Volunteer

Experience. Learn. Give Back.

Immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind volunteer opportunity in the heart of Costa Rica’s rural community of Guayabo de Bagaces.

Join us on our pristine 300-acre property, where you’ll play a hands-on role in improving the lives of animals. Make a real difference while exploring nature, wildlife, and local culture.

Volunteer Opportunities

Three Ways to Volunteer:

Airbnb Guest Experience

Perfect for villa guests who want to add purpose to their stay.

Feed, bathe, and socialize with rescue animals
Support basic training activities
Flexible participation during your Airbnb booking

Ready to book your villa and volunteer during your stay? Simply reserve through Airbnb and let us know you’d like to volunteer when you arrive.

What's Included

Your Gorgeous Villa Includes:

AC • Full kitchen • Washer/dryer • High-speed internet • King bed • Private bathrooms • Wrap-around porch • Stunning sunrise/sunset views • In-country staff support

Hometown Helpers

For Costa Rica residents and local community members.

Volunteer weekly, monthly, or one-time
Ongoing opportunities every Saturday
Flexible scheduling to fit your life

Living in Costa Rica and want to help? Just send us a quick email with your location and availability. We’ll respond within 24 hours to get you scheduled.

Journeys That Give

Immersive volunteer vacations for international travelers.

Custom experiences with full transportation
All proceeds support our mission
Eco-tourism that makes a real difference

Interested in a journey that gives? Complete our interest form below and we’ll create a personalized itinerary based on your dates, interests, and group size.

Journeys That Give

Sample Itinerary: Your Week with GAR

Day 1 — Welcome tour & orientation
Day 2 — Horseback tour, animal care overview, hands-on animal care
Day 3 — Apiary visit & beekeeping, ATV ride, animal care including medical duties
Day 4 — Full-day volunteering (feeding, cleaning, socializing)
Day 5 — Optional off-site excursion day
Day 6 — Flexible volunteer projects & community service
Day 7 — Wrap-up, final interactions, and feedback

Excursions and activities can be customized based on your interests.

A Day in the Life: Experience a Typical Day with Our Team

6:30 AM — Morning Feeding
Start your day feeding our rescue animals. Join us for this heartwarming routine! (Weekend times may vary slightly)

Pro Tip: Catch the spectacular 5:30 AM sunrise from the Gazebo on the hill.

7:00 AM — Cleaning & Care
Clean kennels, stalls, and living spaces while connecting with the animals and learning their unique personalities.

8:00 AM — Coffee Break
Relax with the team over coffee and conversation.

9:00 AM — Medical Care
Observe or assist with medical attention for animals in need.

10:00 AM — Projects & Socialization
Work on ongoing projects and spend quality time with animals in leash-training and socialization programs. Cuddle puppies who need extra love!

12:00 PM — Lunch
Enjoy lunch at your own pace or gather with the team.

1:00 PM — Afternoon Activities
Flexible time for special projects, rescue missions, community vaccinations, or exploring the property (ATV rides, horseback riding, hiking, or relaxing with animals).

4:00 PM — Workday Ends
Official workday concludes (though care continues around the clock as with any nonprofit).

5:30 PM — Sunset
Soak in the breathtaking sunset from your villa.