Volunteer at a wildlife sanctuary in Ecuador

The project

Help to provide a new life to animals that have had a tough start. Often rescued from the illegal pet trade, from poorly-run zoos and even from people's homes, these animals need a place as close to the wild as possible to enjoy their lives.

Where possible, these rescued animals will be rehabilitated to the wild in a huge swathe of rainforest also owned by the sanctuary. Unfortunately many of these animals have become too humanised, or dependent on people for food, that they would simply not survive in their natural environment.

What will I be doing?
With over 35 species of animal, and over 250 animals, this is an animal lover's paradise. The sanctuary spreads through about 8 hectares of beautiful woodland and is a glorious setting for animals and volunteers alike.

Project tasks can include, but are not limited to:

• Food preparation, feeding and enrichments
• Cleaning enclosures
• Monitoring animal behaviour
• General maintenance and preparing animals for release

Accommodation and food

The accommodation is located on site at the sanctuary. You will be sharing a room with 2 - 3 other volunteers in a rustic jungle setting. There are shared bathrooms.

Food is delicious and plentiful. Breakfast is a buffet of fruit, toast and cereal. Lunch and dinner are cooked by locals, and include lots of fresh vegetables.

Project highlights

• Prepare the food for chattering monkeys, feed the beautiful birds, provide enrichment to the majestic forest cats and care for the cute coatis
• Live on the edge of the Amazon rainforest, and explore the amazing surrounding areas in your free time
• Visit a remote Amazonian ecological reserve, where many of the rescued animals are released

Free time
You will be working Monday - Friday and either Saturday or Sunday morning, depending on your rota, so you will have plenty of time to fit in some trips too. The project is located in a beautiful rain forest setting, with activities such white water rafting, swimming in hot pools, hiking, cycling and canyoning.

Useful extra information about the organisation of this project

• You will be with other international volunteers from around the world
• There is 24/7 emergency support
• Speak to someone who has done this project - our experienced team have volunteered on all of our projects and know them intimately
• You will need travel insurance to be able to join this project - we can offer advice of what to look for in a travel insurance policy