VOLUNTEER PROGRAMME
Our volunteer programme started in 2006. As a volunteer, you will not only have an amazing and satisfying experience in a beautiful environment, but you will be genuinely contributing to the conservation of the Atlantic Forest.
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We look forward to providing volunteers with a great experience in a top quality conservation project. This project, which is protecting one of the most threatened ecosystems in the world, the Atlantic Forest. You will have the opportunity to work closely with REGUA staff, including members of local communities, in a rare and beautiful environment, which is home to a range of unique species.
Comfortable and compact accommodation, with typical food of the region of excellent quality are offered. Volunteers have access to a range of facilities including Wi-Fi, auditorium/classroom, laboratory, kitchen and dining room.
Our program works with the following principles in mind:
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Volunteers contribute to the achievement of REGUA's objectives;
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Volunteers do not replace our local workforce;
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Volunteers receive a rewarding experience.
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Volunteers stay in buildings known as Casa 1 and Casa 3. Each house has up to three bedrooms, a toilet and shower (with hot water) and 110V electricity. They each have a small lounge with basic furniture. The houses are tended to by our staff who provide an excellent cleaning, cooking and laundry service, we do expect volunteers maintain their own space respectfully for others sharing the accommodation.
The accommodation is located beside our restored wetlands with colour-marked trails that provide stunning views across the mountains. Just a few minutes walk away is the REGUA Conservation Centre where the REGUA office, laboratory, classroom, communal kitchen and large dining room are located.
The Conservation Centre is a very social place and all meals are prepared and eaten here. The main meal of the day is at lunch time with a lighter meal in the evenings. Volunteers are expected to cook for themselves on Sundays.
Volunteers planting bananas - © REGUA
Who can volunteer?
Our volunteer opportunities are available to people aged 18 and over, and of any nationality. Volunteers must know how to communicate in Portuguese or English, being fluent in at least one of these two languages.
In addition, they must be: able to do active manual work, highly motivated, responsible and able to work without constant supervision. You will need the ability to adapt to new environments and cultures, as you will have to work closely with local collaborators and in a hot and humid climate. Our offer is ideal for those looking for a career break, those wishing to actively contribute to conservation, on sabbatical or retired.
Weeding the Atlantic Forest garden - © REGUA
What offers are available?
Annually, we welcome volunteers for the following positions:
Assistant bird guide at REGUA;
Nature guide;
Assistant gardener;
General Volunteer;
Other volunteer opportunities may be available from time to time.
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What are the minimum commitments?
Minimum commitments vary for each position. The assistant bird guide, nature guide and assistant gardener have a minimum commitment of two months. The General Volunteer has a minimum commitment of one month. These time scales were defined to provide time for the volunteers to familiarize themselves with the employees, and the possibility of adapting to the new environment.
Evan planting seedlings in the "Solar da REGUA" area - © REGUA
What is the cost of volunteering?
Our volunteer programme is non-profit, with your fee covering overhead costs only. The volunteer season runs from early March (after the Carnival season) until the end of November, avoiding the hottest and most humid period of the year. However, each volunteer position has a time when it is most in demand.
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The work day of volunteers is normally from 08:00 to 16:00, from Monday to Friday, with free weekends. However, assistant bird guide and nature guide positions are often required to work outside these hours, depending on the needs of visitors at the lodge or other tourists. Some tasks will be more comfortably achieved early in the morning or late in the afternoon when it is cooler, when a siesta might be advisable in the heat of the day.
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Volunteers working in the nursery - © REGUA
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, valid travel insurance, which includes medical coverage, is essential for your time with us.
Which vaccines should I take?
You should consult a doctor or a local travel clinic with up-to-date information regarding the vaccinations required for your trip to Brazil.
Summary of minimum requirements:
Age: 18 years or older
Languages: Portuguese or English
Physical form: Healthy
Minimum time: 1 or 2 months depending on the position
cost: consult
Travel Insurance: Essential Medical Coverage
How to apply?
If you are interested in volunteering at REGUA, please complete our application form and email it to our volunteer coordinator, Rachel Walls at rawbaking@gmail.com