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Brilliant 4.72rating (254)

Animal Rescue Centre & Rehabilitation

location
4 - 26 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Assist with fertilization and plant care.
  • Learn more about wildlife conservation.
  • Setting up feeding containers.

Highlights

  • Assist with fertilization and plant care.
  • Learn more about wildlife conservation.
  • Setting up feeding containers.
  • Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures.
  • Tending to landscaping, including weeding and cage upkeep.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    50+

    About the program

    Situated in Macas within the Morona Santiago Province, the centre’s commitment is to ensure that the rescued animals enjoy suitable living conditions and environment.

    This small animal rescue centre, situated in Macas within the Morona Santiago Province, operates as a permanent program. It commenced its operations in 2006 with the primary mission of rescuing and rehabilitating various species of wild animals. These animals were often rescued from individuals who ...

    About the program

    This small animal rescue centre, situated in Macas within the Morona Santiago Province, operates as a permanent program. It commenced its operations in 2006 with the primary mission of rescuing and rehabilitating various species of wild animals. These animals were often rescued from individuals who had kept them as pets under deplorable conditions. The centre’s scope of rescue efforts encompassed mammals, reptiles, birds, and more, including the initial rescue of a tapir.

    The centre’s commitment is to ensure that the rescued animals enjoy suitable living conditions and environments conducive to their mobility. We strive to replicate their natural habitats to facilitate their rehabilitation.

    Our dedicated staff actively engage with local schools and high schools, conducting workshops for students. The aim is to instil awareness among children about the critical importance of preserving the flora and fauna of the Amazon region. Additionally, we welcome university students for internships to further their understanding of wildlife conservation.

    The centre also responds to emergency calls from the Ministry of the Environment in Morona Santiago, offering assistance in cases involving irrecoverable or imprinted animals.

    The shelter operates without financial support from the government. The animals in our care are sustained through visitor entrance fees, fundraising events organized by our Manager, and contributions from partnering NGOs that supply volunteers. 

    Location

    Macas is a city located in the Morona Santiago Province of Ecuador. It serves as the provincial capital and is situated in the southeastern part of the country, in the heart of the Amazon rainforest region. Macas is known for its lush natural surroundings, rich biodiversity, and vibrant cultural heritage. The city of Macas is set amidst the stunning landscapes of the Amazon, with verdant forests, winding rivers, and diverse wildlife in its vicinity. The Morona Santiago Province is renowned for its incredible ecological diversity, making it a hub for nature enthusiasts and researchers interested in exploring the Amazon basin.

    Project Tasks

    • Preparing food for the animals.
    • Setting up feeding containers.
    • Cleaning and maintaining animal enclosures.
    • Tending to landscaping, including weeding and cage upkeep.
    • Managing organic waste composting.
    • Assisting with fertilization and plant care.
    • Conducting road maintenance.
    • Serving as guides for tourists and visitors.

    By participating in these activities, volunteers play a crucial role in supporting our mission of rescuing and rehabilitating wildlife while educating the public about the importance of conservation.


    Typical day

    Typical day

    8am – breakfast

    9am-11am

    • Preparation of the animal’s food
    • Delivering meals to every animal
    • Cleaning the cages, and go to buy food in the market

    11am – Time to rest

    1pm – Lunch 

    3pm

    • Preparation of the animal’s food
    • Delivering meals to the animals

    4:30pm – work finishes 

    Typical day

    Typical day

    8am – breakfast

    9am-11am

    • Preparation of the animal’s food
    • Delivering meals to every animal
    • Cleaning the cages, and go to buy food in the market

    11am – Time to rest

    1pm – Lunch 

    3pm

    • Preparation of the animal’s food
    • Delivering meals to the animals

    4:30pm – work finishes 


    Free-time activities

    Here are some must-visit places and things to do in this beautiful country:

    • Explore the Galápagos Islands: Discover the unique wildlife, pristine beaches, and extraordinary marine life of this UNESCO World Heritage site through snorkelling, diving, or guided tours.
    • Visit Quito’s Historic ...

