11 Reasons to Volunteer in Peru

Food in Peru is a treat. It is among the most diverse in the world, with over 491 dishes, combining the culinary influences of Spain, China, Italy, Africa, and Japan with traditional recipes and ingredients. Food in each region varies tremendously and features such varied plates like seafood ceviche, stir fried steak, stuffed peppers, stewed alpaca ... there is something to satisfy every taste bud and best of all you don´t need a lot of cash to eat like a king. But don’t just take our word for it, try for yourself!

The majesty and mystery of the Incan Empire wrapped around a beautiful Andean mountaintop, Machu Picchu is certainly deserving of its reputation. This site is a top destination for travelers around the world; it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and in 2007 was named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

Although not popularly known abroad, Peru is loaded with amazing beach and surf along its vast coast, from just south of Lima stretching north to the Ecuadorian border. These beaches cater to every taste and lifestyle, offering world-class resorts, nautical clubs, entertainment, and countless culinary treats. Surfers also find paradise in Peru’s many world renowned surfing spots, a country where surf culture has taken a huge leap lately and annually holds world surf competitions.

Peru is known for its world-renowned pisco (liquor made from grapes) and its national drink, the pisco sour. This sour, yet tangy, drink is a popular treat enjoyed by locals and visitors. Be sure to try variations with maracuya (passion fruit), strawberry, mango, and other local fruits and remember that one is not enough and three is too many!

More than 60% of Peru is covered by the Amazon jungle, more than any other country besides Brazil. This area is one of the most biologically diverse areas on Earth, with many species still undiscovered. This unique region offers a variety of exotic animals and plants, and indigenous communities with tribal shamans and traditional rituals. This region is a gateway to new cultures, perspectives, and worlds.

Volunteering is a great opportunity to learn or develop Spanish skills while helping out. Volunteers often work closely with people who do not speak English, allowing individuals to practice more and learn at a quicker pace. The best way to learn a new language is through immersion!

Peru is home to hundreds of non-profit organizations in countless fields and locations throughout the country. Although this can be intimidating at first, this wide selection of social projects offers a wealth of opportunities for volunteers (and future employment/internships). But don’t worry, we’ll help you narrow down your options and find the best fit for you or your group.

Ancient beliefs and traditions are still importantly engrained in culture, life, and the minds of Peruvians. La Pachamama is the Incan word and concept for Mother Earth. Peruvians have a deep appreciation and love for this concept, and after seeing such diversity and natural wonders in the country, one can quickly understand why. Visitors find it hard to leave Peru without a deeper understanding and connection with La Pachamama.

Peru is a country that is easy to visit and live on practically any budget. Peru can accommodate just about any traveler and offers a variety of comforts for affordable prices. In the cities, one can find hotels for as little as $5 to as much as $600 a night. Volunteers can live comfortably without putting a strain on their wallets as everyday living is significantly cheaper than most places in the US and Europe.

Peru has countless treasures to visit and admire for its visitors. These range from luxury tours, white water rafting, mountain treks, overnight stays with local families, and so on. Some examples are: -Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake and home of the floating inhabited islands -Huaraz and the ominous glacier peaked Cordillera Blanca Mountains and Huascaran National Park - Arequipa, the colonial city surrounded by volcanoes and green lush pastures -The Colca and Cotahuasi Canyons, the world’s deepest canyons lined by local communities and natural treasures -The world-class beaches of the North, luxury resorts to beach bungalows that provide tranquility, surf, and the freshest seafood -The sand dunes of Huacachina, the tiny oasis town and home of Peru’s sand boarding and local wineries -The Sacred Valley, with the archaeological and historical treasures of the Incan Civilization adorning this beautiful valley; and plenty, plenty more. 

Volunteering is a unique experience when compared to travel and tourism. It opens the door to people, cultures, sights, and services that you would not normally see, or know exist, as a tourist. Volunteering throws you into worlds and lives, giving you local’s perspectives. It places you inside a village sharing meals with local families, washing clothes with a laughing grandmother, holding discussions with the community doctor, visiting hidden waterfalls and hikes, and watching local bullfights. This is one of the best ways to see how people really live.