About Us
Rancho Margot is an education-focused eco-lodge and regenerative community located off the grid in the mountains of Costa Rica. Since 2004, we have been working to restore biodiversity, live in harmony with nature, and develop sustainable and regenerative practices.
Our vision is to grow as a model regenerative community that operates with ecological awareness while contributing positively to local communities and the planet. Over more than 20 years, Rancho Margot has continued to develop as a place where people can learn, connect with nature, and explore more sustainable ways of living.
Yoga has always been an important part of the Rancho Margot experience. Our yoga platform provides a space for personal transformation, curiosity, mindfulness, and a deeper connection with the natural surroundings. This tradition remains at the heart of the transformative experience we offer our guests and community.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
Since 2004, Rancho Margot has welcomed hundreds of volunteers from around the world, with many returning later as guests or bringing their families and friends.
As an internationally recognized regenerative eco-lodge, we are located in a lush lakeside valley surrounded by rain and cloud forests. Our unique setting provides a peaceful environment where volunteers can connect with nature while experiencing sustainable and regenerative living.
We aim to inspire everyone who joins us to relax, enjoy, learn, and explore practical ways to incorporate sustainability into their own lives. Volunteering at Rancho Margot is an opportunity to deepen your connection with nature, learn from a regenerative community, and contribute to a shared effort toward a more sustainable future.
Requirements
- Experienced and certified yogis must provide current certifications
- Mature, responsible, and self-assured travelers are preferred
- Well-organized and self-motivated individuals are ideal
- Previous hands-on experience is required for garden-related roles
- Professional references must be provided
- Proof of travel health insurance is required
- English and Spanish language proficiency is preferred
Volunteer experience
Yoga Volunteers:
- Teach 1 yoga class per day, 6 days a week, and contribute an additional 3 hours in another area of the Ranch.
- If you are the only yoga instructor onsite, you may teach 2 classes per day with no additional work commitments.
- Maintain and organize the Yoga Center and keep yoga props clean.
- Depending on your skills, you may also offer meditation, partner yoga, restorative yoga, or other complementary practices.
- Work alongside the maintenance and cleaning teams when special assistance is required.
Organic Garden Volunteers:
- Work 6 hours per day, 6 days per week.
- Work alongside local gardening and agriculture experts.
- Participate in hands-on activities within Rancho Margot's organic gardens and regenerative farming systems.
Bar, Restaurant & Hospitality Volunteers:
- Assist with daily bar, restaurant, and hospitality activities.
- Be easy-going, responsible, and diligent.
- English and Spanish proficiency is preferred.
The Volunteer Work Exchange at Rancho Margot is free of charge.
Volunteers are only responsible for:
- Bar tabs and personal purchases
- Optional tours and activities they choose to join
Tours are available to volunteers at a discounted rate compared with regular guest prices.
Volunteers stay in the Rancho Margot Bunkhouse, where each volunteer has a private sleeping space with shared bathrooms.
The accommodation includes:
- Private sleeping space
- Shared bathrooms
- Solar-heated showers
- Communal living space
- Additional storage space
- Volunteers should bring their own lock for personal belongings
- Three meals are provided each day
- Meals are served buffet-style in the open-air restaurant
- Typical meals include rice, grains such as lentils, beans and chickpeas, vegetables, leafy greens, meat dishes such as chicken or pork, and fresh natural drinks
- Food is primarily sourced from Rancho Margot's own production and local suppliers
- Seasonal ingredients may include eggs, cheese, vegetables, and other locally produced foods
- Vegetarian options are always available
-Volunteer meal times are scheduled around guest service, allowing paying guests to be served first while volunteers enjoy their meals
- Enjoy beautiful hiking trails around Rancho Margot and in the surrounding area
- Visit El Castillo, the nearest sizeable town, located about 3 km from the Ranch (approximately a 50–60 minute walk)
- Explore the butterfly conservatory, local shops, restaurants, and seasonal community activities in El Castillo
- Rent kayaks or paddleboards at Arenal Lake, in El Fósforo, approximately 2 km from the Ranch
- Explore the surrounding area and enjoy local activities and attractions
- For activities outside the Ranch, volunteers are responsible for arranging their own transportation. Uber is now available in the area
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