Raleigh has been working in Costa Rica & Nicaragua for the past ten years. Volunteers have completed 168 environmental projects and community projects; all with the absolute dedication of 1931 venturers and 454 volunteer managers.
Types of volunteer projects you may be working on:
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Community projects
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Environmental projects
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Adventure
Community Projects
Living in the heart of some of the most remote and poorest areas in Costa Rica and Nicaragua, these community projects give volunteers a unique opportunity to work alongside members of the community to help provide basic facilities such as clean water and schools, as well as repairing local housing destroyed by recent natural disasters. As a volunteer you will be helping to improve quality of life and provide sustainable valuable resources.
Environmental Projects
Based in Costa Rica's National Parks, volunteers live and work alongside park rangers to help maintain and improve the national parks. These environmental projects are hugely important in helping to preserve natural resources and habitats and protect important species of plants and animals.
Adventure Element
During the adventure phase, you will trek over 250 kilometers over 19 days, learning navigation, camping and survival skills along the way. While you will only need a basic level of fitness for this phase, determination and the ability to work as a team are essential. The 4am starts, tough climbs and up to 10 hours trekking a day are all worthwhile when rewarded with the incredible views, abundance of wildlife and beautiful beaches. This phase is a tough physical and mental challenge that will not only give you a huge sense of achievement but the belief that you can overcome anything!
What training will I get?
You will be invited to a pre-expedition training event where you'll be able to meet other venturers joining your expedition. You'll learn more about your projects, kit and medical requirements and do some group activity. When you arrive in country you’ll also have an induction. This includes safety briefings, risk assessment, casualty evacuation; training in the correct and safe use of tools, camping equipment, and safety equipment including radios.
What is the deadline for applying for an expedition?
We run expeditions throughout the year and encourage venturers to apply between six and 18 months in advance to ensure you get the place you want and give you time to raise the money. We do accept applications up to a month in advance, however you will have missed out on the UK training weekend, you may not get the place you want and you will have to organise your fundraising and vaccinations very quickly.