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Excellent 4.89rating (22)

Wildlife Rescue & Animal Care Experience

location
4 - 24 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Support the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife such as apes, bears, condors, and other native species.
  • Work alongside experienced caretakers at a family-run wildlife rescue center committed to animal welfare.
  • Gain hands-on insight into wildlife protection, rehabilitation, and ethical conservation practices.

Highlights

  • Support the rescue and rehabilitation of wildlife such as apes, bears, condors, and other native species.
  • Work alongside experienced caretakers at a family-run wildlife rescue center committed to animal welfare.
  • Gain hands-on insight into wildlife protection, rehabilitation, and ethical conservation practices.
  • Contribute to long-term conservation efforts with the goal of releasing rescued animals back into their natural habitat.
  • Get to know the amazing city of Cuzco.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Volunteer at a family-run Wildlife Rescue Center that protects and rehabilitates animals rescued from mistreatment.

    The Wildlife Rescue Center is a family run private organization dedicated to rescuing animals which have suffered from mistreatment of any kind. These rescued animals are put under the care of the rescue center by the forest rangers, a branch of the National Police and National government. At this ...

    About the program

    The Wildlife Rescue Center is a family run private organization dedicated to rescuing animals which have suffered from mistreatment of any kind. These rescued animals are put under the care of the rescue center by the forest rangers, a branch of the National Police and National government. At this project, all animals have their vaccinations. The center takes care of all types of wildlife animals with the long-term objective to liberate them again into nature.

    This program is important because many animals in the region face abandonment, neglect, and lack of access to veterinary care. There is also limited public awareness about responsible pet ownership and animal welfare.

    Our program addresses these issues through rescue, rehabilitation, daily care, and community education. We work to improve animal health and wellbeing while also supporting long-term social change through education and local partnerships.

    The program focuses on supporting the daily operations of an animal rescue and welfare initiative.

    Volunteers help with:

    • Feeding and providing fresh water.

    • Cleaning living spaces and maintaining hygiene standards.

    • Assisting with animal enrichment and socialization.

    • Supporting basic maintenance and organization tasks.

    • Helping with community awareness activities when applicable.

    Volunteers are supervised by experienced local staff to work with:

    • Local animal care staff.

    • Other international volunteers.

    • Occasionally local veterinarians or partner organizations.

    The environment is collaborative, supportive, and learning-oriented.

    We expect volunteers to:

    • Be respectful toward animals, staff, and other volunteers.

    • Be reliable and committed to scheduled tasks.

    • Be emotionally prepared to work with rescued animals.

    • Follow safety and hygiene protocols.

    Volunteers can expect from us:

    • Orientation and basic training.

    • Ongoing support from staff.

    • Safe accommodation.

    • A meaningful and educational volunteer experience.

    Equipment:
    Volunteers should bring comfortable work clothes, closed shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and personal medication if needed. No specialized equipment is required.


    Typical day

    Example schedule (may vary depending on season and needs):
    • 7:00 AM – Breakfast.

    • 9:00 AM – Morning animal care (feeding, cleaning, health check observation).

    • 11:00 AM – Maintenance tasks or enrichment activities.

    • 1:00 PM – Lunch break.

    Working hours are typically 3 or 4 hours per ...

    Typical day

    Example schedule (may vary depending on season and needs):
    • 7:00 AM – Breakfast.

    • 9:00 AM – Morning animal care (feeding, cleaning, health check observation).

    • 11:00 AM – Maintenance tasks or enrichment activities.

    • 1:00 PM – Lunch break.

    Working hours are typically 3 or 4 hours per day, 5 days per week.


    Free-time activities

    Cusco offers an unforgettable mix of culture, history, adventure, and natural beauty, making it the perfect place to enjoy your free time while volunteering. Surrounded by the Andes and rich Incan heritage, the city gives you endless opportunities to explore, relax, and connect with local life.

    On ...

    Free-time activities

    Cusco offers an unforgettable mix of culture, history, adventure, and natural beauty, making it the perfect place to enjoy your free time while volunteering. Surrounded by the Andes and rich Incan heritage, the city gives you endless opportunities to explore, relax, and connect with local life.

