Volunteer to Conserve the Orangutans in Sumatra

Join this unique and fascinating GVI project and research the way that orangutans in the Sumatran jungle self-medicate to treat illness and combat parasites. Volunteer on this 13-day program located on the Indonesian island of Sumatra, and receive the scientific training required to partake in data collection/entry, observation and trek into the jungle in search of these fascinating animals.

In addition to participating in this potentially vital wildlife research and conservation effort, you will have the opportunity to experience several different Sumatran ecosystems, which range from vast mountains to lowland rain forest. These ecosystems are home to many interesting species, such as the giant flying squirrel and the Sumatran elephant, as well as the majestic orangutans.

How this program makes a difference:

This project is the first of its kind for orangutans, and investigates which special behaviors and ecological conditions are necessary to maintain health in wild orangutans. It is the only on-going, long-term research project studying orangutan health in the world. This understanding helps rehabilitation programs teach orangutans how to keep themselves healthy, and increase their survival rate after reintroduction back into the wild.