Volunteer Programs in Puerto Maldonado, Peru

Become a construction volunteer in Cusco, and assist in the building or repair of community centers, playgrounds, and classrooms for schools, orphanages, and rural villages. This is a physically demanding role that includes digging, removing dirt, carrying bricks, mixing cement, plastering, painting, cleaning, and other tasks related to construction. Work days are typically from Monday to Friday, though this may vary based on the weather, project needs, and construction schedule. At all times, volunteers are supported by Maximo Nivel’s professional Field Managers and construction projects are led by professional foremen who determine the work program. This program is available all year round, with start dates every Monday. It’s designed to take place for as short as 1 week and up to 1 year. NOTE: This program qualifies for 3-4 university credits via our School of Record. Volunteers must be over 18 years of age or accompanied by a parent or guardian. We require background checks and proof of medical insurance.

Volunteer at a rainforest wildlife sanctuary in Peru through a program from Globalteer. The Peru Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary is devoted to the promotion and protection of the welfare of rainforest animals—both free and captive—and the conservation of their natural environment. Illegal and uncontrolled extraction of flora and fauna has a deep impact on the loss of biodiversity in the Amazon rainforest, and a key focus of the project is educating locals on the importance of wildlife in the rainforest through environmental education workshops for different education levels. Another important objective of the program is the reintroduction of animals back into the wild when feasible. Some animals that have resided at the center include Howler Monkeys, Tortoises, Coati, Red Brocket Deer, White Lipped Peccaries, Brown Capuchin Monkeys, Three-toed Sloths, Anteaters, and various types of Macaws.

Ready for the ultimate jungle adventure? Join our conservation project in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to live in one of the world’s most biodiverse hotspots, working alongside top biologists to protect endangered species. Whether you’re an aspiring scientist or a thrill-seeker, you’ll unlock your potential by gaining hands-on experience in a research center recognized globally for its impact. You’ll play a vital role in our rescue and release program, helping rehabilitate animals like scarlet macaws and monkeys confiscated from illegal trade. From patrolling riverbanks to protect turtle eggs from poachers to conducting bird censuses from a canopy platform high above the forest floor, your work directly contributes to international research You don’t need previous experience to join. You’ll be supervised by experts, and our staff are always available to provide guidance and advice. The project runs all year round, so you can join whenever it suits your schedule. The minimum duration is one week, but we recommend staying longer to have an even greater impact!

As a volunteer at Amazon Shelter, you’ll be immersed in every part of our vital conservation work. From preparing specialized diets and feeding the animals to enriching their enclosures, collecting fresh leaves for our Howler monkeys, cleaning habitats, and assisting with repairs and maintenance, you’ll play an active role in the daily care and rehabilitation of wild animals. Every task you take on helps restore the lives of animals affected by deforestation, illegal trafficking, and habitat destruction. Your work directly supports the health of one of the planet’s most fragile and essential ecosystems. You'll learn from experienced wildlife keepers and veterinarians, gaining hands-on knowledge about how a real conservation project operates and deepening your understanding of native Amazonian species. And perhaps best of all, you’ll live in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, surrounded by a community of people who share your love for nature, wildlife, and sustainable living. Come ready for hard work, deep connection, and a life-changing adventure. This is more than volunteering; it’s your chance to be part of something significant.

Kawsay is a biological station located in the Peruvian Amazon, close to Puerto Maldonado. Staying with us will give you the opportunity to gain an inside look at how the forest is conserved and studied through training, monitoring, research, conservation programs, and specialized tours. We make research and conservation available for everyone. Don't be afraid to help out at a biological station. Of course, we work seriously, but we also believe that everyone can contribute in a certain way. Come and discover this beautiful forest as well as work in the field. Volunteers mostly assist in main projects and activities, including maintaining the conservation area, monitoring wildlife (e.g., behavioral studies, camera trapping, mammal transects, pitfall traps, phenology study), evaluating habitats (vegetation plots), and assisting researchers.