Costa Rica February 2026

C$2,950Trip qualifies for US or CAD tax receipt $2300USD

Feb 14, 2026 → Feb 21, 2026 Quepos, Costa Rica Custom Trip handUp for Education

Give a hand-up to a local school

Are you looking for a rewarding volunteer experience where you can truly make a difference? Join us at Escuela Anito, a small, one-room school in rural Costa Rica, and help improve the lives of local children and their families. This is your chance to support a dedicated teacher and assist in vital projects like building proper sanitation systems, renovating school buildings, and providing much-needed resources like chairs, tables, and school supplies. With the school serving a community primarily working in low-wage palm oil plantations, your contribution will directly impact the health and educational opportunities of these hardworking families.

Volunteering at Escuela Anito is more than just a chance to give back—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Pacific coast Costa Rica. You’ll work alongside passionate local teachers and community members, forming connections that will last a lifetime. Whether you’re helping to clear old structures, paint classrooms, or build a library for the students, every task you undertake will be a step towards improving the future of these children. Come join us for an unforgettable adventure that combines meaningful work with the chance to explore the natural wonders of Costa Rica!

MAKE AN IMPACT
In Costa Rica

The unfortunate truth is that 1.1 million people currently live in poverty in Costa Rica. Most of the poor population in the country is situated within rural areas.
Around 20 percent of the population live below the national poverty line of earning less than $155 per month.

What to ExpectA Typical Workday in Costa Rica

Volunteer with DWC in Costa Rica and make a real difference with our Mar a Mar project, located just outside the vibrant town of Quepos. You’ll work alongside local tradespeople, a DWC team leader, and fellow volunteers to contribute to community-driven projects. No prior experience is required—just a willingness to help and connect with the local culture.

Your workday will start with breakfast at 6:00 or 7:00 AM, followed by transport to the project site. The day typically runs 6-8 hours, beginning between 8:00–9:00 AM and finishing around 4:00 PM. You’ll engage in a variety of tasks, from building infrastructure to creating educational resources, with work that accommodates all skill levels. Lunch will be provided by local partners or nearby restaurants, and you’ll have the opportunity to bond with your fellow volunteers and the local community during breaks.

Your trip includes accommodations, airport pickup/drop-off, in-country transportation, and three meals per day. This is your chance to immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture, form lasting relationships, and contribute to a meaningful community project. Join us for an unforgettable experience!

Explore Pura Vida Costa Rica

After your volunteer week, you can explore Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast. It is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, vibrant wildlife, and lush rainforests waiting to be explored. From the world-famous surf breaks of Playa Tamarindo to the tranquil shores of Manuel Antonio, this stretch of coastline offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure with zip-lining, surfing, or hiking through protected national parks, or just looking to relax and soak up the sun, Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast provides the perfect balance of thrills and relaxation. Discover hidden beaches, pristine waters, and breathtaking sunsets, all while experiencing the warmth and hospitality of local communities.

Traveling along Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast also means immersing yourself in its rich culture and incredible biodiversity. Visit quaint coastal towns, enjoy fresh seafood by the beach, and encounter exotic wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds in their natural habitats. From the vibrant nightlife in beach towns to the peaceful serenity of secluded coves, each destination along the coast offers a unique experience. Whether you’re adventuring through tropical jungles or simply unwinding by the ocean, the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica is the ultimate getaway for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty.

Trip Details

Itinerary

Day 1: Saturday, February 14 – Arrival in San Jose
Arrive in the vibrant capital of Costa Rica, San Jose. Settle into your accommodations and take in the city’s rich culture and beautiful surroundings.

Day 2: Sunday, February 15 – Travel to Quepos
Begin your 3 hour journey to Quepos, a charming town on the Pacific coast. Experience the warm hospitality of local communities and get ready for the exciting project work ahead.

Day 3–7: Monday, February 16 – Friday, February 20 – Project Work at Quepos School
Dive into hands-on project work at Quepos School. Collaborate with local students, teachers, and community members to make a lasting impact on education in this vibrant region of Costa Rica.

Day 8: Friday, February 20 – Return to San Jose
After a fulfilling week of community work, return to San Jose for a relaxing evening to reflect on the incredible experience.

Day 9: Saturday, February 21 – Departure or Continue Exploring
Fly home with unforgettable memories, or choose to continue exploring Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity, picturesque beaches, or volcanic landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost?
The cost of this trip is displayed at the top of the page. This cost includes accommodations, meals, in-country transport, program costs, and a donation to our host partner in their respective country. It does not include airfare and you are responsible for booking your own flights. The entire trip is 100% tax deductible. A $1000 non refundable deposit is due once the trip is confirmed which is then credited towards your trip cost. Your trip cost is due in its entirety 45 days prior to departure. Select trips may be subject to additional cultural activity fees. As of 2025 airfare will no longer qualify for a tax deductible receipt on our open trips. US volunteers may be subject to administrative fees/exchange rate adjustments.

