Costa Rica: Artisanal Chocolate From the Bean to the Bar

Introduction

This internship takes place on a small farm in the mountain town of Heredia, Costa Rica, home to one of the country’s most unique social enterprises. Here, a small team produces high-quality artisanal chocolate using traditional methods and human-powered bicycle machines. Interns will have the opportunity to engage with every step of the bean-to-bar process while supporting a project that blends sustainability, education, and creativity. This is a meaningful placement for those interested in ethical food production, agroecology, and regenerative community business models.

This is a dynamic chocolate workshop that also functions as a community learning space. In addition to production, the team offers interactive chocolate-making tours and is developing gardens and outdoor educational spaces. Interns are welcomed into all aspects of the project, from content creation and visitor interaction to planting and maintenance of green areas.

Daily Life

Life here is hands-on, social, and full of learning. Interns may help lead visitor tours one day, take photos and create social media content the next, and join in garden work or community events throughout the week. Those with specific interests in education, marketing, sustainability, or food systems can often deepen their involvement in those areas while still participating in the full rhythm of life on the farm. Days are active and varied, but there is always space to share meals, ideas, and laughter with the local team.

Outside of work hours, interns are encouraged to explore the nearby town and surrounding nature, participate in community events, and engage with local culture. Orientation includes a tour of the area and tips for making the most of your time in Heredia. With support from the host team and the warmth of the local community, this internship offers an inspiring and grounded experience in sustainable living and small-scale ethical business.

Travel & Accom.

The best airport to fly into is Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica’s capital. From San José, there are several public and private transportation options to reach your host community. You will be responsible for covering the cost of transport, but our team will help coordinate your trip and ensure you have clear instructions for arrival.

Throughout your internship, you’ll live with a local Costa Rican host family, immersing yourself in Spanish, building real relationships, and experiencing daily life as part of the community. This homestay experience gives you a deeper cultural understanding that most travelers miss, and connects your internship work to the lives of the people it supports.

Requirements

Interns are expected to finance their own travel costs (international and while on site).

Other requirements include:

• Minimum 4 weeks commitment, recommended 8-12 weeks (flexibility for a minimum of 2 weeks however this could affect the price).
• Academic and/or professional experience in a related field
• Full travel & medical insurance
• Necessary vaccinations
• Necessary visa costs (Most nationalities are granted a tourist visa automatically upon arrival for up to 180 days – always check specific visa requirements based on your nationality)

Costs

$800 for the 1st week + $600 for each week thereafter.

* Currency conversions are approximate. Use xe.com for up to date currency conversion rates
** All payments incur a 5% bank transfer fee
*** Places are confirmed with a 1 week deposit.

What’s Included:

• Accommodation and 3 meals a day with a host family. Includes a private room, bathroom, all bedding, and place to do laundry
• Guided pre-departure preparation
• In-country orientation that addresses risk management, culture shock, cross-cultural adaptation skills, history/culture
• 1:1 check-ins every week
• 24/7 emergency support
• Network of doctors, therapists, Spanish tutors in-country
• Access to network of experts and information databases for research support
• Exit interview and end-of-program reflection
• Alumni group and future references

What’s not included:

• Costs of flights and visa
• Costs of vaccinations
• Personal transportation
• Any other activities outside of scheduled program activities (white water rafting, yoga, workshops, guided jungle hikes, etc.)

Full assistance will be provided in getting all these arranged if you choose our Premium Support.

Premium Support Upgrade

We understand there’s a great deal to plan and organise for your trip. When booking a Placement, many of our participants choose to purchase our Premium Support Upgrade to benefit from the expertise, knowledge and experience of our Project Coordinators. We can provide the personal advice you need to ensure your trip is organised with excellence and planned with efficiency; ensuring the very best experience possible. Read more about how we can help you.