Voluntering at the Cochahuasi Sanctuary

The Cochahuasi Sanctuary in Cusco, Peru, offers a unique opportunity for volunteers to contribute to wildlife conservation. Visitors can assist with the care of rescued animals, engage in enrichment activities, and participate in educational programs. With on-site accommodations and meals provided, volunteers can enjoy the sanctuary’s mission while enjoying a comfortable and supportive environment. But what goes on behind the scenes to ensure the well-being of the animals and the success of the volunteer program? Let’s take a closer look at the daily routines and responsibilities that make the Cochahuasi Sanctuary a truly remarkable place.

Key Points

• Volunteers can assist with feeding, cleaning enclosures, and maintaining the sanctuary grounds at the Cochahuasi Sanctuary in Cusco, Peru.
• Volunteers participate in enrichment activities to stimulate natural animal behaviors and support educational programs sharing the sanctuary’s mission and animal information.
• The sanctuary offers basic accommodations in shared dormitory-style housing, with meals and transportation provided to support the volunteer experience.
• The sanctuary is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, but is not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions.
• The volunteer experience is priced at $89 per person, including private transport, admission, meals, and instructor guidance.

Overview of the Sanctuary

The Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary is a private wildlife conservation center located in the heart of Cusco, Peru.

It operates daily from 8 AM to 5 PM, offering visitors the chance to explore the sanctuary and learn about the resident animals.

The sanctuary is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, making it accessible to most travelers.

However, it’s not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Visitors can expect private transportation, admission tickets, a sanctuary instructor, meals, and bottled water as part of the experience, which typically costs $89 per person.

The sanctuary has received a perfect 5-star rating based on a single review.

Types of Animals

At the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary, visitors can encounter a diverse array of rescued and rehabilitated wildlife. The sanctuary provides a safe haven for animals that have been victims of the illegal wildlife trade, habitat loss, or human negligence. A variety of species can be observed, including:

Animal	Description	Habitat	Status
Spectacled Bear	Largest carnivore in South America	Andean cloud forests	Vulnerable
Puma	Powerful feline predator	Varied habitats	Least Concern
Vicuña	Small, graceful camelid	High Andes	Near Threatened
Andean Condor	Massive vulture, national bird of Peru	Mountainous regions	Vulnerable

The sanctuary plays a crucial role in conservation, education, and rehabilitation of these magnificent creatures.

Volunteer Responsibilities

Typically, volunteers at the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary assist with a range of tasks designed to support the care and well-being of the resident animals. This includes feeding, cleaning enclosures, maintaining the sanctuary grounds, and monitoring the animals’ health and behavior.

Volunteers may also participate in enrichment activities, such as creating toys or structures to stimulate the animals’ natural behaviors. Plus, volunteers may assist with educational programs, sharing information about the sanctuary’s mission and the animals with visitors.

The sanctuary’s instructors provide guidance and training to ensure volunteers can contribute effectively and safely. By volunteering, individuals play a vital role in the sanctuary’s efforts to protect and rehabilitate the animals in its care.

Daily Routine

A volunteer’s daily routine at the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary involves a mix of hands-on animal care and various support tasks.

The day typically begins at 8 AM with breakfast, followed by preparing the animals’ food and feeding them. Volunteers then help clean the enclosures, replenish water supplies, and maintain the sanctuary’s grounds.

Afternoons are spent assisting with enrichment activities, providing companionship to the animals, and recording observations. Lunch is served midday, and snacks are available throughout.

The day wraps up by 5 PM, allowing volunteers to reflect on their experiences and the positive impact they’ve made on the sanctuary’s residents.

Meals and Accommodations

During their volunteer experience, participants enjoy a variety of meals provided by the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary.

Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are included in the program, ensuring volunteers stay nourished throughout the day. The meals feature local Peruvian cuisine, giving volunteers a chance to enjoy the culinary culture. Bottled water is also provided to keep volunteers hydrated.

The sanctuary provides a comfortable environment for volunteers, though accommodations are basic. Volunteers typically stay on-site in shared dormitory-style housing.

With meals and lodging taken care of, volunteers can fully focus on their important work at the sanctuary.

Transportation and Pickup

The Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary provides private transportation for volunteers to and from the sanctuary.

Pickup is usually arranged at the volunteer’s hotel, but alternative pickup points can be requested. Volunteers should confirm their pickup time with the local provider prior to their visit.

The sanctuary is wheelchair accessible and located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for most travelers.

However, the sanctuary isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Health and Accessibility

Typically, the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary is wheelchair accessible and located near public transportation, making it easily accessible for most travelers.

The sanctuary isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart problems and serious medical conditions, as the physical activities involved may be strenuous.

However, most visitors can participate in the sanctuary’s offerings without issue. Guests should consult with the local provider if they’ve any concerns about their ability to fully engage with the sanctuary’s experiences.

Booking and Pricing

Guests can book their visit to the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary starting at $89.00.

The sanctuary offers a flexible reservation policy, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning their trip.

The booking process is straightforward, with confirmation received upon booking. The sanctuary’s pricing is transparent, and the inclusion of private transportation, admission tickets, meals, and a dedicated instructor ensures a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for visitors.

With an overall rating of 5.0 from 1 review, the Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary provides a highly-rated volunteer opportunity in Cusco, Peru.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Volunteer?

The best time to volunteer is during the sanctuary’s open season, which runs from September 21, 2021 to June 28, 2025. Visitors can enjoy the sanctuary’s daily operating hours of 8 AM to 5 PM.

Can Volunteers Bring Their Own Food or Snacks?

Volunteers can bring their own food or snacks to the sanctuary. Meals and bottled water are provided, but additional personal items are allowed. The sanctuary encourages visitors to pack any desired supplementary food or refreshments.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Volunteers?

There are no age restrictions for volunteers at the Cochahuasi Sanctuary. Individuals of all ages can participate in the volunteer activities, though it’s important to ensure participants are physically able to handle the tasks involved.

Do Volunteers Need to Speak Spanish?

Volunteers don’t necessarily need to speak Spanish to volunteer at the Cochahuasi Sanctuary. The sanctuary provides a sanctuary instructor who can assist volunteers and guide them through the experience, regardless of their language abilities.

Can Volunteers Bring Their Pets to the Sanctuary?

The Cochahuasi Sanctuary does not allow volunteers to bring their pets. The sanctuary’s policy is to prioritize the well-being and safety of the animals in their care, so no outside pets are permitted on the premises.

Recap

Volunteering at the Cochahuasi Sanctuary in Cusco, Peru, provides a rare chance to contribute to wildlife conservation. Volunteers assist with feeding, cleaning, and enrichment activities that support the rescued animals’ well-being. With on-site accommodations and meals, volunteers can fully enjoy the sanctuary’s mission while enjoying a comfortable and supportive environment. This program offers a rewarding experience for those passionate about protecting vulnerable species.