As a Peru wildlife rescue volunteer, you’ll have the chance to work closely with some truly incredible animals. In addition to this rewarding experience, PMGY’s Peru volunteer programs offer an excellent opportunity to improve your Spanish skills. As a wildlife volunteer in Peru, your role will involve caring for a diverse range of animals, many of which are endangered, victims of poaching, or have been displaced from their natural habitats. This unique program allows you to make a meaningful impact while supporting vulnerable species in need.
Wildlife Rescue Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 15 Through Animal Care
- Gain Practical Animal Care Skills With Native Wildlife At A Sanctuary In Cusco
- Assist With Feeding, Enrichment, Enclosure Care & Sanctuary Maintenance
- Explore More Of Peru With Weekend Trips To Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca
- Experience Peruvian Culture Through Salsa, Local Cuisine & Fruit Tasting
Background to the Wildlife Rescue Program
Peru, like many South American countries, is home to a rich and diverse range of wildlife. Sadly, much of this wildlife faces various forms of mistreatment. Local issues such as abandonment or inadequate care are common, but more widespread and systematic cruelty also exists, including illegal trafficking, animal fighting, and even cases of bestiality.
In response to these challenges, the Peruvian Congress passed animal cruelty laws in 2015, imposing criminal penalties for animal mistreatment. This legislation followed a series of highly publicised animal cruelty cases, which cast a negative light on Peru’s reputation as a tourist destination. Penalties for those found guilty of animal mistreatment range from fines to prison sentences.
Despite this progress, many Peruvians believe that more decisive action is needed from Congress and law enforcement to protect Peru’s wildlife. This is especially true for wild animals, those exploited in tourist attractions, and endangered species. Fortunately, rescue centres and wildlife sanctuaries across the country are taking proactive steps to combat animal cruelty. Their primary tool in this effort is education.
Education is viewed as a vital factor in supporting wildlife conservation. It not only helps justify the existence of wildlife sanctuaries and rescue centres but also fosters greater respect and understanding for nature, wild animals, and endangered species. By engaging and informing the public, these organisations play a critical role in shaping attitudes and behaviours. Additionally, wildlife rescue centres contribute significantly to recovery programs, animal rehabilitation, and reproduction initiatives, helping to ensure a brighter future for Peru’s diverse wildlife.
For those passionate about animal welfare, joining a Peru wildlife rescue volunteer project offers an incredible opportunity to make a tangible difference while gaining a deeper appreciation for the country’s unique ecosystem.
Wildlife Rescue Volunteer Placement Example
Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary - PMGY partners with Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary, a wildlife rescue centre located in Cusco. The sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and caring for native wildlife affected by illegal trafficking, unauthorised ownership and mistreatment.
The sanctuary’s keepers and staff oversee the wellbeing of the rescued animals, and as a volunteer in Peru, you will provide practical support alongside the local team. Your tasks on the animal volunteer project may include:
• Cleaning animal enclosures and common sanctuary areas
• Assisting with food preparation, including weighing and distributing diets for different species
• Supporting general maintenance around the sanctuary
• Helping repair or build enclosures and other site facilities
• Providing basic educational assistance to visitors when required, subject to seasonal availability
Learn More...
Since 2007, the sanctuary has provided a home for a variety of native wildlife, including animals affected by trafficking, inappropriate ownership and mistreatment. One of its areas of focus is the Andean Condor, an important native species whose population has been affected by human activity.
During your time at the sanctuary, you will encounter a range of rescued wildlife. Depending on the animals currently being cared for, this can include pumas, small bears, birds, foxes, turtles, monkeys, deer, alpacas, llamas and other native species. The sanctuary’s long-term goal is to rehabilitate rescued animals and release them back into their natural habitats.
If you are passionate about wildlife, this project provides an opportunity to contribute to the daily operation of a local rescue centre while learning more about the challenges facing native wildlife in Peru. As wildlife rescue centres often operate with limited government funding, volunteer assistance can provide valuable additional support. The work can be practical and messy, so volunteers are
encouraged to bring older clothing and sturdy footwear.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
When participating in volunteer work in Peru, your role will focus on supporting the local team with the daily care and operation of the sanctuary. Activities typically include cleaning animal enclosures and communal areas, preparing and distributing food, supporting enrichment activities, and assisting with general maintenance and upkeep. The exact tasks will vary according to the sanctuary’s priorities and operational requirements during your placement.
The sanctuary also supports wider educational and conservation initiatives. Volunteers may have opportunities to assist with basic visitor education and guidance, although this is subject to seasonal availability and the sanctuary’s requirements at the time of your placement.
