Overview

In Córdoba, it is common practice to use horses to collect recyclable garbage such as cardboard and plastics from the streets, which are then sold to recycling companies. Unfortunately, this job is often undertaken by individuals who lack the financial means or education to properly feed and provide adequate care for the horses. Consequently, many of these horses are found malnourished and in poor health.

About the Project
In 2013, the Sanctuary was established in the hills of Cordoba, Central Argentina, as a response to the prevalent suffering experienced by horses throughout Latin America. This sanctuary, situated on a 312-hectare property featuring green meadows, forests, mountain pastures, and a river, serves as a haven of peace, beauty, and freedom for animals.

The project aims to provide a refuge for horses that were previously used in rubbish collection, offering them much-needed medical care and ensuring their well-being. Through this campaign, significant progress has been made in liberating thousands of horses from their distressing conditions and replacing them with motorised vehicles across Latin America. The sanctuary grants these horses a new lease on life, providing them with peace and dignity. Around 160 horses, 4 ponies, 7 donkeys, 3 pygmy donkeys, 2 mules, 14 cows, 1 buffalo, 23 goats, 11 sheeps, 25 pigs, 3 wild boars, 4 llamas, 25 dogs and 10 roosters currently live at the Sanctuary. After a miserable existence knowing nothing but drudgery, suffering and mistreatment, they have begun a new life here. All the more now, the team loves and cares for these liberated animals.

The project team at our sanctuary consists of a dedicated group of individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise. The team typically includes 5-6 permanent staff members, including biologists, scientists, and a veterinarian. Their knowledge and experience contribute to the overall management and care of the sanctuary.

In addition to the permanent staff, the team is supported by a group of 4-5 volunteers.Yet, there is still so much to do. Tens of thousands of rubbish-collection horses are waiting to be freed in Argentina alone. There is great support for the movement within government and society. However, political progress often takes time, hence plenty of patience is required.

Want to see other ways to make an impact? Check out our Volunteer in South America programs.

Volunteer Work Schedule

Volunteers in the Horse Sanctuary project work for 30-40 hours per week from Monday to Friday. Weekends are free for the volunteers to relax and explore Cordoba or other areas of Argentina.

Volunteer Roles & Responsibilities

Volunteers at a sanctuary play a vital role in supporting the well-being and daily operations of the facility. Some common tasks that volunteers may engage in at a sanctuary include:

Animal Care: Volunteers assist in the care and maintenance of the animals at the sanctuary. This can involve feeding, grooming, and providing clean water for the animals. They may also help with exercise and enrichment activities.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Volunteers help keep the sanctuary clean and well-maintained. This includes tasks such as cleaning animal enclosures, sweeping or mopping floors, and tidying up common areas.

Rehabilitation and Medical Care: Depending on the needs of the sanctuary, volunteers may aid in the rehabilitation of rescued animals. This can involve assisting with physical therapy, administering medications, or providing specialized care under the guidance of veterinary staff.

Environmental Enrichment: Volunteers contribute to creating a stimulating and enriching environment for the animals. This may include creating and setting up toys, puzzles, or other forms of enrichment activities to keep the animals mentally stimulated and engaged.

Construction and Repair Work: In some cases, volunteers may assist with construction or repair projects at the sanctuary. This could involve building or repairing animal enclosures, fences, or other necessary infrastructure.

Education and Outreach: Volunteers may participate in educational programs and events aimed at raising awareness about animal welfare and the sanctuary's mission. Volunteers are provided with training and guidance to ensure the safety and well-being of both the animals and the volunteers themselves.

Project Requirement

Volunteers must be 18 years or older at the time of joining the project. You need to have an open mind and a flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment. The volunteer should bring energy and enthusiasm to make a difference. Apart from the above the following requirements are there -

A minimum commitment of 2 weeks is required for volunteers at our horse sanctuary. This duration allows for meaningful involvement in the daily operations, bonding with the horses, and contributing to the overall mission of the sanctuary. It also provides an opportunity for volunteers to gain a deeper understanding of the work involved and make a significant impact during their time at the project.
Tolerance and Respect: It is essential to be tolerant of others and to respect individual differences within the sanctuary community.
Collaboration and Independence: Volunteers should be comfortable working both in a team environment and independently when required.
Proactive Attitude: We value volunteers who are proactive and demonstrate initiative in their work, taking proactive steps to contribute to the sanctuary's operations and welfare of the animals.
Passion for Animals and Nature: It is crucial that volunteers applying for this position genuinely love animals and have a strong appreciation for nature.
Good overall mental and physical health: This ensures that you are capable of actively engaging in the volunteer activities and can handle the physical demands associated with working at the horse sanctuary. Prioritizing your well-being will allow you to contribute effectively and maintain a positive experience throughout your time as a volunteer. Please keep in mind that these requirements are in place to ensure a positive and successful volunteering experience for both the sanctuary and the volunteers.

