Adventerous Voluntary Programs in Costa Rica

About the Volunteer Programs in Costa Rica – Rainforest of Banaga (province of Limón)

While specific voluntareer programs in Costa Rica in the province of Limón, particularly in the rainforest of Banago close to Bananito Sur, may require further research, here are some potential opportunities that align with your interests:

• Organic Farming and Freshwater Conservation: Volunteer on organic farms in the region, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and helping with freshwater conservation efforts.
• Environmental Conservation and Rainforest Maintenance: Contribute to rainforest conservation initiatives by participating in activities such as reforestation, trail maintenance, and wildlife monitoring.
• Building and Construction of Camping Facilities: Volunteer to assist in the construction and maintenance of camping facilities, focusing on eco-friendly and sustainable practices using natural rainforest materials. Hiking Trail Maintenance: Support the maintenance and improvement of hiking trails in the rainforest, ensuring safe and enjoyable experiences for visitors while minimizing environmental impact.
• Art and Decoration with Organic Rainforest Materials: Utilize organic materials sourced from the rainforest to create artwork and decorations that enhance the natural beauty of the jungle and camping sites.
• Base for Wildlife Biologists and Scientists, for research and fieldworkers in the rainforest. We have long as well as short term base facilities, and its location, and environment could be ideal for some to execute their research of Costa Rica wildlife, rainforest, ecological, cultural or other scientific research projects.

Volunteer Programs in Costa Rica | Organic Farming

Dive into the world of organic farming. Learn sustainable practices, nurture the environment, and harvest the rewards of nature’s bounty.

A great oppurtunity to enjoy the Rainforest are the Volunteering Programs in Costa Rica.

‘Organic farming’ in the rainforest of involves cultivating crops using natural methods without the use of synthetic chemicals or genetically modified organisms.

Volunteer Programs in Costa Rica | Rainforest Conservation

Join the crucial mission of rainforest conservation. Here are some activities you can engage in:

• Reforestation: Join tree planting projects to restore deforested areas or assist in establishing nurseries for seedlings.
• Trail maintenance: Help maintain existing trails or create new ones with proper signage and markers to minimize environmental impact.
• Wildlife monitoring: Support efforts to track and monitor wildlife populations to better understand their behavior and protect their habitats.

Volunteer Programs in Costa Rica | Camping Construction and Hiking Trails

Help shape a vibrant camping community and breathtaking hiking trails. Contribute, connect with nature enthusiasts, and forge unforgettable experiences.

These volunteering programs in Costa Rica at Finca van Maare contribute to promote sustainable tourism and help to protect this important ecosystem.

The rainforest of Banaga is home to a huge range of flora, fauna and wildlife.

Volunteer Programs in Costa Rica | Art and Decoration with Rainforest Materials

There are many different art projects that could be implemented in a rainforest setting that incorporates trails, camping, sports, barbeque areas, signage, and walkways. These volunteer programs in Costa Rica are for the creative minds.

These are just a few ideas to get started. The possibilities for art projects in a rainforest setting are endless, and with a little creativity, it’s possible to enhance the natural beauty of the environment while also providing an enriching experience for visitors.

Base for Wildlife Biologists and Scientists for Research

Finca van Maare offers for short as well as long term a ‘Base Station’ to operate from. This station is located in Rainforest of Banaga in the Province of Limon and provides a base for researchers studying a wide range of topics related to rainforest ecology, including plant-animal interactions, tropical biodiversity, and climate change.

A great opportunity to study some of the world’s most unique and endangered species in their natural habitat can be an incredibly rewarding experience for wildlife biologists and other scientists.

What to expect and bring with you?

Enjoy the Jungle, ‘Take a Dip’ in the River and Have Fun!

Volunteers who have the opportunity to enjoy a rainforest swim in the river can experience a range of benefits, both physical and mental. Here are some potential benefits:

• Refreshing and rejuvenating: Swimming in a natural river within the rainforest can provide a refreshing and invigorating experience. Cool water can help relieve stress and revitalizes the body and mind.
• Connection with nature: Rainforests are incredibly diverse and beautiful ecosystems. By swimming in the river, volunteers can immerse themselves in the natural environment, fostering a deeper connection with nature and gaining a greater appreciation for its beauty.
• Physical exercise: Swimming is an excellent form of exercise that engages the entire body. It helps strengthen muscles, improve cardiovascular health, and enhance overall fitness levels. The resistance of the water provides a low-impact workout, making it suitable for people of different fitness levels.
• Stress relief: Being in nature, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rainforest, can have a calming effect on the mind. Swimming in the river allows volunteers to unwind, escape from daily pressures, and experience a sense of tranquility.
• Mental well-being: Engaging in outdoor activities like swimming in the rainforest river promotes mental well-being. It can boost mood, increase happiness, and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Being in a peaceful natural environment can also help clear the mind and enhance mental clarity.
• Wildlife encounters: Rivers in the rainforest are often home to various wildlife species. While swimming, volunteers may have the opportunity to observe and interact with unique aquatic plants, fish, birds, or other creatures, creating unforgettable moments and fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.
• Educational experience: Exploring the river ecosystem firsthand provides valuable educational opportunities. Volunteers can learn about the various plant and animal species that depend on the river, gaining insights into the delicate balance of the rainforest ecosystem and the importance of conservation efforts.
• Adventure and fun: Swimming in a rainforest river can be an exciting and adventurous experience. Volunteers can enjoy the thrill of discovering hidden pools, jumping off rocks into the water, or simply floating along the gentle currents. It offers a break from routine and allows for moments of joy and fun.
• Improved sleep: Physical activity and exposure to nature during a rainforest swim can contribute to better sleep quality. The combination of exercise, fresh air, and a calming environment can help regulate sleep patterns and promote a restful night’s sleep.

