Have you ever dreamed of making a difference while exploring one of the most beautiful and biodiverse countries in the world? When you volunteer in Costa Rica with Smiles Movement, you’ll do just that—combining service, cultural immersion, and adventure into a life-changing experience.
From assisting at mobile clinics to working on community development projects, our programs provide volunteer opportunities in Costa Rica that create a lasting impact. Ready to see what this experience is all about? Let’s dive in!
Costa Rica isn’t just a popular tourist destination—it’s also a country where access to healthcare and essential services varies greatly between urban and rural communities. While Costa Rica’s universal healthcare system is well-known, many low-income families in remote areas struggle to receive medical and dental care.
As a Smiles Movement volunteer, you’ll work alongside local healthcare professionals to bridge this gap—delivering free dental and medical services to underserved communities. Beyond the service aspect, you’ll also get to immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s culture, making meaningful connections with the people you serve.
Before embarking on your volunteer experience, here are a few interesting facts about Costa Rica that will help you appreciate the country’s unique culture:
Volunteering with Smiles Movement means a structured, rewarding experience that combines community service with cultural exploration. Here’s what your trip itinerary might look like:
Your adventure begins in San José, Costa Rica’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your trip leader, settle in, and receive an orientation on the local communities and the impact of your volunteer work.
Before starting hands-on work, you’ll join a reality tour, visiting the communities you’ll be serving. This tour offers insight into the social, economic, and healthcare challenges faced by local families, setting the stage for a meaningful volunteer experience.
Each morning, you’ll help set up and assist at mobile clinics, providing dental and medical care to families who may not have access otherwise. Volunteers assist with:
Your dental volunteer experience will vary depending on local needs, but every task contributes to improving long-term community health.
On this day, you’ll shift from clinical work to a hands-on development project, such as:
These projects ensure that our volunteer work has a long-term impact beyond healthcare.
A Smiles Movement trip isn’t just about volunteering—it’s also about immersing yourself in Costa Rica’s breathtaking landscapes. After working hard in the communities, you’ll have the chance to explore some of the country’s top natural attractions.
Head to Hacienda Guachipelin, where you’ll:
Wake up early for a guided nature hike in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, home to exotic wildlife and lush rainforest trails. Stop at the Oropendula Waterfall, where you can swim beneath cascading waters before heading to the lively beach town of Tamarindo.
Take a boat tour on the Tempisque River, spotting monkeys, crocodiles, and rare birds along the way. Then, visit Guaitil Town, where you’ll meet local artisans and learn about traditional Chorotega pottery—a craft that has been passed down for generations.
Spend your last few days soaking up the sun in Tamarindo, a paradise for surfing, beachcombing, and watching stunning sunsets.
Joining Smiles Movement means becoming part of a sustainable, community-led volunteer effort. Unlike some voluntourism programs, our work is:
With ethical, sustainable volunteer programs, we ensure that our volunteers contribute in a way that truly benefits the communities they serve.
A Smiles Movement trip isn’t just about giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and experiencing a new culture firsthand. If you’re looking for an opportunity to volunteer in Costa Rica, explore dental and medical volunteer work, and immerse yourself in local traditions, this is the perfect program for you.
Sign up today and start your journey!
By choosing to volunteer with Smiles Movement, you’re not just visiting Costa Rica—you’re making a lasting impact in the lives of those who need it most. Let’s make a difference together!