To go to the Amazon is to cross the threshold into a wild and mysterious world, where the jungle whispers ancestral secrets and life beats in every corner. Here, nature unfolds in its maximum splendor, enveloping you in a spectacle of unique colors, sounds and aromas. More than a destination, it is a transformative experience that awakens the senses and connects you with the deepest part of your being.
Every year, thousands of animals are removed from their natural habitat, victims of illegal trafficking, deforestation and excessive human contact. In 2023 alone, Ecuador’s Environmental Police intercepted 4,911 wild animals that were about to be trafficked. This reality not only threatens wildlife, but also the delicate balance of the ecosystem to which they belong. Behind each number there are a series of effects that impact both the ecosystem and the species that depend on it.
Each species plays a vital role in its ecosystem. When an animal is trafficked, the natural balance is broken: predators lose their food source, other species are overpopulated, and ecological processes are disrupted. This imbalance triggers chain effects that affect the health of the entire forest.
The extraction of animals, especially those in danger of extinction, drastically reduces wild populations. This loss of biodiversity weakens the resilience of the ecosystem and puts at risk the survival of many other species, including those that have not yet been discovered.
Every volunteer who joins our program becomes an agent of change for the Amazon. Their daily support not only improves the quality of life of rescued Image animals, but also strengthens conservation actions that seek to protect one of the most important ecosystems on the planet. From direct species care to habitat restoration, volunteers multiply the rescue center's capacity to respond to emergencies, provide specialized rehabilitation, and raise awareness in local communities. In addition, their presence promotes a responsible tourism model, based on education, empathy and respect for wildlife.
Work hand in hand with endangered exotic animals and be part of a unique mission in the heart of the Amazon. This is your chance to have an unforgettable experience while actively contributing to habitat protection and wildlife conservation.
Duration
2-12 weeks
Age
18+
Nationality
Global
Beginning
Sunday
Duration
2-12 weeks
Age
18+
Nationality
Global
Beginning
Sunday
Our program takes place near the city of Puyo, in the province of Pastaza, one of the most biodiverse and fascinating regions of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Surrounded by rivers, waterfalls and impressive vegetation, this environment offers an authentic experience for those looking for a different kind of adventure. Here, nature is not a stage: it is the protagonist. The province is home to countless species of flora and fauna, many of them endemic and endangered. In addition to contributing to its protection, volunteers will be able to explore the Amazonian cultural richness and be amazed by landscapes that only the jungle can offer.
07:00 – 07:30 | Wake up to the sounds of the jungle and enjoy a nutritious breakfast with local products.
07:30 – 12:30 | Actively participates in the care and rehabilitation of rescued animals: feeding, cleaning of enclosures and observation of behavior.
13:00 – 14:00 | Recharge your batteries with a typical Amazonian lunch in a communal environment surrounded by nature.
14:00 – 16:00 | Continue your work at the centre by supporting essential tasks for the well-being of the species under our protection.
16:00 – 18:00 | Free time to explore the surrounding area, hike on nature trails, or relax with other volunteers.
19:00 – 20:00 | Share stories and reflections of the day as you enjoy a warm and comforting dinner under the charm of the Amazon.
During your volunteering you will live in cozy bungalow-style wooden cabins, perfectly integrated into the natural environment. The rooms are shared for 4 to 5 people, ideal for bonding with other volunteers from all over the world, with comfortable bunk beds equipped with sheets, pillows and bedspreads, so you can rest peacefully, but if you want to bring your sleeping bag or a mosquito net, this is optional. Toilets and showers are located outside the rooms and are separated by gender, with access to hot water and regularly cleaned.
The common area includes a hammock space where you can relax at the end of the day, read a book or simply enjoy the singing of the jungle. Electricity is available 24 hours a day, allowing you to keep your devices charged and your spaces lit.
The food is simple but nutritious, with three meals a day from Monday to Friday, inspired by the traditional local cuisine. Vegetarian option and unlimited purified water are offered throughout your stay.
We know that each person has different tastes and needs, so we ask for understanding: in a remote environment like the Amazon, access to certain ingredients is limited. Still, we do our best to make you feel well cared for throughout your experience.
