Panama’s diverse ecosystems are reflected in its incredible biodiversity. In this country that connects North and South America, you will find tropical forests, wetlands, coral reefs and much, much more. To become a volunteer for wildlife in Panama you must first do some research and find reviews from other travelers. It’s important to know which rescue and rehab centers are really helping animals and which are exploring them. Some rescue centers are specialized in types of animals, like amphibians, birds or dogs. Those are good places to start looking.
Is it safe to have a volunteer experience in Panama?
Volunteering abroad is an enriching experience, but it’s important to watch out for potential risks. Reviews from bloggers and other volunteers are always a good way to get fresh info about a destination. Panama is generally safe, but if you’re visiting the capital, Panama City, you should be aware of pickpockets, mugging and others. It’s not uncommon to hear about ‘express kidnappings' from ATM machines in Panama city. This isn't to say something bad will happen to you. However, try to be street smart and take extra caution at night.
You can use Worldpackers to find places to volunteer in Panama. Helping children learn English or evolve in other knowledge fields could be a great way to help build a better future for this amazing country. Start by making a worldpackers profile listing your skills. Then, you can look up hosts at our hostlist (which is updated from time to time, so keep in touch!). Become a member of the Worldpackers community to get more information about opportunities and schedule a trip!