Volunteer Expectations

Costa Rica and Peru offer environments that are simultaneously beautiful and challenging for foreign visitors. Peru and Costa Rica are developing countries, and volunteers must bear in mind that there are occasional power failures, water shortages, temperature fluctuations and other uncontrollable situations.

As well, Peruvians’ and Costa Ricans’ conception of “time” can be difficult and frustrating for those accustomed to a more structured life. Work can often be delayed or interrupted because of holidays, weather, vacations or unexpected events.

The volunteer experience is a commitment that includes a willingness to overcome challenges of various sorts. In cases where volunteers are experiencing difficulties, we strongly encourage creative and collaborative solutions. If you are put in an uncomfortable position, every effort will be made to accommodate you, but it is also important that volunteers remain flexible and understanding. Open-mindedness and patience will go a long way toward ensuring an enjoyable volunteer experience.

Schedule

Most volunteers work between four to six hours per day. Depending on your project site this is generally from 8:00am/9:00am until 12:00pm/1:00pm and then there may also be some work (optional or required) in the afternoon. Please note that volunteers who are Teaching English generally do not work in the mornings, but do work during the afternoons and evenings from 4:00pm to 8:00pm, though this varies from project to project.