    On weekends or during free days, you can take part in some of Peru’s most iconic excursions. Popular trips include the Sacred Valley (Maras & Moray), where you can visit ancient salt mines and agricultural terraces, and the Valle VIP tour, which combines highlights of the Sacred Valley in one day. For mountain lovers, the stunning Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain offers colorful landscapes without the intense crowds of Vinicunca.

    Machu Picchu is of course a must-see, and Cusco offers several ways to get there. You can travel by train, car, or join adventurous treks such as the Inca Trail (2 days), the Inca Jungle Trek (4 days), or the famous Salkantay Trek (5 days). Each option gives you a different way to experience the Andes, from lush jungle paths to dramatic high-altitude passes.

    If you enjoy nature and wildlife, you can visit the Tambopata Rainforest and Lake Sandoval to see monkeys, birds, and exotic plants in the Amazon basin. For a cultural experience, a trip to Lake Titicaca lets you explore floating islands and indigenous communities, while Huacachina offers sandboarding and dune buggy rides in a desert oasis.

    Cusco is also one of the best cities in the world to learn and practice Spanish. Locals speak clearly and slowly, making it easy to understand and communicate. You can practice your Spanish while shopping in local markets, ordering food, joining tours, or chatting with people from Peru and other parts of Latin America.

    Whether you prefer hiking, history, culture, or simply enjoying café life in the Plaza de Armas, Cusco offers something for every traveler and makes your volunteer experience even more enriching.


    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.

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    Don’t be scared of animals and dirty clothes!

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 09:00 - 13:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Your program fee directly supports the daily operation and long-term sustainability of the Wildlife Rescue Center. It helps cover your accommodation and enrichment materials essential for the care, rehabilitation, and wellbeing of rescued wildlife; tools and materials for cleaning enclosures, maintenance, and the construction of new animal habitats; and the salaries of local caretakers, veterinarians, and on-site coordinators who guide and supervise volunteer activities. 

    The program price also includes 20 hours of Spanish lessons, so you can improve your language skills while volunteering.

    The fee also contributes to transportation and logistical costs, as well as a small emergency and sustainability reserve that ensures the continuity of rescue operations and supports future conservation, education, and animal release initiatives.

    Airport Pickup at Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport

    The pick-up will be provided in Cusco city on the day that you start your accommodation.
    It is required to send the details of the flight/bus of arrival to Cusco and to Lima if using the Lima Connection Service at least 5 days in advance.

    Accommodation

    Our

    Volunteer House resides inside our Spanish School located in the Historical Center of Cusco

    Perfect for self-reliant students, this choice allows you to cook and live alongside fellow international students, volunteers, and Proyecto Peru interns. Apartment living encourages a sense of community among travelers, fostering shared experiences within a student housing arrangement and exchange program. The fully furnished house features a well-equipped kitchen and complimentary internet. Your private bedroom provides personal space, while communal areas like the kitchen and living room are shared with roommates.

    Description:

    Shared room with bunk bed (6-bed dorm) that includes:

    • Shared bathroom
    • WiFi
    • Access to shared living spaces
    • Cleaning service

    You can also upgrade your accomodation and stay in a shared room with single bed, a private room or a Homestay Family with all meals included as well as a private bedroom. 
     


    Internet Access

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

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Food & Beverages

    Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cuzco. We assist you to find cheap flights to Peru. 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 Peru provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    Starts every Sunday! Let us know if you arrive earlier. We provide Cusco pick-up. The pick-up will be provided in Cusco city on the day that you start your accommodation. Volunteers are obliged to inform us of the details of the flight/bus of arrival to Cusco and to Lima if using the Lima Connection Service at least 5 days in advance.


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

    Program Fees

    $310 per week 4 - 24 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    4 - 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

    4.89
    22 reviews

    Location


    Meet your project coordinator

    Felipe
    22
    reviews
    4.89
    Excellent
    2023
    Founded

    Verified

      Good response rate
    Spoken languages: Portuguese, Spanish, English
    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.

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    Contact Felipe
      Good response rate
    Portuguese, Spanish, English

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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