• Life On Land

Animal Rescue in the Amazon

location
2 - 24 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
rating  Perfect 4.6  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Very high response rate

Highlights

  • Dive into Ecuador's awe-inspiring diversity, where every moment promises something new and remarkable.
  • Elevate your resume with valuable international volunteer experience, setting you apart in a competitive world.
  • Expand your horizons and nurture your intercultural skills, fostering personal development that lasts a lifetime.
  • Immerse yourself in daily Spanish practice, enhancing your language skills while connecting with locals.
  • Wander through landscapes that have captivated the world, where nature's wonders and indigenous culture blend seamlessly.

Especially good for

Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Groups
50+

About the program

Help to take care for rescued animals at a wildlife sanctuary in the Amazon Jungle! Feed monkeys, parrots, and coatis, among other amazing animals.🦜

The Issue

The Amazon Rainforest is commonly known as the lungs of our earth, so it is very alarming, that the destruction of the Amazon Rainforest continues to increase year after year. Wildlife suffers from habitat destruction and illegal animal traps set by poachers. It is frightening to imagine ...

About the program

The Issue

The Amazon Rainforest is commonly known as the lungs of our earth, so it is very alarming, that the destruction of the Amazon Rainforest continues to increase year after year. Wildlife suffers from habitat destruction and illegal animal traps set by poachers. It is frightening to imagine that more than 15.000 unique animal and plant species, including monkeys, reptiles, exotic birds, and wild cats that characterize Ecuador as one of the world’s most biologically diverse countries, could one day just not be there any more! At this wildlife volunteer project in Ecuador, you will be able to help protect and rehabilitate precious Amazonian wildlife.

The Location

This project is located in the Amazon Region, about five hours away from Quito, in the Pastaza province. It provides a unique opportunity to actively work in an animal rehabilitation program with exotic animals. The animal rescue center is located in the middle of the settlement Colonia Bolivar, 35 kilometers outside the city of Puyo. 

Puyo is located in the province of Pastaza in the beautiful east of the country. It is a small colonial town with about 30,000 inhabitants. The infrastructure of the city is relatively well developed and it is mainly visited by tourists who want to explore the Amazon region. The nearest village to the rescue station is called El Triunfo and can be reached by bus in about 15 minutes. There are small shops selling the most important things.

The surroundings of the sanctuary offer a breathtaking panorama, indescribably beautiful scenery and picture-perfect waterfalls. Despite the location in the rainforest, the heat is tolerable. The temperatures are pleasant and at night it cools off.

The Placement

The main goal of this volunteer project is to rescue and rehabilitate wild animals that have lived in inappropriate environments (e.g. in small cages in private households, kept as tourist attractions, etc.) or that have fallen victim to animal trafficking or mistreatment. Unfortunately, most animals are in life-threatening and absolutely frightening conditions. 

The most commonly trafficked groups of animals are primates, birds, and reptiles. The project works in close collaboration with the Environmental Police (UPMA) and the Ministry of Environment. Having been in operation since 2006, the leaders of the initiative dispose of several hectares of primary Amazon forest, where they built the rescue center. Volunteers only work at the rescue center itself, which is located in a safe area. The station cares lovingly to rehabilitate the animals and to take care of them. Animals are brought to the project site by the Environmental Police or others that are committed to protecting wildlife.

You will work directly with the animals and can experience nature and exotic wildlife up close. With your work, you make a great contribution to the protection and preservation of Ecuadorian wildlife. The project cooperates with native Indian communities of the Amazon rainforest.

As a volunteer in this project, you should be an animal lover and have a strong desire to work with and understand animals. You are responsible for the welfare and daily care of the animals. This does not mean that the animals only need to be fed. It also means cleaning and maintaining the enclosures. The center is always striving to improve the living conditions of the animals and to provide them with a pleasant habitat despite their captivity.

Typical day

The animal rescue center in Ecuador currently hosts about 70 animals (number subject to changes!). Among them are various species of monkeys, peccaries, turtles, coatis, weasels, wild cats and many different species of parrots, birds and reptiles. 

