Animal Care and Park Maintenance in the Amazon

  Ecuador

• All Other Regions of Ecuador: 
Tena

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks and 9-12 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks

Description: This project really does have it all. The Parque Amazonico La Isla is an environmental interpretation center whose main objective is the conservation of natural resources and the spread of these values through environmental education. You'll work with closely with monkeys, tapirs, birds and more, along with guiding tourists and helping with general maintenance at the park. In your spare time, you can trek in the jungle close to Tena, go whitewater rafting, kayaking, and more adventure sports!

*What does the center do?
The Parque Amazonico La Isla is an environmental interpretation center and zoo that has several objectives, such as carrying out environmental education activities with local students, maintenance of the fauna species that have been donated to the center, projects of ecology, tourism, and development, and maintenance of the Parque, a 24 hectare reserve. This center is funded by the Ecuadorian government and operates on a small annual budget. Within these constraints, Parque Amazonica La Isla intends to be a replica of the Amazonian ecosystem with flora and fauna of the area (monkeys, tapirs, birds, capybaras, macaws, toucans, caymans, among others). Along with feeding and looking after the animals, you will get involved in general maintenance work around the center, such as improving and maintaining the trails. Also, you can contribute with Parque Amazonico La Isla by guiding tourists and students who visit the center.

*Why does the project need volunteers?
The project needs the help of volunteers to accomplish and fulfill its objectives. There is a permanent staff, however, more hands are needed to help out.

Highlights:
* Helping the team at the park to care for the animals
* Exploring the surrounding area in your free time - trekking, rafting and kayaking are all possible
* Learning about this fascinating country and her people

Qualifications: All that you need to do this project is a sense of adventure and a love for animals!

Your role as a volunteer:
You will be working and assisting the permanent staff who works in the Parque Amazónico La Isla. Typical tasks include:
* Cleaning and maintenance of the trails and forest
* Preparing food for the animals
* Helping to feed the animals
* Cleaning, maintenance, and improvement of the cages where the animals are held
* General maintenance of the Parque
* Guidance activities
* Any new project or activity that the Center carries out

Cost in US$: USD 1,260.00 for 2 weeks, USD 175.00 for every wee

* Accommodation: Shared room in homestay
* Food: All meals
* Airport Pickup: Included on arrival date. Ask us for details if you're arriving early!
* Training: In-country orientation
* Support: Pre-departure helpdesk, Local in-country team and 24hr emergency support

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18-80

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Ecuador Independently

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Year Founded: 1994