Volunteering in the Amazon Jungle
Making a difference to the Amazon Rainforest
Why Volunteer in the Amazon Jungle, Peru
The mighty Amazon Jungle is a truly biological diverse area where unique flora and fauna can be spotted! The famous Amazon River runs through this country and this region that hosts the greatest rainforest in the world!
This is the ideal location if you are looking for a hands-on raw experience and a way to really connect with nature in one of the New 7 Wonders of the World!
Amazon Volunteer Projects
Amazon Jungle Conservation & Reforestation
Get ready to make a difference towards conservation in a unique ecosystem known as the “Lungs of the Planet”, the Amazon Rainforest to ensure the survival of species constantly under threat
Location: Amazon Jungle
Duration: 2 – 12 weeks
Amazon Jungle Volunteer
For those who are fans of nature, biodiversity, wildlife, bird and flower watchers, there’s no place in this world like the Amazon! Coexisting with native communities in the area will be part of your daily life and will make this experience a once in a lifetime one you’ll never forget!
Waking up to the sound of birds and all types of animals is certainly a unique experience. Every day will bring something new and exciting so get ready for an adventure to remember!
Not too bad right?
Volunteering in the Amazon Jungle
During your time off at the Amazon most volunteers usually take part in some of the following activities in the area: jungle trail hikes, canopy walks, fishing, swimming in lakes, rivers and waterfalls, and animal watching.
There’s really a lot to do and experiencing such a unique paradise and living in the middle of the jungle surrounded by nature is a truly life-changing experience.
Amazon Jungle Highlights & Excursions
There are many adventure activities that can be done in the are close to where you ́ll be living such as hiking, canopy, fishing and swimming but we also recommend adding some extra time in Cusco and Machu Picchu once your placement is finished so to explore the area and here are our recommendations!
Machu Picchu
Take a guided tour to one of the New 7 Wonders of the World and discover a truly unique place.
Tour of the Sacred Valley
Visit Pisac and its famous artisanal market and ruins and experience the fortress town of Ollantaytambo.
Lake Titicaca
Travel further to the highest navigable lake in the world and visit the the man-made Floating Uros Islands and its inhabitants there.
Half day City Tour of Cusco
Explore the centre of the Ancient Inca Empire while visiting Q’oricancha, the Inca Temple of the Sun, Cusco’s 15th century, cathedral and the ancient ruins of the city.
Maras & Moray
Be amazed by the archaeological site of Moray where you´ll see enormous natural depressions that cause micro-climates used as irrigated farming terraces, and explore the famous salt mines at Maras.
Volunteer Accommodation
For the first couple days of your program, you will stay in Cusco to receive your orientation, and there you will be staying in a traditional family-stay where you will be placed with a pre-approved middle-class Peruvian family. After one or two days there you’ll make your way to our Jungle Project in the Amazon (8 – 10 hours drive from Cusco) where you will be housed in dorm-style accommodations and provided with three delicious meals a day!
Bedding, which includes at least one thick blanket, linens and a mosquito net, is provided. However, if your program is in the months of July-September, you may consider bringing a sleeping bag, especially if you tend to get cold easily.
There may or may not be electricity at your project. When electricity is available, it will be provided through a generator, during limited hours. If there is no electricity available directly at the project, you will be shown where you can charge electronics, in a nearby village.
Know Before You Go to the Amazon Rainforest
Visa Requirements
Packing List
Code of Conduct
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Peru safe to visit?
Peru is generally very safe, especially when you are on an organized trip, taking part in tourist activities.
We take our volunteer’s safety very seriously and we´ll give an in-depth induction upon arrival. Please check our Safety Tips as well.
What is the weather/climate in Peru?
Weather, as well as altitude, can change depending on your location since it’s not the same if you are based in the Amazon or Cusco.
Cusco is placed at 3,326 m (11,200 ft) so temperatures there range between a low of 1°C (34°F) at night to a high of 21°C (70°F) during the day, so bring layers! ‘Green season’ is from November to April, and ‘dry season’ is from May to October with June being the coldest month of the year.
If participating in the jungle conservation project you can expect a more humid and tropical climate with temperature and rainfall relatively constant throughout the year. Rainfalls increase slightly between March and May and decrease between June and August. Temperatures can be as high as of 32°C (91°F) during the day and as low as 22°C (71°F) at night.
What is the currency in Peru?
The Peruvian currency is the New Sol, but U.S. dollars are accepted in all places of business.
It is fairly easy to exchange other currencies and ATMs are also available throughout the country.
MasterCard & Visa are usually accepted.
Which Electrical Plugs are used in Peru?
There are two types of plugs in Peru
- Two flat parallel prongs, both prongs being the same shape and size. Note: in the USA, the Type A plug often has one prong slightly wider than the other, which will not work in Peru (you will need a basic adapter).
- Two round prongs (used in much of Europe, but not in the UK or Ireland)
The supply voltage in Peru is 220 volts at 60 hertz so before you plugging in any appliance make sure it can handle it.
What is the language in Peru?
The official languages are Spanish, Quechua and Aymara. Please contact us if you wish to add some Spanish lessons during your volunteer programme to make the most of it!
What should stay in your hand luggage when travelling?
All valuables should be kept in your hand luggage, not left in your checked bags.
Is the tap water drinkable?
Tap water in Peru is not potable. Drinking water will be provided for you in your accommodations, and bottled water is easily purchased throughout Peru.
Hot water for showering is not available at the jungle project site.
Volunteering Safety Tips
- Petty theft is the most common problem in Peru.
- Be sure to keep track of your belongings at all times.
- Keep your belongings on your lap while riding the bus.
- Do not accept drinks from strangers.
- Use busy and well-lit streets when walking and never walk alone after dark.
- Only use official taxis and public buses.
- Keep small change in your pockets and hide large bills.
- Be vigilant when using an ATM.
- Never count your money on the street or in public.
- Take special care with your camera, laptop, jewellery, purse, and electronics.
- Save your project manager’s number on your phone and make sure to provide us with a copy of your emergency contact person at home.
We will review safety again in detail during your orientation.
Peruvian vaccinations
Please consult with your private physician or doctor in regards to what immunizations or vaccinations are needed.
Our recommendations:
Hepatitis A&B: Recommended
Typhoid: Recommended
Rabies: Recommended
Malaria: We advise you to bring an ample supply of anti-malarial tablets only if joining our Jungle Conservation Project in the Amazon. Cusco and the Andes are malaria-free areas,
Yellow Fever: Peru is NOT at risk to yellow fever.
Routine vaccinations including measles.