Remember to follow any safety guidelines and regulations in place when swimming in a rainforest river, and be mindful of the environmental impact to ensure the conservation of these precious ecosystems for future generations.

What To Bring with You?

If you’re planning to particpate in these Volunteer Programs in Costa Rica, it’s important to pack the right items to make your experience comfortable and productive. Here are some essentials to consider bringing with you:

• Clothing: Costa Rica has a tropical climate, so lightweight, breathable clothing is a must. Pack clothes that dry quickly and wick away sweat, such as moisture-wicking shirts, shorts, and pants. Be sure to pack a rain jacket, as the country has a rainy season. Also, bring comfortable shoes suitable for the type of volunteer work you’ll be doing, such as closed-toe shoes for construction or gardening work.
• Sun protection: Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the intense sun. A high SPF sunscreen (at least 30) is recommended.
• Insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent in some areas of Costa Rica, so it’s a good idea to bring insect repellent with DEET or a natural alternative.
• Medications and first aid kit: If you take any prescription medications, make sure you bring enough to last for the duration of your stay. Also, bring a first aid kit with basic supplies such as band-aids, antiseptic, and pain relievers.
• Water bottle: To stay hydrated during volunteer work in the tropical climate, bring a reusable water bottle that you can refill throughout the day.
• Electronics: Bring a camera to capture your experiences and a charger for your electronic devices. Be sure to bring a plug adapter if your devices require one.
• A bit of cash. While many places in Costa Rica accept credit cards, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases, and ATM’s are located in the cities of Limon and Puerto Viejo.
• Spanish phrasebook: Even if you speak some Spanish, it can be helpful to have a phrasebook to communicate with locals and other volunteers.
• Flashlights, on battery or LED, and a power bank to charge your phone or Led Flashlights. The Powerbank can be charged at the local super market, beyond the river.

Remember to pack light, as you may need to carry your luggage during your volunteer work in Costa Rica. And do not bring expensive clothing into the jungle, as you do not need it.

What Is Included during your stay?

These volunteer programs in Costa Rica include the following:

• Camping Accommodation (jungle wood construction platform from the ground), with sheltered metal roof Construction (tent can be arranged), or bring your own new basic shelter tent (which will be refunded if new, if leave this after your project). The camping under development has sanitair facilities (shower and toilets).
• Main meal Costa Rica dinner with Rice, Bean, Chicken and Fresh Vegetables and Fruits.
• All organic farm and jungle ingredients for other meals, rice and beans (you can cook in community kitchen), except meat and your personal needs (you have to buy yourself, like candy, a beer or for example a soda). Supermarkets are within reasonable reach, accross the river. You can only pay cash in most of the local supermarkets, bars and restaurants. It is not an arban area.
• Use of group accomodation, kitchen facilitites (jungle style), and cooking the old fashioned way. You Have to make your own fire, we have instuctors, to help and teach you.
• Fresh water source (which is pure and 100% controlled), with unlimited fresh drinking water.
• Enjoy the primary and secondary Rainforest, it’s nature and wildlife.
• Your own, private, river, the Bananito River, to swim and relax.

What to take into account | remote location?

Although the Rainforest of Banago, close to Bananto Sur, is split by a river, to village life, you are not completely isolated. Within a good walking distance there is a bar, restaurant and some supermarkets. But you have to take into account, if you plan to participate in these volunteer programs in Costa Rica, the following: :

• Area is quite remote. Although the public transportation systems Costa Rica is safe and well controlled, you will need a local cab driver, to go to the bus station, with buses to Limon or Puerto Viejo and Cahuita. For approximately $3 till $5, you will be brought to center mall or the main road, with Public Transportation, which is reliable and safe. This is the cheapest way.
• You will never be alone. It is private territory and protected rainforest, and there is always one the experienced tour guides, owners or local rangers, be present and reachable, in case of emergency.
• The rainforest in Banaga is quite remote, so internet access is limited. A local phone card, with Kolbi, is enough, when you cross the river, but do not exect high quality internet. It is a remote area. Except in particular for Wildlife Biologist, you have to establish a connection yourself.

Location – Finca van Maare | Rainforest of Banaga, located between Puerto Limón and Puerto Viejo

The Location of ‘Finca van Maare’ is in the Rainforest of Banaga, close to the village of Bananito Sur. Located in the Province of Limón in Costa Rica, between Puerto Limón and Puerto Viejo.

[Google Maps]

More information about Finca van Maare

Location Finca van Maare and Video

´Rescued by the Rainforest in Costa Rica´, produced by ‘Deej Phillips’ (Film Producer), together with David (called The Dutch Biologist of Cahuita).

Costa Rica and lots of Natives, Eco Participants, and Local Communities, as well as Government Institutions, work for a better environment. They invest in a better future and Nature Conservation and Protect Wildlife.

A video worthwhile to see. We hope it motivates, you and visit Costa Rica en get acquainted with its Lush Wildlife Nature.