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Internship in the Amazon: Biological Research & Conservation logo

Internship in the Amazon: Biological Research & Conservation

by: Alliance for a Sustainable Amazon

5 (1)Since 2016

Join the Alliance for a Sustainable Amazon (ASA) at Finca Las Piedras field station in the Peruvian Amazon, near Puerto Maldonado. This immersive internship is designed for students, recent graduates, and aspiring conservationists seeking hands-on experience in tropical ecology, biodiversity research, and sustainable forest management. Work alongside researchers and conservationists while contributing to ongoing projects such as biodiversity monitoring, Lepidoptera ecology, plant phenology, reforestation, environmental education, and sustainable agriculture. Through fieldwork, workshops, and guided paper discussions, you will develop practical research skills and gain insight into conservation challenges and solutions in one of the world's most biodiverse regions. Our Internship Programs (lasting 4, 8, or 12 weeks) share a common academic structure. Participants may also design and carry out an independent research project under the guidance of our academic staff. Whether you are preparing for a career in research or conservation, or simply want meaningful field experience in the Amazon, this program offers the opportunity to learn, contribute, and make a lasting impact.

Program Highlights

Gain invaluable field experience that will set you up for a future in research and conservation.

Improve your research skills through training and guidance by our academic staff.

Carry out your own independent research project with supervision from our Academic Programs Coordinator.

Work and live in the Peruvian Amazon with other students and biologists from all over the world.

Contribute to protecting one of the most biodiverse spots on the planet: the Amazon rainforest.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Puerto Maldonado, Peru
Starts At: $2,000 for 4 weeks
Availability
Year(s) Offered: Year RoundIntern Duration:
  • 1-3 Months
Age Requirement: 18+
Types & Subjects
Fields:
  • Biology
  • Ecology
  • Environmental Studies
  • Zoology & Wildlife Sciences
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details
Last Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Awards

Platinum transparency 2026 Candid logoOxford gold standard internship host logo

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

5

Total Reviews

1

Incredible hands-on field research experience

August 11, 2026by: Hilda Temesi - Hungary
5

As a second-year distance-learning Horticultural Engineering student, I joined the ASA for their 8-week academic internship at Finca Las Piedras in the rainy season. Coming from Europe, a whole new world opened up to me. From day one, I was constantly learning about tropical plants, animals, and how the ecosystem works. The quiet early days and living close to nature gave me time for self-discovery, while also letting me experience the local culture and community. On weekends, I explored the region, visited nearby towns, and even went to Machu Picchu. I never expected that as a student I would do my own field research. Focusing on the tropical fruit Cupuaçu was a great springboard for my future career. I saw firsthand that ASA doesn't try to save the rainforest from an office—their work in habitat restoration and conservation is real, hands-on action. I am very grateful to Joana Reyes for her mentorship. I highly recommend this program to anyone who wants to gain real experience and build their future!

An unforgettable road to the camp.Me with my favorite tropical fruit (Cupuaçu) observed during my internship.Beautiful forest, extremely magical canopy.
Hilda Temesi video

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Puerto Maldonado, Peru

Types and Subjects

  • Fields
  • Biology
  • Ecology
  • Environmental Studies
  • Zoology & Wildlife Sciences

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Intern Duration:
  • 1-3 Months

Age Requirement

18+

Guidelines

All Nationalities

This Program is also open to Couples, Group

Starts At

  • 4 weeks: $2,000

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • All Program Activity Costs
  • Wifi Costs
  • Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • In-Country Orientation
  • Academic Advising

Program Cost Excludes

  • Medical / Accident Insurance
  • Travel Insurance
  • International SIM Card
  • International Airfare
  • Domestic Airfare
  • Some Equipment
  • Laundry
  • Vaccination Costs

Payment Terms

  • Upfront Deposit

Refund Policy

Partial Refund

View Refund Policy

Accommodation Options

  • Group living

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the weather like in the Amazon?

You should be prepared for periods of intense heat when the sun is out, and intermittent, torrential rain when storms pass through. Summer (May-October) also brings periodical ‘friajes,’ which are cold snaps resulting from a front moving north from Patagonia along the Andes Mountains. Temperatures during friajes can drop below 10°C (into the 40s Fahrenheit), so you should be prepared with a change of warm clothing.

What clothing and gear should I bring?

We will provide all of the gear and equipment that will be used for our field activities (e.g., collecting equipment, tree climbing gear, etc.). Towels, bedding, and mosquito bed nets are also provided. Everything else is your responsibility. Please see our recommended packing list for a complete list of what to bring with you to Peru.

Do I need a visa to enter Peru?

Citizens of the United States do not need to apply for a visa to enter Peru for stays of 90 days or less. Rather, a visa will be granted at the international airport in Lima upon entering the country. Requirements for citizens of other countries vary, and we recommend that you check these with the website of your country’s embassy in Peru. 

Alliance for a Sustainable Amazon

Alliance for a Sustainable Amazon

5

Ready to Learn More?

Join the Alliance for a Sustainable Amazon (ASA) at Finca Las Piedras field station in the Peruvian Amazon, near Puerto Maldonado. This immersive internship is designed for students, recent graduates, and aspiring conservationists seeking hands-on experience in tropical ecology, biodiversity research, and sustainable forest management. Work alongside researchers and conservationists while contributing to ongoing projects such as biodiversity monitoring, Lepidoptera ecology, plant phenology, reforestation, environmental education, and sustainable agriculture. Through fieldwork, workshops, and guided paper discussions, you will develop practical research skills and gain insight into conservation challenges and solutions in one of the world's most biodiverse regions. Our Internship Programs...

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