Overview

The Women Empowerment Program in Costa Rica, offered by Volunteering Solutions, is a community-focused initiative aimed at supporting women who are overcoming social, economic, and personal challenges. Gender inequality and limited access to education and employment opportunities continue to affect many women across Latin America, making empowerment-based interventions critically important.

This program is designed to help women build self-confidence, practical skills, and emotional resilience through a combination of educational workshops, psychological support, and vocational training. A strong emphasis is placed on income-generating skills, entrepreneurship, and financial education, enabling participants to move toward economic independence and sustainable livelihoods.

Volunteers work closely with local staff and community partners to deliver workshops, provide mentorship, and support daily program activities. By contributing their time, skills, and enthusiasm, volunteers help create a safe and supportive environment where women can develop the tools needed to improve their quality of life and strengthen their role within their families and communities.

Program placements are located in and around San Ramon de Alajuela.

Volunteer Work Schedule

Volunteers typically work from Monday to Friday for approximately six hours per day. The general schedule runs between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm, although exact working hours may vary depending on daily activities and program needs. The Women Empowerment Program is available year-round and offers flexible participation durations ranging from 2 to 24 weeks. The placements are located in and around San Ramón de Alajuela, Costa Rica.

Volunteer Roles & Responsibilities

Volunteer roles may vary depending on individual skills, experience, and the needs of the program. Typical responsibilities include:

Educational and Skills Development Support

Assisting in workshops focused on life skills, self-development, and vocational training
Supporting income-generating activities such as handicrafts, small business initiatives, or skill-based training sessions
Helping participants improve organizational, communication, and time management skills

Psychological and Emotional Support

Supporting self-esteem and confidence-building activities
Offering encouragement and empathetic listening in a safe and respectful setting
Qualified volunteers may assist with psychological support sessions under supervision

Financial Education and Entrepreneurship

Teaching basic financial literacy, budgeting, and money management skills
Assisting with entrepreneurship coaching and development of small income-generating projects
Helping women understand responsible financial planning and long-term financial security

Marketing and Outreach Assistance

Assisting with marketing and promotion of products created by program participants
Supporting digital marketing initiatives, including social media and online outreach
Helping increase visibility and awareness of the women empowerment initiative within the local community

Through their involvement, volunteers with Volunteering Solutions help empower women to build confidence, achieve financial independence, and create lasting positive change in their lives and communities.

Project Requirement

Volunteers must be 18 years or older and have a genuine interest in women’s empowerment, community development, education, or social work. Participants are required to have basic Spanish language skills or be willing to take Spanish classes prior to the placement, as this helps ensure effective communication within the community. Volunteers should be compassionate, patient, and open-minded, with the ability to adapt to a local working environment and respect cultural differences. A willingness to follow program guidelines and work collaboratively with local staff and other volunteers is essential for a successful and rewarding experience.Volunteers that have training in psychology or social work are greatly appreciated in this project.A clean criminal background check is required from all volunteers.

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Living

Airport Transfer
Volunteers are picked up from the San Jose International Airport or hotels located in close vicinity of the airport on the scheduled arrival day.Airport pickup is provided between 8am - 10pm only.Please note that if you arrive later(planned or by delay) than 10 pm you might be asked to pay for a hostel/hotel for the first night.If a participant can’t make it on specified dates, a $75 fee is added to the program to cover extra transportation and private orientation.

Accommodation
As a volunteer, you'll have the opportunity to immerse in the local culture by staying with a local host family. By living with a host family, you'll get to know more about the way of life of locals. It'll also be a great opportunity for you to polish your Spanish skills. Comfortable and safe accommodation is ensured for all volunteers.While staying with a host family, participants get their own room or share with another participant if staying at the same family.

Orientation
All volunteers are given an Orientation beginning on their project start date. Orientation is conducted by the local staff and covers topics such as Costa Rican Customs, Rules and Expectations, Safety and Introduction to your project and placement.

Meals
Volunteers are provided with two cooked meals a day at the host family house. Local Costa Rican cuisine is a fusion of cuisines from different parts of the world. Common foods are Rice, Vegetables, Beans, Pork, Meat, Chicken etc.