Are accommodations included and what are they like?
DWC books your accommodations for you, and it is included in your Trip Cost! Your team will stay at a local hotel that is comfortable and clean. Rooms are booked as shared double occupancy. You may upgrade to a private room for an additional cost, where possible. We will do our best to accommodate adjustments.

Are meals provided and can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
All meals are included in your trip cost. Some meals will be at the hotel, while others at local restaurants. The food is prepared hygienically, and dishes range from local to standard western fare. Volunteers submit a health form to DWC and all requests for dietary restrictions will be provided to the Team Leader, hotel, and host partner, to be accommodated wherever possible. Your Trip Cost does not include tips, alcohol, or snacks.

Can I add personal travel onto this trip?
Absolutely! We want you to have the best travel experience possible. If you choose to add personal travel onto the front or back end of your trip, you are welcome to book your own accommodation and transportation arrangements for early arrivals or late departures, however you are required to arrive in time to fully participate in the volunteer experience with your team. Personal travel would not be covered in your tax-deductible receipt.

Can my family come on the trip with me?
The trip cost listed is a per person rate. Family members can participate in the trip as part of the volunteer team by paying a separate trip cost. Children 12-17 wishing to participate in a volunteer trip require a parent/guardian with them.

What is the minimum age requirement to volunteer?
Children under 12 are unable to participate in our program due to the nature of the volunteer work involved. Children 12-17 wishing to participate in a volunteer trip require a parent/guardian with them.

Do I need construction experience and how much will we work?
You don’t need special skills or training to be able to help. We hire local skilled labourers who will give training onsite for construction and team leaders. You will work at your own pace, within your own comfort level, five days a week from about 8AM to 4PM. Your evenings and weekends are free for cultural activities and relaxing.

What is the work site like and what is the intensity of the labour?
There is a building manager and translator on site. Tasks on the work site vary and you will only be asked to do what you are comfortable with and within your physical abilities. There is no pressure!

Why should I volunteer?
Support sustainable change with us. Learn about the world and yourself, lend a hand and build hope. Every bit of time spent on a DWC project is helping a person, a family, or a community. You’ll know that your contribution will make someone’s life better. DWC matches teams of volunteers and resources with people and organizations in developing nations to alleviate poverty and inspire hope and your efforts do have impact. The experience is enhanced by working as a team. Simply put, there is joy and self-discovery that comes with giving to others. And you’ll have fun doing it, too.

Are DWC trips religious or political in nature?
DWC has no religious or political affiliations.

Meet the Trip Leader

Each trip is coordinated by DWC with the help of a Team Leader, who has travelled with DWC previously, is First Aid Certified, and has completed a Criminal Record Check. Your Team Leader will liaise with DWC and ensure all your questions are answered. Your Team Leader will handle all team finances through the trip and travel with you to ensure the best possible travel and volunteer experience for their team! They also facilitate fun, cultural experiences where possible, ensuring group cohesion. See your Team Leader Biography here:

Roberto Binda

Roberto brings a playful and joyful spirit along with a diverse background to the initiatives he gets involved in including strategic planning, community planning & development, volunteering, as well as being a multi-media artist. More recently, he has been building his meditation practice and recently received a meditation teaching certification.

Through his motto of ‘live a colourful life’, he seeks to experience the richness of the communities and environments all around us. Enjoying travel, near or far, brings new surroundings and the many insights that follow.

Roberto has a passion for giving back through volunteering with environmental stewardship, housing, and food security programs. In 2017, he participated in his first of two volunteering trips with DWC to the outskirts of Lima Peru. There he experienced working with a local school community and children to support their desires for enhanced educational programming & facilities. The welcoming people (along with their colourful homes) and the children’s smiles left a lasting impression of seeing things through the eyes of others.

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Travel Light Offset Your Carbon Footprint

Carbon offsets are used to compensate for the greenhouse gasses that we create through certain activities, such as flying. For every tonne of carbon released into the atmosphere, an ‘offset’ is a carefully designed project that absorbs or stores the equivalent CO2 emissions. You can choose to offset your own flight, your whole family’s, or do this as a gift for a friend.

Offset Your Carbon Footprint

Costa Rica February 2026 Poverty Eradication. Social Justice. Global Engagement.