Volunteers generally participate in either a morning shift from 9am to 1pm, or an afternoon shift from 2pm to 5pm. Working hours and schedules are determined by the sanctuary’s operational requirements.
To reach Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary, volunteers take a local public bus, known locally as a combi or colectivo, from Cusco. The journey takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes, with the bus stop conveniently located in central Cusco. During orientation, the local team will explain the route and ensure you are familiar with travelling to and from the project independently.
Other Things to Consider Working With Wildlife in Peru
Return Airport Transfer - Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Alternatively, ridesharing apps are a common and cost-effective option. Many participants travel during their final days and may not return to the airport directly from the accommodation. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants.
Spanish Requirements - For the volunteer in Peru programs, we recommend having a reasonable level of Spanish before your trip. While there are no mandatory language requirements, and beginners are welcome, being able to communicate in Spanish will significantly enhance your experience. English is not widely spoken in Peru, so the program should also be seen as a language immersion opportunity. Limited Spanish skills may lead to communication challenges and a more frustrating experience.
PMGY also offers Online Spanish Lessons before your trip, providing one-on-one classes with trained Spanish teachers via Zoom.
Additionally, you can enrol in our learn Spanish in Peru program, which includes 20 hours per week of Spanish lessons. Both options can be added during the online application process and are highly recommended to help you make the most of your volunteer work in Peru.
Once in Peru, you can arrange additional lessons with the local team. However, volunteer feedback suggests that balancing language lessons with your Peru volunteer programs can be tiring. For this reason, we recommend only extending your Language Immersion Program if you wish to focus on improving your Spanish skills.
Animal Interaction - For safety reasons and in line with standard wildlife rehabilitation practices, direct handling and physical interaction with wild animals is limited. This is particularly important for species such as big cats, condors and primates. Any interaction with animals will be determined by the sanctuary team and, where appropriate, will take place under their supervision and guidance.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Embark on a breathtaking 2-day journey from Cusco to the world-famous Machu Picchu. Travel through the lush Sacred Valley by scenic train or choose a picturesque drive that lets you see more of local life. Spend the night in the charming town of Aguas Calientes, surrounded by mountains and rivers, before enjoying a guided tour of the ancient Incan citadel and its magnificent terraces and temples.
Getting There
• 2 hours from Cusco
• Scenic Train – 370 USD
• Car – 200 USD
Where to Stay
• Accommodation in Aguas Calientes – Included
Things to Do
• Explore Aguas Calientes – Included
• Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Included
The Salkantay Trek is a stunning five-day adventure through Peru’s most dramatic landscapes. You’ll journey from snow-capped peaks and alpine passes to cloud forests and subtropical valleys, reaching the 4,630m Salkantay Pass for breathtaking views of the glacier. Along the way, you’ll pass remote villages, waterfalls, and coffee farms before arriving at Machu Picchu for a guided tour and return to Cusco.
Getting There
• Start – 4 hours from Cusco
• End – 3 hours from Cusco
• Private Tour Bus
Where to Stay
• Glamping in the Andes – Included
Things to Do
• Hike Through Mountain Landscapes – Included
• Visit Scenic Viewpoints – Included
• Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Included
A full-day trip from Cusco takes you to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), where colourful mineral layers paint the Andean slopes. Enjoy a scenic drive through highland villages before hiking to the summit at over 5,000 metres. Alternatively, visit Palccoyo Mountain for a less crowded, easier hike with equally beautiful rainbow hues and sweeping views of the Andes.
Getting There
• 4 hours from Cusco
• Private Tour Bus
Where to Stay
• Day trip option from Cusco
Things to Do
• Hike Over Rainbow-Coloured Mountains – Included
• Take Photos with Alpacas – Small Donation
• Traditional Buffet Lunch and Dinner – Included
Experience Peru’s rich culture on a two-day trip from Cusco to Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. Travel overnight to Puno before setting off by boat to explore the floating Uros Islands and Amantani Island, where you’ll stay with a local family. Enjoy home-cooked meals, stunning views, and a lively evening of traditional music and dance before returning to Cusco.
Getting There
• 8 hours from Cusco
• Tourist Night Coach
Where to Stay
• Local Homestay – Included
Things to Do
• Visit Reed Houses on the Uros Islands – Included
• Sunset Hike on Amantani Island – Included
• Assist With Traditional Cooking – Included
• Try on Traditional Dress – Included
• Enjoy Local Music and Dancing – Included
Discover the beauty and history of the Sacred Valley on this full-day trip from Cusco. Visit ancient Inca sites like Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Moray, explore vibrant artisan markets, and see the stunning Maras Salt Mines carved into the mountainside. Learn about Andean culture, local weaving traditions, and Incan agricultural ingenuity on this immersive and scenic tour.
