In Peru, volunteering is a valued activity, and there are various opportunities to participate in social, environmental, and cultural projects. Organizations such as Fe y Alegría, Cáritas del Perú, and the National Volunteer System (Sinavol) offer platforms to connect volunteers with specific needs.
Types of Volunteering in Peru:
Social Action: Support for vulnerable communities, working with children, the elderly, or people with disabilities.
Environment: Biodiversity conservation, beach cleanups, reforestation, ecotourism projects.
Culture: Support for museums, promoting local traditions, language teaching.
Education: Tutoring, literacy training, training workshops.
Where to find opportunities?
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): Search for organizations working in areas of interest to you and check out their volunteer programs.
Online Platforms: Sinavol offers an online platform for registering, training, and finding projects.
Educational Institutions: Universities and colleges often have volunteer programs.
Common Requirements:
Be of legal age, have a commitment to service and willingness, have time available, and possess skills and knowledge related to the project.
Benefits of Volunteering:
Development of skills and knowledge, enriching experience and intercultural learning, personal satisfaction from contributing to a cause, potential job or academic opportunities.
Important Considerations:
Thoroughly research the organization and the project before committing.
Make sure the organization meets ethical and safety standards.
Be aware of your own capabilities and limitations.
Enjoy the experience and learn from it.
In Cusco, specifically:
AMAUTA Spanish School offers volunteer programs that include Spanish classes, accommodation, meals, and cultural activities.
Volunteering can be a great way to experience the local culture and practice your Spanish.
Volunteering in Cusco
There are several volunteer and internship programs in Peru, each with a different commitment time and requirements. The standard internship in Peru includes four weeks of Spanish classes in Cusco followed by volunteer work. If you already speak (some) Spanish, you can start volunteering sooner. No specialized skills are usually necessary, although some volunteer projects require a minimum length of stay in Peru or a minimum level of Spanish. Therefore, anyone can volunteer in Peru.
In addition to volunteering, you can also do an internship in Peru. This is a great way to gain professional experience in an exciting environment, develop networks and connections, improve your Spanish language skills, and experience working in an intercultural environment in a country with an emerging and developing economy. An internship in Peru is for you if you're ready to travel outside your comfort zone and gain crucial, life-changing experience.
What does the volunteer program include?
Volunteering in Peru includes Spanish classes, accommodation, meals, and activities. At AMAUTA, we offer cultural activities for students and volunteers in Peru, which are an excellent way to improve your Spanish and meet new people. These activities also allow you to learn in a dynamic and fun environment while gaining insight into Peruvian culture.
AMAUTA Spanish School offers ongoing support to volunteers. Weekly volunteer meetings are held where you can answer questions and exchange experiences with other volunteers. Below you will find more information about the placement process for volunteer work in Peru.