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Volunteer in Horse Sanctuary Project in Argentina

Living

Airport Transfers
We will pick you up upon arrival; our transfer service will be waiting for you with a sign with your name. It is very important that you send us your flight information beforehand. It takes about 40 minutes to get from the airport to the accommodation. Please bear in mind that the transfer back to the airport is not included, you will need to take a taxi or a bus when you finish your project.

Orientation and Transportation
Upon your arrival in Cordoba, we will arrange for your transportation from the airport to the hostel where you will be accommodated until Monday. During your stay at the hostel, you will have the opportunity to participate in a city tour and attend a cultural orientation session, which will familiarize you with the local customs and provide helpful information for your stay. On Monday, a private transfer will be arranged to take you to the town where you will meet the volunteer coordinator for your project. The journey to the town is approximately a 2.5-hour ride. Upon reaching the town, you will be greeted by the volunteer coordinator, who will then accompany you on a 1-hour journey to the hills where the project is located. This transportation arrangement ensures a smooth transition from your arrival in Cordoba to your final destination at the project site. We aim to make your journey comfortable and convenient, allowing you to focus on the meaningful experience that awaits you at the volunteer project.

Accommodation
The volunteer house at the project site is equipped with beds and mattresses, with a capacity of accommodating up to 5 volunteers per room. However, it is advised that volunteers bring their own sleeping bag for added comfort during their stay. Additionally, the volunteer house features a kitchen where volunteers can prepare their meals. There is also a private bathroom for the convenience of the volunteers.

Meals
Vegan Meals at the project are included, and both volunteers and permanent staff dine together at the main house. Volunteers also contribute to meal preparation and participate in cleaning duties within the houses.
By fostering a sense of shared responsibility, volunteers become actively involved in maintaining a clean and organised living environment while also fostering a sense of community through shared meals and collaborative tasks.

Weather
Depending on the time of the year Cordoba could be very hot or very cold. The temperature during summer varies from 29°C to 40°C o and the temperature in winters varies from 2°C degrees to 15°C or 18°C. Sometimes you wrongly assume that Latin America is always hot, but this is not true for Argentina. It can be really cold in winter especially for projects that are located in the middle of the mountains.

During your free time
The town's natural beauty, cultural richness, and holistic community make it a compelling destination for visitors seeking relaxation, connection with nature, and unique cultural experiences.

• Explore the Natural Beauty The area is known for its scenic beauty and natural surroundings. Take the opportunity to hike or walk along the various trails and enjoy the stunning landscapes, including mountains, forests, and beautiful rivers.

• Visit the Town Center: The town itself has a charming and laid-back atmosphere. Take a stroll through the town center, explore the local shops, boutiques, and handicraft markets, and immerse yourself in the local culture.

• Attend Cultural Events: The nearest town is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene. Check out the local events and festivals that showcase traditional music, dance, and art. These events provide an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture first hand.

Horse Sanctuary Volunteer Program in Argentina

Dates

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

Costs

Duration	Program Fee	Choose your currency
2 Weeks	$1650
3 Weeks	$1990
4 Weeks	$2330
5 Weeks	$2670
6 Weeks	$3010
7 Weeks	$3350
8 Weeks	$3690
Extra Week	$340

Please Note: An application fee of is charged over and above the program fee as an application payment. A 5% international banking fee is charged for credit card payments of program fee in USD/AUD.

What are you Paying For?

24 hrs Assistance and support from VS Staff
Comprehensive Pre- Departure Information
Pickup from Cordoba Airport
In country induction
Private transfer to the Horse Sanctuary outside Cordoba
Donation to the project
Meals at the Project
Accommodation in a centrally located Hostel in Cordoba on arrival
Accommodation in a Volunteer house at Horse Sanctuary
Certificate of Participation(On Request)

What's NOT Included?

