An initiative begun in 2003 is the VPP (Volunteer Placement Program). This program is designed for recent graduates of biology, (or related subjects), who would like to gain experience in conservation and research OR for people with no scientific experience who would like to stay for a longer period of time in the rainforest.

Volunteers can choose to take part in a range of projects depending upon their background, interests and experience. We ask you to work for 4 hours a day on the project of your choice, the rest of your time is free for walking in the forest, birdwatching or simply relaxing in one of the hammocks at the Station.

Possible projects include:

• Trail maintenance, including construction of steps and bridges
• Farm work - tending vegetable and fruit gardens from where the Stations organic food is taken
• Mapping the trail system
• Mapping Brazil Nut Trees (Min 2 Volunteers)
• Carpentry/Construction
• Develop Interpretation Centre
• Surveying the Mammal Collpa
• Surveying the Macaw Collpa (Min 2 Volunteers)
• Density Transect Surveys (Min 2 Volunteers)
• Designing future projects
• Cooking and Lodge Maintenance

If you have a particular skill or interest, you could design your own project - Contact Us to check your projects feasibility.

The minimum period of stay is for 2 weeks. Please reserve your placement at least 1 month before your arrival to Puerto Maldonado.

Cost:

We ask each volunteer to contribute $20 per day to cover food and board, plus $25 for gasoline(so a 14 day program works out to be $305). The trip to the Station takes 1½ days and involves camping on a beach overnight - please let us know before you arrive if you do not have a tent or sleeping bag.

The Background Information page has information on flights or overland routes to Puerto Maldonado. Contact Us! for further information about this program and to enquire about our special rates for researchers.