What inspired you to work for Hoja Nueva?
I was inspired to work for Hoja Nueva because of my passion for conservation and the chance to live in a cool, sustainable place while protecting the Amazon rainforest.
I found my first internship through GoAbroad, and the beauty of the forest is what got me to come back. Sitting on the boat, watching the trees go past, is so surreal—I'll never get used to it.
Describe a typical day at work.
A typical day starts bright and early. I wake up, check on the boats, and then have breakfast with the dogs.
In the morning, we often head out for fieldwork, like setting up or checking camera traps. In the afternoon, we go over the amazing footage we’ve captured and teach the interns how to enter data or help them with species identification.
Afterward, we play volleyball or work out in the jungle gym, followed by a cold shower to cool off. I spend the evening relaxing, maybe watching an episode of Lost, before heading to bed.
The team swimming in the river on a hot Sunday afternoon.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I think it has to be the fact that we are constantly outside, enjoying nature in all its forms.
Whether it’s a spider monkey swinging through the trees, an Amazon tree boa slithering by, or simply a stunning sunset—I love it all. Even when it rains, it’s fun. There’s something magical about it here, unlike England, where it feels cold and dreary.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
I’d tell my pre-travel self to embrace the unknown and remind myself to stay flexible, as things don’t always go as planned.
Homesickness comes and goes, but it is definitely worth it for the experiences I’ve gained along the way. Most importantly, I would say: enjoy the quiet moments in nature, and make lasting connections with people.
Howler monkey spotted on camp, the view through the binoculars.
What makes your organization special?
Hoja Nueva is dedicated to putting wildlife first in everything we do. From conducting non-invasive research to rehabilitating injured or displaced animals, the commitment to protecting wildlife is at the heart of the organization.
Our approach ensures minimal disturbance to natural habitats while maximizing conservation impact. By prioritizing the needs of the ecosystem, Hoja Nueva creates a safe haven for species to thrive, while also fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate relationships between flora, fauna, and their environment.
It's inspiring to work with a team so passionate about preserving the Amazon's incredible biodiversity.
Why should someone choose Hoja Nueva over competitors?
Someone should choose Hoja Nueva because it offers a unique balance of cutting-edge conservation work and an incredible living experience.
We’re not just a team—we’re a community of young, fun, and adventurous individuals working together to make a real impact. Our commitment to ethical wildlife practices and sustainable living sets us apart, ensuring our work benefits the environment.
With up-and-coming scientific papers being published, we’re at the forefront of innovative research. And while the work is meaningful, the lifestyle is unbeatable: volleyball games every day, high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi to stay connected, and the chance to live immersed in the Amazon rainforest.
Hoja Nueva isn’t just a place to work—it’s a place to grow, learn, and make lifelong memories.
What hopes do you have for the future for your organization?
My hopes for the future of Hoja Nueva are filled with exciting possibilities. I’d love to see more published papers that showcase the groundbreaking research we’re doing in the Amazon. Each study adds to the global understanding of this incredible ecosystem and highlights our role in protecting it.
I also hope we can release even more animals back into the wild—it’s such a powerful and rewarding experience to see them return to their natural habitats. Watching that moment is truly unforgettable.
Another hope is to welcome more interns eager to learn about conservation and research. It’s amazing to see their growth as they gain hands-on experience and develop a deeper passion for protecting the environment.
Lastly, I look forward to more incredible moments of finding unique wildlife, like spotting an emerald tree boa or stumbling upon other rare species. Those experiences remind us why our work is so important—and so rewarding.
Climbing up a strangler fig.
What is Hoja Nueva's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?
Hoja Nueva’s mission is to protect the Amazon rainforest through ethical conservation and sustainable living.
We focus on preserving wildlife, restoring habitats, and conducting non-invasive research that advances global understanding of this vital ecosystem. We continue to work toward this mission by rehabilitating and releasing animals back into the wild, conducting innovative research, and publishing scientific papers to share our findings.
Education is a core pillar of our approach—we host interns and volunteers, teaching them about conservation methods and sustainable practices to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
I hope participants leave Hoja Nueva with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Amazon rainforest and its vital role in our planet’s health.
Beyond just gaining hands-on experience, I want them to feel empowered by the knowledge and skills they’ve learned—whether it’s setting up camera traps, analyzing wildlife data, or understanding sustainable living practices.
I also hope they take away a sense of connection: to the wildlife they’ve worked to protect, and the team they’ve shared this adventure with. It’s important they leave with not just memories of incredible moments—like spotting an emerald tree boa or watching an animal return to the wild—but also a lasting commitment to conservation.
Ultimately, I want participants to walk away inspired to make a difference, equipped with the tools to contribute to conservation efforts wherever their journeys take them.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Traveling abroad and experiencing new cultures is vital for personal growth and fostering global understanding.
Seeing deforestation firsthand, for example, highlights the urgent need for conservation and environmental action. Immersing yourself in new environments deepens empathy and inspires meaningful connections with people and the planet.
Finding funny clips of the team whilst looking through camera trap footage.
Why do you think learning a new language is important?
Learning a new language is important because it opens doors to deeper connections and richer experiences.
As someone learning Spanish, I’ve found that the more I know, the better my experience becomes. Feeling confident to order in cafés, build relationships with other staff, and understand what’s happening in all situations creates a sense of belonging and independence.
Every step in learning Spanish has helped me enhance my ability to connect and thrive in a new environment.
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
My advice for anyone thinking about going abroad is simple: just do it. Don’t overthink it—take the leap!
You can always go home if it’s not the right fit, but realistically, it will likely be one of the best things you ever do. It might be challenging at times, but the rewards will far outweigh any doubts.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel, to me, is about immersing yourself in new places with purpose and intention.
It means staying somewhere long enough to learn from the environment and leaving a positive impact on the places you visit. It’s not just about what you take away but also about what you give back—whether through sustainable practices, supporting local initiatives, or gaining a greater understanding of global challenges.
It transforms travel into a journey of growth, connection, and shared experiences.
