San Rafael National Park is in crisis. Though the ecological importance of the reserve is undeniable, a lack of governmental funds means that its lands remain in private hands 15 years after the "national park" was first declared. The establishment of a not-for-profit Biological Research Centre as a joint project between PROCOSARA and Fauna Paraguay aims to generate scientific data to illustrate the ecological value of the reserve and raise its profile, adding further weight to the argument for its continued conservation.

Volunteer work

Volunteers will be expected to either assist with a current scheduled project or choose a smaller-scale private project which they will complete under guidance. Volunteers will help gather data by performing ongoing species inventories and behavioural studies of the flora and fauna of the park, assist with captive breeding programmes of native species and (for those that are up for it) play a part in the publication of articles and books which aim to bring the plight of San Rafael to the attention of the world.

A volunteer's perspective

One volunteer's experience:

"Hi Carol, 

I had a great time, I was looking for something very different from my day job and the opportunity to experience something new and learn something too, and it ticked all those boxes. It also opened my eyes to the challenges that are faced at San Rafael and the opportunity to experience a different culture. While I was away I sent home weekly emails of my adventure which seem to have got circulated all over the place and now that I'm back four of the local schools and two community groups have asked me to give a talk, so I'm looking forward to telling them all about it.

The trip back was smooth and uneventful, Paul, Alberto and Lauri were great, very welcoming, helpful and ensured that I had an experience to remember. 

Chris (November to December 2007)

Accommodation

Accommodation is at the San Rafael Biological Research Centre, a homely and friendly place with welcoming and expert staff. It is run along the lines of a self-sufficient eco-lodge, you will be served three home-cooked meals per day, using organic ingredients freshly collected that same morning. Your digs are rustic wooden cabins with two to four beds in each. The forest is on your doorstep, and you will wake up in the morning to the screeching of parakeets also from the comfort of your balcony, you can watch plush-capped jays and saffron toucanets raiding the nearby fruit trees.