South America
Volunteer in South America
Volunteer and immerse yourself in South America, the most biodiverse continent on Earth, home to natural wonders like the Amazon Rainforest, the Galápagos Islands, and the rugged Patagonian wilderness. The continent shelters unbelievable wildlife, from sloths and macaws to jaguars and pink river dolphins, each essential to the planet's ecological balance.
It's a critical time for South America's biodiversity. Deforestation, poaching, climate change, and human-wildlife conflict are all immediate threats to many species. Your decision to volunteer in South America with animals is not just a choice; it's a crucial contribution. Your support can help care for rescued animals in wildlife sanctuaries, conduct vital wildlife monitoring and research, educate local communities, and preserve fragile ecosystems.
Volunteering in South America is not just about conservation but connection and experience. You'll have the unique opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals, engage with local communities, and make a difference while exploring South America's unparalleled biodiversity, all while helping to protect nature's masterpieces.
Projects Do More
14 - 84 Nights from $1,119.00
Help look after wildlife rescued from the illegal pet trade in Bolivia.
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15 - 71 Nights from $1,869.00
Have a lasting impact on the conservation efforts in the Manu UNESCO Biosphere, one of the most diverse environments on earth.
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7-84 Nights from $532.00
Have a lasting impact on wildlife conservation efforts in the Amazon Rainforest and help protect some of Peru's most fascinating species!
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Who Volunteers
South America has become an increasingly popular destination for those seeking meaningful volunteer opportunities. Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are drawn to the continent to participate in wildlife conservation efforts, making a significant impact on protecting its incredible biodiversity.
Our volunteer projects in South America welcome everyone, from solo adventurers to families and groups, united by a shared passion for wildlife. Volunteers play a vital role in creating a sustainable future for the region's diverse species and ecosystems. If you're eager to trek through rugged rainforests in search of tropical wildlife or care for those rescued from tragic circumstances, there are plenty of wildlife-focused volunteer opportunities in South America to match your interests and sense of adventure.
Why Volunteer
Volunteering in South America offers a unique chance to protect extraordinary biodiversity, support local communities, and address urgent environmental challenges like deforestation and the illegal wildlife trade. From tracking animals in the Amazon to contributing to wildlife sanctuaries in Peru and Bolivia, opportunities blend meaningful conservation work with adventure and discovery. Volunteers can engage in projects like wildlife rehabilitation and community education, creating cultural exchange and personal growth. Affordable and accessible projects cater to solo travellers, couples, and families, with ethical practices ensuring a positive impact! Wildlife conservation projects in South America offer a chance to immerse yourself in the continent's vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes while securing a future for vulnerable and endangered wildlife.
Things To Avoid
When travelling or volunteering in South America, you should be wary of any attractions or experiences that allow you to interact and take photos with wild animals. These experiences may pop up anywhere from small shacks on the side of the road to large hotel resorts. These interactions are unacceptable, regardless of the price or where they occur. Wild animals are often taken from their natural habitat, suffer in poor captive conditions and are forcibly handled by tourists. To be sure you are not contributing to the illegal wildlife trade and exploitation of wild animals, we recommend you do not pay to cuddle, take 'selfies', or swim with any wild animals. Swimming with dolphins is a popular attraction in South America, and these outdated practices cause significant stress to the animals. Wildlife should never be used as a form of entertainment or as a prop for human enjoyment.
Destination Information
Popular destinations to volunteer with wildlife in South America include Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, and Ecuador. Peru stands out as one of the best places to volunteer in South America. It offers volunteers a chance to work in biodiversity hotspots like the Amazon, supporting conservation, animal rehab, and community education.
Volunteering in South America can be a safe experience if you choose a reputable organisation that prioritises safety protocols. Volunteers should be prepared for challenging conditions, including rugged terrain, remote locations, and occasionally harsh weather. It is important to have secure travel insurance, receive recommended vaccinations, and stay informed about local health and safety guidelines. Exercise caution when outside project grounds, and always follow the advice of your project coordinators to ensure a safe and fulfilling experience.
The biggest environmental issue in South America is deforestation, particularly in the Amazon Rainforest, which is crucial for regulating the global climate. Deforestation is driven by agriculture, illegal logging, mining, and infrastructure development.
