Login

Select travel dates to see prices

Excellent 4.88rating (26)
  • Life On Land

Monkey Monitoring Support

location
1 - 14 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Come and observe this amazing specie, discover its behavior and personality, and help us understand them to better conserve them.
  • Become fluent in the Spanish language by living with family and locals in our project.
  • For us it is a pleasure to teach you our culinary art; Typical dishes of the Caribbean.

Highlights

  • Come and observe this amazing specie, discover its behavior and personality, and help us understand them to better conserve them.
  • Become fluent in the Spanish language by living with family and locals in our project.
  • For us it is a pleasure to teach you our culinary art; Typical dishes of the Caribbean.
  • Your visit to our coastal community is very important.
  • Sip a coconut water in your hammock in front of the authentic Caribbean.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Join us in Costa Rica to observe howler, capuchin, and spider monkeys up close, and help protect these amazing creatures in their natural home!

    Importance

    We have four species of monkeys in Costa Rica, and at the Refuge we can observe three of them: white-faced monkeys, spider monkeys, and howler monkeys (the titi monkey is only seen naturally on the Pacific coast). The greatest threat to monkey populations is habitat fragmentation, which is ...

    About the program

    Importance

    We have four species of monkeys in Costa Rica, and at the Refuge we can observe three of them: white-faced monkeys, spider monkeys, and howler monkeys (the titi monkey is only seen naturally on the Pacific coast). The greatest threat to monkey populations is habitat fragmentation, which is difficult to combat, so we strive to monitor and understand their behavior in protected areas. Monkeys are key to maintaining ecosystems, important for seed dissemination and insect control. Through our monitoring program, we strive to learn about each individual, as well as the group's habits and behaviors.

    The Program

    The main objective of monkey monitoring is to understand our populations: both their group behavior and the number of individuals, and to characterize them. We map their movements in the area and define their diet and habits. All of this is achieved through rigorous observation and active note-taking.

    You'll also be able to participate in other activities held at the refuge, depending on the time of year.

    The Surrounding

    Volunteers will be working in a stunning and unique natural setting: a 4,200-meter stretch of pristine Caribbean beach nestled between the Tortuguero canals and the sea. This area is part of the Laguna Urpiano Wildlife Refuge, located in Matina, Limón Province, Costa Rica. The refuge spans 40 hectares of tropical forest and coastline. It’s a remote yet peaceful location, ideal for reconnecting with nature. While the area is safe, it is a public beach, and volunteers should remain mindful, especially during patrols. There are no specific health requirements, but volunteers should be physically fit for walking at night on the beach and able to handle tropical conditions such as heat and humidity. Living arrangements are simple but comfortable and designed for a communal, immersive experience. Volunteers can expect shared housing and basic amenities, with a focus on sustainability and low environmental impact.

    Volunteers will work alongside a passionate and experienced local team, including patrol leaders, guards, and conservation workers, many of whom are from the surrounding communities. These individuals are not only skilled in turtle conservation but are also central to our mission of social change and education. You’ll also be collaborating with other national and international volunteers, forming a close-knit team united by a shared goal. This creates a dynamic environment for cultural exchange and mutual learning.

    We expect volunteers to

    • Be genuinely committed to wildlife conservation. 
    • Be prepared for tropical climate. 
    • Respect local culture and wildlife. 
    • Work well in a team and adapt to communal living and a remote environment. 

    In return, volunteers can expect

    • A meaningful and hands-on conservation experience. 
    • Guidance and training from knowledgeable local staff. 
    • Opportunities to make a real impact for conservation. 
    • A chance to immerse themselves in Costa Rica’s natural beauty and biodiversity. 

    Special equipment needed: 

    • Headlamp (always useful in the middle of the jungle without regular ectricity). 
    • fast dry clothes are recommend
    • Rain gear and insect repellent 
    • Reusable water bottle and personal essentials for a remote area

    Typical day

    Sunrise time around 5:00 AM usually monkeys are around so is the perfect momento to take notes about how many we have and try to differece them as is the time when they are all communicating each other.

    Mornings begin at 8:00 AM with a typical and delicious Costa Rican breakfast: gallo pinto. ..

    Typical day

    Sunrise time around 5:00 AM usually monkeys are around so is the perfect momento to take notes about how many we have and try to differece them as is the time when they are all communicating each other.

    Mornings begin at 8:00 AM with a typical and delicious Costa Rican breakfast: gallo pinto. Whether you’ve had enough sleep or not, we ask that everyone joins breakfast out of respect for the kitchen team. Afterward, if you need to rest, you're free to do so. For those who are feeling energetic and eager to help, we offer a couple of hours of volunteer work around the refuge 

    from 9:00 to 11:00 AM, depending on the season and ongoing needs. 

