The project supports a vital rescue and rehabilitation programme for animals that have been confiscated due to illegal trafficking, mistreatment, or improper ownership. It provides sanctuary for a wide range of species including endangered animals and native Andean wildlife, with the long-term goal of releasing them back into the wild wherever possible.

My daily routine was new and exciting. Mornings began early with food preparation for the animals, involving chopping fruit and vegetables, mixing feed, and organising individual diets depending on the species. Feeding the animals, monitoring their behaviour, and ensuring water was fresh and clean were essential tasks. I spent a significant portion of my time cleaning enclosures, which, although physically demanding, taught me a great deal about the importance of hygiene, animal safety, and habitat maintenance. I also assisted with basic conservation work and small repair or enrichment projects, such as improving climbing structures and helping design spaces that encouraged natural behaviours. The centre was home to a wide range of animals including monkeys, parrots, pumas, alpacas, tortoises, bears, and llamas, each with unique needs and personalities.

Working alongside local staff, veterinary professionals, and volunteers from around the world, I developed practical skills in animal care and teamwork. Communication was sometimes a challenge due to language differences, but this strengthened my adaptability and problem-solving skills. I became increasingly comfortable navigating a fast-paced environment, often responding to new tasks with little notice and learning to trust both my own initiative and the expertise of those around me.

Living in Cusco allowed me to experience Peru well beyond the work placement. I stayed with a local host family who welcomed me into their home and culture. Sharing meals, exchanging stories, and participating in everyday life gave me a meaningful insight into Peruvian customs and values. The immersion in daily life, coupled with working in Spanish-speaking environments, also helped me grow more confident in my language abilities.

On weekends and days off, I had the chance to explore some of the country’s most iconic and breathtaking sites. One of the most memorable moments of the trip was hiking to Machu Picchu. Trekking through the Sacred Valley, surrounded by mist-covered peaks and ancient Inca trails, was both physically demanding and emotionally moving. Reaching the Sun Gate at sunrise and watching the mist lift to reveal the citadel was an experience I will never forget. In addition to Machu Picchu, I visited other significant archaeological sites around Cusco, including Sacsayhuamán, Q’enqo, and Tambomachay. These ruins offered a deeper understanding of the Inca civilisation and its legacy, with each site presenting its own distinct story and architecture.

I also had the chance to go horse riding through the Andean highlands, travelling along eucalyptus-lined mountain paths and past small rural communities. The landscape was dramatic and beautiful, and riding horseback allowed me to connect with the land in a different, more immersive way. Alongside these adventures, I explored local markets, tasted traditional Peruvian foods such as cuy and chicha morada, and learned about indigenous traditions and artisan crafts. The entire experience was a powerful and enriching cultural journey.

Looking back, this opportunity gave me far more than just practical experience. It deepened my understanding of environmental sustainability and animal welfare on a global level and challenged me to reflect on how interconnected these issues are with social, economic, and cultural realities. I gained a broader perspective on conservation and developed a genuine appreciation for the people who dedicate their lives to protecting both animals and ecosystems.

I am incredibly grateful for the new friendships I have made, the lessons I have learned, and the memories I will carry with me forever. Thank you to Maximo Nivel for your outstanding organisation, guidance, and commitment to ethical and meaningful volunteer work. I would wholeheartedly recommend this programme to anyone looking to grow personally and professionally while contributing to an important cause. A sincere thank you as well to Queen’s University Belfast for the AHSS JetSet scholarship that made this life-changing opportunity possible.