Embark on the ultimate wildlife veterinary adventure in the heart of Guatemala!
On this Wilde Tracks collaboration, you’ll join expert wildlife veterinarians at the country’s leading wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre, gaining hands-on experience caring for incredible native species.
See what it is like to join this conservation mission! --> VIDEO
You’ll be staying on-site at the rehab centre, immersed in the jungle with wildlife at your doorstep. The showers are cold—but after a long day in the jungle heat, that’s exactly what you’ll want. It’s a true back-to-nature experience that complements the wild work you'll be doing every day.
Dive deep into the biology, behavior, and care of neotropical primates, parrots, reptiles, and carnivores through a mix of theoretical lectures, case-based discussions, and practical sessions.
Learn about Wildlife Medicine, One Health, and Conservation through focused topics including:
Animal handling and safe capture techniques
Injection sites and sample collection
Physical exams and differential diagnostics
Environmental enrichment and behavioral observations
Anatomy, physiology, husbandry, anesthesia, and zoonoses
Assistance in treatments, therapy planning, and necropsies (as required)
You’ll also take part in the intake procedures for rescue cases presented to the clinic during your stay—no two days are the same!
To top it all off, enjoy a two-day excursion to Tikal National Park, where ancient Mayan ruins meet rich jungle biodiversity in an unforgettable archaeological and wildlife adventure.
This is more than a placement—it's a full-immersion experience into the world of wildlife veterinary medicine and conservation.
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Vet students, any year level
Vet tech/nurse students, any year level
Qualified vet nurse/tech
Qualified vet
Pre vet - based on clinical experience
19 April - 2nd May 2026 - this course is full however please register your interest in case of a cancellation!
17 - 30 May 2026 - this course is full however please register your interest in case of a cancellation!
19 July - 1 August 2026 - limited places available!
16 - 29 August 2026 - limited places available!
Click Book Now and input your preferred dates into Join Waitlist. A Wilde Tracks Team Member will be in contact!
Email info@wildetracks.com with any questions.
Private group bookings available on request!
🔥 Real experiences. Real travellers. Read their reviews here!
https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g186338-d32706729-Reviews-Wilde_Tracks-London_England.html
13 nights, 14 days shared rooms
All meals and non alcoholic drinks
Including airport pick-up and drop-off from Flores Airport (FLW)
Supporting the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of native wildlife, advancing veterinary care standards, and training future professionals in sustainable, hands-on conservation practices.
Wildlife rescue and intake, health checks and treatments, sample collection and diagnostics, animal handling and enrichment, lectures on wildlife medicine and conservation, surgery assistance
Qualified English-speaking field guides
International flight to Flores Airport
Mandatory
If applicable
Touch down in the colorful town of Flores, where cobbled streets, lake views, and lush jungle surroundings mark the start of your wildlife conservation adventure.
From here, you'll transfer to a leading wildlife rescue and rehabilitation center — a sanctuary for some of Guatemala’s most incredible native species, including jaguars, spider monkeys, scarlet macaws, and more.
As you arrive, the sights and sounds of the tropical forest welcome you. This isn’t just a destination — it’s a gateway to something deeper: a hands-on journey into the heart of conservation.
Tonight, you'll meet your fellow participants — a passionate group of professionals and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. Gather for a welcome dinner where Guatemalan hospitality shines through vibrant, traditional dishes made with local ingredients.
This is more than just your first night — it’s the beginning of a shared mission, where science, care, and conservation come together in the heart of the jungle.
Settle in, connect, and let the adventure begin.
Over the next twelve days, dive into the heart of wildlife conservation and veterinary care at Guatemala’s leading rescue and rehabilitation centre. Guided by experienced wildlife veterinarians and conservation professionals, you'll take part in a powerful blend of theory and practice — a truly immersive experience.
Each day offers something different, but all are united by a shared goal: improving the lives of native species through expert care, science, and hands-on action.
You'll gain valuable clinical experience, participating in intake procedures for rescued animals, administering injections, assisting in surgeries, and observing diagnostics and treatments. Help conduct annual health exams on long-term residents — an incredible opportunity to build your confidence and skills under the supervision of qualified vets.
Through a series of practical workshops, you’ll train in:
Safe animal handling and capture techniques
Sample collection, physical exams, and diagnostics
Environmental enrichment and behavioral observation
Injection sites, dose calculations, and therapy design
Daily theoretical sessions cover key topics such as:
Wildlife Medicine and One Health
Natural history, anatomy, and physiology
Husbandry, anesthesia, and zoonosis
Conservation and rehabilitation case studies
Species focus: neotropical primates, parrots, reptiles, and carnivores
In addition, you'll join the husbandry team in feeding routines and animal enrichment activities, gaining insight into the day-to-day care and behavioral needs of the animals.
And for a change of pace, you’ll head out on a two-day expedition to Tikal National Park. Explore ancient Mayan ruins set against the backdrop of tropical rainforest — a perfect blend of archaeology, culture, and wildlife exploration.
These twelve days are designed to challenge, inspire, and equip you with practical skills and unforgettable experiences — all while contributing directly to the care and conservation of Guatemala’s incredible wildlife.
As your conservation journey in Guatemala comes to a close, take time to reflect on the skills you've gained, the animals you've helped, and the connections you've made. After a final breakfast and goodbyes with your team and mentors, you’ll transfer back to Flores for your departure.
Though your time at the centre may be ending, the impact you’ve made—and the knowledge you take with you—will last a lifetime.