You want to learn Spanish close to the beach, with great weather all year round? Then come to our Spanish school in Iquique!

Our language school in Iquique is located in the city center, very close to the beach. It was founded in 1980 and since then welcomes many international students from all over the world every year.

The special feature of this language school is its focus on cultural exchange. In addition to Spanish, the language institute in Iquique also teaches other languages such as English, German, Portuguese, Russian or even Mandarin Chinese. This is why also many Chileans attend the language school, so you can easily make contacts with locals and train your newly learned Spanish language skills. The mixture of foreign and native students in the same language center promotes a lively exchange between cultures and the interest in learning the "language of the other".

The mixture of foreign and native students in the same language center promotes a lively exchange between cultures and the interest in learning the "language of the other".

Leisure activities

Recreational activities are offered sporadically, depending on the number of students and their interest. There are also several tour operators and agencies that offer excursions and outdoor sports such as paragliding and horse riding, among others.

Internet

WIFI is available at the school and can be used free of charge. 

Northern Chile is known for its breathtaking landscape, including the driest desert on earth - the Atacama. Iquique is located on the edge of this huge desert, directly on the Pacific coast. Enormous sand dunes tower on the outskirts and offer visitors a fantastic postcard panorama.

Iquique is a port city nearly 2000 km north of Santiago de Chile and has about 200.000 inhabitants. The city center with beautiful old buildings tells the story of Iquique’s former glory during the period of the saltpetre boom, over a hundred years ago.
Endless sand beaches, a dry climate with lots of sunshine, and many cultural and adventurous activities make it a great place to live and study.

Iquique is very popular among backpackers and adventure-seekers because of the variety of adrenaline-inducing activities that can be carried out, such as surfing, sailing, paragliding, scuba diving, sand boarding, and more, so you will have plenty of things to do, once your Spanish course is done for the day.

On long weekends or before/after your stay in Iquique, you can do excursions to San Pedro de Atacama, the Atacama salt flats, and the Lauca National Park (all of which need to be done at least during a whole weekend). Peru and Bolivia are also relatively close and offer many amazing places to visit.

The language school has developed a very successful language program that guarantees fast learning success and needs-based teaching. The courses are based on three main areas: grammar, understanding and speaking. Each building block is trained and repeated through targeted exercises. All teachers have university degrees and years of experience teaching Spanish as a foreign language.

Spanish levels

On the first day of school there will be a placement test to determine your language skills. This is used to classify the appropriate language level. There are 6 levels of difficulty (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2) according to the CEFR (Common European Framework of References for Languages).

Teacher

Native Spanish speakers

Class duration

60 minutes

Language diploma

At the end of the course, a certificate will be issued to confirm your language level.

Group course*

20 lessons / week. Maximum 6 students/group.

Private course

20 lessons / week.
The teacher can adapt the lessons to the individual learning speed and needs of each student.

*Note: The institute teaches various languages. There aren't always enough students for the Spanish group course. The course will only run at full capacity with 4 lessons per day if there are at least 4 students per group. With 3 students per group, there will be 3 lessons per day; with 1 or 2 students per group, there will be 2 lessons per day.

During your time at the Spanish school in Iquique, you can live in a local homestay, which includes a private room and half board. This will give you a unique insight into Chilean everyday life, and you will be able to learn about language and culture. You will improve your intercultural skills and can apply what you learned in your Spanish class right away.

Our Chilean hosts are hospitable and will give you a warm welcome. For most language students, staying in a local homestay is an unforgettable experience that wonderfully rounds off the Spanish program in Iquique.

Our Spanish courses in Iquique include:

• Personal support before and during the Spanish course
• Quality Spanish course
• Teaching material
• Placement test
• Drinks, tea, coffee and biscuits during breaks
• Leisure activities offered by the school (may have extra cost)
• Country handbook Chile
• Intercultural guideline
• English-speaking contact person
• Pre- departure information about your stay
• Free internet access at school
• Language certificate after completing the course
• 24/7 Emergency number
• Information about suitable travel health insurance

If booked, it also includes:

• Single room in homestay (breakfast & dinner, only breakfast)
• Free airport pick-up in Iquique for students with homestay

Additionally, you can book:

Holidays 2026

Jan 01, Apr 03 +04, May 01, 21, Jun 26, Jul 16, Aug 15, Sept 18 + 19, Oct 12, Nov 01 Dec 08, 25. Lessons will be made up.

This project combines the beautiful experience of working inmidst of nature, with the advantages of a modern metropolis: Volunteers will be working in South America´s largest urban park in, the green lung of Santiago de Chile! In your spare time, gastronomy, culture, sports and many other offers await you right around the corner - and of course many interesting people!

 the part is really huge and there is something to be done in every corner of its 700 hectares, so much, that even the several hundred permanent employees can hardly keep up. With numerous hiking trails, playgrounds, two swimming pools, mountain bike trails, a zoo, several themed gardens, a cable car and a funicular, picnic and barbecue areas and large areas of forest and bush, the park is an important green oasis for the residents of Santiago de Chile.

The viewing platforms on the top offer a great view over the city and the Andes. The cable car and funicular are particularly popular among tourists, some of whom do not speak Spanish. Here, volunteers who have fun dealing with people from around the world in different languages, are very welcome to help out.

The park is nos only a nice place to stroll, but it is also of enormous importance for the general well-being of Santiago. It considerably improves the city´s air quality, which is plagued by smog, especially during the winter months. Maintaining trails, pruning, reforesting, watering and planting plants are the tasks of the "nature squad" to keep this green lung intact.

In recent years, environmental awareness has developed strongly in Chile. The park, in partnership with schools, provides environmental education for children and adolescents to teach how to act responsible with the environment, and to achieve a better quality of life in Santiago in the long term. This is where children-loving volunteers and educators can get involved.

Depending on your interests, you can work in one or more areas, of course taking into account the needs of the park, the workload and the number of volunteers.

The tasks are distributed on site depending on interest, needs, weather and season, and can include:

• Working outdoors: maintenance work, cutting back trees and plants, watering, etc.
• Environmental education: teach children and young people on environmental issues through practical examples and workshops.
• Environmental protection & reforestation: restoration of biodiversity in the park, assisting in the greenhouse, etc.
• Visitor Center: Participating in the Visitor Center at the entrance of the park, informing visitors and giving instructions on how to use the park (in different languages).
• Independent projects: Dedicated volunteers and those who have the appropriate (technical) knowledge or ideas are encouraged to independently develop projects to improve the park and/or environmental education and/or environmental protection measures.

Regardless of whether you prefer to work hands-on, whether you prefer to work with people in a service-oriented manner or whether pedagogy is your thing: in this project there is a lot to do for everyone.

Working hours are between 20 and 40 hours/week.

Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, weather, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.

We offer accommodation in a homestay. This means that you live in a local private household in which one or more rooms are sublet. Hosts can be single persons, e.g. lovely señoras, young professionals, couples, families or students.

You will have a single room with access to living room, kitchen, bathroom, etc. Internet is included. All accommodations are in a safe location with good public transport connection. Half board with breakfast and dinner can be added upon request.

Note: Only our premium package includes accommodation placement.

The capital of Chile is an amazing city and one of the few metropolises in the world where you can actually ask yourself: "Going to the beach today and skiing tomorrow, or the other way around?", since world-class ski slopes (and trekking routes in summer) await you in the high Andes. Santiago divides Chile into the fertile south and the dry, mineral-rich north.

