Natucate
Volunteering Peru - Emma
Emma dedicated herself to rainforest research during her project. Find out more about her impressive time in the Amazon in the article.
Profile
Name: Emma
Age: 20
Project: Rainforest research
Project time: September through November 2024
Duration: 12 weeks
Volunteering in Peru: Rainforest Research with Emma
My stay in Madre de Dios, Peru, was extremely enriching, professionally and personally. I had the opportunity to gain an in-depth introduction to the complex challenges of nature conservation and tropical ecology, and plan, carry out and complete a research project independently.
Exchange with experts and projects
I was particularly impressed by the interdisciplinary exchange with researchers from all over the world, which showed me how diverse the approaches and perspectives in the field of rainforest conservation are. In addition to other interns' projects, volunteers without any prior knowledge are also allowed to conduct a study. As a result, there are always various projects where everyone helps each other. I carried out a project myself and divided it into several subject areas. For example, I set up a ‘light trap’ at night with a volunteer from the USA to measure the abundance and size of insects and thus improved my entomological knowledge.
Leisure time
In addition to the normal working days, we often had karaoke evenings or went clubbing in the city. Even though I felt a bit unsure at the beginning, I came to realise that I could feel completely safe — especially within my group. By staying open and communicating however I could, I learned a lot about life and the people there. I don’t speak Spanish, but that wasn’t a problem.
My highlights during the project
If you were to ask about the highlights for me, three experiences would immediately come to mind. First: the people — researchers, interns, and volunteers from all over the world. I loved this intercultural mix because, in the end, we all shared at least one common interest. I've never felt so free to be myself, and I've never laughed as much as I did with the people at the centre.
The second highlight is the wildlife — especially one unforgettable sighting: a jaguar. When you’re in the rainforest, you always have to be prepared for dangerous animals, whether it’s snakes, spiders, or the only jaguar in the area. It was definitely a rare moment, and one I’ll never forget.
The third highlight is the simplicity of life in the forest. I didn’t have any particular expectations about what living in the rainforest would be like. I used to be afraid of small, fast insects and spiders, but over time, I got used to shaking out my shoes before putting them on or showering with a cockroach. I think in those moments I realised just how spoiled we are. I carried that realisation back to Germany and now treat even the smallest insects with a lot more respect.
The station may not be perfect, but for me, it became a little paradise — a paradise of knowledge, curiosity, and life. I'm still in touch with the people I met there, and I’m still part of the WhatsApp group. Through that, I always hear about the changes taking place, and the lead biologist has mentioned that, thanks to the positive turnover, there will always be investment in new equipment and the expansion of the station.
I truly believe that the project offers new perspectives and raises awareness for everyone who has visited the station, as it provides space for science, fun, and innovation.
