Costa Rica

The heart of Central America

Costa Rica is filled with an incredible diversity of exotic animals, white sand beaches, lush rainforests, raging rivers, active volcanoes, and smiling communities. The national motto of Costa Rica is "Pura Vida," meaning Pure Life.

The ISV Costa Rican program emphasizes this sentiment in every way, shape and form. You will be immersed in the Costa Rican culture that embraces life and a sense of community in eye-opening ways that will touch your heart and inspire your mind. You will come away from your ISV experience with a new passion and vitality of life and all it holds - and you will be able to speak a little Spanish and dance some salsa as well.

Before you return home, take the opportunity to explore the exotic Galapagos Islands or trek to ancient Machu Picchu. Both excursions allow you to witness the expansive beauty and natural history of the region; one that has endured for centuries. Do not miss your chance to broaden your horizons in both space and time.

Volunteer Projects

First 2 weeks
Projects range from endangered species conservation to hands-on community support

• Protection of animals such as sea turtles, dolphins and manatees
• Children’s Programs and education using arts and crafts
• Wildlife research and monitoring for endangered species
• Seedling propagation in tropical jungles
• Sustainable development in rural communities
• Infrastructure improvements and beautification
• Environmental education programs
• Supporting organic agriculture development
• Community recycling programs

Adventure Tours

Second 2 weeks
Travel throughout Costa Rica from the jungles of the Caribbean to the beaches of the Pacific coast

• A 3 day white water rafting adventure on the Pacuare River
• Treks through several ecological reserves
• Ocean kayaking to from Samara Beach to Isla Chora
• Horseback riding through an authentic Costa Rican cattle ranch
• Zip-lining and rappeling in La Fortuna
• Discovering the geothermal wonders of Arenal Volcano and Rincon de la Vieja National Park
• Tubing adventure on Rio Negro
• Personalized surfing instruction in Samara Beach
• Exploring the nightlife of Caribbean and Pacific beach towns

Machu Picchu Excursion

Be sure to explore nearby lost Inca lands, colonial Cusco and Machu Picchu before returning home

After your adventure in Costa Rica, you'll have the opportunity to spend 8 days and 8 nights in Peru experiencing stunning peaks and lost Inca lands, discovering colonial Cusco and exploring ancient Machu Picchu- one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. The Machu Picchu Excursion is available for May 25, June 22, and July 20 departures only.

Galapagos Islands Excursion

Embark on a journey of discovery through the jewels of the equatorial Pacific!

After your adventure in Costa Rica, you may want to explore Galapagos, The Enchanted Islands! Enjoy a 7 day and 7 night journey of discovery through the jewels of the equatorial Pacific! The ISV Galapagos excursion will show you the highlights of these "Jewels of the Pacific" as you get up close to sea lions, giant tortoises, sea turtles, marine iguanas, frigate birds, boobies, pelicans, and more! Excursion is available for May 11, June 08, July 06 and August 03 departures only. Note: After the final day of their Adventure Tour, ISV Costa Rica participants will meet up with ISV Ecuador participants. They will spend the night in ISVís selected accommodations in Guayaquil before departing to the Galapagos the following day.

Spanish Language and Culture

Live with a host family while taking Spanish language, cooking and dance classes

In every Latin country, ISV offers incredible Spanish Language & Latin Dance Lessons that take place prior to the Volunteer Project. These Spanish Lessons are a MUST as they enhance your total ISV experience and enable you to converse with the locals. This is an invaluable opportunity for you to develop and/or improve your Spanish language skills prior to beginning your ISV Volunteer Project. This course includes dance and cooking lessons and is an exciting introduction to your host country's culture. You will arrive in your host country for your Spanish Language and Cultural Immersion Program on a Friday , 7 days before your ISV Program begins. You will be met at the airport by your host family or staff from the Spanish School (varies by country) and taken to your host family home for the weekend to settle in before classes begin on Monday. Orientation will take place on Saturday, followed by an excursion/activity and some time on Sunday to get to know your host family. Please note that exact itineraries vary by country. You will be speaking the basics of Spanish in a matter of 7 days while having great fun practicing with your host family and learning about the Latin American lifestyle.