Santiago itself offers fun for everyone: There are beautiful places to relax, old colonial buildings and a lively urban culture with museums, street artists, theaters and more; small craft markets and green meadows, countless restaurants and pubs in beautiful nightlife areas.

And above all, there is the flair of a metropolis, which combines the characteristics of a modern capital with those of a colonial city. Santiago is where the heart of Chile's economy and progress beats and whare about one third of the Chileans are at home.

The Santiaguinos are usually friendly and helpful people and as a foreigner, you can quickly connect to them. Santiago is also home to numerous universities, which has led to a lively international student life.

Spanish at communication level, so that you can communicate with the staff in you volunteer project, understand work instructions and get actively involved.

Before arrival, our experienced team will be at your disposal to assist you throughout the booking process and travel planning. With the booking confirmation you will receive our 24-hour emergency number, so that you can reach us 24/7 in case of emergency.

In addition to the assistance given by our office in Santiago de Chile you will be supported by an on-site volunteer coordinator.

Volunteer Work  Basic includes:

• Advice from our experienced staff
• On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
• Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
• Your placement in the volunteer project
• Pre-departure information
• Packing list
• Country handbook
• Intercultural guide
• On-site volunteer coordinator
• 24/7 emergency number
• Advice on travel insurance
• Certificate of participation

Application fee: US$ 150
Placement fee: US$ 300 (minimum duration 4 weeks)
Extra week: US$ 15

Additionally, you can book:

Volunteer Work Premium includes:

• Single room in homestay
• Internet access at homestay
• Airport pick-up in Santiago
• Advice from our experienced staff
• On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
• Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
• Your placement in the volunteer project
• Pre-departure information
• Packing list
• Country handbook
• Intercultural guide
• On-site volunteer coordinator
• 24/7 emergency number
• Advice on travel insurance
• Certificate of participation

Application fee: US$ 150
Placement fee: US$ 1,070 (minimum duration 4 weeks)
Extra week: US$ 195

Additionally, you can book:

Is it difficult for you to decide between the many great projects? You want to see and experience as much as possible during your stay in Latin America? Then build your own itinerary - experience more & see more! Our program combination makes it possible!

All our stay abroad programs can be combined with each other: So, you can combine different volunteer projects in the same country or in different countries, or you mix Working Holiday with volunteer work or Farm Stay with Working Holiday ...and so on …

Your creativity knows no limits. The longer your stay abroad in Latin America, the greater the discount you get from South America Inside. Below you can see how much you can save:

Discounts and program combination

If you need assistance in putting together your personal experience abroad, then please contact us. Our experienced staff will help you to set up your tailor-made stay abroad.

The Amazon Rainforest is commonly known as the lungs of our earth, so it is very alarming, that the destruction of the Amazon Rainforest continues to increase year after year. Wildlife suffers from habitat destruction and illegal animal traps set by poachers. It is frightening to imagine that more than 15.000 unique animal and plant species, including monkeys, reptiles, exotic birds, and wild cats that characterize Ecuador as one of the world’s most biologically diverse countries, could one day just not be there any more! At this wildlife volunteer project in Ecuador, you will be able to help protect and rehabilitate precious Amazonian wildlife. This project is located in the Amazon Region, about five hours away from Quito, in the Pastaza province. It provides a unique opportunity to actively work in an animal rehabilitation program with exotic animals.

The main goal of this volunteer project is to rescue and rehabilitate wild animals that have lived in inappropriate environments (e.g. in small cages in private households, kept as tourist attractions, etc.) or that have fallen victim to animal trafficking or mistreatment. The most commonly trafficked groups of animals are primates, birds, and reptiles. The project works in close collaboration with the Environmental Police (UPMA) and the Ministry of Environment. Having been in operation since 2006, the leaders of the initiative dispose of several hectares of primary Amazon forest, where they built the rescue center. Volunteers only work at the rescue center itself, which is located in a safe area. Animals are brought to the project site by the Environmental Police or others that are committed to protecting wildlife.

This is a unique opportunity to actively work in an animal rehabilitation and release program for endangered species in the Amazon Rainforest. Volunteers work with local people from Ecuador, which will provide an opportunity to authentically experience Ecuadorian culture and traditions while also learning about the exotic animals of the jungle. Each workday is revolving around the welfare of the animals. As a volunteer, you will work from Monday to Friday, between 6 to 8 hours per day. Weekends are free for you to relax or travel around. You will take part in the daily feeding of the animals, which involves collecting food in their natural habitat and preparing it. You will also be responsible for cleaning the cages, building or repairing cages, and working hand-in-hand with the center’s veterinarian. You will also help clear the hiking trails in the surrounding areas and the walking paths that lead to the cages.

The rescue center is open to the public and receives visitors regularly. The entrance fee and donations made by tourists are an essential source of income so that the center is able to remain self-sufficient and continue their ongoing efforts to help the animals. When volunteering, you will also have the chance to be an integral part of the rehabilitation team.

If you love tropical climate, exotic animals, and a evergreen environment, then participating in this volunteer project on the edge of the Amazon jungle is perfect for you. It is truly a one-of-a-kind volunteer experience.

Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, weather, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.

Can you imagine falling asleep to the sound of monkeys playing in the trees? Many Amazonian animals are nocturnal, so this may be your reality when volunteering at this animal rescue center in Ecuador.

Volunteers sleep in wooden volunteer houses on the project site. The homes are basic, but nice and cozy. Bedrooms and bathrooms are shared with other volunteers. The project can host up to 20 volunteers at a time. Electricity and hot water are available 24 hours a day, but volunteers are asked to use it in a conscious manner. There is also a small swimming pool that can be used by the volunteers.

The project provides full board (3 meals/day) during workdays from Monday to Friday. Mealtimes are always a nice get-together for everyone to chat, have fun and get to know one another. Usually, volunteers do not spend the weekends at the reserve, but rather travel to explore the surroundings. Due to this, nobody cooks for the volunteers on the weekends. Volunteers who stay at the project site on Saturday/Sunday are required to prepare their own meals.

WIFI internet is available at some places at the center's grounds. There are also many internet cafes in Puyo.

The project is located about 5 minutes outside Puyo and approximately 6-7 hours southeast of Quito. Puyo is the capital of the Pastaza Province, in the eastern part of the country. It is a small colonial town with a population of approximately 30,000 people. It provides touristic infrastructure since in recent years, tourism has become increasingly important, especially in ecotourism and adventure tourism. So, Puyo is one of the most commercial towns in the Amazon region of Ecuador.

The region has tropical climate with rainfall all year round and on average 25 °C during the day and 17 °C during the night, so although the animal rescue center is in the Amazon rainforest, you will not feel suffocated by the heat. 

The area around Puyo is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts: Not only do you live in the middle of pristine nature, but there is also a lot to discover in your free time! The hot springs of Baños de Agua Santa are not far away and invite you to take a relaxing bath. The way there itself is a highlight: Just an hour from Puyo you will find the spectacular "Devil's Gorge" (Pailón del Diablo). Here you can take an almost vertical hike over breathtaking stairs and come to a stand next to or above a waterfall that thunders down into the gorge.

Daring ones can swing over the jungle via canopy and go trekking to the active volcano Tungurahua on the weekend. If you love nature, the region will delight you!

In our Wildlife & Nature projects, our volunteers get along well with English language skills.

For optimal program preparation and cultural integration in the destination country, we recommend participating in a Spanish course in Ecuador (optional).

Before arrival, our experienced team will be at your disposal to assist you throughout the booking process and travel planning. With the booking confirmation you will receive our 24-hour emergency number, so that you can reach us 24/7 in case of emergency.

