Volunteer Programs in Colima, Mexico

My experience in Mexico as an international volunteer was very valuable and enjoyable. I learned how to communicate with people who don’t speak my language and understood better what we can do to help marine animals survive. This experience showed me how significant it is to collaborate and work together and increase awareness for the environment and animals that are endangered, including sea turtles. This experience made me want to keep learning and pursue a career in the future, and help to protect nature.

I enjoyed my time in Cuyutlan a lot! Everyone was very friendly and Rene at the Tortugaria was very knowledgeable and helpful. The majority of the food at the volunteer reserve was prepared by Rene (breakfast and evenings) and his wife (lunchtimes). The cooking was excellent! The work rota was mornings Tuesday to Saturday inclusive and afternoons Monday to Thursday inclusive, with Monday mornings being designated for grocery shopping in nearby Tecomán. I only really needed two outfits for working on projects - one pair of long trousers, a t-shirt (not sleeveless!), long socks and trainers for working in the lagoon or anywhere with lots of mosquitoes; one pair of shorts, a tank top and swim shoes for cleaning turtle tanks, painting and beach clean-ups. As the rota alternates, one outfit could be drying out while the other was in use. Laundry is handwashing, so get used to wearing grubby clothes most days! Most of the rest of my time was in swimwear, or something cool and relaxed for visiting the town (both Cuyutlan and Tecoman). The volunteer reserve is a little remote - it's about a 45 minute walk into town - so you may need to be reliant on taxis or Rene to get you any further afield. You will need cash in Cuyutlan, but there are cashpoints in Tecomán if you need them. It would be better to bring cash with you if you want to avoid bank charges. It's also worth getting a local sim card for data usage when out and about. Electricity can be a little unreliable on occasion which wipes out the wifi at the volunteer reserve.