Galapagos Tortoise Conservation Volunteer
Role Overview
As the Galapagos Tortoise Center conservation volunteer, you will work with the Galapagos National Park as a member of the staff at the Tortoise Breeding Center. This will include:
Feeding and caring for the tortoises as well as maintaining their enclosures.
Assisting the Park Rangers with zoo-keeping type activities.
Assisting in educating visitors about Giant Tortoises and about the rules and regulations keeping the tortoises safe and the habitats intact.
Schedule
Schedules are based on a 25 hr/week commitment, and can voluntarily be extended to a regular 40hr/work week. Typically Monday-Friday 7:30AM-12:30PM.
May be subject to change depending on the tasks at hand.
Requirements
A genuine passion for animal conservation.
An ability to openly communicate rules and regulations to tourists as well as follow instructions.
Ability to work independently as well as in a team.
Flexible schedule that accounts for the day to day needs of working with a local institution.
Physical ability to work outdoors with potentially high sun, element, and temperature exposure.
Ability to speak and understand Spanish is beneficial as it will increase your ability to communicate and integrate with community members. IOI staff are English speakers but National Park Rangers speak very basic English thus we highly recommend that you brush up on your Spanish skills to make the most of your experience. If you would like to add a 1 or 2 week long Spanish course to the start of your program, please let us know so we can help you arrange this.
** Wasps are atracted to the plants that you will be prepping and feeding to the giant tortoises. While our Packing List PDF explains that long-sleeve and long pants should be used in the breeding center and most participants are not typically stung, wasp stings are still possible thus those with severe allergies should be reconsider this project choice.
Interested in volunteering with the Galapagos Tortoises? Follow these 3 easy steps:
Step 1: Apply Now & Reserve. Fill out an application and pay the reservation deposit. The deposit holds your spot in one of our programs and goes towards your final program fee. The deposit is already deducted from the prices you see below. The application and deposit do not guarantee the dates you anticipate joining us. Once we receive your application, we will contact you with any follow-up questions and confirm your dates.
Not ready to fill out an application but have questions? Contact us.
Step 2: Reserve your space by making your $200 deposit
Step 3: Pay the full program fee 8 weeks before your trip.