In addition to the assistance given by our office staff you will be supported by the on-site volunteer coordinator in Ecuador.

Our volunteer project in Animal Care in the Amazon jungle of Ecuador includes:

• Shared room in Volunteer House
• Breakfast, lunch, dinner*
• Advice from our experienced staff
• On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
• Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
• Your placement in the volunteer project
• Pre-departure information
• Packing list
• Country handbook
• Intercultural guide
• Orientation upon arrival
• On-site volunteer coordinator
• 24/7 emergency number
• Advice on travel insurance
• Certificate of participation

*included from Monday to Friday since volunteers usually do not stay at the center during the weekend.

Costs

Application fee: US$ 150
Program fee: US$ 675 (minimum stay 2 weeks)
Extra week: US$ 200

*always full weeks are charged.

Additionally, you can book:

Is it difficult for you to decide between the many great projects? You want to see and experience as much as possible during your stay in Latin America? Then build your own itinerary - experience more & see more! Our program combination makes it possible!

All our stay abroad programs can be combined with each other: So, you can combine different volunteer projects in the same country or in different countries, or you mix Working Holiday with volunteer work or Farm Stay with Working Holiday ...and so on …

Your creativity knows no limits. The longer your stay abroad in Latin America, the greater the discount you get from South America Inside. Below you can see how much you can save:

Discounts and program combination

If you need assistance in putting together your personal experience abroad, then please contact us. Our experienced staff will help you to set up your tailor-made stay abroad.

This is the perfect project for adventurers and nature lovers! Our eco volunteer project runs a 3000 hectares nature park in a magically beautiful, almost untouched landscape of primeval forest, lakes, clear rivers and mountains, right at the foot of the Chilean Andes. Inside the protected area there are typical southern Chilean ecosystems: temperate rainforests with millennial trees (e.g. larch, mañío, coihue) which are home to a species-rich wildlife.

The only way to make this magical piece of earth accessible to the public without causing damage is via a controlled ecotourism project. Tourists are welcome, but nature is paramount. Only a limited number of guests can stay there at the same time, so that the capacity is never exceeded and the natural course of things is not disturbed. Tourists are informed about the biodiversity of the park and how to leave no traces as a visitor, in an information center.

Hikers can explore the park on a total of 18 km of hiking trails and choose between accommodation in simple mountain huts in the middle of the park or a more comfortable lodge on the edge of the park. Another great way to explore this little paradise is by kayak, as the area borders Lake Tagua-Tagua, which is connected to the Reloncaví Fjord by a river.

Volunteers should have a hands-on mentality. There is a wide variety of tasks: as a tour guide, the maintenance of hiking trails and mountain huts, at the information center, working in the forest and much more.

As usual for working in the mountains and the outdoors, there are no traditional working hours. In Patagonia, the weather dictates the working days and the workload. In good weather, people tend to work more and in bad weather, the days tend to be a bit calmer. Another factor is the workload, depending on the season and total number of volunteers at a given time.

Keep in mind that this project is so unique, because it is so very remote. It can be unusually quiet and lonely at times. The nearest cities of Puerto Varas and Puerto Montt are each around three hours away by car. The nearest village is 11 km away.

This project involves different tasks depending on the weather and the season. In summer, when most tourists come, there also might be service-related work in the lodge and restaurant, and as a tour guide. But volunteers mainly work outdoors or at the mountain huts in the park itself. In the pre-season, everything has to be prepared, so that hiking trails, bridges, footbridges and the mountain huts are in good condition and that there will be no accidents or inconveniences.

After the season, an inventory is due, winter and the coming season have to be planned and there may be construction work to be done.

You will be assigned to work in shifts consisting of 4 days and 3 nights to facilitate job rotation. The shifts may vary based on the workload and the requirements at each refuge to assist the park rangers. You will always be accompanied by a park ranger who works shifts of 6 days and 5 nights. The scheduling of shifts and days off falls under the purview of the volunteer coordinator or the park ranger coordinator.

The work schedules for volunteers are influenced by the shift patterns, team organization, and the number of visitors; however, in general, the work hours total 40 hours per week. Volunteers will not be working alone during their shifts; they will always be under the supervision of the volunteer coordinator and/or the park ranger on duty.

The following tasks could end up on your to-do list:

• Assistance in the visitor center
• Receiving visitors (trail talk, leave no trace agreements, and biodiversity)
• If the volunteer speaks Spanish fluently, they may conduct the introductory talk at the Information Center, provided they have practiced it beforehand with a park ranger.
• Maintenance of the hiking trails
• Maintenance/cleaning of the mountain huts and camping area
• Forest work
• Chop and stack wood
• Supporting the park rangers
• Other tasks in the area of nature protection

You will receive 1 day off each week. Please note that days off do not carry over from one week to the next. Additionally, be aware that leaving the park during your stay is not easily accomplished, as it requires a significant amount of time.

Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, weather, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.

You will not only work where others go on vacation, but also live there. Depending on the season and activity, your accommodation will be in one of the mountain huts belonging to the park. There are three different mountain huts, two of which are intended for volunteers to stay overnight.

Full board with 3 meals / day is included. The park has a lodge where volunteers can do laundry once a week. The lodge is located on the other side of the lake.

The park is secluded and can only be reached by boat, which is exactly what appeals to most visitors. The natural backdrop is spectacular, whether you are in a mountain hut or at the lodge. You are just surrounded by nature! You will have to do without many of the advantages of "civilization", but when you wake up you will see a turquoise-green lake or you will be surrounded by pristine mountain forest.

The program is located over 1,000 km south of Santiago de Chile in one of the most beautiful and unspoiled areas of Chile. The park is located on the southern shore of Lake Tagua Tagua and can only be reached by boat. The nearest major cities, Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas, are about a three-hour drive plus a boat ride away.

The region is famous all over Chile for its beauty and yet is still an insider tip, due to its location and the fairly simple infrastructure. There are no luxury hotels there and only a few tourist attractions that can be reached by car.

You have to hike, to see the most beautiful pearls (you can also do the main hiking trails on horseback) or even discover them by kayak. Anyone who takes such efforts will be rewarded with a natural beauty that is second to none. Crystal-clear rivers, waterfalls in the primeval forest, small lagoons that invite you to swim and steeply rising rocks form the landscape, which is home to a diverse fauna and flora.

The climate is temperate and it rains often, even in summer (December to February). In summer the temperatures rise to about 25 degrees, in winter they fluctuate around 5 degrees, there is also sometimes frost. The months of May-August have the highest rainfall, including snow, and the lowest temperatures.

Spanish at communication level, so that you can communicate with the staff in you volunteer project, understand work instructions and get actively involved.

Before arrival, our experienced team will be at your disposal to assist you throughout the booking process and travel planning. With the booking confirmation you will receive our 24-hour emergency number, so that you can reach us 24/7 in case of emergency.

In addition to the assistance given by our office in Santiago de Chile you will be supported by an on-site volunteer coordinator.

Our volunteer project in a nature park in Chilean Patagonia includes:

• Shared room  in the accommodations of the park (mountain hut)
• Breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Advice from our experienced staff
• On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
• Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
• Your Volunteer Work placement
• Pre-departure information
• Packing list
• Country handbook
• Intercultural guide
• On-site volunteer coordinator
• 24/7 emergency number
• Advice on travel insurance
• Certificate of participation

Costs

Application fee: US$ 150
Placement fee: US$ 460 (minimum stay 4 weeks)
Extra Week: US$ 50

Additionally, you can book:

Is it difficult for you to decide between the many great projects? You want to see and experience as much as possible during your stay in Latin America? Then build your own itinerary - experience more & see more! Our program combination makes it possible!

