Discover Life-Changing Adventures: Volunteer Programs in Peru

Peru gives an extraordinary adventure to anyone who seeks the allure of ancient ruins, stunning mountains, and vibrant culture. Do you wish to bring change to the place you are visiting? Leave an impact in Peru through volunteering and helping society with something you dearly care about.
United Planet offers an amazing myriad of volunteer programs in Peru, with opportunities for short-term adventure (week-long trips) and long-term commitments (up to a year) that let you explore and experience the culture of Peru at a different level. Be it working with children, empowering women, protecting animals, or simply supporting a community, there’s a program for you based on your interests and skills. It isn’t just about volunteering, it’s about achieving your utmost, building new relationships, acquiring useful skills, and getting a stellar experience that will always get you back in the future. Here’s a glimpse into the diverse volunteer opportunities available in Peru, start your journey today.

Why Peru?

Peru is the land of the Inca Empire, the largest and most advanced state in pre-Columbian America, emerged in the 15th century and ruled for about a hundred years. Their impressive stonework and agricultural advancements are still visible today, most notably in Machu Picchu. Walk around the ancient Inca city of Cusco, feel the vibrant energy of the streets of Lima, or even take a hike to the mysterious ruins of Choquequirao. Besides the invaluable exposure to a diverse environment, volunteering in Peru means also learning Peruvian culture. In some programs, you can live with a Peruvian family. They will invite you into their homes and show you their way of life. Moreover, many programs offer Spanish lessons. So you will have the opportunity to learn some Spanish while you are volunteering in Peru.

In Peru, you will be a volunteer at local community centers in Cusco. Usually, these centers provide services to women in need, including daycare services, after-school programs, and support youth initiatives. This is a great way to make a small but positive difference in people’s lives, meet new people and build relationships too! In addition to Machu Picchu, mysterious Inca ruins, and the majestic mountains, you will also witness the hospitality of the Peruvian people.

United Planet is Your Gateway to Making a Difference

United Planet is a non-profit that provides you with volunteer opportunities in over 40 countries. Their programs in Peru, a popular choice, can last from a week to a whole year. They take care of everything to make sure it’s safe, rewarding, and something you’ll never forget. Here’s why it could be amazing:
Help Peruvians directly: You can work with kids after school, help protect animals, or empower women. You’ll be making a real difference!
Live like a local: You might even stay with a Peruvian family who will share their culture with you. Get ready to learn about their history, traditions, and way of life.
Have a blast outside of volunteering: United Planet will set you up with fun activities like dancing lessons, cooking classes, and hikes. Peru is beautiful, friendly, and historic, and they’ll help you experience it all.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Programs

United Planet volunteer programs in Peru are adaptable to your timing. Short-term programs (1-4 weeks) are a top choice for those who have limited time while still learning from volunteering, admiring the Incan culture, and making new friends. Long-term volunteering abroad programs are perfect for you if you are aspiring for a more immersive experience; programs lasting at least 6 months and up to 1 year. You will be integrated into the lifestyle of the city, make lots of friends, and maybe even improve your Spanish in just a few months by regularly using the language.

Volunteer Programs in Peru

The volunteer programs in Peru with United Planet are as diverse as the country itself. Here are some of the volunteer projects you can choose from:

Children and Education Volunteer Projects

These projects contribute to the well-being of children by assisting at daycare centers, and after-school programs. Volunteer work is available for all skill levels and ages above 15. You can assist them with educational activities, organize fun games, or simply provide a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on.

Women’s Shelter Quest

This program supports initiatives that promote women’s rights and economic independence. For those who are keen on social work, psychology, or women’s empowerment, this program is ideal. The shelter serves as a haven where mothers and their children flee from abusive violence. You’ll ensure the smooth running of the nursery by supporting mothers with childcare and emotional needs and organizing engaging activities for both mothers and children. Volunteering can include tutoring at home, teaching English, chairing creative arts activities, or hosting interesting games. The shelter also offers a kindergarten program meant for neighbors in the local community, where you might contribute by playing with the children or assisting with basic tasks. This can empower you to learn things you never thought you could by giving you the chance to help people who really need it, and building an atmosphere of togetherness.

State School Teaching Quest

This program will enroll you in state-funded schools, working in collaboration with educators in a range of disciplines such as English, mathematics, sports, music, and the arts. To help realize this opportunity, you can demonstrate your expertise and make a real impact on these students’ lives. Thus, if you are proficient enough in the Spanish language, you might find yourself in the leading group of small, independent classes.

Wild Animal Care Quest

Become a champion for rescued animals in Peru. Volunteer at sanctuaries that provide a haven for animals recovering from trauma. You might encounter majestic pumas, playful monkeys, curious condors, and a diverse range of wildlife, from graceful llamas to fascinating reptiles. Your daily tasks can include:

Providing loving care: Prepare nutritious meals, ensure clean enclosures, and shower the animals with affection.
Enhancing their environment: Create stimulating spaces to encourage natural behaviors.
Participating in animal therapy: Assist with rehabilitation programs that help animals heal and thrive.
Educating visitors: Share the animals’ stories and inspire conservation efforts.
This volunteer program allows you to make a profound difference in the lives of these animals while gaining unforgettable experiences in the heart of Peru.

Healthcare Quest

This program is especially suitable for students who are competing for medicine, dentistry, or nursing (pre-med, pre-dental, pre-nursing) as well as doctors, nurses, dentists, and anyone involved in the health profession. This could be your opportunity to help the provision of health care services in impoverished parts of Cusco. You can choose between a government hospital or a smaller clinic (for example dentistry, pediatrics, emergency care, maternal health, or mental health). While medical professionals can directly assist doctors and nurses, volunteers of all backgrounds can contribute. This might involve helping with first aid, keeping instruments clean and sterile, organizing paperwork, teaching basic hygiene, or taking vital signs like blood pressure, height, and temperature.

Enriching the Lives of Elderly Quest

This program is ideal for volunteers with some medical experience, but a caring heart is just as important! It focuses on supporting elderly people living in poverty. This welcoming center provides a safe space for them to visit anytime. Your contributions could involve assisting with basic medical care, offering gentle physical therapy exercises, or helping with mealtimes and bathing routines. But the real magic happens when you create a positive atmosphere. Organize fun group activities, listen to their stories, share yours, or read to them. Your compassion and companionship can make a world of difference.

Ready for your Peru Quest?

Peru comes with an interesting history, marvelous nature, and friendly people. Volunteering in Peru with United Planet is an investment in yourself and the world. You will be able to experience the culture and make a meaningful contribution at the same time. As a matter of fact, irrespective of if you have only a week or an entire year to volunteer, there is a matching program just for you. You will develop new skills, make friends for life, and take home unforgettable memories, a broader worldview, and the assurance that you have made a positive change. Learn more about the Peru volunteering program here.