Volunteer at Las Oncas
- Immerse yourself in the jungles of Costa Rica along with Las Oncas’ team
- Take actively part in the the tracking and monitoring of jaguars in the wildest areas of Costa Rica
- Build a biological station to welcome scientists, students, volunteers, visitors, and rangers involved in our various conservation programs
VOlunteer with us
Join Las Oncas’ field team to track jaguars within the most remote areas of Costa Rica. Under the supervision of our experienced expeditions leaders, you will take part in jungle expeditions. You will scout strategic paths frequented by jaguars and handle the installation and monitoring of our camera trap network.
You will experience a unique journey within Costa Rica’s most pristine rainforests and learn about wildlife, conservation and field work along the way. Your days will be punctuated by hands on maintenance work to fulfill the needs of the basecamp supervised by local members of the community.
MONITOR JAGUARs
The work you will accomplish is of the highest importance as you will help gather and analyse precious datas, feeding our jaguar conservation effort.
By volunteering at Las Oncas, you will take part in fundamental discoveries, leading to a better understanding of the specie’s dynamics. Daily responsibilities encompass identifying jaguars, monitoring them over time and space, detecting new individuals, and locating key jaguar pathways, allowing us to enhance protection efforts for this endangered wildcat.
The heart of COsta Rica
We operate in the Osa Peninsula, a region of Costa Rica that alone represents 3% of worldwide biodiversity. You will volunteer in areas located close to the famous Corcovado National park. You will also spend time exploring the Talamanca Mountain Range, one of the wildest and most remote areas of Costa Rica, home to country's largest population of jaguars including some rare melanistic individuals.
Is this volunteering program for me?
Matching participant's profile to Las Oncas volunteering program is crucial to maintain motivation and achieving meaningful impact. Here are some key points that will help you in your decision to join our volunteering program. This alignment ensures that volunteers can contribute effectively while finding fulfillment in their work.
Is this you?
Price & Sessions
Volunteering program
- 3 weeks volunteering session
- Accommodation and food included
- Full camera trap training
- 6 to 8 jungle expeditions
- Up to 8 volunteers per session
- Experienced guides and expedition leaders
FAQ
Headlight, rubber boots, hiking shoes, hiking socks for hot climate, dark clothes, warm jacket, light rain jacket, dry bag, large metal water bottle, backpack, external battery.
As a volunteer you will be out on expeditions and alternating with basecamp work 5 days a week, Saturday and Sunday will be free times when you can rest or do other activities in the area.
Jaguars are rare and elusive animals, therefore crossing their path is extremely rare. However, on some occasions, encounters may occur. Although jaguars are not agressive, it is important to have the right behavior. You will be briefed by our team upon arrival about jaguars and other wildlife encounters.
Accommodation, food (3 meals a day), camera trap training, expedition trips, experienced guide.
International flight, insurance, transportation from/to international airport, laundry, extra touristic activities
In order to get to the basecamp located in the Osa Peninsula, you can travel to Puerto Jiménez: by plane with an internal flight or by bus.
A member of our team will pick you up in Puerto Jiménez to take you to the base camp.
Depending on the country you are from, different vaccine may be required. Check with the relevant authorities prior to confirm your stay.
European, United States and Canadian citizen will be given a 180 days tourist visa upon arrival. Your passeport must be valid for at least 6 month when entering Costa Rica. Depending on the country you are from, different policies may be in effect. Check with the relevant authorities prior to confirm your stay.
Each volunteering session will hold a maximum of 8 people. This allows us to provide a quality experience for each volunteer and carry our field expeditions the best way.