Working hours are normally Monday to Friday, from ...

Typical day

The animal rescue center in Ecuador currently hosts about 70 animals (number subject to changes!). Among them are various species of monkeys, peccaries, turtles, coatis, weasels, wild cats and many different species of parrots, birds and reptiles. 

Working hours are normally Monday to Friday, from 8:00 to 12:00 and from 14:30 to 17:00 (only indicative! Working hours may be subject to change). On Saturdays the volunteer house is cleaned in shifts and the animals have to be fed again. Afterwards, you'll have the weekend off to explore the beautiful area, meet other volunteers, go hiking or take a weekend getaway to nearby attractions.

  • In the center, of course, everything revolves around the welfare of the animals, so taking care of them is also one of the main tasks of the volunteers. The daily work involves cleaning the cages and enclosures as well as feeding the animals. Handicrafts are needed to maintain, mend, enlarge, or build new cages, if required.
  • The volunteers in Ecuador always have great interest in wildlife observation. On your own initiative, for a few days you can observe and assess the behavior of your "favorite animal", then build or craft a suitable toy and observe how it behaves towards the toy and whether it is being used. These occupational therapies are very important for animals like monkeys, they like to play and kept busy to cheer up their live in captivity. The volunteers always enjoy this task very much and it is an absolute joy, how the animals enjoy playing and exploring. These tasks are not directly part of the project and have to be carried out by proactive volunteers.

During your stay you will collect truly unique and unforgettable experiences with the animals. So far you may only know most of the animals from the zoo or animal reports. Here you work directly with them and ensure their survival. The volunteer work in Ecuador will surely be an unforgettable and life-changing experience for you!

​Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, weather, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.

Free-time activities

In Puyo, Ecuador, your free time isn't just a break - it's an invitation to embark on extraordinary journeys and create lasting memories. Every moment is an adventure waiting to be lived. Here are some Must-Dos:

  • Dive headfirst into the Amazon Rainforest's untamed beauty. Guided tours offer glimpses ...

Free-time activities

In Puyo, Ecuador, your free time isn't just a break - it's an invitation to embark on extraordinary journeys and create lasting memories. Every moment is an adventure waiting to be lived. Here are some Must-Dos:

  • Dive headfirst into the Amazon Rainforest's untamed beauty. Guided tours offer glimpses of exotic flora and fauna, and you might spot monkeys swinging through the treetops or vibrant parrots in flight.
  • Feel the thrill of conquering the Napo River – whether you're kayaking, tubing, or embarking on a tranquil river cruise. Every bend promises a new, breathtaking vista.
  • Lace up your hiking boots and embark on treks through dense jungles. Discover hidden waterfalls, take refreshing dips in natural pools, and listen to the symphony of the rainforest.
  • Dive deep into local Kichwa culture with traditional dance performances, workshops, and a chance to explore indigenous crafts. Engage with the heartbeat of Ecuador.
  • Treat your taste buds to authentic Amazonian cuisine. Savor local flavors at bustling markets, quaint eateries, and street vendors.
  • Take a break from adventure and relax at rejuvenating hot springs or natural pools. Let the serene beauty of the surroundings wash over you.

Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 18 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

Language Skills

You need to speak Spanish (basic level) or English (basic level)

Required Documents

CV and Volunteer Questionnaire

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

What's Included

What's Included

Services by South America Inside

  • Shared room in Volunteer House
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner
  • Advice from our experienced staff
  • On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
  • Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
  • Your placement in the volunteer project
  • Pre-departure information
  • Packing list
  • Country handbook
  • Intercultural guide
  • Orientation upon arrival
  • On-site volunteer coordinator
  • 24/7 emergency number
  • Advice on travel insurance
  • Certificate of participation

Accommodation

Can you imagine falling asleep to the sound of monkeys playing in the trees? Many Amazonian animals are nocturnal, so this may be your reality when volunteering at this animal rescue center in Ecuador. 

