Interested in Volunteer Abroad?Start Your Search

7 Best Volunteer Projects in Peru

Published on August 12, 2019

Become a volunteer in Peru and change the world! Here are the top areas of need in Peru. ☆ Peru is a spectacular place; a vibrant, lively country that enjoys a steady influx of tourists throughout the year. Tourists flock to trek to the remains of the Incan Empire that are found at Machu Picchu. Animal and wildlife lovers are drawn into the country by their fascination with unique wildlife species such as sloths and alpacas. Conservationists are drawn to the Amazon Rainforest, and marketing-savvy Instagram-loving volunteers dream of the country’s colorful Rainbow Mountains.

volunteer projects in Peru

Go volunteer in one of South America’s most lively and vibrant countries this season!

Volunteering in Peru is the way to really immerse oneself in the local culture and get the most out of their travels! This makes travel more eco-friendly, and allows volunteers to experience the “real” Peru. Staying with a host family or taking Spanish lessons while volunteering are added bonuses for those interested in engaging in positive cultural exchange. From the bustling capital city of Lima, to the mountainous, rural village of Cajamarca and the depths of the Amazon rainforest, the sheer number of volunteer projects in Peru is staggering.

International volunteers can immerse themselves into the jungle life to help conserve the Amazon Rainforest and its magnificent ecosystems. Educational volunteers will find opportunities to assist with childcare and English teaching in the main cities of Lima and Cuzco, and even in the more hidden regions, such as Cajamarca. These important causes in Peru are in need of extra helping hands and hearts.

Top areas of need in Peru

1. English Teaching 

Knowledge of the English language is extremely beneficial for anyone living in a country that gains much of its revenue from tourism. Generally speaking, the percentage of English speakers in Peru is quite low, so it’s recommended for travelers (and especially volunteers) to have at least a beginner’s level knowledge of Spanish.

Many kindergartens and elementary schools in the country are trying to close this gap, by introducing the English language to children at a young age. Volunteers who teach English in Peru will not only gain experience teaching English as a foreign language but will also be able to engage in positive cultural exchange with their students. 

  • Skills needed: Advanced, if not native, level of English. Beginner-level Spanish is also recommended. Please note that police clearances are generally required for programs that work with vulnerable populations.
  • Suggested program duration: Two to four weeks, as tasks are generally repetitive. Students seeking academic credit for their volunteer time should extend to at least one month.
  • Recommended program: Kindergarten Assistance with GoEco

2. Amazon Conservation 

volunteer projects in Peru

The rainforest is the quintessential location for volunteer projects in Peru.

Help to directly conserve the world’s largest tropical rainforest! Volunteer in Peru to assist with the reforestation, eco-agriculture, and biodiversity conservation efforts of the incredible Amazon Rainforest. Volunteers who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty and work hard are ideal candidates for these types of hands-on, environmental conservation programs.

These volunteer projects in Peru also provide the opportunity to learn more about ecosystems and the local environment. Volunteers working in environmental conservation programs may be able to gain academic credits for their work. Volunteers should be okay with living in a serene setting, away from the crowded cities.

  • Skills needed: Ability to spend long hours outside and a decent level of physical fitness.
  • Suggested program duration: Two to four weeks, as tasks are generally repetitive. Volunteers seeking academic credit may want to stay for a minimum of four weeks.
  • Recommended program: Jungle Conservation with Maximo Nivel

3. Medical Care 

Health care clinics and related facilities in Peru are almost exclusively located in large cities, meaning that many patients travel for miles to receive care. The lack of additional clinics increases the ratio of patients per doctor, so health care volunteering is one of the top areas of need in Peru. Volunteers are desperately needed to assist the local health care staff in Peru in hospitals, elderly care clinics, and related facilities.

Tasks will vary based on academic level, as well as previous experience. Many programs welcome first-timers, however. Whether you have just begun your higher academic studies or are a licensed practitioner, your knowledge, skills, and eagerness to help will greatly benefit these clinics. 

  • Skills needed: Requirements vary by placement; however, most medical and health care placements do require either a degree in a related field or some level of previous experience.
  • Suggested program duration: One to six months, depending on placement. Students seeking academic credit should stay for a minimum of one month.
  • Recommended program: Cuzco Health and Medical Care with GoEco

4. Women’s Rights

Women’s rights is one of the most important causes in Peru. Peru is a developing country that is home to various, locally-led, community aid Initiatives, many focused on achieving gender equality. Volunteers on paid programs can assist these local community organizations to meet their economic goals and sustainable community goals. Volunteers often choose to work with an organization that provides job assistance, English lessons, and education about human rights to young girls and women. 

  • Skills needed: No special skills are needed for this volunteer program. Please note that police clearances are generally required for programs that work with vulnerable populations.
  • Suggested program duration: Two to four weeks, as tasks are generally repetitive.
  • Recommended program: Women’s Empowerment with GVI

5. Construction and Renovation

volunteer projects in Peru

Communities all over Peru will benefit from your skills and passion for important causes.

Throughout Peru, Spanish architecture from the conquest still exists. These extravagant buildings are heaving with contrast to the more run-down areas. Volunteers who are prepared to work hard and who want to see the effects of their work will fit in well at a construction or renovation program. The options to volunteer in Peru for this cause are endless and range from building a community hospital to renovating a local school.

