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Outstanding 4.92rating (10)
  • Life On Land

Butterflies Conservation Assistance

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

Highlights

  • Conservation: Actively participate in the protection and breeding of native butterflies and their natural habitats.
  • Education: Learn about biodiversity, life cycles, and sustainability through workshops and hands-on experiences.
  • Culture: Experience genuine cultural exchange.

Highlights

  • Conservation: Actively participate in the protection and breeding of native butterflies and their natural habitats.
  • Education: Learn about biodiversity, life cycles, and sustainability through workshops and hands-on experiences.
  • Culture: Experience genuine cultural exchange.
  • Nature: Enjoy a lush environment in Costa Rica, surrounded by butterflies.
  • Impact: Make a tangible contribution to a project that combines conservation, education, and community development.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    We are a family-run butterfly farm in Costa Rica that promotes conservation, education, and community development through sustainable tourism.

    Join our Butterfly Conservation Program at the Vida de Colores Butterfly Garden and gain hands-on experience in nature, conservation, and environmental education. Volunteers play a pivotal role in caring for butterflies, feeding and monitoring their health, growing and maintaining host plants and ...

    About the program

    Join our Butterfly Conservation Program at the Vida de Colores Butterfly Garden and gain hands-on experience in nature, conservation, and environmental education. Volunteers play a pivotal role in caring for butterflies, feeding and monitoring their health, growing and maintaining host plants and nectar essential to their life cycle, and helping to keep the gardens and facilities clean and inviting. You will also lead guided tours and support educational workshops aimed at raising awareness about butterfly conservation and biodiversity in the local community.

    The program includes a short, comprehensive training on butterfly life cycles, breeding techniques, habitat restoration, and sustainable practices to ensure volunteers acquire valuable knowledge and skills. In addition to conservation work, volunteers will have the opportunity to create educational materials such as brochures, exhibits, and interactive tools to help spread the message of environmental stewardship and inspire others to protect natural habitats.

    Volunteers experience a rich intercultural environment by living and working closely with our local team and other international participants. The accommodations are simple but comfortable, located in a safe and welcoming environment that fosters community, learning, and personal growth.

    This is a unique opportunity to contribute significantly to conservation efforts, enjoy Costa Rica's natural beauty, immerse yourself in local culture, and develop new skills that can benefit your personal and professional growth.

    Typical day

    We start our day at 8 a.m. with breakfast, gathering as a team to plan and discuss the day’s tasks. Mornings are dedicated to hands-on activities such as feeding and caring for the butterflies, cleaning gardens and common areas, planting host and nectar plants, and preparing educational materials ...

    Typical day

    We start our day at 8 a.m. with breakfast, gathering as a team to plan and discuss the day’s tasks. Mornings are dedicated to hands-on activities such as feeding and caring for the butterflies, cleaning gardens and common areas, planting host and nectar plants, and preparing educational materials for visitors and workshops.

    Around mid-morning, we take a short break to rest and hydrate before continuing with our work. The morning session usually wraps up around noon, when we enjoy a nutritious lunch together.

    Afternoons are typically lighter and more creative. Volunteers might craft handmade jewelry inspired by butterflies, paint murals or signs around the project site, or assist with basic maintenance and organization. There are also opportunities to welcome visitors, guide tours, or support educational sessions.

    Occasionally, we collaborate with other local conservation projects, and volunteers are welcome to join these efforts if they wish. Additionally, some tasks take place outside the usual schedule, offering flexibility for volunteers interested in participating in extra projects or activities.

    Dinner is served in the early evening, followed by relaxed social time with the local team and fellow volunteers. Evenings are peaceful and calm, providing the perfect environment to rest and recharge for the next day.

    Free-time activities

    Volunteers in San Ramón de Alajuela have access to a variety of activities that allow them to enjoy local culture, nature, and recreation during their free time. Many explore the city center on foot, visiting places like the Museo de San Ramón to learn about the region's history and culture, or ...

    Free-time activities

    Volunteers in San Ramón de Alajuela have access to a variety of activities that allow them to enjoy local culture, nature, and recreation during their free time. Many explore the city center on foot, visiting places like the Museo de San Ramón to learn about the region's history and culture, or relaxing at Parque Central while admiring the nearby Parroquia de San Ramón Nonato.

    For those interested in community and culture, there are opportunities to join dance classes such as salsa and folkloric dances at the Centro Cultural José Figueres Ferrer, which also offers workshops and various cultural events. Volunteers can also visit local markets and fairs to experience traditional food and crafts.

    For recreation and exercise, the Polideportivo Municipal offers sports facilities and spaces for physical activity, all within walking distance.

    On weekends or days off, volunteers can visit nearby paid tourist attractions like Eco Musas Adventure Park, where they can enjoy canopy tours, sky bike rides, and trails leading to waterfalls. Other popular destinations include La Paz Waterfall Gardens, known for its breathtaking waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries, and guided tours of local coffee plantations, where visitors can discover Costa Rica's famous coffee culture. Hiking to Cerro Tinajitas Mirador offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding region.

    At the volunteer house, we provide bicycles for those who wish to explore the nearby area on two wheels. There is also a TV, many board games, and the opportunity to visit the project's butterfly gardens or simply use the facilities to relax and unwind.

    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)

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    Teamwork and communication Creativity and artistic abilities Basic gardening and plant care Customer service and guiding visitors Initiative and problem-solving

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday from 08:00 - 15:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    The payment is essential to cover the costs of materials, food, services, and benefits for volunteers. Additionally, the daily rate includes lodging and three meals per day, and it also helps support the ongoing development of the project.

