Volunteer in Peru

Travellers Quest

Volunteer in

PeruThe Ultimate Guide to Volunteering in Peru

Table of ContentsChapter 1: Getting started - volunteer in PeruWelcome to PeruWhy you should volunteer in PeruWhat are some popular volunteer projects available in Peru?Where are some popular places to volunteer in Peru?Which is the best season to volunteer in Peru?

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Chapter 2: Choosing your Peru volunteer programHow you can select the best organization to volunteer withWhich organizations offer the best volunteer opportunities in Peru?

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Chapter 3: Getting ready to volunteer in Peru

Visa, passportVaccinationsAir ticketRaising fundsSuggested books to readPacking advice and tipsGifts for projects

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Chapter 4: Information you must know about the project

Project detailsWhat to expect when volunteering in PeruLearn about your host familyLocal supportMake the final call

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Chapter 5: Arriving and Volunteering in PeruHow to make your volunteer in Peru experience rewardingSafety while volunteering in PeruDo’s and don’t in PeruCulture shockThings to do in Peru

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Chapter 6: Completion of project & follow up 23

Chapter 7: Most frequently asked questions from volunteers 24

www.travellersquest.com 3

CHAPTER 1: Getting Started - Volunteer in PeruWelcome to Peru

Ready for a South American volunteering ad-venture where you can not only give back to the community and have an impact on peoples’ lives; but also be consumed by ancient history, diverse landscapes and cultural richness? If so, than Peru is calling you.

A Peru volunteer experience is one of the best ways to really discover both the true essence of the Peruvian people and the wonders of the country. Not only will you have the opportunity to impact the lives of those in need, but you

will also be able to discover the mystery and charm of the country. By immersing yourself in the language, customs, traditions and com-munities of Peru, while providing support in education, health, conservation, general care, sustainability, business or construction com-munities you will have the ultimate volunteer experience. Who need it

From the highest peaks of the Andes, the an-cient city of Machu Picchu and archeological

Photo Credit: globalcrossroad.com


sites, and the breathtaking landscapes of the Sacred Valley, to the indigenous communities and floating reed islands of Lake Titicaca, sand dune experiences in the desert, and of course beautiful beaches and vibrant cities; your volun-teering experience in Peru will be one of discov-ery, excitement and unique experiences!

Why volunteer in Peru?

Unfortunately many Peruvians still endure poor living conditions and do not have access to quality healthcare and education, so your sup-port and help in Peru is appreciated. Peru is a country which has so much to offer you that the landscapes, culture and Peruvian people are guaranteed to captivate your senses, heart and soul.

Ancient History, Civilization and Sacred Sites: Peru was once part of the great Inca Empire, and it is not hard to become engrossed in its amazing history and ancient civilizations. When you volunteer in Peru, you will have wonderful opportunity to explore the great civilization of the world

Adventure: Peru is a land of diverse landscapes and great adventure. Its terrain consists of de-sert coastlines along the Pacific Ocean, the lush jungles of the Amazon, the mountain ranges of the Andes and deep valleys which provide great action and adventure opportunities. Hike nature trails, sand-board down the great dunes in de-sert plains, surf the waves of the Pacific, take a boat ride through Amazonian rivers, experience the wonder of great lakes such as Lake Titicaca and discover some of the deepest canyons in the world.

Local Cuisine: Peru is known for having some of the best food in all of South America, thanks to its mix of ethnicities, cultural exchange and influences from Spain, Africa, China, Japan and Italy, as well as indigenous foods. The fusion of these influences has created unique tradi-tional dishes and flavour combinations. Peru’s landscapes and climates vary dependant on the

region, this also influences the dishes due to the types of ingredients available and the weather. This means that when traveling around Peru you will experience a range of different local and regional cuisines. During your volunteer place-ment be sure to enjoy the culinary journey.

Cultures and Traditions: Peru is a country which continues to maintain its traditions and customs of ancient cultures, and you won’t need to go too far to witness some of its unique traditions. From colourful displays of costumes, music and dancing to fishing on traditional reed rafts (Caballitos de Tortora), being mesmerised by the artistry of handwoven tapestries and hand carved stone crafts and experiencing ancestral rites ceremonies such as the “payment to the earth” or witnessing a traditional festival rich in culture, religion and heritage; volunteering in Peru will open your eyes to the wonder of its customs, culture and people.

