A unique volunteer experience awaits you in Costa Rica, near Playas del Coco, in a simple outdoor setting surrounded by tropical nature. You will spend about 30 hours a week helping with animal care, cleaning, and general upkeep while living in a shared, rustic environment. In return, you receive accommodation and meals, along with the chance to meet people from around the world. Free time allows you to explore nearby beaches and the local area. It is a straightforward and affordable way to travel while contributing to a hands-on project.
About the work exchange program
Located near Playas del Coco in Costa Rica, The Monkey Farm is a volunteer-based project focused on community living, sustainability, and animal care. The mission is to create a radically inclusive community where people live, learn, and grow together while connecting with nature and faith. Daily life is simple and hands-on, with volunteers learning skills like cooking on a wood fire, caring for animals, and living with limited resources. The long-term vision is to build a fully self-sufficient and sustainable wildlife rescue center, where animals can live freely and eventually return to the wild. The farm also focuses on permaculture methods, food production, and water conservation to create a green and productive space even in a dry tropical climate.
Community impact is an important part of life here, with activities like feeding the homeless, teaching English to locals, supporting families in need, and offering free programs for children. Volunteers are seen as part of the family and contribute to both the farm and the wider community. The environment is structured but welcoming, with clear systems in place to ensure good care for animals and smooth daily routines. Life at the farm is simple, social, and focused on learning by doing while building meaningful connections with others.
Requirements
- At least 18 years old.
- Emotionally mature and self-motivated.
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Comfortable with a healthy lifestyle without drugs or excessive alcohol.
- Respectful communication and behavior.
- Willingness to live in basic, rustic conditions.
- Minimum commitment of 3 months.
- Able to work around 30 hours per week.
Your responsibilities
- Feed and care for animals such as goats, chickens, horses, and others.
- Clean enclosures and shared living spaces.
- Help with daily farm routines like collecting eggs or milking goats.
- Support building, gardening, or maintenance projects.
- Assist with cooking and cleaning in the communal kitchen.
- Follow structured systems and daily schedules.
What’s in it for You?
- Free accommodation in a rustic shared cabin or camping area.
- Access to a communal kitchen and shared living spaces.
- Hands-on experience with sustainability and animal care.
- Opportunity to learn practical skills like gardening, food production, and simple living.
- Time off to explore beaches, nature, and nearby towns.
- International community and meaningful connections.
- Low weekly cost with shared food contribution.
- A chance to be part of a purpose-driven project and learn a different way of life.
Video
Map
Accommodation offer
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Flight offer
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Contact
Address: G7QH+WH Carrillo, Guanacaste Province
Costa Rica
Phone: +50688530165
Contact host directly: https://www.themonkeyfarm.org
