Volunteer Experience at Chengdu Panda Base: How Ordinary Visitors Can Care for Pandas Up Close
For wildlife enthusiasts and animal lovers, the Chengdu Panda Base offers a unique volunteer program that lets you get up close and personal with “Gonggong” and other adorable pandas. This exclusive experience provides a hands-on opportunity to contribute to panda conservation while gaining a deep understanding of their daily care.
How to Apply:
Follow the official “Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding” WeChat account and click on the “Volunteer Recruitment” section under “Interactive Participation.” Applications open on the 1st of each month for the next month’s slots. Eligible applicants are between 8 and 65 years old and must have no contagious diseases. Submit the application form along with a health certificate. Once approved, you’ll receive a confirmation SMS. The program is completely free—beware of paid intermediaries.
Volunteer Activities Include:
Cleaning Panda Enclosures: Help keep the pandas’ living spaces clean by clearing droppings and dead branches, creating a comfortable and hygienic environment.
Preparing Bamboo: Work alongside professional keepers to cut and sort bamboo, learning how to judge freshness and nutritional quality.
Science Education Assistance: Assist in the museum or observation decks by sharing panda knowledge with visitors, answering questions, and promoting conservation awareness.
Important Notes:
Wear comfortable sneakers and dark clothing to avoid stains. The base provides gloves, masks, and work uniforms.
Never feed, touch, or disturb the pandas. Follow all instructions from keepers carefully.
Keep your phone on silent and refrain from taking photos in work areas; only take pictures during designated times.
Rewards and Benefits:
Upon completing the volunteer program, you’ll receive an official “Panda Conservation Volunteer Certificate” and gain free access to all areas of the base, including some restricted research zones. This rare opportunity allows you to observe pandas closely, learn about their behavior, and understand the challenges of panda conservation firsthand. It’s ideal for animal lovers, families, and travelers who want a meaningful eco-tourism experience in Chengdu.
With Chengdu Travel Agency, you can book this volunteer program along with guided tours, family-friendly panda experiences, and eco-tourism packages that include transportation, accommodation, and tips for panda photography. Make your trip to Chengdu unforgettable while supporting wildlife conservation!
