Environmental & Wildlife Sanctuary

Volunteer & Learn at an Environmental & Wildlife Sanctuary

2 weeks from $885

BelizeJaguarThis environmental & wildlife education centre offers experiential learning programs and training opportunities while serving as a model of conservation land stewardship. The sanctuary also places heavy importance on encouraging conservation management, environmental education and ecotourism.

The sanctuary consists of 1,070 acres of tropical forest and savanna habitats. Located in central Belize and bordered by the Sibun River that flows from the Maya Mountains through the coastal savanna on its path to the Caribbean Sea. Situated adjacent to Monkey Bay National Park (2250 acres), together they form a biological corridor link spanning the Sibun watershed. The 3300 acre protected area is home to a large number of exotic mammal species, including tapir, puma, jaguar, and crocodiles. There are a variety of volunteer & learning opportunities at this project.

Program Director Matthew Miller says; “We strive to serve our volunteers and students by providing exposure to issues of global importance and offering experiences that emphasize the interconnectedness of people and their environment.”

Wildlife SanctuaryThe overall goal is to guide our volunteers and students in experiencing the natural wonders of the tropics and life in a developing country, while recognizing the diversity of human potential through other cultures. From a peaceful natural setting at the sanctuary volunteers will have a chance to assist staff in experiments with sustainable living technologies and conservation land management. Hands-on, experiential learning techniques are employed using the protected areas system, biological corridor, rural village host communities and the country of Belize as the outdoor classroom.

Volunteers work independently, under the guidance of the sanctuary staff, and are expected to contribute 30 hours per week to the program. Projects are mostly outdoor and physical in nature, such as maintaining our organic gardens, landscaping, composting, and the like.

Secure Your Placement Today!

Living Facilities and Other Realities:
Because the sanctuary is located in a very rural setting across from a national park and on over 1000 acres of its own property, living facilities are very basic. Volunteers and interns share common living space and are briefed thoroughly on house rules and conduct code. We provide outdoor showers and composting biogas latrines, bed linens, mosquito net, drinking water, and all meals. Volunteers and interns are required to provide their own towel, personal effects, and appropriate work wear. We encourage all visitors to “pack out” used batteries and other recyclables, as we cannot recycle them here; please plan your packing accordingly.

Project Details

  • Project Duration: Min 2 weeks – Long Term
  • Project Costs: $885USD
  • Project Location: The Sanctuary is situated adjacent to Monkey Bay National Park between Belize City and Belmopan
  • Arrival Airport: Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE)
  • Activities: Assist on environmental conservation and animal rescue projects within the sanctuary.
  • Working Hours: Flexible; Monday to Friday up to 6 hours a day, all other time is free.
  • Getting to the project: Volunteers & students live on the grounds of the sanctuary.
  • Requirements: Minimum Age 18 unless accompanied by a guardian. Student Groups are welcome.

What’s Included

  • Accommodation: Dormitory style lodging within the sanctuary. Local family home-stay options are available.
  • Meals: Typical Belizan dishes are served 3 times daily.
  • Airport or Bus Terminal Pickup & Drop-off : Included on arrival and departure day.
  • Training: Pre-departure “Introductory Package” will be mailed and in-country orientation with our Volunteer Coordinator.
  • Support: Pre-departure briefing & help-desk, local in-country Volunteer Coordinator and 24 hour emergency support.
  • Insurance: All AAV volunteers will receive “Basic” Travel & Medical insurance included in their package.
  • Bonus: “Welcome Package” with and AAV t-shirt, local tips and coupons to help you get settled quickly and enhance the duration of your stay!

What’s NOT Included

  • Airfare: However, we would be more than happy to help you find and schedule your flight.

* The above pricing is variable, depending on the accommodation option selected.