    Airport pickup is not included in the price. However, if needed, we would be happy to provide this service for an additional $15 to cover the cost of fuel. It will be our pleasure to assist you with your arrival, as long as it is possible.

    Airport Pickup at Juan Santamaria International Airport

    Accommodation

    Volunteers at the Vida de Colores Butterfly Farm stay in a cozy, simple house located within the butterfly farm itself, right next to the family home. This unique setting allows for daily cultural exchange, close contact with nature, and a truly authentic Costa Rican experience.

    The house features shared rooms separated by gender, a fully equipped communal kitchen, a living room, and two bathrooms with hot water. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming — perfect for those who enjoy community living in a rural environment. Volunteers are welcome to prepare their own snacks or drinks in the kitchen between meals.

    We typically host between 2 and 6 volunteers at a time, depending on the season. This small group size fosters a friendly and collaborative environment where everyone has the chance to connect and work closely together.

    There are no personal lockers in the rooms, but the house is located in a very safe area, and we have never had any security issues. Still, we recommend bringing only essential valuables and a small lockable bag or box for peace of mind.

    Basic services such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and ATMs are available in the nearest town, which is accessible by bus or car. We recommend bringing enough cash for your personal expenses, as some local shops may not accept credit cards.

    Wi-Fi is available in the house’s common areas, and there is a laundry room on-site for volunteers to use.

    Living in the volunteer house means sharing space, stories, and daily life — an experience that many volunteers have found to be one of the most rewarding parts of their stay.


    Food & Beverages

    Food is included during your stay at Mariposario Vida de Colores. We offer homemade meals based on traditional Costa Rican cuisine, giving you the chance to experience the local flavors and culture through food.

    We do our best to accommodate dietary needs and preferences. Whether you're vegetarian, vegan, or have food allergies, we ask that you let us know in advance so we can adjust meals accordingly, while still preserving the essence of Costa Rican home cooking.

    Meals are usually shared with the family or other volunteers, creating a warm and communal atmosphere. Typical dishes may include rice and beans, fresh vegetables, eggs, plantains, tortillas, soups, tropical fruits, and homemade juices. Portions are generous and made with fresh, local ingredients.

    Drinking water is safe and available from the tap. Coffee and tea are also available and often enjoyed together during breaks or after meals.

    If you have special snacks or items you like to have on hand, you’re welcome to bring them or purchase them in town during your stay.

    We believe that sharing meals is a meaningful part of the volunteer experience — a moment to slow down, connect, and enjoy the rhythm of rural life in Costa Rica.

    Internet Access

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

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    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

    Start Dates and Details on Arrival

    Volunteers are welcome throughout the year, and arrival dates are coordinated in advance with our volunteer coordinator to ensure smooth planning and a warm welcome.

    The project operates seven days a week, from Monday to Sunday. However, the regular volunteer schedule is from Monday to Thursday, allowing volunteers to enjoy three days off per week to rest, explore the area, or participate in optional additional activities. The schedule is flexible—volunteers may request extra days off or join conservation or educational efforts depending on availability.

    How to Get to the Project

    There are several convenient ways to reach the project. One option is to take an Uber directly from Juan Santamaría International Airport to the butterfly farm. Another option is to take a public bus from San José to San Ramón, and from there arrange transportation to the project.

    For those who prefer a more personal welcome, you can contact our volunteer coordinator, Alberto Quirós, at +506 8482 1858. Alberto is always ready to guide and support volunteers upon arrival and can arrange airport pickups when available.

    Location and Surroundings

    Vida de Colores Butterfly Farm is located in a peaceful rural area, surrounded by a small village and natural butterfly habitats. It’s the perfect setting for an immersive nature experience, where volunteers work directly with native butterfly species, contributing to their study, protection, and conservation. This environment offers a unique opportunity to connect with biodiversity, observe butterfly life cycles, and participate in meaningful environmental projects.

    Accommodation is provided in a volunteer house located on the project grounds. The rooms are shared, simple but comfortable, with access to bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and common areas. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming—ideal for building friendships with fellow volunteers, local staff, and the host family behind this family-run project.

    Basic services such as supermarkets, pharmacies, and local markets are accessible via public transportation. There is also a nearby convenience store reachable by project bicycles, which are available for volunteer use. Our team offers logistical support and local guidance as needed.

    What to Expect and What to Bring

    Upon arrival, volunteers receive thorough orientation and ongoing support throughout their stay. Our team assists with transportation logistics, especially if work occasionally requires travel outside the butterfly farm. In addition to daily tasks, we invite volunteers to join cultural, recreational, and social activities organized by our family team. These outings tend to be informal and provide an excellent opportunity to get to know the region better, connect with the local community, and enjoy authentic experiences during their stay.

    We recommend volunteers bring:

    • Comfortable work clothes (suitable for getting dirty)

    • Closed-toe shoes or work boots

    • Waterproof jacket or poncho (depending on the season)

    • Personal hygiene items

    • Insect repellent and sunscreen

    • Reusable water bottle

    All materials and tools needed for conservation work are provided on-site, so there is no need to bring special equipment.

    Beyond personal belongings, we encourage volunteers to bring an open mind, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn and collaborate. At Vida de Colores, you won’t just be contributing to butterfly conservation—you’ll be joining a warm, supportive, and environmentally committed community.

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

    Program Fees

    $280 per week 1 - 50 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    1 - 50 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

    4.92
    ・
    10 reviews

    Location

    Americas > Central America > Costa Rica > Chaparral

    Meet your project coordinator

    Jenny
    10
    reviews
    4.92
    Outstanding
    2009
    Founded

    Verified

      Below average response rate
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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