About Us
Kids Saving the Rainforest (KSTR) is a nonprofit wildlife conservation organization based in Quepos, Costa Rica, dedicated to protecting the country's rich biodiversity. Founded in 1999, KSTR rescues, rehabilitates, and releases injured, sick, and orphaned wildlife through its rescue centre, while providing lifelong care for animals that cannot be returned to the wild.
Beyond wildlife rescue, KSTR works to protect Costa Rica's ecosystems through environmental education, reforestation, and wildlife bridge projects, helping reduce the threats facing native wildlife and promoting long-term conservation.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
At Kids Saving the Rainforest (KSTR), you'll join a dedicated team working to rescue, rehabilitate, and protect Costa Rica's wildlife. As a working wildlife rescue centre, KSTR offers meaningful, hands-on opportunities to care for injured and orphaned animals while supporting vital conservation efforts.
As a volunteer or intern, you'll enjoy:
- Hands-on experience in a real wildlife rescue centre
- Learning from experienced veterinarians, biologists, and conservationists
- Working alongside an international volunteer community
- Accommodation surrounded by rainforest near Manuel Antonio National Park
- A rewarding experience where your contribution directly supports wildlife conservation
Requirements
- Valid tetanus vaccination
- Travel insurance (required; not provided by KSTR)
- Inform us in advance of any dietary requirements or necessary medications
- A 25% deposit of the accommodation and meal fee is required to secure your placement
Volunteer experience
- 🕖 7:00 AM – Task allocation and morning duties (enclosure cleaning, water replacement, and habitat maintenance)
- 🍳 8:30 AM – Breakfast break
- 🐒 9:00 AM – Animal care, diet preparation, enrichment, and maintenance
- 🍽️ 12:00 PM – Lunch break
- 🌿 1:00 PM – Afternoon animal care, enrichment, and maintenance tasks
- 🧹 3:30 PM – Clean and organize work areas
- 🏁 4:00 PM – End of the workday
Shared Accommodation:
- 1–15 nights: US$85 per night
- 16+ nights: US$75 per night
- Over 3 months: US$50 per night
Private Bungalow:
- 1 person: US$165/night
- 2 people: US$215/night
- 3 people: US$265/night
- 4 people: US$315/night
Private Apartment:
- 1 person: US$115/night
- 2 people: US$150/night
Volunteers can choose from three accommodation options:
- Jungle Center – Shared dormitory accommodation with separate male and female floors, shared bathrooms, and balconies overlooking the rainforest. (Up to 24 volunteers)
- Private Apartment – A private apartment for up to two people, featuring air conditioning, hot water, and a private bathroom
- Bromelia Bungalows – Private bungalows for up to four people, equipped with air conditioning, hot water, and comfortable amenities for a relaxing stay
- Three chef-prepared buffet meals daily
- Vegan and vegetarian options available
- Visit Manuel Antonio National Park
- Explore the town of Quepos
- Join a turtle release experience on Isla Damas
-Attend local football matches
- Swim in nearby rivers and hike through the surrounding mountains
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