At the rescue center, the accommodation is set up to be cozy and practical for volunteers. Each room has four single beds with comfy mattresses, individual reading lights, and plugs to charge your gadgets. You've got your own bathroom with a toilet
and a hot shower, so no need to share with a crowd.
We hook you up with bed linen and towels (just not for the beach), and there's Wi-Fi everywhere for staying connected. They keep things clean with regular cleaning, and you can do your laundry on-site for a small fee (approx. 8 USD per load), which is handy.
There's a chill hangout spot called El Rancho where you can relax and hang out with other volunteers after your day's work. While meals aren't provided, you've got access to a fully decked-out kitchen with everything you need to cook up your own grub - cutlery, pots, pans, stoves, ovens, and microwaves. You can stash your food in the fridges and even bring lunch to the center, where they've got more fridges and microwaves for your convenience.
All in all, it's a laid-back setup that makes sure you're comfortable while you're helping out at the center.
Important Arrival Information
Animal Rescue Center requires volunteers to start the project by 11:00 on Monday. You can make your own way to the project in Puerto Viejo, in which case the arrival day is Sunday, and the first night's accommodation from Sunday to Monday at your project accommodation is included, or ask your travel advisor to book an arrival package including all transfers and extra accommodation.
Arrival Package
The arrival package option includes the following:
- Arrival day in San José is Saturday
- Arrival transfer from the airport to your accommodation in San José
- One night's accommodation in San Jose in either a private room at Hotel Aranjuez/Fleur de Lys (including breakfast) or a shared dorm at La Capital Hostel San Jose
Departure Package
You can also book a departure package including a bus transfer from Puerto Viejo to San Jose, one night's accommodation in San Jose in either a private room at Hotel Aranjuez/Fleur de Lys (including breakfast) or a shared dorm at La Capital Hostel San Jose, and a transfer to the airport the following day.
Transportation to and from the Project
You can walk to the project from your accommodation.
Important Departure Information
Please note if you haven’t chosen a departure package you should book your return flight earliest for a Monday. The project finishes on a Sunday, but it's a 5-hour drive from Puerto Viejo to San José and this road is known for having problems that cause delays. Please note that you should book your own accommodation in San José as the night between Sunday and Monday is not included.
Meals are not included and can be prepared in the communal kitchen of the hostel. Tea, coffee and water are available all day.
Breakfast included in San Jose only with private rooms at Hotel Aranjuez/Fleur de Lys, if you include the arrival/departure packages.
You’ve got plenty of activities to choose from around Puerto Viejo:
Explore the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Reserve: Hike, kayak, and snorkel in the tropical waters, or discover protected beaches where sea turtles lay their eggs
Relax at the beach: Visit Playa Cocles, Playa Chiquita, or Punta Uva, all just a short tuk-tuk ride away. Think coconut palms, golden sands, and pure paradise
Snorkel the reefs: Dive into the clear waters around Puerto Viejo and explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life
Take a trip to Cahuita: Just an hour away, this charming beach town offers stunning coastal views, a national park with shady hiking trails, and playful monkeys
Enjoy fresh seafood: Treat yourself to a delicious meal packed with Caribbean flavors and celebrate an evening off in the sunshine
What to Bring
Hat
Sunscreen (minimum factor 50)
Towel
Rain jacket
Comfortable clothes that can get dirty, preferably fast-drying
Long pants and long sleeves
Rubber boots (if your shoe size is larger than 40, bring them with you)
Padlock for locker
Flashlight
Insect repellent
Sunglasses
Power converter for 110v sockets
Travel documents (passport, copy of medical insurance, personal medication information, vaccine card)
Personal / prescription medicines. Do take in consideration that although there are pharmacies in town, you must bring your personal medication (to last the duration of your stay) if you need any)