So, you’re looking for a way to see Costa Rica while also making a difference in the lives of people living in rural communities? Then look no further! Volunteering with MEDLIFE is the perfect opportunity for anyone wanting to travel and assist those in need. By participating in a MEDLIFE Service Learning Trip (SLT), you’ll work alongside local professionals to provide much-needed healthcare, education and infrastructure to underserved communities. An SLT experience combines service, education, and cultural immersion, offering you a chance to create lasting change while also discovering what makes Costa Rica such an incredible part of the world.
Understanding Medical Access in Costa Rica
You may be wondering why we focus of providing medical services. While Costa Rica is somewhat known for its universal healthcare system, many low-income communities slip through the cracks of this system and face significant barriers to access. Geographic isolation, lack of resources, and economic disparities often prevent families and individuals from receiving essential care, leading to further complications down the line. Through MEDLIFE’s mobile clinics, volunteers help bridge this gap by bringing healthcare directly to these underserved areas, free of cost.
By volunteering, you’re not just supporting temporary solutions—you’re contributing to MEDLIFE’s commitment to sustainable development, patient follow-up, and community empowerment.
Facts to Know Before You Go
Before embarking on your volunteer journey, here are some interesting Costa Rica facts you may not already know to help enrich your understanding of the country:
- Costa Rica is a small country in Central America. It is bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. It’s official name is “The Republic of Costa Rica”
- “Pura Vida,” meaning “pure life,” is more than just a phrase—it’s a way of life for many in Costa Rica, symbolizing positivity and simplicity. It is one of the many things that makes Costa Rica so unique.
- Costa Rica abolished its military in 1948, allocating resources to education and healthcare instead.
- Costa Rica is the most biodiverse country in the world, with a whopping 500,000 species of wildlife — many of which are classified as rare or endangered.
- Many people wake up to the national anthem every morning. Most major radio stations play the anthem each morning at 7am.
- Costa Rica is part of the Pacific Ring Fire Circle and has over 200 volcanic formations traced back over 65 million years. Of these formations, there are around 100 of them that actually show any signs of activity and only five are classified as active.
To learn more, visit our FAQ page!
What Does a Costa Rica Itinerary Look Like with MEDLIFE?
A typical Costa Rica itinerary for a MEDLIFE SLT offers a balance of service, learning, and exploration. Here’s what you can expect:
Day 1 – Arrival: A MEDLIFE representative will meet you at the airport and escort you to your accommodation. You will have time to relax, settle in, and then head out to explore.
Day 2 – Orientation: Your Trip Leader will take you on a walking tour, giving you a chance to learn about the local way of life. Then an orientation meeting where we will cover what to expect for the week, safety precautions, and a brief training course for our Mobile Clinics.
Day 3 – Reality Tour: Volunteers accompany staff to partner communities, gaining insight into their daily challenges and exposure to extreme poverty for the first time.
Day 4-6 – Mobile Clinic: Volunteers support daily Mobile Clinics in a local community, each lasting from 8-9 am and 1-3 pm.
Day 7 – Development Day: Join locals on a community project like home renovation or well construction, departing the hostel at 7:30 am.
Day 8 – Optional Tourism Activities: Visit local coffee and cacao plantations to learn about their production process, or get up close to wildlife on our Sloth Bears Tour. Talk to your MEDLIFE advisor when you’re booking your SLT about ad-on excursions.
Day 9 – Onward Travel/Departure: Continue exploring or return home.
Why Choose MEDLIFE?
Volunteering with MEDLIFE is more than just a trip—it’s a transformative learning experience. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of global health issues, make life-long friendships, and contribute to sustainable projects that help those in need. Whether you’re a student, professional, or simply someone passionate about service, this opportunity offers an unforgettable way to give back.
To learn more about how you can volunteer abroad in Costa Rica with MEDLIFE, fill out the interest form below or download our free brochure today!