Volunteer at a mountain refuge in the Argentinian mountains
Los Cardones is a small mountain refuge in the hills of Tucumán, northwest Argentina. Volunteers help with daily tasks for about 4–5 hours per day in exchange for simple accommodation, breakfast, lunch and the chance to live surrounded by quiet mountains and local culture.
Host type and mission
- Host type: Private family mountain refuge
Our mission is to create a safe, welcoming space where mountaineers, hikers and nature lovers can find shelter and connect with the mountains. We rescue and care for local animals, protect the natural environment and share the ancestral culture of this part of Argentina.
Nuestra misión es crear un espacio donde se refugien montañistas, caminantes y amantes de la naturaleza, y compartir la cultura ancestral de nuestras montañas.
Volunteer tasks and expectations
- Animal keeping and basic care of our animals
- Cleaning shared areas of the refuge
- Support with small farming and gardening tasks
- General help around the refuge as needed
We appreciate volunteers who are animal friendly, responsible and comfortable with physical outdoor work. Harmony, commitment and a positive attitude are very important for us.
Hours, days off and minimum stay
- Daily help: 4–5 hours of help per day
- Weekly schedule: 5 days per week, 2 days off
Volunteer opportunities are usually available from October to March.
Food, accommodation and diet
- Accommodation: Shared dormitory rooms. In some cases we can offer a private room for a couple.
- Meals included: Breakfast and lunch are included in the exchange.
- Diet: Home cooked countryside food with a varied diet.
Fees transparency
No volunteer participation fee.
Dinner is not included. Volunteers can buy dinner or arrange their own food for the evening.
Visa information
Visa support: The hosts cannot provide formal visa or invitation letters, but they can share basic local information if needed.
Volunteer benefits and free time
- Discover the mountains of Argentina and their ancestral culture.
- Help care for animals and support a small family refuge project.
- Practice Spanish or English in daily life.
- Enjoy a quiet place with clean air and pure spring water from the mountains.
In your free time you can explore local hiking trails and visit nearby tourist destinations such as Cafayate, Tafí del Valle and Amaicha del Valle.
Location, surroundings and internet
The refuge is located in the hills, surrounded by rocks, cacti, wild animals and small streams. It is a peaceful area ideal for people who love nature and mountain landscapes. There is internet access, but the signal can be weak.
How to get there
You can reach the area by bus, then walk about 2 km to the refuge. More detailed directions are usually given once your stay is confirmed.
Paying guests and solidarity tourists
The refuge can also host responsible tourists and paying guests who want to support the project and enjoy a simple eco friendly stay in the mountains.
Outdated listing warning
This listing may be outdated. Information about dates, tasks and requirements can change. Please write to the hosts to ask about current volunteer needs and conditions before making any travel plans.
Contact details
Facebook: Los Cardones Refugio de Montaña
Instagram: estancia_los_cardones
Host name: LOS CARDONES Refugio de Montaña
Email: loscardoneslol AT gmail DOT com