  • Volunteers sleep in wooden volunteer houses on the project site. 
  • The homes are basic, but nice and cozy. 
  • Bedrooms and bathrooms are shared with other volunteers. The showers have only cold water, but with the hot tropical temperature, that should not be a problem.
  • The kitchen is fully equipped.
  • The project can host up to 20 volunteers at a time. 
  • Electricity and hot water are available, but volunteers are asked to use it in a conscious manner. Electricity is provided by a generator, so there is no guarantee that electricity is available 24/7. 


Food & Beverages

Groceries for your meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are provided by the project. Volunteers usually cook together and take shifts. Mealtimes are always a nice get-together for everyone to chat, have fun and get to know one another!

Internet Access

Limited access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Airport Pickup at Mariscal Sucre International Airport

An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Mariscal Sucre International Airport (UIO) in Quito. We assist you to find cheap flights to Ecuador. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Ecuador provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in Ecuador you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Ecuador. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

The volunteer work can be joined throughout the year. The start and end date can be set flexible, according to your availability and travel plans. Ask our experienced staff to coordinate your participation in this meaningfull volunteer project.

Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

2 weeks (min. stay) 780€
3 weeks 944€
4 weeks 1,108€
5 weeks 1,272€
6 weeks 1,437€
7 weeks 1,601€
8 weeks 1,765€
9 weeks 1,929€
10 weeks 2,093€
11 weeks 2,257€
12 weeks 2,421€
24 weeks (max. stay) 4,389€
Average fees 286€/week

Program fees

286€ per week 2 - 24 weeks Age 18 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES

Duration

2 - 24 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.

Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with South America Inside during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.

Meet your organization

South America Inside

Perfect 4.6 rating (128 reviews)

Agency - founded in 2003

Verified by Volunteer World

  Very high response rate

Coordinated by

Marion

Spoken languages: German, English, Spanish

About the project

South America Inside promotes intercultural, linguistic and educational exchanges. Its volunteer programs are addressed to students, professionals and retirees.

Meet your organization

South America Inside is an intercultural management agency, founded back in 2003, which specializes in the promotion of programs abroad, language travel and educational programs throughout Latin America.

Since 2007, to enrich the experience of our global-minded clients and to provide them with even more possibilities, South America Inside has been expanding their program offerings throughout South and Central America.

Working together with some of the best language schools in Latin America, South America Inside provides high quality language courses in almost every Latin American country.

Thanks to a professional team of motivated and friendly staff, South America Inside has been very successful over the past several years and have been able to establish an outstanding network of what we call "Insider Contacts." To enrich the experience of their clients and to provide them with more possibilities, South America Inside has been expanding our program offerings throughout Central and South America, in addition to our well-established Chilean programs.

Volunteer Work

Do you dream of staying abroad while doing something positive? Are you looking for a unique experience that will leave a mark on your life? Then a Volunteer Work program in South America or Central America is perfect for you!

With South America Inside you can combine an adventure abroad with social commitment, and create lasting memories in Latin America. Support the protection of endangered species; help a local community construct new homes; give new hope to impoverished children.

The possibilities to lend a hand are diverse, as there are the many places where help is needed. We have classified our volunteer projects in different areas so you can easily find the one (or more!) projects that best match your needs and interests.

Why with us

There are many persuasive reasons that speak in favor of South America Inside when it comes to selecting your perfect provider of language, study and volunteer travel abroad. Following, we have prepared a short summary so that you can get us to know a little better.

Our Insider benefits at a glance:

•  Regional Experience
Over one decade (established in 2003) of dedication to language, work and study travel programs in Latin America. Thanks to our long standing work and life experience in the South American continent, we know this region really well. Therefore, we can help and inform you in a professional and competent way.

•  Multifaceted Offers
Over time we have developed new programs to offer a wide array of work abroad opportunities to our clients. We have been pioneers in launching new exchange programs, as we have been the first in offering Work & Travel/Working Holiday and Farm Stays in Chile and successfully introduced these programs into the market back in 2005. Since 2012, we are the only agency to offer this type of program in Costa Rica.