All our stay abroad programs can be combined with each other: So, you can combine different volunteer projects in the same country or in different countries, or you mix Working Holiday with volunteer work or Farm Stay with Working Holiday ...and so on …

Your creativity knows no limits. The longer your stay abroad in Latin America, the greater the discount you get from South America Inside. Below you can see how much you can save:

Discounts and program combination

If you need assistance in putting together your personal experience abroad, then please contact us. Our experienced staff will help you to set up your tailor-made stay abroad.

Find valuable information about volunteering abroad in our program guides. Find out about all the benefits, possibilities and challenges, that a stay abroad offers you. Read more about the great opportunities that South America Inside has at your disposal.

Browse through our section Reading Matter!

This volunteer project takes place in a sanctuary for wild animals that have been victims of illegal animal trafficking and those saved from inappropriate living conditions mostly in private households. The staff rescues animals, rehabilitates them and, ideally, releases them back into their natural habitat. You will work directly in the local natural environment, and your support as a volunteer in Ecuador contributes greatly to the ongoing efforts of this project. You will experience nature and animals up-close while contributing to their protection and conservation. The project also cooperates with local indigenous communities.

Although the work of the animal rescue center may appear miniscule, the efforts they carry out are very important. The Amazon jungle in Bolivia, Ecuador, Colombia, and Brazil, and other fragile ecosystems in Central America, Mexico, Argentina, and Paraguay, have become sources of wild species trafficking. Reptiles, panthers, parrots, boa and python snakes, monkeys, birds, and butterflies are just some of the wildlife species in danger of extinction due to human abuse.

Although the illegal trade of wildlife is regulated in many countries, an estimated one-third of the annual 25-billion-dollar industry of animal sales is illegal - an illicit business surpassed only by arms and drugs trafficking. The situation is absolutely heart-breaking.

The Amazon Jungle is the world's largest rainforest and has the most diverse flora and fauna on earth. Animal trafficking is destroying the delicate ecosystem in the Amazon at a time, when the rainforest is already facing an increasing threat due to deforestation caused by controversial plans for new roads, gas pipelines, and other development projects as well as fires.

The animal rescue center in Ecuador cares for about 70 animals (number subject to change!), including monkeys, such as the Squirrel Monkey, Woolly Monkey, Titi Monkey, and Capuchin Monkeys. There also are Peccaries (musk-hog), and other carnivores, like the Coati, Tayra, and Kinkajou.

Furthermore, there are tortoises, snakes, turkeys, and many species of parrots, including Macaws and Toucans. An average week for a volunteer involves cleaning cages and feeding the animals and, if needed, constructing and maintaining cages and enclosures. There are also enrichment projects where you are encouraged to spend a couple of days observing the behavior of your favourite animal. You can then build a toy for the animal in order to observe how it is used and how it benefits the animal. This work is valuable to the animals, as it relieves the boredom of their captivity and is a contribution that volunteers really enjoy. Since the volunteers must develop these enrichment projects themselves, it is important that they are proactive and creative. As a volunteer in Ecuador, it’s important that you have the desire to work outdoors and a passion for animals.

You are responsible for the welfare and day-to-day care of the animals and facilities. In addition to daily feeding and cleaning duties, volunteers will also take part in construction and maintenance work to improve the animal’s living conditions. If you have experience in any area of conservation or have veterinary experience, the center would greatly benefit from your knowledge and participation in this project. 

The rescue center will try to accommodate any interests that you have. The volunteers are a great support for the local staff. All ideas or suggestions from volunteers are welcome, and many have been implemented in the past. The more time and effort you are willing to put into this project, the more will get back in return!

Typically, you will work Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 12 pm, and from 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm (subject to changes!). On Saturdays, a couple of hours are required to clean the volunteer house and feed the animals, and then you are free for the weekend to explore the surroundings. Please keep in mind that the work schedule may vary depending on the number of volunteers in the project, climate, and other special situations. Volunteers should be flexible and lend a hand where needed. Days off and free time should be discussed as a team, keeping in mind not only one’s personal interests, but also those of the project, other volunteers, and supervisors.

During your stay, you will gain unique experience working with animals that need your help, dedication, and love. In addition, you will enjoy spending your days in a friendly, cozy environment in the beautiful outdoors of the Ecuadorian Amazon. Amongst volunteers and the staff, you will surely find friendship, companionship, time to rest, and plenty of laughs, making memories for a lifetime.

Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, weather, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.

The volunteer accommodations in this project in Ecuador are in wooden bungalows with dorm style rooms. The bungalows have showers (only cold water), which feel like a real luxury after a hard day's work. Separated from the dorms is a kitchen and living room. The kitchen is fully stocked and has a gas oven and filtered drinking water on tap. The living room has sofas and chairs to relax and a book exchange is available as well. Outside, there are comfortable hammocks in a thatched area.

Volunteers take turns to wash up, clean the house, etc. In the evenings, the volunteers cook, eat and chat together. Vegetarians join the project regularly, so the project is able to adapt to different people's preferences. 

All volunteers get together to make a food list (basic items) for the week that accommodates everyone's taste and then the items are provided. Specific things, such as beverages and snacks, have to be bought by everyone on their own. Please keep in mind that you live directly in the Amazon Jungle, so no luxuries should be expected!

The center only has electricity by a gas generator. Therefore, electricity will only be available for a couple of hours each day. There is no Internet access at the center or volunteer house due the project’s remote location in the jungle. The next town with internet access is Puyo, about an hour per bus away. Cellphone connection is available.

The animal rescue center is located in Colonia Bolivar, an indigenous community in the Ecuadorian rainforest, 22 miles outside of the town of Puyo and approximately 6-7 hours southeast of Quito. It provides breath-taking panoramas of the Amazon jungle and is the perfect base for an unforgettable stay and cultural immersion experience in Ecuador.

Puyo is located in the province of Pastaza, in the eastern part of the country. It is a small colonial town with a population of approximately 30,000 people. It provides touristic infrastructure since in recent years, tourism has become increasingly important, especially in the field of ecotourism and adventure tourism. So, Puyo is one of the most commercial towns in the Amazon region of Ecuador.

The local village of El Triunfo is located 15 minutes away by bus from the project site and has very basic shops, and a couple of bars. For restaurants, supermarkets, and Internet, volunteers need to travel to Puyo. Some people in the local community also run small shops in their homes for specific needs or cravings. 

The region has tropical climate with rainfall all year round and on average 25 °C during the day and 17 °C during the night, so although the animal rescue center is in the Amazon rainforest, you will not feel suffocated by the heat. The rainiest months are August to December and March.

The area around Puyo is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts: Not only do you live in the middle of pristine nature, but there is also a lot to discover in your free time! The hot springs of Baños de Agua Santa are not far away and invite you to take a relaxing bath. The way there itself is a highlight: Just an hour from Puyo you will find the spectacular "Devil's Gorge" (Pailón del Diablo). Here you can take an almost vertical hike over breathtaking stairs and come to a stand next to or above a waterfall that thunders down into the gorge.

Daring ones can swing over the jungle via canopy and go trekking to the active volcano Tungurahua on the weekend. If you love nature, the region will delight you!

In our Wildlife & Nature projects, our volunteers get along well with English language skills.

