This program was something exceptional. For 2 weeks I had the privilege of teaching English to a group of children in an area of San Jose called “La Carpio”, which has a reputation for being one of the most underdeveloped and dangerous parts of Costa Rica, though I never once felt in danger. The team at Maximo Nivel showed me the ropes, and made me feel like family. I’m already planning my next trip back! Do yourselves a favor, and volunteer with this passionate team. Everyone here has such a great energy and positive vibe. Pura vida!

One amazing week volunteering in Costa Rica. My daughter and I volunteered in Casa Hogar Maria a home for children ages 0 to 6. We volunteered the morning shift so we had time to explore San Jose in the afternoons. I was a little apprehensive since I had never done anything like this before but the Team at Maximo Nivel is incredible with their support. Working with the children was a wonderful experience. I was sad to see the week go by so fast. One week was not enough. I look forward to returning in the future and volunteering on another project.

Although I was only in Costa Rica for one week, it was an amazing week. I worked at a local orphanage called Hogar Infantil Maria with kids whose ages ranged from a 10 day old baby to a 6 year old. The kids are so polite and clearly excited about having people to play with. They are full of energy so there was always something to do during my 3 hour morning shift. There was never a dull moment during my trip. I loved the project I signed up for, I loved my host famlily, and I loved everything in between. To anyone who is interested in doing what I was able to do, or anything similar, Do it! There are so many things to do when visiting a different country and so many wonderful people to meet along the way. My only piece of advice would be to go for more than just one week because it flies by!

A friend asked me what my one favorite thing was about volunteering in Ostional on the turtle project - I couldn't pick one. I was placed with a family and was able to really be immersed in the culture and the language. My homestay family was so kind and gracious, I met great friends, who I hope to carry with me for the rest of my life, and turtles! I was there during arribadas and was able to experience hatchlings and the nesting process of adult Olive Ridleys and we even got to work with a leatherback! On our time off, we adventured to other towns and beaches and when we came back to Ostional, it felt like coming home. The volunteer posiion itself could be really physically demanding, but I wouldn't change it for the world. It was truly one of the coolest things I've ever done.

Whether you're new to traveling or a seasoned volunteer abroad, Maximo Nivel is amazing. The staff was extremely friendly and helpful, and they provided all the support we needed to feel comfortable, safe, and equipped for our project. We were teaching English in one of the poor neighborhoods near San Jose, and it was great to have access to computers, supplies, and TEFL certified field managers to do our lesson planning. They made sure we had everything we needed and then some. I have taught English before with other organizations abroad, and did not receive nearly as much support. They also partner with a local travel agency so you can plan excursions and activities during or after your volunteer experience. I would HIGHLY recommend using Maximo Nivel to volunteer abroad!

As a volunteer, I worked in a nursing home in San Jose in Costa Rica. It was very interesting, and I was suprised at how many responsibilities I was given - sorting medications, taking vital signs, interacting with patients, helping in decorating, helping feed patients, and so on. I highly recommend it if you're like me and a pre-med student trying to improve your application for medical school - you have the opportunity to do a lot of things that you wouldn't be able to do without specialized training in the United States. San Jose itself is pretty cool, but if you do come to this project, make sure that you take the weekends off to go explore the countryside of Costa Rica. The staff is very helpful, and they have all sorts of trips that you can sign up for through a travel agency literally nex tdoor.

I have been extremely lucky ! After finally deciding to experiment volunteering abroad and do some searching, i found Maximo Nivel. From the start, all our conversations (online chat and e-mail) and explanations assured me as much as possible that this adventure would turn out well.
I've been in San Jose for two weeks, placed at Maria Aux, a daycare for young children from La Carpio neighbourhood, very poor and complicated. What the responsible for the project, Silvia Aguilar, does with the limited space and conditions is amazing : a safe space for the kids, with songs, reading, painting, etc.
The children couldn't be sweeter and were eager to have our help doing all kinds of things, which i gladly did. I could see how Maximo Nivel and previous volunteers have invested in improving the daycare's conditions and it is a work in progress.
I felt very welcomed at the placement and can honestly say that Maximo's team, especially Steve and Emily, were there for whatever i needed. Steve, your idea of a Christmas party is absolutely amazing !
I had a bit more than basic notions of Spanish and felt that the communication with the kids and adults allowed me to give and take much more from this experience.
I've moved now to Manuel Antonio for my final week in Costa Rica. I expect to have a good experience in the new place, but i doubt it will be as rewarding as Maria Aux and La Carpio ! I will surely miss it.

It's my first time volunteering with Maximo and I feel amazing.The staff are super nice and helpful.The homestay mom is very caring and friendly.Hope to see them again soon!
As to the childcare project "Maria Aux" in rural area of San Jose city.I have to say I am super lucky to join this projects.All the kids are super cute and smart.They curious about everything new and eager to learn knowledge.The day care located in a church.The condition is not good for the kids,but they are always smiling and never complain.Thanks to the teacher Sylvia's support,and Maximo's help,now the day care condition is much better.It has claean restoom and colorful paintings on the wall.Many volunteers donate books,food and other facilities,which is lovely.