  • Skills needed: Volunteers should be in good physical shape and be hardworking.
  • Suggested program duration: Two to four weeks, as tasks are generally repetitive. Volunteers who want to see greater results/building improvements should extend their volunteering even longer.
  • Recommended program: Construction Programs with Maximo Nivel

6. Animal Care

As with anyplace in the world, Peru is home to a variety of unique, amazing wildlife species, from sloths to alpacas and more! Peru is home to various endangered species, including tapirs and several subspecies of monkeys, which—without the conservation efforts of sanctuaries and volunteers—would go extinct quickly.

There is no shortage of wildlife rehabilitation centers and sanctuaries in Peru. Depending on the sanctuary/rehabilitation center, volunteers may have the opportunity to work with and learn from on-site and off-site veterinarians. Don’t forget that there are also animal care programs that focus on working with domestic animals!

  • Skills needed: Only a passion for caring for animals is required!
  • Suggested program duration: Two to four weeks, as tasks are generally repetitive. Students who are studying veterinary medicine may want to extend their stay.
  • Recommended program: Peruvian Endangered Animals Sanctuary with GoEco

7. Archeological Preservation

volunteer projects in Peru

The home of Machu Picchu still has more than a few secrets left to unearth.

Volunteer in Peru with a local team of archaeologists to uncover and protect ancient Incan and Wari structures and artifacts to preserve these historical sites! Peru has a rich history and plenty of archaeological sites that showcase it. Volunteers interested in history, archaeology, and sociology can learn a lot from digging for artifacts and helping to preserve these artifacts, as well as their relevant sites.

By preserving these sites, volunteers are helping to directly preserve the historical parts of the country, which is in itself rewarding. Participating in an archaeological preservation program also allows volunteers to gain a better understanding of the culture and country that they are working in, which is a large bonus of volunteering in one place for a longer term.

  • Skills needed: Volunteers should be in good physical shape, and an interest in archaeology is a bonus, but there are no specific skills needed. 
  • Suggested program duration: Two to four weeks, as tasks are generally repetitive. Students who are seeking academic credit for their contribution should stay at least one month.
  • Recommended program: Inca Projects with Projects Abroad

Next steps to volunteering in Peru

Now that you have the inside scoop on common causes that volunteers are working for in Peru, it's time to choose who you want to volunteer abroad with! Choosing a program isn't as hard as it sounds, especially if you follow these steps:

  • Decide where to go. Figuring out where YOU should volunteer in Peru is paramount. Have a short list of locations that sound ideal for your goals and skills (i.e. if you don't have experience working with animals, you might reconsider volunteering in a llama sanctuary). Don't let anything hold you back—choose a place that's right for you.
  • Pick your project. We outlined a few common causes that international volunteers support above. Do some reflection on what skills and knowledge you bring to the table, and which project would best benefit from your time and energy.
  • Choose from the best volunteer abroad programs in Peru. Pay attention to past participants’ reviews, program/university reputation, location, and how the project's needs match your skills. Some programs may even share contact info for ambassadors or past participants if you want the REAL dirt. Here are more considerations to make as you figure out how to choose the right volunteer program for you. Pro tip: You can use MyGoAbroad to compare programs side-by-side.
  • Plan your finances. Sort out funding before you go to afford daily essentials and travel splurges (in addition to program costs and airfare). Be sure to raise a little extra money to donate to the organization that you'll be working with. Learning how to fund your volunteer abroad adventure is essential prior to your travels!
  • Get prepared! Preparing to volunteer abroad is as fun as it sounds. With the days til departure dwindling and your excitement boiling, it can be easy to overlook the details. Lean on us to help guide you through your pre-departure process—that's what we're here for.

Time to pick your project then volunteer in Peru!

volunteer projects in Peru

Beautiful experiences are waiting for you when you volunteer for important causes in Peru!

What are you waiting for? As a volunteer in Peru, you’ll find plenty of ways to stay busy during your downtime too. There are various treks to choose from when it comes to climbing to Machu Picchu—some of them even days long, including overnight camping in the Andes Mountains. There is a lovely National Park called Moras and Moray, in which you can discover the park by 4-by-4 bike, and don’t forget to visit the colorful, and aptly-named Rainbow Mountains!

Whether you want to work for the conservation of unique wildlife species such as sloths or want to gain experience teaching English as a foreign language, there is a wide array of such volunteer projects in Peru. If you’re into living in a big city, check out opportunities in Lima and Cusco. For volunteers who want to enjoy the serenity of the rainforest, head into the Amazon for an unforgettable conservation experience! Volunteer placements are available in Peru year-round (but check before volunteering with children around Christmas time), so go get your search on.

Get Matched with 5 Volunteer Projects in Peru for FREE!

This article was written with help from GoEco, who has been named a Top Volunteer Abroad Organization of 2018 by GoAbroad, a Best Sustainable Tour Operator finalist by the Global Youth Travel Awards. One of GoEco’s programs in Belize was named a finalist for Most Innovative New Volunteer Program of 2018 by GoAbroad.


Look for the Perfect Volunteer Abroad Program Now

Start Your Search

Related Articles

Read All Articles
volunteer opportunities in peru
Machu Picchu in Peru
Llama grazing on green grass
Latin America
9 Best Volunteer Programs in Peru

By Claire O’Brien | September 14, 2023

Top Volunteer Abroad Providers

Popular opportunities to check out