3 meals
Mon – Fri
Vegetarians
4 to 5 pax
Shared
3 meals
Mon – Fri
Vegetarians
4 to 5 pax
Shared
In the heart of the jungle, the strongest connection you will experience will be with nature. The cabins where the volunteers stay do not have a good WiFi signal or phone coverage, which allows them to disconnect from the digital noise and fully immerse themselves in the experience.
The administrative area of the project is the main access point for connectivity, where you can find an internet signal and make calls or send messages when necessary. In other areas of the program, such as animal enclosures or trails, coverage is limited, and weather conditions—such as cloudy days—can affect the signal even more.
For international volunteers, we recommend purchasing an Ecuadorian SIM card with mobile data, which facilitates communication in case of need. These cards can be easily obtained at the arrival airport or in the city of Puyo before entering the program.
Although connectivity is not constant, you will find that this digital pause is an essential part of the magic of the environment: more time to connect with yourself, with other volunteers and with the natural environment you are helping to protect.
The rescue center is located in a quiet area away from the urban hustle and bustle, which not only favors the recovery of the animals, but also ensures a safe and controlled environment for the volunteers.
The cabins where participants are staying are located within the perimeter of the center, with access restricted only to authorized personnel and registered volunteers. The facilities are designed to offer security, privacy and tranquility throughout your stay.
At all times you will have the accompaniment and support of our local coordinators, who are trained to attend to any need, solve unforeseen events and guarantee the proper development of the activities.
In addition, every task within the program is supervised, ensuring that all volunteers work in safe conditions, respecting both human and animal welfare.
You’ll be in good hands while making a real difference.
Discover the experiences of our participants in the animal rescue center!
1 week $245
2 weeks $490
3 weeks $735
4 weeks $980
5 weeks $1250
6 weeks $1470
7 weeks $1715
8 weeks $1960
9 weeks $2205
10 weeks $2450
Travel Insurance
The Amazon can be visited all year round, but there are generally two main seasons: the dry season (June to November) and the rainy season (December to May). The dry season is ideal for hiking and land activities, while the rainy season allows you to navigate rivers, as they are at their peak and thus, see the vegetation at its best.
Yes, it is safe as long as you follow the recommendations of our local guides and coordinators in each of the programs.
The Amazon can seem like a challenging place, we work exclusively in safe and welcoming communities. If you decide to go on a volunteer trip alone, there will always be local coordinators who will accompany you at all times, which creates an atmosphere of support and companionship. We recommend that you apply on the predetermined dates of the programs so that you can match with other volunteers or put together your own group.
Each of the programs has safety protocols in place to reduce risk and ensure the well-being of all volunteers. Our local team is trained to handle emergency situations and works closely with communities to ensure a safe environment.
Not necessarily, in all our programs we have coordinators with extensive experience managing international volunteers who do not speak Spanish, who will help you overcome language barriers in any scenario. Basic knowledge of Spanish such as key phrases and vocabulary is always well valued to interact with the local community and better understand the culture.
We work closely with communities to make sure our projects are sustainable and meaningful. Each activity has a measurable positive impact, whether it is in the preservation of species or in community strengthening. (You can find our up-to-data impact chart showing the change we’ve created in our About Us section here: link
Some of the most popular activities are:
Once you’ve booked your program, we’ll send you a complete list with all the equipment you need to pack. Each of the items has been included to provide you with the greatest comfort during your participation.
Here is a small base list:
In the area where our programs are developed there are no cases of Yellow Fever or Malaria, but if you plan to explore the Amazon in greater depth, we recommend you wear them. It’s also important that you have vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, tetanus, diphtheria, typhoid fever, and rabies, if you’re going to work with animals. Don’t forget the flu vaccine and to stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines. Consult a doctor who specializes in travel medicine at least 4-6 weeks before your trip so that you can receive personalized guidance.
Yes, having travel insurance is essential to cover eventualities such as accidents, illnesses or loss of belongings. It must cover medical care, air transfer of a family member in case of emergency, air ambulance and repatriation among others. Some volunteer programs require you to present insurance prior to participation. We recommend that you purchase insurance that includes coverage in rural areas.
Once you complete this form, one of our coordinators will reach out to discuss your volunteer experience and answer any questions you may have.
Becoming a volunteer is easy and exciting. Just follow these four steps and get ready for a life-changing experience:
Choose a place that resonates with your passions and skills.
Contact an EVF Coordinator
