Jungle Project - Guatemala

About the project

Other Team Members / Who You’ll Be Working With

There are around 20 local staff members including security guards, coordinators, directors and animal carers.
The number of volunteers varies depending on the time of year, typically between 10 and 20.

Language Spoken on the Project

The local staff primarily speak Spanish. The volunteer coordinator speaks fluent English and some of the other staff may also speak some English.

Holiday Periods

This project is open all year round so volunteers are always welcome.

Accommodation

Volunteers stay on site at the Rescue Centre in Petén in a two-storey wooden building nestled in beautiful tropical forest. There are comfortable wooden bunk beds, Western style showers and toilets, and 110 volt American style electricity. Meals and social time take place in a separate kitchen and dining area, and there’s a floating dock on the lake for an afternoon swim. Internet is available in Flores at internet cafés and local restaurants.

Transport To and From the Project

You’ll be staying on site so no daily transport is required.

Airport Pick-Up

We can organise an airport pick up and transfer to the project for you. The cost will depend on your arrival location and time.

Free Time

Check out the optional add on trips to see what you can do in your spare time. There are some incredible excursions available. And since you're already in such a stunning destination, it’s the perfect chance to explore more of the country.

Learn Spanish in Guatemala

If you’re not fluent in Spanish, you have the option to learn the language locally. It’s a unique and immersive way to pick it up and you'll learn best from the locals. In Guatemala, you can choose between private or group lessons.

Your Local Contact

Petra is your contact person in Guatemala.

Volunteer profile

For this project, we’re looking for volunteers who want to help protect wildlife and their habitats in the tropical rainforest of Guatemala. You’ll assist with various tasks such as caring for rescued animals, helping rehabilitate them for release back into the wild, and supporting educational programs about conservation.

This project is suitable for volunteers aged 17 and over.

Important qualities

• Passion for Animal Welfare and Conservation: A strong commitment to protecting and caring for wild animals and their environment is essential. Experience is a plus but not required.

• Initiative and Proactivity: You need to be able to work independently and take initiative, especially when caring for the animals day-to-day.

• Patience and Empathy: Working with rescued animals requires patience, as many are traumatised. Empathy and understanding are important during their rehabilitation.

• Cultural Sensitivity: Respect for local customs and willingness to learn from Guatemalan culture.

• Flexibility and Adaptability: Willingness to work in a remote jungle environment with varying weather conditions.

• Communication Skills: Ability to collaborate well with local staff and other international volunteers.

• Team Spirit: Cooperation and support of one another is essential to provide the best care for the animals.

What to Expect

As a volunteer, you’ll assist with the daily care of rescued animals such as parrots, monkeys, turtles, and crocodiles. You’ll feed and care for them, help with rehabilitation, and participate in educational projects to raise awareness about wildlife conservation. Occasionally, you may be involved in veterinary procedures or animal releases, which can be a truly special experience!

Your work is usually spread throughout the day, with plenty of free time to relax or explore the beautiful rainforest.

Staying in Guatemala gives you the chance to be part of an inspiring project, working with an international team in a unique setting. This adventure will not only teach you a lot about animal welfare but also enrich you personally and create unforgettable memories.

If you’re passionate about animal and nature conservation and ready for a challenge, this jungle project in Guatemala is perfect for you!

For parents

We completely understand that having your child volunteer overseas can feel like a big step. In fact, it’s often just as exciting for parents as it is for the young person themselves, and sometimes even a little more nerve-racking. That’s why we want to reassure you that your child is in good hands.

Since 2004, we’ve been supporting volunteers and have guided many young people through meaningful international experiences.

We take safety seriously. That begins with carefully selecting our partner organisations, volunteer projects, and host families. Every placement is thoroughly checked to make sure it meets our high standards for safety, support, and ethical practices.

Our experienced and caring local contacts are always there to support volunteers throughout their journey. From clear pre-departure preparation to personal assistance during the project, we’re available to help whenever needed.

We believe strongly in open communication. You're always welcome to contact us with any questions or concerns. We’re here not only for the volunteers, but for their families too.

You can feel confident knowing we are fully committed to creating a safe, supportive, and positive experience. Your child’s wellbeing, safety, and overall happiness are our top priorities.

If there's anything you’d like to ask or talk through, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you every step of the way.

Warm regards,
The Volunteer Worldwide Team

Costs

Average cost for a 5 week stay: $606 per week

• 2 weeks of volunteering: $1530

• 3 weeks of volunteering: $1990

• Each additional week: $520

*All prices are in AUD. 

What’s included:

Before departure

• Online introductory meeting

• Information pack with details about Guatemalan culture and customs, as well as a checklist for preparations including travel insurance, money matters and other travel tips

• Pre-departure training

• Assistance with obtaining your police check (VOG)

• Access to our online volunteer community

• Support with your visa application

• Help booking your flight (on request)

During your trip

• On-site orientation

• Support with visa extensions (if needed)

• Ongoing guidance throughout your stay

• Accommodation in the volunteer house

• Three meals a day

After your return

• Debrief and evaluation

• Certificate (on request)

• Option to stay connected through our WhatsApp community

• Memories for life!

Not included in the price:

• Flights

• Vaccinations

• Visa

• Police check (VOG)

• Travel insurance