During your Free Time
Volunteers are free to visit and see places or do shopping during their free time. San Ramón, located in the central valley of Costa Rica, offers a variety of attractions that showcase both natural beauty and cultural significance. Here are some must-see things in and near San Ramón:

La Fortuna Waterfall – Although not in San Ramón itself, this stunning waterfall is just a short drive away and is one of the most popular natural attractions in the region.
Catarata Río Bonito – A beautiful, lesser-known waterfall located near San Ramón, perfect for hiking, swimming, and enjoying the surrounding rainforest.
Museo de San Ramón – A local museum that provides insight into the history, culture, and development of the area, showcasing historical artifacts and exhibits about the region’s heritage.
Cultural Events – San Ramón is known for its cultural scene, with local festivals, music, and theater events throughout the year. Be sure to check out what’s happening during your visit!
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve – Although it's a bit farther from San Ramón, the Monteverde Cloud Forest offers breathtaking views and wildlife sightings, including a diverse range of plant and animal species.
Volcán Arenal – A major tourist destination nearby, where you can explore the Arenal Volcano National Park, take a hike, relax in hot springs, or enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
Santo Cristo Waterfall – A more remote and tranquil waterfall, located outside of town, great for nature lovers seeking a peaceful environment.
Coffee Tours – Explore the coffee plantations in and around San Ramón to learn about the coffee-making process and sample some of the best coffee in Costa Rica.

Childcare/Teaching Program- San Ramon Alajuela

Childcare/Teaching/Medical Program- San Jose, Costa Rica

Dates

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

Costs

Duration	Program Fee	Choose your currency
4 Weeks	$1652
5 Weeks	$1778
6 Weeks	$1906
7 Weeks	$2035
8 Weeks	$2163
Extra Week	$175

Please Note: An application fee of is charged over and above the program fee as an application payment. A 5% international banking fee is charged for credit card payments of program fee in USD/AUD.

What are you Paying For?

Pre Departure Support and Communication
Pre Departure Information Guide
Host family accommodation with two meals per day
Participation in cultural activities
Local support
Placement coordination
Orientation
Welcome at airport with transport to host community/ one way
Certificate of program completion (On Request)

What's NOT Included?

Return Airport Drop
Airfare
Travel health insurance
Weekend leisure travel
Personal expenses
Laundry

FAQ's

Accommodation, Meals and Daily Life

Can vegetarians be accommodated?: Yes, however, you must inform us in advance and also mention about any dietary requirement in your application form.
Are there more expenses once I arrive in Costa Rica?: Your program fee does not cover your personal expenses. You will need to provide for yourself your personal expenses, such as bottled water, local transport, telephone, shopping, sightseeing etc. However, you should carry around $70-$80 per week for your basic personal expenses. This amount can vary and you would need a higher amount if you choose to go on weekend trips out of town.
For how many hours do I have to volunteer in a day?: Volunteers usually work for 4 to 6 hours a day depending on their program. You will have weekends off so you can travel on weekends. However, volunteers need to be flexible, open-minded and understand that work requirements can change as well on certain occasions.
Can I know more about accommodation and food arrangements?: Turtle, Wildlife and Permaculture Project
Upon arrival in San Jose accommodation is provided in a hostel for the night. When at the project in Nicoya Peninsula, the accommodation is located closer to the beach and the turtle nesting sites. This rustic station
accommodates volunteers in shared rooms with basic facilities, ideal for those seeking a more immersive field experience. All meals are freshly prepared, mostly vegetarian, and often made with local produce. Solar power supports essential needs, and Wi- Fi is limited — encouraging full connection with the natural surroundings. Wildlife is part of daily life here: monkeys,tropical birds, and even the occasional deer or iguana can be seen near the camp. The atmosphere is communal, friendly, and rooted in respect for the environment
Teaching, Childcare and Women Empowerment Projects
Volunteers stay with welcoming local host families, offering a great chance to experience Costa Rican culture and daily life. You’ll receive two meals per day, and detailed information about your host family will be shared after your placement is confirmed.
Animal Rescue Project (Puerto Viejo)
On arrival, volunteers stay one night in a hostel in San José. During the project, accommodation is provided in a dorm-style hostel near the center. Meals are not included, but you’ll have access to a fully equipped kitchen to prepare your own food.
Osa Peninsula Projects
Volunteers in the Osa Peninsula stay directly at the project site in shared dorm-style accommodation.

