Volunteers are rewarded with spectacular scenery of snowy mountains and herds of guanacos. Photo © Mr Hicks46, licensed Creative Commons Attribution & ShareAlike.
Founded by Kristine Thompson, the former longtime CEO of the clothing company Patagonia, Conservación Patagonica’s (CP’s) mission is “to create national parks in Patagonia that save and restore wildlands and wildlife, inspire care for the natural world, and generate healthy economic opportunities for local communities.” CP is a well-organized and prestigious organization with a high-profile board and highly qualified group of scientific advisors.CP is a well-organized and prestigious organization with a high-profile board and highly qualified group of scientific advisors.The volunteer program runs November-April, and volunteers come for three-week stints, camping and backpacking in the field (away from showers, cell phone coverage, and Internet). The work is focused on trail building and ecosystem restoration, and tasks include digging up plants, moving rocks, and planting seeds.
While the work can be monotonous and tiring, volunteers are rewarded with spectacular scenery of snowy mountains and grassy valleys, crystal blue lakes and lagoons, Chilean flamingos and herds of guanacos (cousins of the llama).
Beyond enjoying the stunning surroundings, volunteers will have free time in the evenings and may want to bring a good book.
Chacabuco Valley, Chile
U.S. tel. 415/229-9339
Application Process: Sometime before the beginning of the season (Nov.-Apr.), an application form is posted on CP’s website. Slots fill up quickly, and volunteers should apply well in advance. Volunteers must be age 18 or older.
Cost: US$20 per day, including meals.
Placement Length: Three weeks.
Language Requirements: None.
Housing: Volunteers must bring their own tent, sleeping bag, and pad. Meals are provided by CP.
Operating Since: 2000
Number of Volunteers: 40-50 per season.
Excerpted from the First Edition of Moon Volunteer Vacations in Latin America.