For optimal program preparation and cultural integration in the destination country, we recommend participating in a Spanish course in Ecuador (optional).

Before arrival, our experienced team will be at your disposal to assist you throughout the booking process and travel planning. With the booking confirmation you will receive our 24-hour emergency number, so that you can reach us 24/7 in case of emergency.

In addition to the assistance given by our office staff you will be supported by the on-site volunteer coordinator in Ecuador.

Our volunteer program in the Animal Rescue Center in the Amazon Rainforest in Ecuador includes:

• Shared room in Volunteer House
• Breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Advice from our experienced staff
• On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
• Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
• Your placement in the volunteer project
• Pre-departure information
• Packing list
• Country handbook
• Intercultural guide
• Orientation upon arrival
• On-site volunteer coordinator
• 24/7 emergency number
• Advice on travel insurance
• Certificate of participation

Costs

Application fee: US$ 150
Program fee: US$ 615 (minimum stay 2 weeks)
Extra week: US$ 165

Additionally, you can book:

Is it difficult for you to decide between the many great projects? You want to see and experience as much as possible during your stay in Latin America? Then build your own itinerary - experience more & see more! Our program combination makes it possible!

All our stay abroad programs can be combined with each other: So, you can combine different volunteer projects in the same country or in different countries, or you mix Working Holiday with volunteer work or Farm Stay with Working Holiday ...and so on …

Your creativity knows no limits. The longer your stay abroad in Latin America, the greater the discount you get from South America Inside. Below you can see how much you can save:

Discounts and program combination

If you need assistance in putting together your personal experience abroad, then please contact us. Our experienced staff will help you to set up your tailor-made stay abroad.

Chile is a wealthy, well-developed country. This is particularly evident in the capital city of Santiago. Fancy nightlife districts, office towers and chic apartment complexes tell the story of the economic rise. Unfortunately, Chile is also a country in which wealth is extremely unevenly distributed. Certain streets divide the capital into poor and rich, highly developed and lagging behind, in successful and hopeless. Anyone who lives on the dark side of this world hardly gets a chance to get out of there.

This affects above all a large number of homeless people who live on the streets of major cities, including many older people who are afflicted with old age poverty. The street is the last home for many seniors. Non-profit volunteering organizations have addressed this issue and provide humanitarian aid. They run homeless shelters, soup kitchens or advice centers for the homeless. They offer refuge, shelter, medical care, meals and spiritual support.

You do not need to have any previous knowledge to do this voluntary service in Chile. However, you should be able to work responsibly and independently, be good with people and be empathetic. At the same time, you should not be too sensitive and be aware in advance, that you could experience extreme situations and see very harsh circumstances. Despite this, or perhaps even because of it, working with the homeless is very rewarding. You will learn to see the people behind the facade, maybe you will become more understanding and you will also realize how good a life you have had so far.

• Administrative work in the office of the foundation
• Creation / updating of databases to record the current living situation of the homeless
• Registration of those in need, together with their history, for better support within the project
• Accompanying the social workers on tours
• Establishing initial contact with the homeless
• Development of own ideas to satisfy the needs of those affected
• Assistance in serving meals
• Healthcare education

Working hours are between 20 and 30 hours/week.

This project is also available as a part-time job in combination with a Spanish course.

Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, weather, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.

We offer accommodation in a homestay. This means that you live in a local private household in which one or more rooms are sublet. Hosts can be single persons, e.g. nice señoras, young professionals, couples, families or students.

You will have a single room with access to living room, kitchen, bathroom, etc.. Internet is included. All accommodations are in a safe location with good public transport connection. Half board can be booked.

Note: Only our premium package includes accommodation placement.

The capital of Chile is an amazing city and one of the few metropolises in the world where you can actually ask yourself: "Going to the beach today and skiing tomorrow, or the other way around?", since world-class ski slopes (and trekking routes in summer) await you in the high Andes. Santiago divides Chile into the fertile south and the dry, mineral-rich north.

Santiago itself offers fun for everyone: There are beautiful places to relax, old colonial buildings and a lively urban culture with museums, street artists, theaters and more; small craft markets and green meadows, countless restaurants and pubs in beautiful nightlife areas.

And above all, there is the flair of a metropolis, which combines the characteristics of a modern capital with those of a colonial city. Santiago is where the heart of Chile's economy and progress beats and whare about one third of the Chileans are at home.

The Santiaguinos are usually friendly and helpful people and as a foreigner, you can quickly connect to them. Santiago is also home to numerous universities, which has led to a lively international student life.

Valparaíso is located just off the Pacific coast about 90 minutes drive from the capital Santiago de Chile. Chile's most important port city is a real gem - that is why Valparaíso is also called "La Joya del Pacífico" (the jewel of the Pacific).

The colorful house mosaic on the many hills above the sea was sung in songs and immortalized in poems. Also, literature Nobel Laureate Pablo Neruda was inspired here. So much poetry does not mean that everything shines here - much more likely Valparaíso impresses with harsh harbor charm.

Since 2003, the old town of Valparaíso has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site, uniquely combining the influences of immigrants from England, the USA, Germany and France, who joined the Chileans of Spanish descent in the 19th century. Valparaíso was the most important port in South America until the opening of the Panama Canal, and thus a Chilean melting pot of cultures. To this day, it is considered the most interesting city in Chile. Art and culture are flourishing here like nowhere else, and at almost every corner there are small galleries, artists' cafés, ateliers and street art projects to discover.

Upper and lower town are connected by countless stairs - so the inhabitants complete a daily fitness program. But since this is very tedious in the long run, lifts were built around 1900, which bring you effortlessly from bottom to top and back again. You should not miss a ride in one of them!

Only a metro ride away from the nearest beaches and surrounded by small fishing bays this colorful city offers a unique atmosphere and a great nightlife.

Spanish at communication level, so that you can communicate with the staff in you volunteer project, understand work instructions and get actively involved.

Before arrival, our experienced team will be at your disposal to assist you throughout the booking process and travel planning. With the booking confirmation you will receive our 24-hour emergency number, so that you can reach us 24/7 in case of emergency.

In addition to the assistance given by our office in Santiago de Chile you will be supported by an on-site volunteer coordinator.

Volunteer Work  Basic includes:

• Advice from our experienced staff
• On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
• Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
• Your placement in the volunteer project
• Pre-departure information
• Packing list
• Country handbook
• Intercultural guide
• On-site volunteer coordinator
• 24/7 emergency number
• Advice on travel insurance
• Certificate of participation

Application fee: US$ 150
Placement fee: US$ 300 (minimum duration 4 weeks)
Extra week: US$ 15

Additionally, you can book:

Volunteer Work Premium includes:

• Single room in homestay
• Internet access at homestay
• Airport pick-up in Santiago
• Advice from our experienced staff
• On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
• Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
• Your placement in the volunteer project
• Pre-departure information
• Packing list
• Country handbook
• Intercultural guide
• On-site volunteer coordinator
• 24/7 emergency number
• Advice on travel insurance
• Certificate of participation

Application fee: US$ 150
Placement fee: US$ 1,070 (minimum duration 4 weeks)
Extra week: US$ 195

Additionally, you can book:

Is it difficult for you to decide between the many great projects? You want to see and experience as much as possible during your stay in Latin America? Then build your own itinerary - experience more & see more! Our program combination makes it possible!

