Program Cost

ATRAVES volunteers pay an initiation fee of $200 to join the association as honorary members. These funds play help the organization to sustain itself and cover a portion of the expenses of the International Volunteer Program.

Volunteers must also cover their own costs. We encourage all of our volunteers to stay with families. Our families currently receive $13 - $15 a day for room and board, varying by location.

Volunteers are also responsible for payment of their own transport and the transport of ATRAVES personnel who accompany them. Public transportation is typically quite affordable in Nicaragua, and we can present volunteers with a range of transport options. Prices vary by location, and volunteers can pay beforehand, or at the time of travel, according to their preference. Travel to and from the airport can cost about $10 each way. A typical taxi ride within the city of Managua may cost $2-$5, and economic transportation to nearby towns and cities can range from $1.50 to $10.

We advise all our volunteers to purchase travel insurance.

Volunteers for whom these fees are a hardship are encouraged to seek outside sponsorship. ATRAVES is happy to support fundraising efforts, and encourages those who undertake them to raise funds both for their own costs and to support their host organizations. Contact us to help you develop a fundraising plan.

Breakdown of ATRAVES program costs:

• Initiation Fee: $200 (one-time)
• Homestay Fee: $12-15 (per day)
• Travel to/from Nicaragua as well as in-country travel: at cost, varies by location
• Travel insurance: varies