Learn Spanish and Immerse in the Culture. Peru is a wonderful country with many oppor-tunities to immerse yourself into the culture and learn the Spanish language. Most Peruvi-ans have a strong connection with ancient Inca cultures and by talking to the local people you will get a real understanding of this fascinating country and their culture. They are generally friendly and polite and will embrace opportuni-ties to teach you their language.

What are some popular volunteer projects available in Peru

Children’s Shelter Peru

The Children’s Shelter Peru mission is to pro-tect, support and care for children under 10 years of age who have been placed into the shelter by social services and child protection services The project provides children with access to education, clothes, nutrition, books and a supportive and caring environment. As a


volunteer in this project you will help out with daily chores, play games and participate in activities with the children, assist children with homework and help in providing support, care and a positive environment for the children.

Teach Peru: Education for Social Change

The Teach Peru: Education for Social Change project aims to provide education and resources to local students between pre-school and fourth grade who have limited access to education. In this project you will help with the integration of English into all classes and will be required to work alongside a Peruvian teacher to help prepare and teach mini lessons for all subjects in English. You will also be expected to help students with homework, participate in arts and crafts or outdoor activities. This volunteer experience gives the opportunity to learn about the impact of global issues, which effect educa-tion in Peru.

Medical Volunteering in Peru

Good healthcare and quality medical assistance is often too expensive and inaccessible for a large proportion of the Peruvian population. The aim of the Medical Volunteering in Peru project is to provide health care and medicine for those who are most in need. In this medical based volunteer project you will work alongside medical professionals in either city or rural ar-eas and provide assistance working in hospitals, clinics and specialized projects to aide in pro-viding, assisting, developing and administering quality health care services.

MaximoNivel Construction Projects

MaximoNivel - Construction Projects aim to as-sist in building and repairing of homes, schools and facilities in rural areas, villages and or-phaned children. In this project you will be involved in all aspects of construction including: building frames and structures, mixing cement,

carrying bricks, plastering, digging, painting and other construction based chores. This is a physical demanding volunteer project requiring manual labor tasks.

Peru Conservation Project in the Amazon Basin

The aim of this project is to monitor and con-duct scientific research; based on the flora and fauna of the Amazon Basin; one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. It aims to as-sist in finding ways to preserve the nature and monitor the effects of human activities and interaction with the wildlife. This project of-fers a range of projects in specialist areas for volunteer and intern programs. Each project is devoted to conversing and developing ways to have a positive impact on the ecosystem of the Peruvian Amazon. Projects include Green Living & Forest Ranger programs, creative con-servations projects, medicinal plant research and projects based on the study of the wildlife including: mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and insects.

What are some popular destination to volunteer in Peru

Peru has become a popular destination for vol-unteering as it provides many opportunities to experience the culture and lifestyle of cities and rural areas while helping to create a positive impact on the Peruvian and their environment. You will find many volunteering opportunities throughout Peru in areas of education, construc-tion, health care, human services conservation and environmental care. Below is a list of some of the popular desti-nations in Peru where you can take part in a volunteer project. There are many projects throughout the country so be sure to also do your research and discover more destinations and find a project which supports your passion and cause.


Lima is the vibrant and historic capital city of Peru located on the West Central Coast. It is modern and sophisticated and steeped in an-cient history and culture. Full of many hidden treasures Lima is a city which needs to be ex-plored. It is home to pre-Columbian temples, archeological sites and museums, fabulous beaches, nature reserves, adventure activities, culinary delights and great nightlife. Take part in a volunteering placement in Lima to really discover all that the city has to offer.

Popular volunteer projects in Lima are: Teaching English, Childcare, Medical/Healthcare place-ments and Construction.

Cusco is located in the south of Peru in the Andes mountain range and is the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. It is a city of ancient history and influences from the In-cas and colonial Spain which is exhibited in the stunning architecture. It is a city where you can experience popular traditions, visit religious monuments, admire the colorful handcrafts and artworks of the locals, witness the wonders of the ancient world and experience the thrill of adventure sports and activities. When volun-teering in Cusco be sure to explore this magnifi-cent city and the surrounding Sacred Valley.Popular volunteer projects in Cusco are: Con-struction, Care for Wildlife, Jungle Conserva-tion and Protection, Working with special needs adults and children, Childcare, Teaching English, Healthcare and Farm/Agricultural work.

Huancayo is located in the highlands of Peru in the region of Junin and is surrounded by pictur-esque mountain ranges which reach up to over 3,000 meters. It is a cosmopolitan and bustling city mixed with modern style, strong traditions and excellent dining experiences. Away from the main tourist hubs of Cusco and Lima, you will find a more authentic Peru experience. It is the perfect city for immersing yourself into the cultures and traditions of Peru and learning the Spanish language while participating in your volunteer placement.

