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In the heart of the Amazon, in Peru, sign up as an eco-volunteer to help protect the local flora and fauna. The programme takes place in one of the world’s most biodiverse biosphere reserves. All volunteering programmes for nature
In Manu National Park in Peru
South-eastern Peru is home to Manu National Park, situated in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon region. This region, covering nearly 19,000 km² (7,336 m²), has been a national park since 1971 and serves as a conservation area for the protection of local flora and fauna. The traditional way of life and culture of Peru’s indigenous people are further objectives of this conservation project. Manu National Park was designated a biosphere reserve and an integral part of the World Natural Heritage in 1987, following UNESCO’s recognition of the rare species and rich biodiversity found in this region of Peru.
Taking indigenous peoples’ policies into account
Indigenous communities continue to live in this remote national park, sheltered from the outside world. Much of the area can only be visited for research purposes. This volunteering project is run by a Peruvian NGO (non-governmental organisation), which works with the local community to improve sustainability and ensure that the political rights of the indigenous people are respected. It is essential for the local NGO to always take into account the concerns and needs of indigenous communities when seeking practical, cost-effective and sustainable solutions that respect the sensitivity of the ecosystem. National and international volunteers support this NGO’s efforts to protect vegetation and wildlife whilst contributing to the preservation of conservation areas.
The role of volunteers in the Peruvian Amazon rainforest
No prior knowledge or expertise is required for the tasks in which volunteers can take part as part of this project. You will be able to get involved in a range of activities, such as planting, maintaining infrastructure, collecting data on flora and fauna, and reintroducing animal species. It is essential to bear in mind that certain activities, such as environmental education workshops and community work with indigenous communities, require a degree of independence, initiative and advanced Spanish language skills.
The importance of your enthusiasm
Your expertise, knowledge and enthusiasm are always greatly appreciated. Thanks to your commitment, inspiration and support, you can help develop new strategies aimed at preserving and developing the reserve. This volunteering project, set in the Peruvian Amazon rainforest, offers you the chance to immerse yourself in the heart of nature. You’ll learn a great deal about the rainforest and the local culture, both during your daily volunteer work and through your outdoor activities.
The following activities may be carried out within the protected area:
- Sustainable agriculture. Cultivation of organic mixed-crop fields to develop alternative and sustainable resources.
- There are plantations of copuatzu (white cocoa) and other fruit trees. These plants require special care (monitoring, weeding, transplanting, preparing the seedbed, composting, stock-taking, etc.).
- Patrol. The reserve has three trails for wildlife spotting (monkeys, wild boars, coatis, anteaters, porcupines, exotic birds, insects and, occasionally, pumas, jaguar tracks, etc.). The work involves recording and photographing as many of the reserve’s species as possible.
- Reforestation activities: The aim is to create a natural barrier and restore the water level in the Laguna Seca circuit.
- Repair and sustainable maintenance of the reserve’s facilities
- Cleaning and maintenance of the walking trails through the nature reserve
- Support for the nature reserve (which is currently undergoing organisational changes due to new government proposals).
Please note: tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as the number of volunteers, the time of year, the season, the project’s current needs, and personal motivation. Some volunteers may not be able to participate fully in all of these tasks
Dates
- Minimum 2 weeks all year round
Prices
- Application fee: €150
- Cost of the programme: €905 (for a minimum stay of 15 days) €1,210 (30 days)
Included in the price
- Shared room in the volunteers’ house
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Transfer from Cusco to the nature reserve and back (by bus and boat), including one night’s accommodation
- Professional advice in English
- Translation of your application documents
- Volunteering placement in Peru
- English-speaking support within the country
- Peru Handbook
- Intercultural Guide
- 24/7 emergency number
- Information on suitable travel insurance
- Certificate of attendance
Not included in the price
- Flight tickets
- Travel insurance
Please note: the volunteer project begins with an orientation meeting in Cusco. The journey from Cusco to the nature reserve and the return journey to Cusco are included in the programme fee (travel by bus and boat). Participants are responsible for their own accommodation costs in Cusco.
Accommodation
The volunteers’ house comprises six double bedrooms spread over two floors. The reserve is maintained and reforested with the help of local volunteers. In the reserve, there is running water but no electricity. To recharge electronic devices (such as mobile phone batteries), volunteers take a 10-minute boat ride to the nearest village. As it is difficult to store meat dishes (there is no fridge), meals are provided in accordance with jungle living conditions, which means that vegetarian options predominate.
In the project, there is only a mobile connection; there is no internet connection. There is an internet connection in the neighbouring village.
Location
The nature reserve is situated on the outskirts of Manu National Park, around 250 km east of Cusco in Peru. The journey from Cusco can take up to 8 hours by car due to the poor condition of the roads. The project where the volunteer programme takes place is only accessible by boat. However, this long journey is well worth it! Manu National Park is one of the most biodiverse places in the world. It is home to a wide variety of exotic animals, including sloths, spectacled bears, jaguars, colourful birds and parrots, as well as various species of reptiles and other mammals.
A veritable Garden of Eden
The only human settlements in this region are those of indigenous communities. Manu National Park is a veritable Garden of Eden and the ideal place for anyone wishing to refocus their priorities away from the hectic pace of modern daily life and to immerse themselves fully in a different way of life – one that is unpretentious, sometimes challenging, but magnificent.
A lost Inca city
It is said that Paititi, a legendary but long-lost Inca city, lies here, but no one has yet discovered it. You won’t be in constant contact with your everyday life whilst working on the project, due to its remote location and the lack of internet access. Although it may seem adventurous at first, this experience can prove to be very calming, educational and healing.
You’ll be able to go swimming, hiking, enjoy water sports and go wildlife spotting. You’ll be surrounded by a wide variety of species, including plants, birds, monkeys, reptiles and other exotic animals whilst living in the jungle. This experience in the heart of the jungle is unique, but don’t expect to find any typical tourist activities!
Tous les avis sur les missions South America Inside
The partner agency
The partner is an intercultural agency founded in 2003 by Marion, a German national living in Chile. Marion specialises in organising solidarity-based and participatory trips, eco-volunteering placements, as well as language courses and educational programmes throughout Latin America. This agency offers placements in Chile, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Ecuador and more. Whether you are a student, a professional or a retiree, these trips are designed for those who want to experience Latin America in a way that goes beyond simply being a tourist. All trips with South America Inside
