La Senda Verde - Volunteer Program

Contact: vossiop@gmail.com
Cel. (591) 701 05222 (Vicky Ossio)

At La Senda Verde, volunteers are responsible for the well-being of all the animals in the refuge: cleaning their places and feeding them daily while also trying to improve their living conditions.

Feeding and cleaning take up most of the day.We work with the animals three times a day, ensuring their needs are provided for. We also monitor their eating habits to ensure proper portions.

Also, we need to improve the existing facilities and build additional ones for the new animals that arrive. This task involves building cages and enclosures. Lately we have received more animals, so more construction and landscaping has been required.

In addition, there is the need to prepare the quarantine area for the birds, monkeys and others that newly arrive.
This is an exceptional opportunity to work closely with different wild animals and contribute to a locally run organization.

Daily schedule

We ask volunteers to stay for at least 2 weeks. After that time, if volunteers decide to stay longer they can take one day just to relax, enjoy local hikes and rivers near the property, or visit some attractive tourist sites in Coroico.
We work the whole week from 8:00am to 6:00pm. After feeding the animals at 8:00am, breakfast will be ready at 9:00am. After breakfast, there is time for cleaning enclosures and special projects that are constantly emerging. The second animal feeding begins at noon. Lunch is served at 1:30pm, so that volunteers will be available while tourists are arriving at 2:00pm. Dinner is prepared for the animals at 5:00pm followed by another cleaning. Volunteers eat dinner at 7:30pm. Afterwards, there is an opportunity to watch movies or just socialize with staff, tourists, and other volunteers.

Lodging

Volunteers are accommodated either in our cabins or cabanas on site. We have hot showers and provide sheets and towels. We have laundry facilities, payphone, and drinkable water.
La Senda Verde is sited at 1,200 meters above sea level, with 2 seasons, wet (November-March) and dry (April-October). Coroico has a placid weather with nice sunny and warm days with temperatures between 25 to 30 degrees C. You are welcome to use the pool and to enjoy our rivers. Some; nights get a little bit colder, enough to wear a light jacket. You need a waterproof jacket (wet season) and solid hiking boots during your time here.

Language

Although speaking Spanish is not a must, we encourage people to try to learn some. Bear in mind that almost all of our staff is Bolivian and that making an effort will go a long way to gaining their trust.

Expenditures

The cost for volunteering at La Senda Verde is $us. 120 per week. We provide lodge and  food (3 meals per day, breakfast, lunch and dinner).  Beer, soft drinks and desserts are not included, but you may get them at a minimum price.
Volunteers pay travel expenses.
You will get a discount after the second week.

Qualifications requisites

There are no special requirements or qualifications to volunteer at La Senda Verde. Volunteers must be over 18 years old. We need hardworking and reliable volunteers, with an authentic affection and concern for animals. Motivation and enthusiasm are essential. We also need veterinarians, vet nurses and/or zoologists that are willing to stay some time with us.
You need to confirm your volunteer position in advance. It is important for us to know a bit about yourself and the calendar and time that you would like to stay with us.

What to bring

Bring working clothes, flashlight and a hat. You will be working with animals, and you will get dirty. Bring rubber boots if you are coming during the rainy season (December-March), and a rain poncho or jacket. Sleeping bag is recommendable. Because of the sandflies, it is better to wear long sleeve shirts and pants. Bug repellent will assist with the sandflies, but nothing including DEET because of the proximity to animals.
Don’t forget any singular medication prescribed particularly for you.

Vaccinations

There are no mosquitoes (but there are sandflies), so you do not need to worry about malaria or dengue. However if you are traveling further north, there are mosquitoes present. Also, yellow fever is present deeper in the Amazon Basin.
All of our animals have their vaccinations under veterinarian control, thus rabies is not a problem.  The larger problem we have is our animals becoming sick from tourists and volunteers, so please advise us if you are feeling ill.

Safety

Bolivia is a relatively safe country for travelers. However it is recommended to be cautious and remain aware of your surroundings and your belongings. La Senda Verde is especially safe, but once again please keep your valuables in a safe place.