Volunteer in Vietnam

This is an amazing & unique opportunity to join our experienced team looking after sun & moon bears rescued from bear bile farms & the illegal wildlife trade. Free the Bears Vietnam is located in one of Vietnam’s most famous National Parks. Cat Tien National Park is home to an extensive array of highly endangered native species, some of which you may be lucky enough to spot during your stay!

With stays ranging from 4 days to 8 weeks, your time and financial contribution will help improve and enrich the lives of our rescued bears as well as support our efforts to rescue more bears in need.

Volunteer tasks may include:

  • Assisting keepers in cleaning of forest enclosures and bear dens
  • Clearing bamboo
  • Constructing climbing structures for the bears
  • Food preparation & distribution (scatter feeding)
  • Providing sensory enrichment throughout forest enclosures
  • Creating new ‘bear proof’ enrichment (bring some ideas with you!)
  • Creating/repairing/installing bear hammocks
  • Recondition existing enclosures
  • General maintenance & improvement to the centre i.e. painting, sanding, repairs & gardening

Get behind the scenes of our world class sanctuary and help make a difference to the lives of rescued bears.

Things to note:

  • We have a minimum volunteer age of 18 (exceptions considered for students or those with experience in wildlife/conservation)

  • You will undertake physical activities in a tropical climate - a good level of health is required

  • Peak season is from November to March - be sure to book early

  • You will work closely with the bears however for your safety and their welfare there will be no direct contact 

  • Free the Bears is located within the Cat Tien National Park which has many exotic species, some of which you may see during your stay

  • No experience in wild animal care is required - just be willing and enthusiastic with a strong interest in conservation and wildlife

  • A fee is charged to covers costs and contribute to the welfare of the bears

By becoming part of Free the Bears team you will be directly contributing to the ongoing development, construction and support of the new Cat Tien Bear Sanctuary, situated on 12 hectares of lush bamboo forest - a brand new home for rescued sun and moon bears and a future sanctuary for those yet to be rescued from the bile farms in Vietnam. Onsite support will also be provided from our local Free the Bears team throughout your experience.

 

      Reviews:

      “Being a part of the Free the Bears volunteer program in Vietnam has been one of the most challenging yet rewarding experiences I have ever been a part of!”  - Hannah G

      “The project was very hands on, which for me was great! The work would vary every day, from clearing up existing enclosures & building new platforms, to finding ways to keep the bears stimulated!”- Hannah R

      “To see the real difference our labours made in enhancing the quality of life for bears who have known so much suffering was incredible. We worked hard and played hard (until at least 8pm!). Loved it! Can we play again?!” - Krys

      Things to note:

      • We have a minimum volunteer age of 18 (exceptions considered for students or those with experience in wildlife/conservation)
      • You will undertake highly physical activities in a tropical climate - a moderate level of health is both recommended and required.
      • You will work closely with the bears however for your safety and their welfare there will be no direct contact
      • No experience in wild animal care is required - just be willing and enthusiastic with a strong interest in conservation and wildlife
      • A fee is charged to cover expedition costs and contribute to the ongoing development, support and construction of Cat Tien Bear Sanctuary

      For more information and an application form, please contact us at volunteer@freethebears.org