Connect with Past Volunteers

How can I connect with past Volunteering Solutions Costa Rica alumni as well as other former and current volunteers?: We encourage volunteers to get in touch with former Volunteering Solutions Costa Rica program participants and also other program participants joining our projects. You are recommended to join the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/VolunteeringSolutions/">Volunteering Solutions Facebook Page</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/VolunteeringSolutions/">Facebook Group</a> to communicate with other participants. 
 
 
To read alumni interviews from past participants, visit ?the <a href="https://www.volunteeringsolutions.com/meet-a-volunteer">Meet a Volunteer</a> section on our website.

Flights, Arrival and Visa Information

Does Volunteering Solutions help with Visa?: Participants (most nationalities) require a Tourist Visa to travel to Costa Rica. Travelers from most countries can get a 90-day permit stamped on their passport on arrival.We advise you to check with your nearest Costa Rican embassy as well.
What are the recommended airlines to fly to Costa Rica?: Several international airlines offer convenient flights to Costa Rica from both North America and Europe. From North America, airlines such as United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, and Air Canada operate frequent direct and connecting flights to Costa Rica from major cities in the United States and Canada. These airlines provide good connectivity via hubs such as Houston, Miami, Atlanta, New York, Toronto, and Montreal, making travel to Costa Rica straightforward and accessible.
Travellers flying from Europe can choose from a number of well-established carriers offering direct or one-stop flights to Costa Rica. British Airways operates direct flights from London, while Iberia offers direct connections from Madrid. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Air France provide direct services from Amsterdam and Paris respectively, and airlines such as Lufthansa and SWISS International Air Lines offer convenient one-stop connections from other European cities via their main hubs.
Volunteers are recommended to book flights arriving at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, which is Costa Rica’s main international airport and offers the widest range of international connections, as well as the most convenient onward travel options to the project location.

Free Time and Weekend Travel

Would I have free time during my program? Can I do sightseeing during my program?: Depending on your project placement, you will get evenings and the weekends free to travel and explore the place. In the evenings, volunteers usually get together and go out for social gatherings, eat out or just relax at the volunteer house. Weekends are free for the volunteers and you can go for short weekend trips. There’s actually so much to do in Costa Rica. Visit Nicoya Peninsula, Arenal Volcano, Corcovado National Park, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, La Paz Waterfall Gardens, Tabacón Hot Springs, San José, Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, Tortuguero National Park and much more. For volunteers in Playa Ario, there is plenty to experience in and around Playa Ario and the Nicoya Peninsula when you’re not working on conservation projects. Many volunteers also organize shared taxis to visit Santa Teresa, a lively beach town located about 45 minutes away. Known for its vibrant cafés, surf culture, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great place to spend a day off with fellow volunteers. Free activities offered at the camp include guided night walks, movie nights, and communal dinners — perfect moments to relax, share experiences, and enjoy the sense of community that grows naturally here.

Health, Safety and Support

Do I need to buy health insurance?: Yes, for all participants, it is mandatory to have a valid travel medical insurance for their trip. Volunteers have the option to purchase Travel and Medical Insurance at a nominal extra cost from Volunteering Solutions.  To provide the best option to our participants, we offer comprehensive insurance coverage in collaboration with a leading insurance provider.  
 
