Your guide to interning abroad in Costa Rica

Where in Costa Rica can I do an internship?

A diverse range of internships abroad are located within the urban city of San Ramon, as well as the coastal town of Quepos (which serves as gateway to the Manuel Antonio National Park).

Internships in San Ramon are located closer to the capital city of San Jose and the international airport. For interns who choose this destination, it’s essential that they have Spanish language skills. Spanish language lessons are also available for those who wish to take classes in conjunction with an internship.

Alternatively, internships in Quepos do not require any Spanish language proficiency. Although Spanish language lessons are available for those who are interested, the destination is very tourism-oriented, which significantly minimizes any language barriers.

“The internship was challenging yet very rewarding and fostered spiritual, professional, and personal growth. I am so appreciative I had this amazing opportunity and met such fantastic people. The memories made and life lessons will remain with me forever. I would make the decision to intern through Intern Abroad HQ a million times over. Signing up is a very easy and organized process and the organization provides amazing support before, during and even after your time interning.” - Kelsie Gronauer, Environmental Conservation intern in San Ramon, Costa Rica

When is the best time of year to intern?

Costa Rica is amazing year-round and internship start dates are super flexible. The country is tropical and there are essentially just two seasons. The hotter, dryer months are from December to April. From May to November, it’s more likely to rain and the temperatures are slightly cooler. Due to rain, the scuba diving internships (Coral Restoration and Marine Biology) are unavailable from Mid September until November 1st. All other internships are available year-round.

What are some highlights of this destination?

Costa Rica is a small but environmentally diverse country. One of the biggest highlights is the peaceful environment found throughout the whole country. You can enjoy it all - time in the highlands, exotic views of cloud forests and wildlife, and access to some of the most beautiful tropical beaches in the world. The rains keep the jungles lush, green and teaming with life!

Locals are incredibly friendly and hold non-violent values as a culture. This is known as their pure life “Pura Vida” mentality - in other words, don’t worry, be happy! Things run a lot slower, with workplaces considered far less stressful than in many other countries. The “Ticos” (an affectionate name for local people) are very relaxed and easy-going, always trying to make you feel welcomed.

“Submerging myself in the Tico culture was indeed a dream come true. The beauty and purity of the forest was indeed breath-taking. The family I was staying with was very sweet and loving. I had delicious food every day. I only wish I had stayed longer. Dare to dream and make your dreams a reality!!” - Ingrid Gomez, Environmental Conservation intern in San Ramon, Costa Rica

Do I need Spanish language skills in order to intern?

For those with knowledge of the Spanish language, you’re welcome to consider internships based in San Ramon. While Environmental Conservation interns require a basic level of Spanish language, all others in this destination require intermediate to advance Spanish skills.

Still want to intern in Costa Rica, but don’t have any Spanish language skills? No worries! You are welcome to participate in our internships offered out of Manuel Antonio, as internships here are conducted in English. Choose from:

• Sustainable Business & Tourism internship
• Environmental Education internship
• Coral Restoration internship
• Marine Biology internship

We also encourage interns to take advantage of the affordable language lessons offered in-country. These are fun, social, and help to boost confidence.

“I registered for this internship experience to improve my language and cultural skills. Both improved significantly and helped me become a more culturally respectful and open minded person. These new skills have helped me to become a better world citizen and an even better employee.” - Madison McBride, Women’s Education intern in San Ramon, Costa Rica

What can be expected from the food and accommodation?

Interns are accommodated with host-families and two meals per day are provided (daily breakfast and dinner). It is typical for many Ticos to eat rice and beans, which are prepared in a variety of ways. Since Costa Rica is a tropical country, there is a fantastic variety of fresh fruits and other delights.

Staying with a host family in Costa Rica completely introduces interns to the local lifestyle. Host families see interns as not just a guest, but as an extension of their family. We encourage interns on the program to enjoy the experience and be an open, active guest during this time. Interns frequently comment how their host family was a true highlight of their experience!

