Help on a sustainable farm in the Mountains of Costa Rica

Germany

5

I have spent three marvelous weeks volunteering at the Kayala Lodge. To me it felt like Sandra and Michael really understand the concept of the work exchange in volunteering. The work we did was simple but really rewarding since it leaves plenty of space for your own creativity. The working hours were clearly communicated beforehand and strictly adhered to as well. Sandra and Michael are overall very involved. We have spent great evenings together at Bonfires, delicious dinners and even a trip with the whole volunteer group. Overall I could not recommend this opportunity any more!

11 months ago

Finland

2

I was not picked up even though I was promised. I had to hike up 50 min steap uphill. I was lied to several times. The host wasn't there for the first week, so there was no car and the dangerous work conditions were scary when we worked in the jungle with machetes. Although all that I had fun with working with volunteers and meeting new people!

9 months ago


Sandra replied

We want to thank you for your stay with us, however, we would like to address some points from your feedback to clarify misunderstandings and respond constructively.
First of all, as communicated beforehand, the pickup was organized and carried out by another volunteer. It's unfortunate that you perceived this as unfulfilled, as we kept our promise.
Regarding your claim that we lied to you multiple times, we cannot recall any specific situations. It would have been helpful if you had addressed these issues directly and clearly with us instead of making unfounded accusations in your feedback.
On the topic of working conditions: You were informed beforehand that we are on a farm in Costa Rica, surrounded by a forest typical of this region - not a "jungle". We never force anyone to work with a machete, everyone is free to decline tasks that feel unsuitable. However, using a machete is a common aspect of many agricultural activities in Costa Rica and it isn't dangerous. This information was clearly outlined in our guidelines we provide to you before your arrival and you agreed to it! It's is the responsibility of every volunteer to read and understand the working conditions before coming.
We also want to note that you left the farm without a personal goodbye, even though we had spoken shortly beforehand. This behavior comes across as disrespectful and impolite. A brief farewell is, in our view, a basic aspect of respectful interaction.
In conclusion, we must say that your stay with us unfortunately did not meet the expectations we have for a responsible and open-minded and honest volunteer. For future assignments, we recommend that you take more time to familiarize yourself with the conditions and requirements of the position to avoid similar conflicts.
We wish you all the best for the future.

United States

4

I really loved the connections with people I made at the finca, and the view from there is breathtaking. It is very fun when there are many volunteers there. The work can be really tough and physical, but not always and the hosts are flexible with injuries/physical limitations. The finca is quite remote- a difficult hour-long hike away from the nearest bus stop. Your ability to do activities/tours is limited to the weekends. Also the hosts left me in charge with another volunteer for a week with no car, which was hard. Sandra took me on some fun trips, though, which was fun!

9 months ago

Germany

5

Tuve una experiencia maravillosa en Kayala Lodge. Sandra y Michael son unos anfitriones que entienden que significa trabajar con voluntarios. En persona son los dos genial! Muy amables, útil, honest y lo mejor que les gusta hacer algo con los voluntarios!! El trabajo es tranqui aveces puede ser pesado pero nada exagerado que uno no pueda hacer. Los animas de la finca (y el que no es de la finca) son muy muy tiernos! Tuve la oportunidad pa conocer mucha gente del extranjero pero también unos ticos y rumbiar con ellos jaja. Un sitio que recomiendo el 100% muchas gracias a los dos!!

11 months ago

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