Torres del Paine

TORRES DEL PAINE: CONSERVATION WORK

Torres del Paine is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in Chile, it is a place of many myths and legends. From its indigenous past to modern day explorers, it is still a place on earth that is an untamed wilderness.

Torres del Paine was declared a National park in 1959 and achieved greater importance in 1978 when UNESCO declared the park as one of the worlds unique ecosystems which need to be protected from the impacts of Man. The Park is famous for its “Torres” (Towers) of granite which jut out of the earth with vertical cliffs. The whole park is a paradise for anybody who loves to trek, hike, mountain climb or photograph beautiful scenery. There are numerous treks available but the most famous two are the “W” and the “O” circuits which take you close to the Torres as well as the “Cuernos” (Horns) del Paine. The “W” takes between 3-5 days to complete and the “O” is a two week circuit.

Throughout the park you will pass spectacular scenery including mountains, lakes and glacier Gray. These days there are basic services such as “refuges” in the park but this does not stop Torres del Paine from leaving even the most hardened explorers simply awestruck.

Volunteer work: CONSERVATION WORK IN TORRES DEL PAINE
You will work supporting a local NGO inside Torres del Paine park.

The work will involve:

The reparation and clearing of existing trails and bridges.
Carving traditional wooden signs to mark trails inside the park.
Participating in educational camps and activities with college students.
Participating in the production of newsletters distributed promoting the leave no trace policy of the park.
Teaching Basic English to local people and Patagonian cowboys.

Project support: There will be VH representative assigned to each volunteer who will be in touch via telephone and email during the duration of the volunteer period.
Accommodation: Camping inside Torres Del Paine park.Free time: Explore the incredible surroundings. Trek through the park, Visit surrounding towns.
Timetable: Shift work pattern of 11 days working and 4 days free time. The daily work hours will be 9am – 5pm daily.

Food is included and meal times are as follows:
Breakfast 7-am to 9am
Lunch 1pm Afternoon snack 5pm
Evening meal 7pm – 8pm

Requirements

Language Abilities: No specific language requirements.
Age: Over 18 years old.
Mentality: Open minded. Autonomous. Ability to work in a changeable climate. Interest in the natural environment.
Safety: Reasonable level of fitness.
Communication: Cell phone with local SIM card required. (No cell phone coverage inside park).
Previous phone interview required: No.
Recommended Equipment:

Patagonia is an environment of extreme weather conditions often described as having four seasons in one day. Although it is possible to hire equipment in Punta Arenas/ Puerto Natales the list below is a recommendation to bring.