Volunteering in Peru
Welcome to Peru, the kingdom of the Incas and llamas! The country in western South America has always enchanted travelers from all over the world with its varied landscapes, spectacular archaeological sites and exciting cuisine. At the same time, Peru as a country is also facing a multitude of social and ecological challenges. Get involved as a local volunteer to protect the unique wildlife and tackle various social problems and take the chance to experience the fascinating country in all its facets up close.
Popular projects
Peru | wildlife
from 2-24 weeks
from 18 years
Peru | horses
from 2 - 24 weeks
from 17 years
Peru | wildlife
from 2 - 13 weeks
from 18 years
Peru | childcare
from 4 - 24 weeks
from 16 years
Peru | women empowerment
from 4 - 26 weeks
from 17 years
Peru | childcare
from 4 - 26 weeks
from 16 years
Peru | Social & Teaching
from 4 - 24 weeks
from 19 years
Peru | People with disabilities
from 4 - 24 weeks
from 16 years
Peru | dogs & cats
from 4 - 24 weeks
from 16 years
General info - Peru
The third largest country in South America is truly a place of diversity and contrasts. Hardly any other country in the world has such a great natural and cultural diversity.
Geographically, the country can be roughly divided into four zones. Tropical rainforest is followed by Andean highlands, Pacific coasts and barren desert landscapes. While the Atacama in the south is considered the driest desert and thus one of the most hostile places in the world, the Amazonian rainforest in the north of the country has one of the greatest biodiversity of all.
In fact, Peru is officially one of the 17 so-called megadiverse countries on earth due to the many animal and plant species that are endemic here. In addition to countless bird species, there are also a large number of rare mammals such as monkeys and big cats and of course the iconic llamas and alpacas.
Popular inland natural sites include the mighty Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, the oasis of Huacachina, and the outrageously photogenic Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. In addition, the country is also very popular for its many beaches along the coast and hiking routes through the Andes.
In addition to its natural riches, Peru also has a wealth of cultural treasures. In addition to European influences, the influences of the indigenous population are still evident in many places, and overall the country has been shaped by a large number of different cultures throughout history.
In today's Peru, modern metropolises and old colonial buildings meet floating villages and even older Inca sites. Among the latter, for example, the mysterious Nazca Lines are particularly famous, as well as the ruined city of Machu Picchu, which is also one of the seven wonders of the world.
Apart from the architecture, Peruvian cuisine is also considered to be particularly diverse and rich. In addition to regularly consumed superfoods such as quinoa, you will find all sorts of curious delicacies here: from purple corn drinks and potatoes to roasted guinea pig. The official national dish is ceviche, a raw fish dish traditionally marinated with lime juice and chili. Coca tea, which is available throughout the country and is made from the leaves of the notorious coca plant, is also very popular.
Why you should consider volunteering in Peru
Unfortunately, despite all its beauty, Peru is also plagued by many problems. In addition to environmental and animal protection challenges, the country is still struggling with numerous social problems such as poverty, unequal educational opportunities and the poor social position of women.
Get involved in one of our local volunteer projects to counteract the problems mentioned. In addition to working as a volunteer, you also have the opportunity to get to know the life of the local people, gain valuable intercultural experience and brush up on your Spanish skills.
In which fields of activity can you get involved in Peru?
Basically, you can get involved with our projects in Peru either in animal welfare or in the social field. In the following you will learn more about the specific possible uses and their background.
Animal and environmental protection
Like most highly diverse countries, Peru is threatened with the loss of its natural diversity in times of climate change and environmental degradation. Animal species that are already rare are unfortunately particularly affected, as they are the target of illegal trade, which is fueled by poverty and a lack of awareness of the situation among the population. If you want to make a contribution to the protection of the Peruvian wildlife with your volunteer work, then get involved in ours, for example sanctuaryto care for rescued wild animals and educate visitors about animal welfare.
social work and education
In addition to challenges in environmental protection, Peru is also confronted with many social difficulties. A central problem is the lack of educational opportunities. While higher education requires enrollment in one of the expensive private schools, the public education system often teaches children only the most basic skills. In addition, many children are disadvantaged as they are forced to contribute to their families' livelihood and work in the informal sector on the streets. In addition to children, women are also among the most vulnerable groups in Peruvian society. Girls and young women in particular are often at risk of being attacked, while they can only expect little protection from the authorities.
Through our projects you have various opportunities to get involved in the social field and to tackle the problems mentioned. For example, get involved in our Children Center for neglected children or support young mothers in difficult situations Children's programme.
Our location in Peru: Cusco
Our current volunteer work locations in Peru are all located in Cusco. The former capital of the Inca Empire and the oldest city in South America that is still inhabited today is located almost 3400 meters above sea level in the middle of the Peruvian Andes. There is hardly any other place where the changeable history of Peru can be felt as vividly as here.
The old town of the city, which has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history and is a World Heritage Site, is today predominantly characterized by Spanish colonial buildings. At the same time, however, there are still numerous ruins and other relics from the Inca period.
Choose to volunteer in Cusco and use your time to explore the fascinating city and its surroundings. In addition to spectacular hiking routes and tours to the surrounding archaeological sites, Cusco is also a central starting point for excursions to the legendary Machu Picchu.
Volunteering in Peru: you should know that
Safety
Overall, Peru is considered a safe travel destination. Nevertheless, there are of course some rules that you should always observe:
- Stay away from demonstrations and slums in big cities
- Try to travel during the day if possible and avoid night bus and cross-country journeys; avoid walking alone at night
- Only use taxis from official companies
- Only take as much money with you as you need for the day and do not wear any visible valuables such as jewelery or watches on your person
In addition, Peru is located in a seismically active zone, which means that earthquakes and floods can occur from time to time.
Health
When it comes to health, the general basic rules for travelers also apply in Peru:
- Find out about recommended vaccinations before entering the country
- Take care of travel health insurance and find out what services it covers
- Be careful not to drink tap water - beware of ice cubes!
- When it comes to food, the famous saying applies: Cook it, peel it or forget it! (Cook it, peel it or forget it!)
- Make sure to wash your hands regularly
- Carry a small first-aid kit with you just in case
You should also be aware of the possibility of altitude sickness in Peru.
All current information on the security situation, entry and health recommendations in Peru can also be found on the website of the Peru Foreign Office.