Popular volunteer projects in Huancayo are: Healthcare, Medicine, Working in orphanages, Childcare, Education, Special needs support, Street children’s programs

Urubamba is a small town surrounded by snow covered mountain peaks and is located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It enjoys a pleasant climate and is a great base for exploring some of Peru’s natural wonders such as the salt flats of Salinas and plays host to an expansive range of adrenalin based activities such as paragliding, hand-gliding and rafting.

Popular volunteer projects in Urubamba are: Conservation and Archeological projects.

What is the best season to volunteer in Peru

The best season to volunteer in Peru is re-ally dependent on the type of project in which you will be undertaking. Teaching, healthcare, construction and personal care positions are generally available year round however projects working with conservation and wildlife can be dependent on seasons and climate. It is best to check what time of year your chosen project ac-cepts volunteers.

Peru’s climate consists of two distinct seasons, the dry season which runs between May to October and the wet season which runs from between October to April. The country experi-ences its highest visitor numbers during the dry season especially during the months of July and August. Peru is divided into three regions and each region experiences different climates and temperatures. On the Pacific Coast you can expect to experience a mostly dry, arid and mild climate, while in the eastern lowlands you are more likely to endure tropical humid weather conditions. In the Andean region you can expect much cooler temperatures.


CHAPTER 2 : Choosing Your Peru Volunteer Program

Photo Credit: ubelong.org

How can I select the best organization

Finding the best organization to volunteer in Peru is not always easy as there are so many projects to choose from, but a little word of advice “The best volunteer organizations will always stand out in the crowd in terms of qual-ity and professionalism”. With that in mind, by doing some research and knowing what you are looking for, you should easily be able to find and select the best organization and project for volunteering in Peru.

Here are a few tips to help you out.

First impressions: First of all it is important to check the professionalism of your chosen or-ganization. Check their website and the overall

presentation, read about their history, experi-ence and achievements. First impressions often mean everything so check to see if information presented is well written, easy to find, informa-tive and up to date.

Program Costs: Prices for volunteering in Peru vary greatly. It is important that you check how much your project is, know what is included in the program fee for you (i.e. accommodation, food) and how your fee supports your project or host family. A professional and reputable not-for-profit organization will ensure that a decent percentage of your fee goes towards supporting your chosen project.

Reviews: To help you understand the organi-zation and its projects more and assist you


in choosing the right organization, be sure to check out online reviews and testimonials. These are a great guide as you can read about the experiences and stories of past volunteers.

Responsiveness: When choosing an organization you want to know that they will there to help you create the best possible volunteer experi-ence. The best way to do this is to send them an email, see how quick they are to respond to your query and how professional their response sounds and how willing they are to help you out. You want to know that the organization is there to help you and will do so in a professional and time effective manner.

What are some few of the best volunteer organizations in Peru

RCDP Volunteer Abroad http://www.rcdpinternationalvolunteer.org/vol-unteer_peru

RCDP Volunteer Abroad was established in 1998 and is based in Nepal. They offer volunteer

projects in Cusco Peru which involve Orphanage work, Street children projects, Teaching Eng-lish and Health projects. Prices for these pro-jects range between $430-$450, for a one week placement and between $570-$590 for 2 weeksRCDP Volunteer Abroad pays the projects and host families directly. So you can be satisfied knowing that a percentage of your program fee is going towards supporting the locals involved in making the volunteer placements possible.

IFRE Volunteers http://www.ifrevolunteers.org/ IFRE Volunteers was established in 2006 and is based in the USA. The organization has volun-teer projects in Peru in the fields of; Working in orphanages, Healthcare and Teaching in Cusco and also has Street Children projects in Cusco and Manu. Prices for these volunteer placements range between $509 and $534 for one week and $643 - $668 for 2 weeks.

IFRE Volunteers have been helping to provide volunteers with rewarding and memorable ex-periences and host families and projects with support and funding for the past 10 years. IFRE work with and support 200 projects in 18 coun-tries around the world.