If you already have a valid Travel and Medical insurance, you can email us a copy of the same. It is also advised to bring along the Insurance documents during your trip.
How safe is Costa Rica in general?: Costa Rica is considered one of the safest and most stable countries in Central America, and it is a popular destination for international travellers, students, and volunteers. The country has a long-standing reputation for political stability, a strong democratic system, and no standing army, which has contributed to a generally peaceful society.For visitors, Costa Rica is safe to travel when normal precautions are taken. Most trips are trouble-free, especially in tourist-friendly areas such as San José, the Nicoya Peninsula, and coastal regions.
What immunizations/vaccinations will I need?: All participants are recommended to consult their physician or travel doctor before traveling to Costa Rica. To view the general list of vaccinations recommended for your travel to Costa Rica, click here.

Program Overview and Application Process

When should I apply for the volunteer programs in Costa Rica?: It is advised to apply for the projects once the volunteering/ traveling dates are decided as there are limited spots available. The application fee is valid for one full year and can be sent earlier than the desired period of volunteering, for timely confirmation of the seat. As soon as you decide the travel dates, we suggest you to apply for the program and hold your spot. We abide by the first come first serve policy.
How long will it take to process my application? Will my application be accepted?: Usually, it takes around 10-12 working days for the application to be processed and placement to be confirmed. After we review your CV and documents, your booking is confirmed and the booking confirmation is updated in your My Account and you can view the information in your account. The application acceptance depends on the availability of seats in the project as well as the eligibility criteria of the program (age, skills and experience etc.).
Are there any necessary requirements to participate in the Costa Rica volunteer programs?: Below are the necessary requirements to participate in the Costa Rica volunteer projects: 
Volunteers must be 17 years or older for Teaching, Childcare, and Spanish Immersion at the beginning of the program. For all other programs, you need to be 18 years or older. 
Volunteers joining the medical volunteer project must be either Pre-Medical, Medical or Nursing student or possess other qualifications related to medical and nursing field. Medical professionals such as doctors and nurses are also welcome to join the program. 
Volunteers need to have an open mind and flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment. 
The volunteer should bring energy and enthusiasm to make a difference. 
The participant must be in good health. 
Knowledge of Spanish (basic to intermediate) is necessary for all the programs.
Can I volunteer as part of a group?: Yes, you are welcome to take part in Costa Rica Volunteer Programs as part of a group. We welcome families, friends, high school students, college/university and corporate groups to volunteer together in the Costa Rica volunteer programs. Please get in touch for a customized program suitable for your group as per your budget and requirements.
I haven’t traveled or volunteered abroad before. Can I still be a part of VolSol?: Yes, most definitely you can, as we believe that every participant brings something new to the project. If you do not have previous experience, we offer you the opportunity to have a great start with us. We make international volunteering easy – not only are our Volunteer Abroad opportunities rooted in offering you extensive support, but they are also very affordable.
Does VolSol provide with a reference or a certificate after program completion?: Yes, we will provide you with the Certificate after successful completion of your program. The certificate is provided on request.
When do I need to arrive in Costa Rica for my program? What will happen once I arrive in Costa Rica?: All volunteers are required to arrive on the designated program start date. Upon arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport, participants will be met by a local representative and transferred to their assigned accommodations.
Volunteers joining the Childcare and Teaching programs will stay with carefully selected host families. Those participating in the Animal Rescue Project in Alajuela or the Turtle Conservation Project in Matapolo will spend their first night in a homestay before continuing to their project locations.
Participants enrolled in the Animal Rescue Project in Puerto Viejo will be collected from the airport and provided overnight accommodation in a hostel in San José. Volunteers joining the Turtle and Environmental Conservation Project in Osa Peninsula should arrive directly in Puerto Viejo, unless they have booked the optional San José Arrival Package, which includes airport pickup and an overnight stay.
What are the Program locations in Costa Rica?: We offer a wide variety of programs in Costa Rica located in all different regions of the country. The Childcare,Teaching and Women Empowerment projects are located in and around San Ramon de Alajuela which is around 45 minutes from the capital city of San Jose.The Turtle and Environment Conservation project is located in Osa Peninsula.The Wildlife and Animal Rescue Center project is located near Puerto Viejo. The Turtle, Wildlife and Permaculture project project takes place near Playa Ario, a wild and beautiful beach within the Caletas–Ario National Wildlife Refuge, where forests, rivers, and the ocean meet.