If you want to participate in the program alongside friends, this is no problem - arrangements can be made to ensure you’re accommodated together.

“My host family was sooo sweet, caring and loving. I still keep in contact with them today! It was an unforgettable, fulfilling experience.” - Mariana Arenas, Physical Therapy in San Ramon, Costa Rica

“I was grateful to have been placed with such a loving and caring family, as they made this transition so much easier for me.” - Rachel Perez, Physical Therapy in San Ramon, Costa Rica

“My host family was so incredibly generous during my stay and took great care of me, cooking delicious meals and helping with daily tasks.” - Eva Korte, Environmental Conservation intern in San Ramon, Costa Rica

How much spending money should I budget?

Your Program Fee for an internship in Costa Rica covers your airport pick up, accommodation and meals (breakfast and dinner). However, you will need to budget for additional meals and snacks, any weekend activity plans, shopping, personal expenses, and return transport to the airport.

A weekly budget of approximately US$100 should be sufficient. However, it’s wise to research tourism activities in advance to get an idea of what you’d like to do and how much you need to earmark for this – for example, spending time at the beach isn’t going to cost as much as a white water rafting trip. If you need advice ahead of time, just let us know!

How can interns spend their weekends?

There are so many things that interns can do over the weekends - usually the problem is having enough time to do it all! Costa Rica is a small country with good public transport infrastructure, so whether you’re planning local activities or wanting to explore other parts of the country, it’s easy to get around.

Costa Rica offers opportunities to visit beaches, volcanoes, rivers, mountains, waterfalls, cloud forests, tropical rainforests, and more. Popular activities within such regions include river rafting, kayaking, surfing, paddle boarding, snorkeling, catamaran sailing, ziplining, hiking, park tours, bird watching, fishing, yoga (to name a few!)

If you’re more interested in urban activities, you can also check out museums, theaters, concerts, galleries, farmers markets, dancing, and other cultural activities.

What are top tips for a successful internship?

Internships are focused on personal and professional development, so there is a degree of personal responsibility and independence that are important to keep in mind.

• Expect that your first week on the internship will focus on building the foundations of what you are going to do/develop over the remainder of your stay. You might not “hit the ground running” so should allow for an introductory period. Use this time to communicate details about your goals, expectations, preferences, ideas and questions, so that others can help you to settle in and build great momentum for your internship.

• Ask questions when you’re unsure of something. People are a great resource and will be happy to provide guidance. Don’t be afraid to proactively engage with others.

• Come with an open mind and willingness to experience a totally new style of life. If you expect everything to be the same as it is in your home-country, then you may be disappointed by differences, rather than ready to broaden your experiences.

• Prepare to expect language barriers at times. There are many people in Costa Rica who speak English but this should not be assumed. Especially in small towns, rural areas, or cities that are less touristy. Even if people understand some English, remember that they too can feel shy or humble about their abilities. We recommend all interns make an effort to learn some basic Spanish before their arrival, so that you’ve got some “ice-breaker” material up your sleeve. There are also great smartphone apps, books, and other resources you can access for this.

“My goal for my Environmental internship was to pinpoint where exactly my interests lie. This internship helped me discover what area I want to continue my studies in, and how this can forge a path for my future career. One piece of advice I would share with a future intern is to be open-minded and accept new opportunities. Try to learn as much as you can while you are there!” - Eva Korte, Environmental Conservation intern in San Ramon, Costa Rica

​​I’m ready! How can I start planning my internship in Costa Rica?

Found your ideal opportunity yet? Check out our amazing range of internship opportunities offered out of Costa Rica!

Submit your interest via our online application form (for free). We’ll review your application to confirm you’re a good match for your chosen internship program and that there is availability for the dates you’ve requested. We can then accept you into the program.

Once you’re accepted, you can reserve your place by paying a deposit of $499 USD. This confirmation allows us to reserve your desired internship dates while we arrange your placement and customize your internship. Then let the adventure begin!