Paseo de los Monos

Paseo de los Monos is the first wildlife sanctuary in the region, founded in 2002 with the mission of rescuing, rehabilitating, and protecting animals affected by deforestation, illegal wildlife trade, and mistreatment. Located in the heart of the Ecuadorian Amazon, the sanctuary provides a safe and natural environment for a variety of rescued species, including monkeys, coatis, sloths, and birds, allowing them to recover and thrive in a protected space.

The sanctuary operates with a strong commitment to conservation, environmental education, and responsible tourism. Volunteers play a key role in daily activities, from preparing food and feeding the animals to cleaning enclosures, maintaining trails, and creating enrichment activities that stimulate the animals’ natural behaviors. Additionally, the sanctuary works closely with veterinarians and biologists to provide medical care and ensure the well-being of all rescued animals.

Beyond animal care, Paseo de los Monos is dedicated to preserving the surrounding ecosystem and raising awareness about the threats faced by Amazonian wildlife. A significant part of the funds collected, including volunteer contributions, goes toward improving facilities, expanding conservation efforts, and supporting local communities.

Volunteering at Paseo de los Monos is not just about helping animals—it’s an immersive experience that connects people with nature. Volunteers have the opportunity to explore the rainforest, swim in the nearby river, and bond with like-minded individuals, all while making a real impact on wildlife protection.

We are always looking for motivated volunteers who would love to help the animals at the center. It would be a pleasure to welcome you. The project is located in Puyo, in 2 hectares of primary forest and we welcome injured and orphaned animals, mostly monkeys. We have about 150 animals with seven species of monkeys, costis or cuchuchos, parrots, turtles, wild rodents and pigs and the first serpentarium in the province for the rescue of snakes. The "El Paseo de los Monos" shelter functions as an adoption center: orphans are placed in family groups according to species. The objective is to transfer the monkey troops to a virgin forest land near Sangay National Park with the corresponding research and previous studies carried out by scientists. We have a great dream, to acquire an extension of territory, free of hunters, deforestation, invasion and urban growth. The chronogram is as follows: By the land we have already visited. Build infrastructure for the animals and the people responsible for monitoring the project. Mobilization of the animals. Follow-up and monitoring of the troops by scientists. This center will be designed to receive all types of animals living in zoos and dispersed centers or other wildlife centers.