All our stay abroad programs can be combined with each other: So, you can combine different volunteer projects in the same country or in different countries, or you mix Working Holiday with volunteer work or Farm Stay with Working Holiday ...and so on …

Your creativity knows no limits. The longer your stay abroad in Latin America, the greater the discount you get from South America Inside. Below you can see how much you can save:

Discounts and program combination

If you need assistance in putting together your personal experience abroad, then please contact us. Our experienced staff will help you to set up your tailor-made stay abroad.

Old-age poverty is a major problem in Chile. The Chilean social system is unfortunately not that developed and pensions are still much lower than the cost of living. Unfortunately, this means that many seniors have to work until they are no longer able to work and then have little opportunity to finance their lives. They may not have family members who can or would like to support them. This is also due to the often difficult working conditions and low wages in combination with a lack of government support. Many families simply cannot afford to cut back on work in order to take care of their seniors, even if they wanted to.

Many seniors are therefore depend on the help of non-profit organizations. They run retirement homes that provide accommodation, medical care, meals, spiritual support, and entertainment activities to people between 65 and 100 years old. Most homes are quite simple and convenient, and there is often a lack of helping hands. The retirement homes are mostly dependent on donations or religious aid organizations, as well as the energy of volunteers. This is where you come in! Get involved in an old people's home and give the residents attention, appreciation and hope. With your volunteer work in a retirement home, you can counteract this serious social problem and make a meaningful contribution.

During your volunteer service in a retirement home in Chile, you will feel the warmth and gratitude of the residents. The Christian religion often plays a major role for both the operators of the facilities and the elderly, so you should be open and tolerant. You will be surprised, how interesting the life stories of the senior often are. If you get involved, they'll be happy to share their experiences and stories with you. So you can take home a lot more than a plus in your resume and a look outside the box - wait and see!

You do not need any special previous knowledge to complete this voluntary service in Chile. However, you should be empathetic, work responsibly and independently, and be good with people.

As soon as you have been successfully placed in a program position, we will send you the exact description of your volunteer position. This way you will know exactly where you will be working before you leave.

This volunteer position is perfect for helpers with a social streak who enjoy dealing with people. The elderly people come from very different backgrounds, everyone has an interesting story. Some have always been poor and have had to struggle all their lives, while others have had good businesses in the past, were teachers or had other respected jobs and slipped into poverty as a result of unfavorable changes in life and often also due to the pension and health system.

In addition to varying degrees of help in everyday life, the seniors also need someone who listens to them or keeps them company. There are sometimes no family members or, in some cases, they themselves are so busy "surviving", that they cannot visit often, even if they want to.

Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, weather, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.

We offer accommodation in a homestay. This means that you live in a local private household in which one or more rooms are sublet. Hosts can be single persons, e.g. nice señoras, young professionals, couples, families or students.

You will have a single room with access to living room, kitchen, bathroom, etc. Internet is included. All accommodations are in a safe location with good public transport connection. Half board can be booked.

Note: Only our premium package includes accommodation placement.

The capital of Chile is an amazing city and one of the few metropolises in the world where you can actually ask yourself: "Going to the beach today and skiing tomorrow, or the other way around?", since world-class ski slopes (and trekking routes in summer) await you in the high Andes. Santiago divides Chile into the fertile south and the dry, mineral-rich north.

Santiago itself offers fun for everyone: There are beautiful places to relax, old colonial buildings and a lively urban culture with museums, street artists, theaters and more; small craft markets and green meadows, countless restaurants and pubs in beautiful nightlife areas.

And above all, there is the flair of a metropolis, which combines the characteristics of a modern capital with those of a colonial city. Santiago is where the heart of Chile's economy and progress beats and whare about one third of the Chileans are at home.

The Santiaguinos are usually friendly and helpful people and as a foreigner, you can quickly connect to them. Santiago is also home to numerous universities, which has led to a lively international student life.

Spanish at communication level, so that you can communicate with the staff in you volunteer project, understand work instructions and get actively involved.

Before arrival, our experienced team will be at your disposal to assist you throughout the booking process and travel planning. With the booking confirmation you will receive our 24-hour emergency number, so that you can reach us 24/7 in case of emergency.

In addition to the assistance given by our office in Santiago de Chile you will be supported by an on-site volunteer coordinator.

Volunteer Work  Basic includes:

• Advice from our experienced staff
• On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
• Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
• Your placement in the volunteer project
• Pre-departure information
• Packing list
• Country handbook
• Intercultural guide
• On-site volunteer coordinator
• 24/7 emergency number
• Advice on travel insurance
• Certificate of participation

Application fee: US$ 150
Placement fee: US$ 300 (minimum duration 4 weeks)
Extra week: US$ 15

Additionally, you can book:

• Single room in homestay
• Internet access at homestay
• Airport pick-up in Santiago
• Advice from our experienced staff
• On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
• Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
• Your placement in the volunteer project
• Pre-departure information
• Packing list
• Country handbook
• Intercultural guide
• On-site volunteer coordinator
• 24/7 emergency number
• Advice on travel insurance
• Certificate of participation

Application fee: US$ 150
Placement fee: US$ 1,070 (minimum duration 4 weeks)
Extra week: US$ 195

Additionally, you can book:

Is it difficult for you to decide between the many great projects? You want to see and experience as much as possible during your stay in Latin America? Then build your own itinerary - experience more & see more! Our program combination makes it possible!

All our stay abroad programs can be combined with each other: So, you can combine different volunteer projects in the same country or in different countries, or you mix Working Holiday with volunteer work or Farm Stay with Working Holiday ...and so on …

Your creativity knows no limits. The longer your stay abroad in Latin America, the greater the discount you get from South America Inside. Below you can see how much you can save:

Discounts and program combination

If you need assistance in putting together your personal experience abroad, then please contact us. Our experienced staff will help you to set up your tailor-made stay abroad.

Having a disability or looking after a family member with a disability is a big challenge everywhere. In Chile, where there is very little support and families often face high costs if they find support, this is even more difficult. The health care system hardly covers help, so charity organizations often step into the breach to improve people's quality of life and promote their physical and mental development.

Our volunteer project is carried out at a non-profit organization. They provide indispensable support for many people by promoting physical and mental development while improving the quality of life of those affected. Your commitment is crucial to easing the pressure on families and providing them with much-needed support.

If you want to help where it is really needed and develop your intercultural skills along the way, one of these volunteer projects is ideal for you.

The organization looks back on 50 years of work and helps approximately 3,500 children and adults each year.

It operates various homes throughout the country. It offers people with intellectual disabilities a home, a family, and loving care. Our volunteers are placed in two different homes located in the neighborhood of Recoleta in Santiago de Chile, where people with disabilities find a familiar and loving environment.

Here, you can show compassion and care for those who often receive too little respect and attention in society. If you're interested in applying your social calling where it's truly needed and developing your intercultural skills, this volunteer program is ideal.

You'll be able to get involved in various areas to help people with disabilities discover and further develop their talents and skills through workshops, occupational therapy, and courses. Supervision and support during leisure activities is also an important task to ensure their well-being and safety.

You don't need any previous experience in this field, but you should definitely have patience, a strong sense of responsibility, and empathy.

The general working hours for volunteers are from approximately 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Volunteers can enjoy lunch at the home.

Volunteers are deployed in a variety of areas. While the focus is on people, it is equally important to ensure a pleasant living environment and living situation.

You may be involved in the following activities:

• Caring for and accompanying residents
• Caring for or assisting with the care of residents
• Fun and games, bringing joy to the residents
• Assisting with meal preparation
• Assisting with developmental activities
• Assisting with cleaning the home
• Do you have a green thumb? Then you are also welcome to help in the garden

This project is also available as a part-time volunteer program in combination with a Spanish course.

Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, weather, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.

Do you want to experience the real Chile? With a homestay, you're not just staying anywhere, but right in the heart of Chilean culture. You'll live in a private home and immerse yourself in the everyday life of the locals. This is the perfect opportunity to improve your Spanish skills through authentic conversations and experience Chilean hospitality.

You'll have a single room and share common areas with your hosts, usually señoras, who offer their rooms to our volunteers. Internet access is included, of course. No matter who hosts you, they're all excited to share their culture with you.

All accommodations are located in safe neighborhoods with good public transportation connections. You can optionally add half board. Look forward to delicious, traditional home-cooked meals that showcase Chilean cuisine at its best.

Note: Only our premium package includes accommodation placement.

Welcome to Santiago, the vibrant heart of Chile, located halfway between the arid north and the fertile south.

But this city is so much more than just a geographical center. It's a vibrant metropolis that offers you a unique choice: Do you want to relax on the beach today and ski tomorrow? From here, you can quickly reach the sunny sandy beaches of the Pacific or, in winter, the breathtaking ski slopes of the Andes. In summer, the mountains transform into a paradise for hikers and trekking enthusiasts.

Santiago itself is an exciting blend of history and modernity. Here, old colonial buildings and lively squares meet a dynamic, up-and-coming metropolis.

Immerse yourself in a rich culture with museums, theaters, and street performers that bring the city to life. Discover hidden craft markets and green oases for relaxation. In the numerous nightlife districts, you'll find countless restaurants and pubs where you can enjoy Chile's culinary diversity.

Home to around a third of Chile's population, Santiago is the center of business and progress. But despite its size, the city feels open and welcoming.

The Santiaguinos, the city's residents, are known for their friendliness and helpfulness. As a foreigner, you'll quickly find yourself in a community here, especially thanks to the many universities that have led to a thriving international student scene over the past two decades.

Spanish at communication level, so that you can communicate with the staff in you volunteer project, understand work instructions and get actively involved.

Before arrival, our experienced team will be at your disposal to assist you throughout the booking process and travel planning. With the booking confirmation you will receive our 24-hour emergency number, so that you can reach us 24/7 in case of emergency.

In addition to the assistance given by our office in Santiago de Chile you will be supported by an on-site volunteer coordinator.

Volunteer Work Basic includes:

• Advice from our experienced staff
• On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
• Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
• Your placement in the volunteer project
• Pre-departure information
• Packing list
• Country handbook
• Intercultural guide
• On-site volunteer coordinator
• 24/7 emergency number
• Advice on travel insurance
• Certificate of participation

Application fee: US$ 150
Placement fee: US$ 300 (minimum duration 4 weeks)
Extra week: US$ 15

Additionally, you can book:

Volunteer Work Premium includes

• Single room in homestay
• Internet access at homestay
• Airport pick-up in Santiago
• Advice from our experienced staff
• On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
• Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
• Your placement in the volunteer project
• Pre-departure information
• Packing list
• Country handbook
• Intercultural guide
• On-site volunteer coordinator
• 24/7 emergency number
• Advice on travel insurance
• Certificate of participation

Application fee: US$ 150
Placement fee: US$ 1,070 (minimum duration 4 weeks)
Extra week: US$ 195

Additionally, you can book:

Our volunteer project is located near the main town of the island, Hanga Roa, and is overseen by the National Forestry Agency, which is part of the Chilean Ministry of the Environment.

Primary missions and responsibilities include the protection and control of Easter Island's natural resources through a variety of programs. The most important are forest fire prevention and control, erosion control, natural resource monitoring, the conservation of native flora and environmental education - among others.

In addition, the project is currently setting up a climate protection program to prepare the local population for the consequences of climate change.

The aim of the project is, among other things, the reforestation of the island and the reintroduction of endemic plants. These have been greatly reduced by decades of deforestation, destruction and extreme weather conditions. A laboratory and plantations serve to breed the plants and later replant them in affected areas as well as to fathom the difficulties of germination and reproduction of the native plants and to ensure their continued existence.

Easter Island is a unique place and our project is unique. With a volunteer service in this project you will have the chance to learn interesting things about the history and nature of Easter Island and to immerse yourself in its unique culture. At the same time, you are helping to restore or preserve the island's fragile ecosystem.

The tasks in our volunteer project on Easter Island are diverse and address both volunteers who like to work with people, as well as those who prefer to research and conserve nature.

You can inform us of your interests and your experience so that you can be assigned, as far as possible, in the appropriate area. There are workspaces where you work more in the office and others where you mainly have to do outdoors.

Volunteers can also contribute their skills and experience in translation, design, photography, video, communication, planning, etc.

The working hours are discussed with the Volunteer Coordinator. The project is flexible in terms of working hours. Usually, the volunteers work about 6-8 hours a day from Monday to Friday. However, half-day programs are also possible. It is important that the agreed working hours are then adhered to.

Responsibilities include:

• Collaboration in the climate protection program
• Collaboration in projects with the island community
• Collaboration in the administrative office or in the field of research and data processing
• Collection and logging of plant seeds
• Control of seed settlement on the plantation
• Conservation of native seeds and plants
• Reforestation work
• Monitoring and logging of forest and plant populations
• Assistance in environmental education
• Supervision of visitors to the National Park
• Organisation and implementation of events for students and tourists on the subject of environmental and climate protection

Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, weather, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.

Accommodation is in a single room in a local guest house in Hanga Roa. The rooms are located in typical cottages surrounded by a beautiful garden. The cottages have a private or shared bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen where you can store your groceries and prepare your meals.

Access and the use of the washing machine is included.
Change of bed sheets and room cleaning included twice a week.
Internet WiFi is available.

Easter Island is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and is the most distant place in the world from another inhabited place. The island is of volcanic origin and therefore not only culturally but also geologically very interesting. For example, there is no river on the island, all fresh water there comes from rainfall!

In Spanish, the triangular shaped island with an extinct volcano in each corner is called "Isla de Pascua", but the locals call it "Rapa Nui". The almost 160 km² island can be reached within five flight hours, either from Santiago de Chile or from Tahiti. The island has around 6000 inhabitants and is an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Every year, many tourists come to the island belonging to Chile. This is mainly due to the mysterious and exciting cultural history around the Moai - the famous huge stone statues that are scattered all over the island.

It still has not been finally clarified, how the Moais were actually built and what their exact meaning is.
The locals not only call their island, but also thrmselves Rapa Nui and are very proud of their culture. They cultivate their customs, art, language and the music that irresistibly captivates every visitor!

Every year in February there is a big festival on the island to celebrate the arrival of the first Polynesian settlers. Your colleagues in the project will be happy to tell you more about their culture and customs and give you tips on how and where on the island you can doscover them best.

Spanish at communication level, so that you can communicate with the staff in you volunteer project, understand work instructions and get actively involved.

Before arrival, our experienced team will be at your disposal to assist you throughout the booking process and travel planning. With the booking confirmation you will receive our 24-hour emergency number, so that you can reach us 24/7 in case of emergency.

In addition to the assistance given by our office in Santiago de Chile you will be supported by an on-site volunteer coordinator.

Is it difficult for you to decide between the many great projects? You want to see and experience as much as possible during your stay in Latin America? Then build your own itinerary - experience more & see more! Our program combination makes it possible!

