For most volunteer positions no specialized knowledge or qualifications are needed. Where qualifications are required, it will be clearly listed in the information on that position. The most important qualities that volunteers need are a sense of purpose and the willingness to make a difference by helping out.
Volunteers at reserves in Bilsa, Congal, Jatun Sacha, La Hesperia and San Cristobal are required to speak basic Spanish. For beginners, we are proud to offer a 2-week Spanish course at a very affordable price of US$220 per week (4 hours a day). You may also wish to take advantage of a Home stay with a local family. At US$155 per week, this includes accommodation, 3 meals a day and laundry.
For positions where you will be teaching or engaged in capacity building you will need good Spanish. If you are at a large reserve, other volunteers and some of the staff will usually speak English. The overwhelming majority of local people that you meet will speak only Spanish and/or their indigenous language. Speaking some Spanish will certainly help you to get around and enhance the experience.