    • Reforestation 
    • Beach cleanups 
    • Gardening or animal care 
    • Trail and green area maintenance 
    • Helping with construction or renovation projects 

    At 1:00 PM, we gather again for a traditional Costa Rican lunch, followed by free time to rest in your room, under the trees, on the beach, or in one of our hammocks. 

    Later, around 3:00 or 3:30 PM, we resume with another two hours of light and enjoyable tasks. 

    Dinner is served at 7:00 PM, when is already dark and you will have enough time to rest when monkey does.

      *Turtle Season: from march to middle July we have in addition night patrols to discover the amazing Leatherback and act agains her extinction,

    We also make time to enjoy ourselves, whether it’s relaxing on the beach, exploring the nearby canals, or joining in games and sports with fellow volunteers. 

    Don't miss out, it’s all part of the experience!

    Free-time activities

    The environment invites you to rest, but you are always welcome to have a little time in the sea or a game of volleyball or soccer, runs on the beach, yoga, meditation, walks along the trails to observe fauna and flora as well as eventual boat rides through the canals or excursions to nearby ...

    Free-time activities

    The environment invites you to rest, but you are always welcome to have a little time in the sea or a game of volleyball or soccer, runs on the beach, yoga, meditation, walks along the trails to observe fauna and flora as well as eventual boat rides through the canals or excursions to nearby communities. Due to the remoteness of the project it is not always possible to visit other places, but we are always willing to help you organize a weekend away if you wish.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level) or Spanish (basic level)

    Required Documents

    Passport and Health Insurance

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Other Skills

    A desire to work for the planet and share with people from other cultures.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    With the money we will provide you with: 

    • 3 cooked meals pers day, coffee time in the afternoon and night; 
    • good rooms for your accommodation, 
    • best water to drink 
    • and you will make a contribution to maintain our place and equipment.

    In addition you will have to pay 50$ for transport in and out for boat and car once you arrive to the project.

    Accommodation

    The facilities are basic and are constantly being renovated: 

    • There are shared rooms according to availability, with single beds or bunk beds. 
    • Bathrooms are common and are located behind the bedrooms. 
    • Mattresses with sheets and mosquito nets are on the beds, but you should bring your bath cloths and toiletries.

    We also have a kitchen and a rustic outdoor dining room where biology and training talks are also held.

    The water, of very good quality, is from a well drilled in front of the house equipped with a gasoline pump through which tanks are filled that allow us to have running water in the kitchen, toilets and showers.

    *Please note: We do not have electricity so the use of electronic devices is limited (thanks to a recent donation we have solar energy so we equip the facilities with some plugs where you can charge your devices during the day and without abusing it because it is limited energy and the need for the night). For regular life this is not a problem because the schedules are accommodated to solar time.

    Food & Beverages

    • Our meals are typically Costa Rican since we live with people from the country and it is an opportunity for complete immersion in our culture. The base of the meal is rice and beans. We also try to eat a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables, meat, dairy and fish. If you have any allergies or specific diets, tell us and we will adapt.
    • Our cook will serve three meals a day and we will try to always have coffee available for you.
    • The water we drink is from a drilled well and is analyzed three times a year, it is perfect for consumption and comes out fresh.

      • Remember, if you need to, bring your snacks or personal extras as we are on an island without access to shops.

    Internet Access

    Limited access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Juan Santamaria International Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) in San Jose. We assist you to find cheap flights to Costa Rica. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Costa Rica provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Costa Rica you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Costa Rica. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    You can enter and exit the project on any day you want as long as we have agreed on the dates in advance. 

    Upon arrival, after arriving in Bataán on the bus that arrives from San José or from your previous destination, a member of our team will be waiting to greet you and take you by car to the canals on a 40-minute drive between the bathing plantations. You will arrive at the pier that we call La Alcantarilla and there will be the boat that takes you to paradise, in 15 minutes you will be at the refuge and you will be part of the family.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $266 per week 1 - 14 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    1 - 14 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet

    4.88
    ・
    26 reviews

    Location

    Americas > Central America > Costa Rica > Matina

    Meet your project coordinator

    Johnny
    26
    reviews
    4.88
    Excellent
    2014
    Founded

    Verified

      Excellent response rate
    Spoken languages: English, Spanish
    Travel safely by using Volunteer World for your communication and bookings. This way, you can benefit from the Flex Option, Refund Guarantee, and Resolution Support.

    You might also be interested in

    Volunteer Abroad  >  Animals  >  Primate Conservation in Costa Rica
    Contact Johnny
      Excellent response rate
    English, Spanish

    Most volunteers ask about

    Do you have any more questions? Send a message to Johnny
    Please don't share personal contact details for your privacy

    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

    Book with Flex Option!

    Choose new departure dates or change to a different volunteer program at no extra costs within 12 months.

    Complete Support for Every Volunteer

    This helps us run our platform and offer essential services like Comprehensive Support, Refund Guarantee, Flex Option without rebooking costs, and Price-Guarantee. This includes VAT.

    Price details