are the pervading images of Samara. Beyond these tranquil images, the true essence and spirit of this town lies in its warm and inviting people. Whatever the activity or service project, the people of Samara open their arms and hearts to our travelers.