Volunteers

Climate

It usually rains a lot, if even just for 10 minutes, but there are more than plenty of sunny days, as well. Daytime temperatures range from the mid-70’s when overcast to low-90’s when the sun is out. The weather can change very rapidly. Rain storms can pop up out of nowhere and disappear as suddenly as they arrived. Humidity is very high and cotton clothes should be avoided because they never dry completely.
The climate in Playa Caletas is different though. Between July and November it rains a lot at Playa Caletas, while from December to March there is almost no rain at all. Daytime temperatures range from the mid-70’s when overcast to 100’s when the sun is out. But here as well, the weather can change very rapidly and rain storms can pop up out of nowhere.

Diet

In Punta Banco, San Miguel and Corozalito is a cook who will prepare the meals for the voluntaries.

Food in Costa Rica is simple.  Meals often include rice and beans, other common items include tortillas, salads, chicken, fish, pork, beef, pastas, soups, pancakes, cereals, sandwiches, cheese, fruits, veggies and fresh-squeezed juices. Vegetarians generally should have no problems with the diet.

¿What to Bring?

  • Good-quality poncho or rain jacket
  • Alarm clock (battery powered)
  • Waterproof wristwatch
  • Flashlight, LED head lamps are ideal, with rechargeable batteries (we have chargers)
  • Quick drying clothing for a warm tropical climate (cotton takes a long time to dry) that you are not worried about ruining.
  • Black cloths for the night beach patrols
  • Sturdy shoes for walking the beach at night (water shoes/booties work great for the beach walks) and hiking in the area (bulky hiking boots are not necessary).
  • Sandals
  • Swimsuit
  • First-aid kit
  • Insect repellant.
  • Mosquito netting is recommended.
  • Bath towel.
  • Easy-to-pack hammock will make the days at the beaches a lot more comfortable, but is optional
  • Waterproof sunscreen (the rays are powerful).
  • Sunglasses.
  • Camera.
  • Things to share with local kids are welcome
  • International calling card.
  • Photo copy of passport.
  • Forms of entertainment: books, games, music, guitar, paints, surfing equipment, soccer balls,  etc.

Wish List

Many items utilized within our projects, both for work and play, are expensive and hard to get in Costa Rica. Participants that are willing to bring and donate any of the below items would be assisting our efforts significantly

  • Latex Gloves
  • First-aid Kits / Items
  • Waterproof Headlamps and Flashlights
  • Rechargeable Batteries
  • Waterproof (write in the rain) Notebooks
  • Rain Gear
  • Mosquito Netting
  • Backpacks (small with lots of pockets)
  • Insect Repellant
  • Hammocks
  • GPS
  • Cameras
  • Alarm clocks
  • Anything Else You Think Would Help

Contact

For Participants/Voluntaries:

Please send the Participant Information Form 2010 to Braulio Odio (voluntarios@pretoma.org) in order to confirm availability.

For Research Assistants and Research Coordinators:

Please send the following documents:

Cover letter indicating:

  • Time frame(s) you are applying for.
  • Why you are interested in the position(s).
  • Your personal strong points.
  • CV/Resumé
  • Two professional or academic letters of recommendation

To: Miguel Gomez
Sea Turtle Nesting Beach Projects
PRETOMA
Email: miguel@pretoma.org

If you have any questions or need more information please don’t hesitate to contact Miguel Gómez miguel@pretoma.org or Braulio Odio voluntarios@pretoma.org

Assistants & Coordinators

Volunteers & Participants

Beach Projects

Contact

[/caption]