Impact Made From an Animal Welfare Internship in Costa Rica
“I wanted to immerse myself in a different culture, try a new way of life, and learn as much as I can in another country. I can definitely say I…
ORPHAN CARE INTERNSHIP IN COSTA RICA
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
NURTURE AND REHABILITATE ORPHANED WILDLIFE IN THE HEART OF THE PUNTARENAS PROVINCE
Embark on a fulfilling wildlife conservation journey through this captivating orphan care internship nestled in this biodiverse region of Costa Rica. Through a sanctuary dedicated to providing refuge for rescued animals, this organization offers a unique hands-on experience at the forefront of conservation efforts.Â
Your role as an orphan care intern involves the rehabilitation and nurturing of orphaned wildlife, with 60% having faced abandonment or loss due to tragic circumstances. As an integral part of the sanctuary’s mission, you’ll participate in medicating orphans, developing protocols, and actively contributing to the rehabilitation center’s care programs. This internship entails hands-on involvement, from feeding and cleaning to implementing enriching activities, allowing you to directly contribute to the health and happiness of these animals while gaining valuable insights into conservation practices.Â
This experience not only imparts practical wildlife care skills but also fosters a profound connection with nature, making it an ideal opportunity for both nature enthusiasts and aspiring conservationists. Immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of Costa Rica, collaborate with professionals, and witness firsthand the positive impact your efforts can have on the well-being and future of these remarkable animals. This orphan care internship invites dedicated individuals ready to make a meaningful impact on wildlife conservation, aligning your passion for rescuing wildlife with the sanctuary’s mission.
ORGANIZATION
Based in Costa Rica, this nonprofit organization is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of wildlife in the Alturas region of the Puntarenas province. This area loses a lot of its wildlife due to road accidents, electrocutions, domestic animal attacks, and the pet trade.
The organization runs a 24/7 veterinary clinic where they treat injured, sick, or orphaned animals with the primary goal being to release them. In cases where re-release isn’t possible when the animal has been domesticated or disabled, the sanctuary also serves as a refuge. Established in 2014, they have already established themselves as a valuable asset to conservation efforts in the region and have saved over 3,500 animals.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
Your daily tasks will include a range of responsibilities, such as tending to animals in the nursery, engaging in rehabilitation initiatives, and developing protocols for optimal practices. This internship’s specific focus can be customized to match your interests and skills, providing a diverse array of tasks for valuable learning experiences.
Responsibilities
- Conduct daily maintenance of orphan enclosures
- Prepare diets tailored to the nutritional needs of different animalsÂ
- Provide nourishment to orphans during the day and nightÂ
- Maintain a clean and organized nursery environmentÂ
- Administer species-specific enrichment activitiesÂ
- Development of species-specific protocols for raising orphansÂ
- In-depth study of orphan care, diet, and development stages
- Formulate & present an independent research project related to orphan careÂ
- Medicate and treat orphans when needed
Requirements
- Must be studying towards or have completed a degree in veterinary studies, biology or a related field
- Two academic and/or professional references UPON APPLICATION
- Ideally prior experience in wildlife rehabilitation, veterinary work, or animal husbandry
- A passion for wildlife conservation and community outreach work
- Hardworking and responsible
- Strong team player
- Fluent English language skills are required, Spanish is a bonus
- Minimum age of 18 years
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
Interns will stay in the Wildlife Sanctuary’s on-site volunteer house. Here, you’ll enjoy private or shared bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, laundry services and Wifi. You’ll also be able to embark on a range of outdoor activities like surfing, yoga, hiking, and waterfall tours.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Costa Rica is generally considered a safe travel destination although you have to keep the normal safety precautions in mind (take care of your valuables, don’t go out alone after dark, etc.). Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before your internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. Malaria risk is low, but consult your local health on whether or not to take any malaria medication.
Communication
Communication
Free Wifi is available at your accommodation to stay in touch with family and friends while abroad.
Meals
Meals
Three vegetarian meals a day from Monday to Sunday are provided. During the week, a chef will prepare lunch and dinner for you. You will need to prepare you own breakfast and meals over the weekend using the food provided (special requests for groceries can be made).
