Location
Bolivia is the highest and most remote country of Latin America. Its geographical and climatic regions range from the snow capped Andean mountains to the expansive, low-lying savannas and jungles. It has a large native Indian population that has preserved its indigenous languages and much of its traditional life style. Santa Cruz (or Santa Cruz de la Sierra) is the second most populous city in Bolivia. It is considered the most economically prosperous city in the country. Comparable to the capital city of La Paz and other major Bolivian cities located high in the Andes, Santa Cruz is situated at an altitude of 416 meters (1365 feet), and its climate is distinctly tropical. The city has preserved an attractive frontier feel, with palm trees, beautiful colonial buildings, open markets and friendly people.
About the project
The Eco Sanctuary was founded twenty five years ago and features flaura and fauna from all over the world. The main goal of the sanctuary is to preserve and display a wide variety of tropical and exotic plants and animals.
The park is home to over 600 different species of plants. Throughout the 34.5 acre reserve, visitors can find plants and flowers from many different parts of Bolivia as well as species from as far as India and Thailand.
The sactuary is also home to a large variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles. Not only is there captive wildlife on the preserve, but there are also a many species of animals that live naturally and symbiotically in the sanctuary among its varied plantlife.
Volunteer work and contribution
Volunteers will have the opportunity to work on a variety of different tasks in the sanctuary. There are many duties that must be fulfilled in order to make sure the preserve runs properly. Volunteer duties may include:
- Animal Care
- Care and Maintenance of Plants and Visitors' Area
- Environmental Education and Visitor Guidance
- Study and Recording of wild fauna
- Plant Reproduction and Garden Maintanance
Accommodation & Food
As a volunteer you will be provided with a family homestay in a good neighborhood with facilities nearby, (e.g. internet and phone, buses, etc). The homestay, along with the projects are located in the city of Santa Cruz. Most families have space for 2 - 4 volunteers at the same time, in shared rooms for 2 volunteers. Bathrooms are western style with hot water. Toilet paper, sheets, and blankets are provided. Volunteers should bring their own towels.
The family will provide you breakfast, lunch and dinner. The food is mainly Bolivian and contains vegetables, rice or noodles and/or potatoes, (occasionally red meat, chicken or fish) so vegetarians shouldn't have any problem with the provided cuisine.
Travel Highlights
Time away from your volunteer project can be spent exploring Santa Cruz's many museums, cathedrals and spots for picnics and swimming. Weekends are great for exploring nearby rain forests and 18th-century Jesuit missions.
Minimum Requirements
- Min age 18
- Good level of English
- Basic Spanish (classes can betaken for an extra cost)
- Good physical fitness
- Motivation to work with plants and animals
- Full travel &medical insurance
- Immunizations (please consult your doctor)