All our stay abroad programs can be combined with each other: So, you can combine different volunteer projects in the same country or in different countries, or you mix Working Holiday with volunteer work or Farm Stay with Working Holiday ...and so on …

Your creativity knows no limits. The longer your stay abroad in Latin America, the greater the discount you get from South America Inside. Below you can see how much you can save:

Discounts and program combination

If you need assistance in putting together your personal experience abroad, then please contact us. Our experienced staff will help you to set up your tailor-made stay abroad.

This volunteer work project takes place at a conservation and eco-tourism lodge in the mountainous cloud forests of the Choco-Andean region of north western Ecuador. This area is a global “hotspot” in terms of biodiversity, with over 1,500 species of tropical plants, including orchids, bromeliads, and other epiphytes. Over 390 species of birds, and a variety of other exotic animals, including the endangered Andean spectacled bear, make up the unique wildlife native to this area.

The lodge was first formed as an agricultural cooperative over 35 years ago with the primary objective of providing lands for local peasant families who otherwise had no means of growing crops or raising cattle.

Over the years, it became increasingly obvious that the remote mountains of the cloud forests were ill suited for agriculture, and more valuable if left intact. 

The lodge is now entirely dedicated to the conservation and sustainable management of these natural resources. Eco-tourism has been developed as a means of providing a sustainable income to locals, who, in return, fund the protection of the forest.

This volunteer work program plays an essential role in enabling the development of this eco-tourism operation and other conservation and local community projects. The inhabitants are eager to welcome visitors from other parts of the world to share not only the beauty of their cloud forest and its diverse wildlife, but also their friendship, lively folk music, enthusiasm for nature, and joyful outlook on life.

Volunteers work alongside members of the local community, which allows plenty of opportunities to make new friends, get in touch with the Ecuadorian culture, and improve their Spanish while learning about the region’s cloud forest and helping to conserve it.

This volunteer project in Ecuador has been welcoming volunteers, both groups and individuals, since 2000. The program continues to play a crucial role in enabling the development of sustainable ecotourism operation and of the ongoing conservation and community outreach projects.

Eco-tourism provides a sustainable income for the community, which makes this project crucial for the protection and conservation of the Cloud Forest Lodge. The hard work, support, and enthusiasm of many volunteers have helped to reinforce the value of the cloud forest reserve and the importance of its continued preservation. One of the strengths of this volunteer work program is that volunteers work alongside members of the local community and gain a true insight into the daily life of the locals.

Work done, people are always ready for a game of soccer, and you can spend your free time hiking, bird watching, swimming, visiting waterfalls, and enjoying the fiestas in the nearby villages.

Eco-tourism is very labor-intensive work, demanding additional help from volunteers. Sometimes, it is possible for volunteers to focus on a specific project; however, volunteers are asked to carry out a variety of tasks and should be willing to lend a hand where necessary.

Volunteer tasks may include:

• Maintaining trails: several trails require constant maintenance to avoid erosion and to keep them easily accessible for visitors.
• Maintaining the lodge and the guest cabins: general maintenance, cleaning the cabins and, helping in the kitchen.
• Working in agroforestry projects: coffee and sugar cane plantations, including making panela (sugar) the traditional way.
• General Maintenance: other tasks related to construction and maintenance of the lodge, as there is always something to repair or replace.

Typically, you will work from Monday to Friday for 5-8 hours, beginning at 8:00 am, after breakfast (subject to changes). Please understand that working hours may differ according to workload, weather conditions, and unexpected situations. As a volunteer, you get the chance to work in different areas and gain a wide range of experience. A couple of year ago, the eco-lodge in the Ecuadorian Cloud Forest has built a laboratory up in the hills. Scientists come to work here on special investigation projects related to local wildlife. When scientists are there, volunteers are also encouraged to help with the research projects or conducting their own research, if possible. Animals that have been investigated recently are the Andean spectacled bear and different species of unique birds.

Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as number of volunteers, weather, season, current needs of the project, as well as self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.

Depending on which project you will be actively participating in, you will either stay in the eco-tourism lodge up in the mountains, or in the volunteer house down in the valley. The lodge is in the heart of the cloud forest and sits at a height of 6,200 feet, offering an incredible panoramic view of the surrounding cloud forest. The volunteer house is also set in a beautiful setting further down from the lodge.

Each option includes full board, access to hot showers, and bed linens. The rooms in the lodge are very comfortable and cozy. If you are working up in the lodge, you will usually stay there from Monday to Friday and spend the weekends in the volunteer house down in the valley in Nanegal. 

The lodge is a 40-minute truck ride from the volunteer house and then a 90-minute hike. It is also possible to walk the full distance, but it would take several hours. The rooms come in different sizes and will be shared by two, four, or eight people.

Please note that some of the dorms might be mixed gender. Three meals per day are provided, and vegetarians or those with other special dietary requirements will be respected on prior notification. Solar panels provide a limited supply of electricity at the lodge, but the volunteer house down in the valley has 24/7 electricity. You will spend the weekends relaxing, swimming, playing sports, hiking, watching birds, or participating in activities of the local community.

Nanegal is located in the province of Pichincha in the middle of the beautiful cloud forest about 2 hours northwest of the capital Quito. It can be easily reached by public bus and the scenic ride takes you through the amazing cloud forest with countless waterfalls and beautiful wildlife. Nanegal has about 4,500 inhabitants, a church, two public schools, and a day care center.

The cloud forest enchants its visitors with evergreen luscious nature, a rich biodiversity, waterfalls as from the picture book and an exotic animal world. In Nanegal there is a subtropical climate with an average annual temperature of 15 - 20 °C and regular rainfall.

The area is well known for raw sugar and chocolate production, and visitors can help make both and learn how to make sugar and chocolates manually.

The province of Pichincha is home to many of Ecuador's major tourist attractions, be it the famous markets of Otavalo, a visit to the equatorial line in La Mitad del Mundo, climbing or just visiting snow-capped volcanoes like the Cotopaxi or breath-taking crater lakes like the Quilotoa.

In our Wildlife & Nature projects, our volunteers get along well with English language skills.

For optimal program preparation and cultural integration in the destination country, we recommend participating in a Spanish course in Ecuador (optional).

Before arrival, our experienced team will be at your disposal to assist you throughout the booking process and travel planning. With the booking confirmation you will receive our 24-hour emergency number, so that you can reach us 24/7 in case of emergency.

In addition to the assistance given by our office staff you will be supported by the on-site volunteer coordinator.

Our volunteer project in Conservation and Eco-Tourism in the cloud forest includes:

• Shared room in Volunteer House
• Breakfast, lunch, dinner
• Advice from our experienced staff
• On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
• Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
• Your placement in the volunteer project
• Pre-departure information
• Packing list
• Country handbook
• Intercultural guide
• Orientation upon arrival
• On-site volunteer coordinator
• 24/7 emergency number
• Advice on travel insurance
• Certificate of participation

Costs

Application fee: US$ 150
Program fee: US$ 640 (minimum stay 2 weeks)
Extra week: US$ 180

Additionally, you can book:

Is it difficult for you to decide between the many great projects? You want to see and experience as much as possible during your stay in Latin America? Then build your own itinerary - experience more & see more! Our program combination makes it possible!

All our stay abroad programs can be combined with each other: So, you can combine different volunteer projects in the same country or in different countries, or you mix Working Holiday with volunteer work or Farm Stay with Working Holiday ...and so on …

Your creativity knows no limits. The longer your stay abroad in Latin America, the greater the discount you get from South America Inside. Below you can see how much you can save:

Discounts and program combination

If you need assistance in putting together your personal experience abroad, then please contact us. Our experienced staff will help you to set up your tailor-made stay abroad.

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