    Free-time activities

    Here are some must-visit places and things to do in this beautiful country:

    • Explore the Galápagos Islands: Discover the unique wildlife, pristine beaches, and extraordinary marine life of this UNESCO World Heritage site through snorkelling, diving, or guided tours.
    • Visit Quito’s Historic Centre: Wander through Quito’s well-preserved colonial old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its churches, plazas, and museums.
    • Hike in the Andes: Embark on a trek through the Andean highlands, visiting iconic spots like Cotopaxi National Park, Quilotoa Crater Lake, and the scenic town of Banos.
    • Amazon Rainforest Adventures: Explore the Amazon Basin, go wildlife spotting, visit indigenous communities, and take a canoe ride along the Amazon River.
    • Climb Cotopaxi Volcano: For the adventurous, attempt to summit Cotopaxi, one of the world’s highest active volcanoes.
    • Relax in the Thermal Baths of Banos: Soak in the natural hot springs in the town of Banos, surrounded by lush rainforest.
    • Discover Cuenca: Explore the charming city of Cuenca, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture, art galleries, and rich cultural heritage.
    • Experience the Otavalo Market: Visit the famous Otavalo market, one of South America’s largest indigenous markets, to shop for textiles, handicrafts, and local produce.
    • Whale Watching: Head to the coastal town of Puerto Lopez for a chance to witness humpback whales during their migratory season.
    • Visit the Ingapirca Ruins: Explore the ancient Inca ruins at Ingapirca, Ecuador’s largest archaeological site.
    • Chocolate Tour: Take a tour of a cacao plantation and learn about the chocolate-making process, from bean to bar.
    • Attend a Festival: Experience Ecuador’s vibrant culture by participating in local festivals and celebrations, such as Inti Raymi or the Diablada.
    • Bird Watching: Ecuador is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Consider birdwatching in the cloud forests of Mindo or in the Yasuni National Park.
    • Ride the Devil’s Nose Train: Take a thrilling ride on the Devil’s Nose Train, an engineering marvel that traverses steep slopes and offers breathtaking views.
    • Relax on the Pacific Coast: Enjoy the sun, surf, and seafood on the beautiful beaches of Ecuador’s Pacific Coast.  


    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 English (basic level)

    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

    On-site Services

    • Accommodation
    • 3 meals p/day & 2 p/day at weekends
    • 1 day orientation
    • In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
    • Fundraising support
    • University course credits (where applicable)
    • Certificate of Completion 

    Accommodation

    Upon arrival in Quito, volunteers are required to visit the main house to receive essential safety guidelines and receive information about the country. Accommodation is provided in the main house, where you will stay in dormitories with 1-4 people per room. Typically, you will spend 1-2 days in Quito, dependent on your arrival schedule.

    When on project, you will stay at a volunteer house in a room with 1-4 people. The accommodation is comfortable, there is no hot shower, but the water is refreshing in the hot climate anyway! There is a western toilet.


    Food & Beverages

    You will receive 3 meals a day. The food will be local Ecuadorian cuisine, vegetarians are welcome but we are not able to cover vegans needs, because they are very strict. Vegetarianism and veganism are not part of the Ecuadorian culture.  

    Internet Access

    Limited access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    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

    *No transportation is included

    Volunteers normally arrive to Quito (this cost is not included but a taxi can be booked for you). The official cost is 30 dollars, and it takes around 1 hour.

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

    Program Fees

    $227 per week 4 - 26 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    4 - 26 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.


    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.7
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    2025
    I supported a loving team with daily tasks such as keeping the enclosures clean, shredding antelopes and feeding the kittens. Comments on ...
    2025
    Very well organised, had no problem checking in. The work was so nice and the people were wonderful. Staff is also there to help out with ...
    Sarah Damaschin

    School Construction

    Location


    Meet your project coordinator

    Lauren
    254
    reviews
    4.72
    Brilliant
    1989
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    Contact Lauren
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    English

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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