Volunteer Blog: Kristen
July 8, 2026Hello! My name is Charlotte, and I've been volunteering at Ara Manzanillo for three months. I hope you’ve been enjoying your adventure so far - it's truly a once in a lifetime experience!
My advice for you is this: Keep an open heart and an open mind. Welcome new perspectives and ways of doing things with curiosity. Try local dishes and try to make the most of your time here!
If you are interested in local history and culture, I highly recommend the 2-hour tour at Museo de Cacao near Cahuita.
If you are seeking adventure, check out Nativo Ziplining and canopy Tours in Puerto Viejo. If you want some time in nature, I recommend the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Park and Cahuita National park (Cahuita also offers really great snorkeling tours!).
Some of my favorite restaurants nearby include Spicy Coconut, Tamara, Indigo, De Gustebus Bakery, and Baya Baya.
Costa Rica's Caribbean side offers so much beauty, culture, and adventure. It's truly such a special place. The work you do at Ara is so important and impactful - to be able to work with such an endangered animal is such a rewarding experience. Enjoy your time here, enjoy the birds, and enjoy the relationships you cultivate with those around you. You will treasure these memories!