•  Insider Advice
Despite living in the modern era of the internet, we know that reliable and competent advice is still an important criterion for most of us. At South America Inside, you will find the benefits of an internet provider and an independent travel agency. We will be glad to pass on our extensive knowledge and regional experience.!

•  Location
It is difficult to run programs when there is nobody “on the ground” to evaluate existing options and search for new opportunities. So, we are located in Chile, on location, and we know everything that is going on first hand. We know what it is like to live as a foreigner in South America and will be happy to assist you in making your stay unforgettable!

•  Independence
South America Inside is an independent provider of language courses, internships, volunteer work, Farm Stays and Work & Travel programs in Latin America. We neither depend financially nor structurally on any other company, language school, association or organization. Therefore, we are able to give personalized information in accordance to your needs and availability.

•  Multilingual Team

Our team is multilingual and international! We speak fluent English, Spanish and German, as well as some French and Portuguese. With our customers, we can communicate in their native language and we avoid misunderstandings with local partners by communicating in Spanish with them. You can be sure that there will be an English-speaking contact person for you before, during, and after your stay.

•  Customer Service
Excellent customer service is one of the most important goals for South America Inside, and this is evident with the positive feedback we regularly receive from our many happy clients. Emails are answered within 48 business hours and every client is treated with the same friendliness and expertise.

•  Gapless and Accurate Information flow
With South America Inside you will have one and the same contact person before, during and after your trip. With that said, we guarantee a gapless and accurate information flow and you will always be very well informed.

•  Approved Program Places
Many of our program places, especially in the area of internships and volunteer work, are designed in the way that they will be recognized by most universities, colleges or academies.

128 reviews · rating4.6

Jakob R rating4.8

2023 at Animal Rescue in the Amazon

***English below*** Ich bin gut im Projekt angekommen und fühle mich auch mit den Menschen hier sehr wohl. Einzig die Internetverbindung ist teilweise schwierig, weshalb ich auch erst auf die E-Mail antworten kann. Insgesamt hat aber alles reibungslos funktioniert und es war die richtige ...
Jacob Bos rating1.2

2023 at Animal Rescue in the Amazon

Funding and payment seem to be directed towards the entertainment of the only present groundskeeper and his brother (Julio and Falvio) who both seem scarcely involved. The only visible expenditure is the construction of Falvio's Airbnb and party money. There is evidence that most animals lack proper ...
Anja rating4.6

2017 at Animal Rescue in the Amazon

When I arrived in Puyo I got picked up by two workers of the animal rescue station, which drove with me through the jungle to the station. The first thing I discovered was a red macaw which was sitting on a near tree and every once in a while, flew over the jungle. That really impressed me! Since I ...
Christiane rating4.6

2017 at Animal Rescue in the Amazon

Once I arrived I was well received by Gandolf the cat, Negro the dog and Konati the coati. It was all very beautiful and the surrounding was impressive. Back in the camp I saw Flavio again and other guests which all welcomed me very friendly. We immediately became a harmonic group. Franzi ...
Benedikt rating4.6

2015 at Animal Rescue in the Amazon

Upon arrival at the Wildlife Rescue Center in Ecuador, I was already convinced that that this would be a wonderful trip with so many new experiences. At the corner where I had to get off the bus, Julio (a family member) was waiting and welcomed me kindly. I immediately felt comfortable and well ...
Benedikt rating4.6

2015 at Animal Rescue in the Amazon

Upon arrival at the Wildlife Rescue Center in Ecuador, I was already convinced that that this would be a wonderful trip with so many new experiences. At the corner where I had to get off the bus, Julio (a family member) was waiting and welcomed me kindly. I immediately felt comfortable and well ...

Location

Americas > South America > Ecuador > Puyo

You might also be interested in

Volunteer Abroad  >  Animals  >  Wildlife Conservation in Ecuador
Contact Marion
  Very high response rate
German, English, Spanish

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