Guatemala: Wildlife Rehabilitation Project

Introduction

Animal lovers, conservationists and scientific researchers alike are invited to this special sanctuary in the remote northern region of Guatemala. The centre is situated on 45 hectares of forested land in the Mayan Biosphere Reserve, and is home to a number of species including Parrots, Macaws, Spider and Howler monkeys, Margays, Ocelots, Coatimundis, Taras and Kinkajous.

Nearly all of these animals have been seized from smugglers and are very young, needing constant care and attention. As you help these animals rehabilitate back into the wild you will get very close to some of the most unique species on the planet. In addition to feeding and caring for the animals there are opportunities for research at the centre, ensuring that your time at the Centre is tailored to your personal and career goals

Daily Life

A typical day on the project involves the following activities;

6:30 Animal Husbandry and Care
8:00 Breakfast
9:00-11:00 Chores around the Center
11:00 Animal Husbandry
12:00 Finish up Chores
1:00 Lunch
2:00 Animal Husbandry
3:00 Individual projects, Relaxing, Trips to Flores, Swimming, Hiking.
6:00 Dinner & socializing

Much of the work that takes place at the Rescue Centre is in the maintenance and pre-rehabilitation areas; although in special cases they will help in the quarantine, clinic and rehabilitation cages. For long term volunteers or with advanced knowledge in animal care, there may be opportunities to feed baby birds like Parrots, woodpeckers, toucans and many other species.

When an animal requires it and the staff indicates it, some species like baby howler monkeys, baby anteaters and baby carnivores may need more attention, closer care and even hand feeding. This is where some long term volunteers can be taken in consideration for this responsibility.
The rescue center is equipped with a fully functional veterinary clinic where recently received animals receive immediate attention, special diets and treatments.

In addition to the regular daily feeding and care of the animals, we usually have special on-going activities in which you can participate. These activities include:

• Construction of cages or extra buildings.
• Gathering of wild foods for the animals.
• Giving tours and creating educational exhibits at Kinkajou Kingdom.
• Participating in additional environmental education activities and community projects
• “Enrichment” of cages and enclosures by adding toys, perches and other stimuli that help the animal in their rehabilitation process.

Depending on your experience and skills, you may also be asked to help in veterinary medical treatment and surgeries as well as in the periodic blood and feces samples we must take to monitor the health of the animals.

Perhaps the most satisfying work at the centre are the animal releases which we carry out 2-6 times per year. Volunteers may assist in these releases depending on time and space availability if the release is off site. All volunteers are able to participate in onsite releases.

The number of animals at the centre varies depending on the time of year (breeding/trafficking season is April-July) however there is constant work all year round for volunteers working in the enclosures with the animals. The amount of work varies depending on how many volunteers are at the centre, however when we have more volunteers we take advantage of any down times we have to do maintenance, or small project work to improve the centre.

In addition, volunteers are encouraged to develop their own individual projects. If you see potential for such a special project, let us know and we will work with you to translate that idea into practice. In the past, volunteers have taken on projects such as developing interpretive exhibits and trails, studying the behaviours of animals in the centre and conducting educational activities in neighbouring schools. It’s great to have ideas, but sometimes the difficult part is translating those ideas into practice.

Travel & Accommodation

You will be met at Flores airport where you will be taken to the Project HQ.

You will live at the Centre in a spacious two story wooden building situated in a beautiful tropical forest with comfortable wooden bunk beds, “western” shower and toilet facilities and US-style 110 electricity. You will all eat and socialize at a separate spacious kitchen/dining room rancho and enjoy a very nice floating dock for late afternoon swims. There is no internet service available at the Centre, however you can easily get online in the nearby town, a short boat rode away.

Requirements

• No minimum or maximum age
• Minimum 1 week commitment
• Full travel & medical insurance
• Necessary vaccinations
• Necessary flights & visas

Extra Activities

If you’re traveling to Guatemala, no need to look further- this list has you covered. We have narrowed down the Top 5 Must-See parts of this beautiful tropical country. You cannot miss the ancient ruins of Tikal National Park, or the Volcanoes of Lake Atitlan. Read on to find out the adventures that await you in Central America.

Tikal National Park

You do not have to be an archaeologist to appreciate the wonder that is Tikal. This entire park encompasses one of the Maya civilization’s most major sites. Famous for the towering Temple IV and the sprawling Great Plaza, this park is a must-see in Guatemala. The entire park is surrounded by lush jungle and wildlife, so you feel as though you are in a different world. Step into your own personal Indiana Jones movie at Tikal.

Semuc Champey

This excursion is for the more able-bodied traveler, but Semuc Champey is great if you can make it there. Located in central Guatemala, this is a breathtaking gathering of limestone bridges, a river, and pools of aqua-marine water. Spend all day bathing in the cool, clear water or tube down the river. You can even explore caves by candlelight at night if you go with a tour and are up for an adventure!

Take a Coffee Tour

If you’re a coffee drinker, there is a good chance you’ve had a cup from Guatemala. If not, you still would have a great time exploring the coffee plantations in this country. Learn how coffee is grown, and walk around giant fields of the world’s favorite bean. Prices range from $25 USD- 100+, and some combine with activities like bird watching, hiking, camping or doing your tour on the back of a mule!

Visit Lake Atitlan and Its Volcanoes

Lake Atitlan is one of the prettiest places to see in Guatemala. Magnificent views of the volcanoes that surround it set it apart from any other lake in the world. Surrounding the lake are charming little villages where the indigenous culture is still alive. People dressed in the vibrant traditional garb can be found selling crafts and goods to tourists. You can either stay in one of the cozy little towns, take a day trip, or hike to the top of a volcano and get a view of Atitlan from above.

Antigua

Most people prefer Antigua to any other city in Guatemala. It’s charming architecture and vibrant colored buildings really please the eye. Enjoy visiting the Spanish-Baroque style churches, cathedrals and plazas that still stand from the 16th century. Travelers not only enjoy the beauty of the town, but the location is quite convenient for day trips. Antigua is oftentimes the jump-off point for Lake Atitlan tours, coffee tours, and volcano hiking.

Costs

* Currency conversions are approximate. Check xe.com for the latest currency conversions.
** Deposit of £300 to confirm your place.
*** All payments incur a 5% bank transfer fee.

What’s Included:

Project Fee includes all food, accommodation, airport pickup, orientation, in-country support and project activities.

What’s not included:

Flights, insurance, visas (if applicable) and vaccinations. Full assistance will be provided in getting all these arranged if you choose our Premium Support.

Premium Support Upgrade

We understand there’s a great deal to plan and organise for your trip. When booking a Placement, many of our participants choose to purchase our Premium Support Upgrade to benefit from the expertise, knowledge and experience of our Project Coordinators.

We can provide the personal advice you need to ensure your trip is organised with excellence and planned with efficiency; ensuring the very best experience possible. Read more about how we can help you.