Airfare
Visa and Visa extension fee
Travel Insurance
Vaccinations
Any personal expenses
Return Airport Drop

FAQ's

Accommodation, Meals and Daily Life

Can I know more about accommodation and food arrangements?: Volunteers in Cordoba stay at one of two centrally located hostels in Córdoba. Both are positioned in strategic areas close to shopping centers, business districts, cinemas, theaters, bars, and restaurants.
The hostels offer the following facilities :-
Fully equipped shared facilities
Hot showers
TV and Wi-Fi access
A fully equipped kitchen for cooking
Meals are not provided, but volunteers can prepare their own food or visit nearby affordable restaurants and cafes. Supermarkets are open from 8:00 to 22:00.These hostels are ideal for volunteers who enjoy independence while meeting travelers and students from all over the world.
Volunteers in the Puma Reserve and Horse Sanctuary program stay within the project location itself. Meals are provided to the volunteers at the project itself.

Connect with Past Volunteers

How can I connect with past Volunteering Solutions alumni as well as other former and current volunteers?: We encourage volunteers to get in touch with former Volunteering Solutions program participants and also other program participants joining our projects. You are recommended to join the Volunteering Solutions Facebook Group to communicate with other participants. To read alumni interviews from past participants, visit the Meet a Volunteer page on our website.
Can you put me in contact with other volunteers who have done this program?: We can only provide contact details for former volunteers who have consented to having their data shared. However, there is a Facebook group for past and current volunteers which you are welcome to join. There are also hundreds of reviews online from our former volunteers as well as social media posts on Instagram, TikTok and our You Tube Channel.

Health, Safety and Support

Which vaccinations will I need?: If you are traveling from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever Virus (YFV) transmission, you are required to show proof of Yellow Fever vaccination.
Apart from that, travelers are recommended to take the following vaccinations:
Hepatitis A and B
Typhoid
Tetanus
You can take a quick look at the CDC List for vaccinations. We would also request you to consult your travel doctor before going to Argentina.

Program Overview and Application Process

When should I apply for the volunteer programs in Argentina?: As we have limited spots available in our programs and we serve on first come first basis, it is strongly recommended to apply for the program and reserve your spot in the program well in advance. You can book your spot in the program by filling an online form and pay the application fee.Once you complete your application, your individual 'My Account' will be active in which you will receive your placement confirmation after which you can pay the program fees. You can pay the program fees later as well in installments, but 45 days before the program starts.
How long will it take to process my application? Will my application be accepted?: After you complete your application, your personalized ‘My Account’ will be active. You will need to upload your CV/Resume along with your photo in the same. Our backend team and the placement site takes around 10-12 days to review your application. After we review your CV and documents, your booking is confirmed and booking confirmation is updated in your ‘My Account’. Some projects need a mandatory criminal background check and the same is mentioned in the project info of your program. Approval of your application depends on your qualification and eligibility criteria for each project.
Are there any necessary requirements to participate in the programs?: You must be respectful of other cultures
You must be tolerant towards others and respect the differences
You must welcome teamwork but also be able to work alone
Beginner - Intermediate level of Spanish knowledge
You must be at least 18 years of age
You have to be a proactive person, we welcome volunteers with initiative
Can I volunteer as part of a group?: For individual volunteers:
You will arrive on the same start date as other volunteers joining at the same time and will be part of a cohort for your program. This means you’ll share the same orientation day, accommodation, and overall experience; a great way to meet new people and make friends from around the world. The best time to join if you want to meet lots of other volunteers is July and August as these are the most popular months.
For groups:
If you already have a group, we also accept applications from university and college groups, high school groups, corporate teams, families, and groups of friends. Your group can fill in our Group Application Form, providing details such as the number of participants, preferred duration, budget, and destination. We take special care in providing your group with a placement that best suits your goals, and we can customise your itinerary to ensure you get exactly the experience you’re looking for. For groups of five or more, we can even design special group programs that combine meaningful volunteer work with cultural immersion and travel opportunities. All our programs, whether individual or group, are designed to be safe, affordable, and rewarding, offering every volunteer a memorable and impactful experience.
Can I apply with a friend?: Yes! On our application form you can detail the name of the friend(s) or partner you are applying with. You will be placed in the same project and accommodation with your friend.
Does VolSol provide with a reference or a certificate after program completion?: Yes, we will provide you with the Certificate after successful completion of your program. The certificate is provided on request.
Do I need to speak Spanish to join the programs in Argentina?: Speaking Spanish is not a mandatory requirement to join the programs, however, knowledge of it would be an added advantage in the program. Volunteers are advised to learn basic Spanish.We can also arrange Spanish lessons for you in Cordoba. For certain specific programs, intermediate level of Spanish would be required.
How do I get to the program location?: Your program coordinator or a member of the local coordinating team will take you to your placement on the first day and introduce you to everyone after giving you a basic orientation about the program, its surroundings and other facilities around the location. From the 2nd day onwards, you’ll have to commute by yourself to the program location.