What to Expect From an Environmental Conservation Internship in Brazil
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Conservation Internship in Peru
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Gain field experience researching and monitoring the flora and fauna of the Amazon Rainforest
As a conservation intern, you’ll help promote biodiversity and sustainable alternatives to activities that threaten the Amazon rainforest through a combination of scientific research, conservation, and community engagement. This opportunity combines scientific research, conservation, and community engagement to promote biodiversity and sustainable alternatives to activities that threaten the rainforest.
During this Conservation Internship, you will participate in a range of projects assisting in field research, data entry & analysis, community projects, and supporting the daily life of the local community. Additionally, the internship includes training in field skills, survey methods, and emergency first response in the rainforest environment of the Manu Biosphere Reserve. This Environmental Conservation Internship provides exposure to rainforest ecosystems, local cultures, and practical conservation practices, building a broad skill set and insight into nonprofit conservation work. Outside of project work, you’ll experience daily life in the Amazon by exploring one of the planet’s most diverse ecosystems and joining local traditions, immersing yourself in the wildlife and cultural richness of the rainforest.
Learning Objectives:
- Conduct field-based biodiversity research in the Amazon Rainforest
- Support sustainable community conservation practices
- Participate in educational projects in the local community
- Share your passion for rainforest conservation
ORGANIZATION
Founded in 2003, this conservation organization operates within a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of the Amazon Rainforest. Here, they conduct field-based research on biodiversity, forest management, and the ecosystem to support sustainable practices in the rainforests. Their main focuses are research, conservation, community development, and education to train and educate locals to build capacity and sustainable practices.
Their mission is to create sustainable projects that protect the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest and give people a livelihood through a holistic approach which focuses on the environmental and socio-economic development of the rainforests.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
The work during your Conservation Internship will be varied and you will get involved in a range of activities with various research methods alongside staff and local members of the community. As an environmental intern, you will focus on three main areas of conservation: biodiversity, ecosystem services, and socioeconomics in the organization’s long-term monitoring program.
Responsibilities
- Engage in Butterfly, Clay Lick, and Mammal monitoring
- Participate in community outreach and assisting staff in education workshops
- Contribute to forest regeneration research
- Assist in invertebrate bioindicator studies
- Contribute to amphibian and reptile monitoring
- Conduct avian and mammal surveys
- Support agroforestry plots
- Work in the biogardens
Requirements
- Ideally, academic background or prior experience in biology, forestry, conservation, ecology, or related field
- Able and willing to do physical labor in the challenging conditions of the rainforest
- Passion for conservation
- Interest in community outreach and development
- Spanish is not required, but interns are encouraged to learn basics prior to arrival
- IMPORTANT: Must be able to walk up to 10km per day
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
You’ll be based at the organization’s field site located deep within the Manu Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated as one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. The project site is remote in the rainforest, meaning you will be fully immersed in nature and far removed from the distractions and noise of city life. The base offers comfortable, airy accommodation and ample space for project talks and workshops in a collaborative environment surrounded by the beauty of the rainforest. You’ll share a room with up to three other volunteers/interns including a mosquito net and fresh bedding each week. There is a big encouragement of community spirit and inclusion as you will live alongside people from all kinds of backgrounds, such as local and international students, researchers, and tourists. Interns are expected to be respectful, get involved, and make yourself at home.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before your internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. Being on a remote project site, you will have 24/7 support from the team on the ground in case of any emergency. The team will inform you of any safety guidelines regarding the area and any wildlife to be mindful of. As an intern, it is always important to be respectful of local cultures and customs.
It’s important to stress the remote location of this project site. You must be physically fit and prepared to withstand the challenging conditions of living and working in the rainforest. It’s equally important to be mentally prepared, willing, and able to live and work in a remote setting with the same group of people.
Communication
Communication
Wifi is available in the biological station, but is very limited and sporadic due to the station’s remote location. Interns can usually access Wifi each day, but may need to be flexible in cases of harsh weather or other unforeseen connectivity issues.
Electric charging stations are available on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday from 7:00 – 9:00 PM. An additional $10/hour fee may apply for charging needs outside of these timeframes.
Meals
Meals
Three meals a day are provided Monday to Sunday, and are prepared using local Peruvian ingredients. Meals typically include vegetables, soups, and occasional meat. Also, as an intern you can help in the kitchen to learn some Peruvian recipes and practice your Spanish. Dietary restrictions can be catered for – be sure to let us know upon application of any dietary needs.
Location details
Location details
The project site is set on the Alto Madre de Dios River entirely surrounded by the rainforest and incredible wildlife. Getting there involves a full day’s journey from Cusco including travelling through the Cloud Forest and then downriver by boat. It is a truly remote site so you can immerse yourself in nature and fully experience the rainforest.
It’s also one of the few places where camera traps capture both pumas and jaguars, living side by side, as well as Macaws and over 500 species of butterflies on the reserve. The site boasts pristine streams, wetlands, rocky slopes, and sweeping views, which make a breathtaking landscape for fieldwork and an unforgettable connection with wildlife and nature.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
Start and end dates are flexible and will be discussed during the application process.
What you’ll pay (2026 rates)
12 weeks USD 4,954
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
- An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits.
- Accommodation in a shared room (4 pax)
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Overnight stay in Cusco upon arrival and departure
- Three meals a day
- Wifi access (limited availability)
- Electronic device charging (available during designated time windows)
- Housekeeping service
- Guidance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
- Development of an Internship Work Plan to help you reach your learning goals
- An orientation program with your supervisor
- Regular check-ins during your internship
- Support from the Roots team remotely
- A certificate of completion at the end of your internship
- A reference letter upon request
Exclusions
- Flights to Cusco Airport
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in Peru.
What can I expect from an internship in Peru?
You can expect to be in bustling cities or a completely remote jungle, depending on your internship of choice. Also, you’ll be collaborating with local professionals and volunteers that will offer you insights into Peruvian work ethics and practices. Beyond your internship, your weekends and free time can be spent discovering the overall breathtaking beauty of the country.
How will a nonprofit internship in Peru help my career development?
During your internship in Peru, you’ll be able to utilize your professional and personal skills, as well as develop those skills that you feel could use more work. Also, employers may see your CV as more favorable, since it’ll show that you were a part of a meaningful international grassroots project, which shows a variety of transferable qualities. If you want to know more about how doing a nonprofit internship is good for your career, make sure to check this blog out!
While on an internship in Peru can I receive university credit?
Yes, but you must check with your university supervisor that this experience qualifies. You can also buy additional transfer credits to add onto your internship.
Can I receive a stipend while completing my internship?
Unfortunately, no. You can find other ways to fund your internship as you will not be paid while working with a nonprofit organization. Your internship experience will bring a wealth of new knowledge, along with opportunities for professional and personal growth which are both invaluable!
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Manu Biosphere Reserve, Peru
PROGRAM FOCUS: Nature Conservation
TASK FOCUS: Conservation, Research, Monitoring, Education
LENGTH: 12 weeks
COST: USD 4,954
FEATURED REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
- Gain international conservation experience in a nonprofit
- Build an expansive knowledge of flora and fauna in the Manu Biosphere Reserve
- Participate in field research gaining practical skills in conservation
- Experience a personal and cultural immersion
- Live and work in the the Peruvian Amazon Rainforest
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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