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Fantastic 4.54rating (29)
  • Life On Land

Wildlife Rescue Center Caretaker

location
2 - 24 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • A great opportunity to get away in the wilderness and making a meaningful contribution
  • Opportunity to volunteer at a renowned rescue center
  • Participate in rescue and conservation efforts with other volunteers from around the world

Highlights

  • A great opportunity to get away in the wilderness and making a meaningful contribution
  • Opportunity to volunteer at a renowned rescue center
  • Participate in rescue and conservation efforts with other volunteers from around the world
  • Experience Ecuador and take trips on weekends to explore the country
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Calling in all wildlife enthusiasts. Work for the conservation of Amazonian animals at the rescue centers, and help in sending them back to their original habitat.

    The project

    Ever wondered how would the experience be of living in largest rain forest in the world? Does the mere thought of it excites you to brim? If you are an adventure and wildlife enthusiast, then this must excite you to the core for sure. Volunteering Solutions offer placements under the ...

    About the program

    The project

    Ever wondered how would the experience be of living in largest rain forest in the world? Does the mere thought of it excites you to brim? If you are an adventure and wildlife enthusiast, then this must excite you to the core for sure. Volunteering Solutions offer placements under the Amazon Animal Rescue Center Program in Ecuador. This project is located in the Ecuadorian rain forest and works for rescuing, rehabilitating and when possible releasing animals back to their natural environment. 

    Founded in 2006 with the aim of protecting the wildlife of the Amazon region through the rescue and rehabilitation of local flora and fauna, this program is under the direct supervision and administration of the Ecuadorian Environmental Police (UPMA) and the Ministry of Environment. Continuous efforts are made in the fight against the trafficking, abuse, capture and hunting of wild animals. This center is very organized and volunteers can help with caring for the animals and maintenance.

    The animals

    There are currently at least 40 different species of animals at the center which include: Ocelot, tayra, capybara, parrots, monkeys, tortoises, and caimans among others. Some of the animals were orphaned when their parents were killed by hunters, others were rescued from animal dealers who were trying to traffic the animals out of the country and many have been retrieved from families who had kept these animals in captivity. Unfortunately the majority have suffered some sort of physical or psychological abuse.

    Volunteer work

    A list of routine tasks under this program is as below:

    • Day to day care of the animals
    • Cutting up fruit, preparation of diets, feeding the animals
    • Helping new arrivals adjust to the center
    • General maintenance and cleaning
    • Construction work; repairing and building new enclosures
    • Cage and enclosure enrichment
    • Assisting the vet when necessary
    • Other activities such as gardening, improving trails, making signs for visitors etc.
    The center

    The center is also open for tourists to visit, charging a small entrance fee that is the center’s only other source of income. As animal welfare is not a high priority for many Ecuadorians, the background and mistreatment of each animal is explained to tourists, with the idea to educate local and foreign visitors about animal protection issues. In general, the visits are not guided, but tourists can read about each animal on the information sign at the cages.

    Typical day

    Volunteers will work from 08.00 am to 12.00 pm and 2.30 pm to 5.00 pm, Monday to Friday. On Saturdays and Sundays, volunteers work for a few hours in the morning as the animals still need feeding and looking after but once all the tasks are completed you are free for the weekend.

    Typical day

    Volunteers will work from 08.00 am to 12.00 pm and 2.30 pm to 5.00 pm, Monday to Friday. On Saturdays and Sundays, volunteers work for a few hours in the morning as the animals still need feeding and looking after but once all the tasks are completed you are free for the weekend.

    Free-time activities

    There is a lot to do in Quito and not all can be covered in a day. You will have free time during evening and during the weekends which you can divide between things to do and places to visit in Quito. You can start with the Old Town, Iglesia de San Francisco, La Compañía de Jesús, and Casa Museo ...

    Free-time activities

    There is a lot to do in Quito and not all can be covered in a day. You will have free time during evening and during the weekends which you can divide between things to do and places to visit in Quito. You can start with the Old Town, Iglesia de San Francisco, La Compañía de Jesús, and Casa Museo María Augusta Urrutia. 

    Keep in mind that a lot of public attractions remain closed during lunch, you can rest in the afternoon or head to to El Panecillo for panoramic views of the city and have a hearty meal there, take a break and start again. How you want to end your day, depends on you. You can explore the nightlife or just settle for a light dinner.

    Volunteers typically work for around 5-6 hours in a day. Depending on the workload every day, working hours can vary. Evenings are free for the volunteers and volunteers usually get together and go out for social gatherings, eat out or just relax at the volunteer house. Quito offers a number of activities and attractions for the discerning travelers. 

    Quito is surrounded by Cotopaxi volcano and Pichincha, Antizana, Cayambe volcanoes that make the Andean contour. Full of churches and majestic architecture and exquisite fine dining experiences, walking tour in this beautiful city is not enough. Galapagos is at a distance of half an hour from the mainland Quito by air and you can go crazy looking and experience the untouched wilderness there. Island hopping, swimming, and snorkeling are just a few of the perks!

    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)

    Required Documents

    CV, Insurance and Passport

    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 from 08:00 - 17:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    The total cost for the program includes;

    • Airport Pickup from Quito
    • One night accommodation in volunteer house in Quito
    • Accommodation at the Project in Puyo
    • Pre Departure Information Guide
    • Orientation 
    • Local Staff Support
    • All meals on weekdays

    Airport Pickup at Mariscal Sucre International Airport

    Volunteers would be picked up from the Mariscal Sucre International Airport by a local assigned representative. Volunteers who are already present in Quito, would be picked up from their locations. Inform your coordinator about your plans before hand.

    Accommodation

    On arrival to the project, on the first night, all volunteer will stay in a hostel accommodation/

    While in Puyo, There are volunteer cabañas with dorm rooms offering space for up to 14 people in total. There is a shared kitchen, bathroom and social area with TV and DVD player, hammocks and books. You will be provided with bedding and will even have access to a swimming pool and wi-fi. Accommodation is basic and it is your duty to keep your living area clean. 

    Food & Beverages

    Volunteers are provided with three meals per day from Monday morning to Saturday lunch. Outside these times volunteers can enjoy a meal out in nearby Puyo or prepare food in the communal kitchen. Volunteers are expected to help and contribute in the cooking and cleaning activities as well.  Volunteers are able to make trips to the local town to purchase any additional food items/snacks as well.

    Internet Access

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

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    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

    Since the arrival date is the same as the program start date, you need to be in Quito on the same day as the start date that you have selected for your program. For example, if you have selected 14th October as your program start date, then you have to be in Quito on the 14th of October. 

    Arrivals in 2026 are planned at the following dates:

    • Jan - 03,10,17,24,31
    • Feb - 07,14,21,28
    • March - 07,14,21,28
    • April -04,11,18,25
    • May - 02,09,16,23,30
    • June - 06,13,20,27
    • July - 04,11,18,25
    • Aug - 01,08,15,22,29
    • Sept - 05,12,19,26
    • October - 03,10,17,24,31
    • Nov - 07,14,21,28
    • December - 05,12,19,26

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

    Program Fees

    $438 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

    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
    4.5
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers

    Location

    Americas > South America > Ecuador > Puyo

    Meet your project coordinator

    Sahil
    29
    reviews
    4.54
    Fantastic
    2007
    Founded

    Verified

      Below average response rate
    Travel safely by using Volunteer World for your communication and bookings. This way, you can benefit from the Flex Option, Refund Guarantee, and Resolution Support.

    You might also be interested in

    Volunteer Abroad  >  Animals  >  Wildlife Conservation in Ecuador
    Contact Sahil
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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    Price details