Cusco Ecosystem Restoration and Community Development Volunteer Intern
Daily Tasks
As a volunteer intern on this project, you'll work hands-on alongside Pachamama Raymi's team and local families. Day-to-day activities vary with the season and the stage of each project. Tasks may include, but are not limited to:
Seedling and tree nursery care: Tending tree nurseries to protect young seedlings until they're strong enough to be planted out.
Tree planting and reforestation: Joining planting campaigns across community sites, helping families in the field establish pine and native species that anchor the soil and rebuild the forest.
Data science: Collecting data on water infiltration to assess soil erosion and plant species to assess biodiversity impact, as well as using georeferencing to build a map of tree planting locations.
Applied research: Investigating practical innovations, such as designing and building bird nesting structures and improved irrigation systems.
Market research and development: Helping create new markets for community products, such as edible mushrooms, guinea pigs, and cattle, so that restoration translates into real, lasting income.
Engaging in community: Contribute to celebrations, offerings, and ceremonies from mid-December to February and join in Cusco’s vibrant rural community life on weekends year-round.
This position combines manual labour in the field with research support. The team needs both willing hands and curious minds to help these communities find new opportunities.
Benefits of joining this program
We are looking for hard-working, open-minded people with experience or interest in business, reforestation, ecology, or rural development. The benefits of taking part in this volunteer internship are:
Enhance your CV and gain professional, hands-on experience in ecosystem restoration and community development with an international NGO, having a real impact on vulnerable communities.
Develop an in-depth, practical understanding of reforestation, soil recovery, and the link between environmental restoration and poverty reduction.
Work alongside experienced and passionate people from a range of backgrounds, including the local farmers who lead this work on the ground.
Live in the high Andes of the Cusco region, one of the most spectacular landscapes in South America, and experience the culture of both the local community and Cusco’s rural areas.
Requirements
This volunteer internship is best suited for those interested in reforestation, biodiversity, rural and sustainable development, or social enterprise and business development.
Undergraduates, postgraduates, PhDs and/or professionals are all welcome. However, we do ask for:
An academic/professional background or genuine personal motivation in business, environmental science, forestry, agriculture, rural development, or the like.
Minimum age 18.
Basic experience or strong motivation to work as part of a team away from home.
A reasonable level of physical fitness and a willingness to take on outdoor manual work. Please note the partner communities sit at high altitude in the Andes, so we recommend allowing a few days to acclimatise.
However, the most important thing is that you have an open mind, positive attitude and willingness to learn!
However, the most important thing is that you have an open mind, positive attitude and willingness to learn!