Location details
Location details
The organization is situated in the biological corridor that connects the Pacific Rainforest to the Osa Peninsula. This area houses 6.5% of the world’s biodiversity and contains the highest density in the world. The accommodation for this internship provides an up-close experience of one of the most exciting, and scientifically significant ecosystems on the planet.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
Arrival is always on Wednesday or Sunday (midday to 8PM). The exact start and end dates will be discussed with you during the selection process.
NOTE: this internship has limited availability: it is recommended to apply AT LEAST 6 months before your ideal start date
Preference is given to candidates that can commit to 12 weeks.
What you’ll pay (2026 rates)
6 weeks USD 2,954
8 weeks USD 3,607
10 weeks USD 4,264
12 weeks USD 4,896
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
- An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits.
- Accommodation based on a double room. If you prefer a single room or A/C, please contact us for availability and prices.
- Three vegetarian meals a day from Monday to Sunday (NB. During the week a chef will prepare lunch and dinner for you, during the weekend you prepare your own meals using food provided)
- Wifi access
- Guidance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
- Development of an Internship Work Plan to help you reach your learning goals
- Onboarding with your supervisor
- Regular check-ins
- Support from the Roots team remotely
- A certificate of completion at the end of your internship
- A reference letter upon request
Exclusions
- Flights to Juan SantamarÃa International Airport
- Transfer from the airport to the organization (private taxi, shuttle bus, or public bus)
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in Costa Rica.
What can I expect from an internship in Costa Rica?
During your internship, you can expect to gain a mix of professional development and cultural exploration. Also, throughout your internship, you’ll gain hands-on experience in your chosen field, collaborating with locals and fellow interns, building relationships and a strong network.
How will a nonprofit internship in Costa Rica boost my career development?
As you engage in meaningful projects that contribute to sustainable development and environmental causes, you’ll gain a sense of purpose and passion for creating a positive change. Also, you’ll get to use and sharpen your professional skills, as well as your interpersonal skills. If you wish to know more about how doing a nonprofit internship is good for your career, make sure to check this blog out!
While on an internship in Costa Rica can I receive university credit?
Yes, but you must ensure with your university supervisor that the internship meets the needed requirements. You can also choose to purchase transfer credits to supplement your internship experience.
Will I receive compensation of any kind during my internship?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to receive any sort of stipend. When interning for a nonprofit organization, you will not be paid, but here are some ways to fund your internship. Your experience will bring opportunities for both professional and personal growth and a wealth of new knowledge which is invaluable!
REVIEWS
I would definitely recommend this internship for people who have a passion for animal care and rewilding. It was an amazing experience that taught me so much. It was rewarding whilst also providing time to explore Costa Rica as a tourist. The internship has helped to focus my university studies and has confirmed that I want to work in wildlife conservation after graduation.
Amelia, British – University of Liverpool
Orphan Care Internship, Costa Rica
My internship was invaluable for developing clinical skills and gaining hands-on experience with species I’d never encountered before. While many tasks like feeding and cleaning were repetitive, the opportunity to assist with animal exams and emergencies, and especially to witness the rehabilitation and release of a rescued bat, deeply impacted me. This experience has strengthened my commitment to becoming a wildlife veterinarian and taught me the importance of keeping an open mind, resilience, and compassionate care.
Larissa, American – Northeastern University
Veterinary Internship, Costa Rica
This internship was amazing! I was able to work with so many unique animals, immerse myself in Costa Rican culture, and meet people from all over the world. This internship pushed me out of my comfort zone and I am proud to have traveled to a place where I didn't know anyone and managed to make many meaningful connections that I know will stay with me forever. See More
Lyra, American – University of Minnesota
Wildlife Husbandry Internship, Costa Rica
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica
PROJECT FOCUS: Animal Welfare & Conservation NGO
TASK FOCUS: Animal Care, Nursery Assistance, Animal Research
LENGTH: 6-12 weeks
COST: From USD 2,954
FEATURED REVIEW
I would definitely recommend this internship for people who have a passion for animal care and rewilding. It was an amazing experience that taught me so much. It was rewarding whilst also providing time to explore Costa Rica as a tourist. The internship has helped to focus my university studies and has confirmed that I want to work in wildlife conservation after graduation.
Amelia, British – University of Liverpool
Orphan Care Internship, Costa Rica
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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