Getting There
• 2 hours from Cusco
• Private Tour Bus
Where to Stay
• Day trip option from Cusco
Things to Do
• Explore Chinchero, Moray, and Maras Salt Mines – Included
• Visit Local Weaving Communities and Markets – Included
• Leisurely Afternoon in Ollantaytambo – Included
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- A group of friends celebrating their mountain hike adventure amidst stunning views and lush Peruvian landscape.
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- Three hikers celebrate their achievement atop Perus vibrant Rainbow Mountains, surrounded by colourful geological formations and stunning mountain views.
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- Four friends enjoy stunning views of Cuscos cityscape, mountains, and vibrant culture during a joyful trip.
Accommodation - Shared & Comfort Options Available
Host Family
During your time on our Peru volunteer programs, you will stay with a local host family in Cusco. Staying with a host family provides a comfortable base for your time in Peru while giving you the opportunity to experience everyday local life and become more immersed in Peruvian culture.
Host families have their own routines and living spaces, but volunteers are welcomed into the home and have the opportunity to interact with their hosts throughout their stay. It is a great way to learn more about life in Cusco and, for those learning Spanish, provides plenty of opportunities to practise the language in a natural setting.
Both shared and private room options are available across our host families. Rooms include single beds, bed linen and space for your clothes and personal belongings. You will also have access to the communal areas and facilities available within your individual host family home.
Our host families are located across central Cusco and the surrounding residential areas, with your accommodation arranged according to your volunteer project and local logistics. If you would like to stay with another PMGY participant, please mention this on your online application and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option is a great choice for volunteers who enjoy a more social living experience. Rooms are same sex and shared with other PMGY participants, giving you the opportunity to get to know other volunteers while also experiencing life with a local host family.
Bathroom facilities are shared within the host family home and include a shower and western style toilet. This is our standard accommodation option and works particularly well for volunteers who enjoy the social side of sharing their experience with others.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room Upgrade 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer more personal space, our Comfort Option provides a private bedroom within a local host family home. This gives you your own space to relax and unwind while still enjoying the interaction and cultural experience that comes with staying with a host family.
You should expect bathroom facilities to be shared within the host family home. As these are private family homes, facilities are generally comfortable and shared between a relatively small number of people. Some of our host families do have private or ensuite bathrooms available, and where possible we may be able to arrange one, but this is subject to availability and should be considered an added benefit rather than a standard feature of the Comfort Option.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 3 (Shared) or 1 (Comfort)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
15 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
10 Minute Walk
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Peru, international volunteers receive breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by your host family. Breakfast and dinner are served at the homestay, while lunch is provided as a packed meal or pre-cooked option that can be reheated at the Spanish school. Boiled and filtered water is also available at the homestay for volunteers.
Meals are typically traditional Peruvian dishes, which can be quite carb-heavy. Peruvian cuisine often features rice or quinoa as staples, with chicken being the primary meat. Due to the high altitude, you’ll notice smaller portions for breakfast and dinner, with lunch being the largest meal of the day. It may take a few days for your body to adjust to these changes, but this traditional eating style supports better digestion in Cusco’s altitude.
Common meats include chicken, fish, and alpaca, but there are also several vegan, vegetarian, and international dining options around Cusco. Restaurants and western-style food outlets are just a 10-minute drive from the homestay, offering some home comforts if you’d like to explore. Vegan and Indian cuisine are also available, and the local team will provide recommendations during your orientation.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Eggs, Bread, Porridge, Fruit, Coffee, Tea
Lunch
Chicken Sandwich, Rice, Vegetables, Salad
Dinner
Pasta, Vegetables, Chicken, Pork, Rice, Plantain
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes wildlife volunteers in Peru of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all volunteers need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in Peru will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a Peru wildlife volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the wildlife projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Peru wildlife program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
For your volunteer trip to Peru, you should book your flights to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport – Cusco (airport code CUZ) to arrive on the designated Sunday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Peru wildlife volunteer.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Saturday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Peru, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Peru wildlife volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the Peru wildlife volunteer program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Based on feedback from previous Peru wildlife volunteers, we’ve found that 4-6 weeks is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering in Peru. This duration provides ample opportunity to integrate into the local community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your chosen project. Over this time, you’ll be able to make a lasting positive impact while having plenty of time to explore Peru’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our Peru wildlife volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 8 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in Peru, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Peru wildlife volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Peru wildlife volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
