About Us
Zoorefugio Tarqui is a wildlife rescue center in the Ecuadorian Amazon, founded in 2008 to protect animals affected by illegal trafficking. The center provides care, rehabilitation, and safe housing for a variety of species, including monkeys, reptiles, felines, and birds, while promoting conservation and environmental awareness in the local community.
Volunteers support daily tasks such as animal care, feeding, enclosure maintenance, and enrichment activities. The experience offers hands-on learning, cultural exchange, and the opportunity to live in nature while contributing directly to wildlife protection.
Program at a glance
Why choose us?
- We offer a unique opportunity to work directly with rescued wildlife affected by illegal trafficking in the Ecuadorian Amazon.
- Volunteers gain hands-on experience in animal care, conservation, and enrichment while making a real impact.
- You will live close to nature, share cultures with people from around the world, and develop new skills.
- By joining us, you directly support wildlife protection and help create a better future for these animals.
Requirements
Volunteers must be at least 18 years old (or have parental consent if under 18). No previous experience is required, but a positive attitude, responsibility, and willingness to work with animals are essential. Volunteers should be prepared for physical work and living in a tropical environment. Basic Spanish is helpful but not required, and valid travel/health insurance is necessary.
Volunteer experience
A typical day begins early in the Amazon rainforest with breakfast and preparation of food for the animals. Volunteers take part in feeding rescued wildlife such as monkeys and parrots, gaining a hands-on conservation experience. Daily tasks also include cleaning enclosures, maintaining paths, and supporting animal care, as well as creating enrichment activities to encourage natural behaviours.
Volunteers may also assist in the quarantine area with newly rescued or young animals, learning about wildlife rehabilitation. The workday usually ends in the afternoon, leaving time to relax, connect with other volunteers, or explore nearby waterfalls and jungle trails around Puyo. Each day is varied, rewarding, and impactful.
The fee is 200 USD per week (approximately €180, depending on exchange rates), or about €25–€28 per day.
This contribution includes accommodation and meals. Around 80% of the fee goes directly toward supporting the wildlife conservation project, including the care of rescued animals and maintenance of the center.
Volunteers stay in a shared house near the zoo, surrounded by nature. The house has 5 bedrooms with single and double room options, allowing multiple volunteers to stay together. Facilities include 2 shared bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, living room, dining area, and a communal relaxation space with hammocks.
The house has electricity, Wi-Fi, and hot water, providing a comfortable stay while maintaining a simple Amazon experience. Bedding (sheets and blankets) is provided, and the shared setting encourages cultural exchange and connection with volunteers from around the world.
Yes, meals are included. Volunteers are provided with ingredients to prepare their own breakfast, such as bread, milk, eggs, coffee, tea, and chocolate. Lunch and dinner are prepared by a cook and served at the zoo, offering a nutritious and balanced diet.
On weekends (days off), only lunch is included, and volunteers should notify in advance if they plan to eat at the zoo. Beverages, snacks, and personal extras are not included.
During their free time, volunteers can explore the surroundings of Puyo and the Amazon rainforest. Popular activities include visiting waterfalls, hiking in the jungle, swimming in natural rivers, and experiencing local culture and markets. Volunteers may also travel to Baños, a nearby destination known for adventure sports, hot springs, and scenic landscapes.
Free time is also ideal for relaxing in nature, connecting with other volunteers, and enjoying the peaceful environment surrounded by wildlife. Each day offers a balance of meaningful work and memorable experiences.
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