Spend a focused half-day at Cochahuasi Animal Sanctuary near Cusco: an orientation, supervised feeding of turtles and macaws, habitat cleanups, and light construction or reforestation work. Ideal for travelers who want hands-on conservation on a four-hour visit.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step through a low gate and the first thing that meets you is noise — parrots arguing across the yard, a macaw’s raucous laugh, a river that seems to dare you to notice its litter. For the next four hours the sanctuary pulls you into a working rhythm: a brisk 35‑minute orientation walk around corrals and aviaries, then hands-on tasks that put you close to animals and the rhythms of an Andean rescue center.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in basic physical condition who can stand, bend, and walk short unpaved distances; not strenuous.
Wildlife
History
Cochahuasi began as a local rescue and rehabilitation effort to care for confiscated and injured Andean wildlife and now combines rescue with environmental education for visitors and communities.
Conservation
Volunteers support litter removal, enclosure maintenance, and reforestation — activities that reduce immediate threats to rescued animals and help restore local habitat over time.
Reserve your spot on the Voluntering at the Cochahuasi Sanctuary today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Altitude awareness
Cusco sits above 3,300 m — move slowly, hydrate, and avoid heavy exertion your first day to prevent altitude symptoms.
Wear sturdy footwear
Work areas can be muddy and uneven; closed-toe shoes with grip protect your feet during enclosure cleaning and river cleanups.
Follow staff instructions around animals
Feeding and handling are supervised — follow guidance to avoid stressing rescued wildlife or compromising safety.
Bring sun and insect protection
High sun exposure and biting insects are common; sunscreen, a hat, and repellent improve comfort during outdoor tasks.
Closed-toe hiking/work shoes
Protects feet from mud, enclosure debris, and uneven ground during cleanup and feeding tasks.
Work gloves
Durable gloves protect hands when handling food, cleaning pens, and picking up river litter.
Sun hat and sunscreen
High-altitude UV can be intense; sun protection reduces risk of sunburn during outdoor shifts.
summer
Light waterproof jacket
Cusco’s weather shifts quickly — a light rain shell helps during sudden showers and morning chill.
winter