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) https://www.volunteerhq.org/

International Volunteer HQ is a New Zealand based organization which has been running since 2007. Projects offered in Peru by IVHQ range from Teaching English, Special Needs Projects, Health projects and Construction and Renova-tion. These projects can be undertaken in either Cusco or Lima. Animal care and Jungle Conser-vation are also offered in Lima and volunteer projects in Childcare can be found in Cusco. Prices vary dependent on location, prices for Cusco range from between $545 - $595 for one week and $720-$820 for a 2 week placement. For a one week placement in Lima prices range between $460-$495 for a one week placement

Photo Credit: rcdpinternationalvolunteer.org


and $610-$645 for 2 weeks.

Working with over 30 countries around the world IVHQ are committed to providing volunteers with rewarding experiences. To ensure this IVHQ provide extensive support and dedicated coor-dinators for their volunteers prior to their de-parture and provide them with all the required information and responsible travel requirements needed for their placement.

Ubelong http://ubelong.org/volunteer-abroad

Ubelong in a US based company that has been operating since 2009. Ubelong offer projects in Cusco, Peru in the areas of Care Giving, Con-struction, Education, Health, Sports and Busi-ness Development. Prices start from $535 for a one week placement and $655 for 2 weeks.

Ubelong work closely with each of their commu-nities to design meaningful programs based on issues raised by the local community. Programs

offered by Ubelong aim to provide cultural im-mersion and learning through providing real first hand experiences for their volunteers.

GO Eco http://www.goeco.org/

GO Eco is based in the USA and began their or-ganization in 2005. They offer volunteer English Teaching positions in Pimentel, Peru. Prices for this project start from $550 for one week and $770 for a two week placement.

GO Eco pride themselves on offering volunteer placements that focus on responsible tourism and promote good ecological and humanitarian services.

Maximo Nivel http://www.maximonivel.com/

Maximo Nivel is a Peru based organization which was established in 2003. The organization is dedicated to offering volunteer programs in Cos-ta Rica, Guatemala and Peru. Their projects in Peru are based in Cusco and are in the areas of Orphanages, Childcare, Wildlife and Conserva-tion, Teaching English, Health and Construction. A one week placement starts from $585 and a 2 week placement from $815.

Maximo Nivel are committed to providing their volunteers with real cultural immersion expe-riences along with professional facilitators to ensure excellence in their programs.

Globalteer http://www.globalteer.org

Globalteer is a UK based organization estab-lished in 2006. The company has an office in Cusco, Peru and offer Community Projects and Dog Rescue projects in Cusco and Rainforest Pro-jects and placements in Wildlife Sanctuaries in Puerto Maldonado, Peru. Prices for a one week placement in Cusco start from $760 and $890 for one week in Puerto Maldonado.

Photo Credit: ubelong.org


Globalteer work collaboratively with their part-ners to ensure that volunteer projects are of benefit to the community or sustainability of the environment.

Fronteir http://www.frontiergap.com/

Frontier is a US based company which began in 1989 and offers projects in over 50 countries around the world. Their Peru projects offered range from Adventure and Community Develop-ment in Cusco and Machu Picchu, to Amazon Rainforest Conservation and Teaching in Lima. 2 week volunteer programs start at $1095 and the 4 week Machu Picchu placement starts from $2345

Frontier may be one of the longest running vol-unteer organizations however they are continu-ally developing new projects and strategies to meet the needs of their communities and part-ners. They are committed to providing quality support for low income and impoverished com-munities and assistance in conserving the natu-ral environment.

Kaya http://www.kayavolunteer.com/

Kaya began in 2008 and is a UK based organiza-tion that provides volunteer placements in 27 countries across the globe. It offers volunteer placements in Cusco, Peru in the areas of Young Mother Support, Health and Nutrition, Environ-ment and Conservation and Jewellery Making. 2 week project placements range from $1496 to $2180. The Health and Nutrition Project is a 4 week placement and starts at $2004.

Kaya are committed to providing their volun-teers with fun, exciting and meaningful projects which have a positive impact on the learning and development of communities involved.

Photo Credit: frontiergap.com

Projects Abroadhttp://www.projects-abroad.org/

Projects Abroad established itself in1992 and since then has become one of the largest vol-unteer organizations in the world. Their Peru volunteering projects are located in the Sacred Valley and cover Teaching and General Care, Ar-cheology, Sports, Health, and Conservation and Environment. Project fees for a two week pro-gram range between $2215- $3280. The General Care and Teaching projects are 4 week place-ments and range in price between, $2502-$2905

Projects Abroad have worked with over 10,000 volunteers and are committed to ensuring that their volunteers receive the support needed


and employ full time staff to provide them with in-country support to help build a community of volunteers who share the same passion to posi-tively impact and inspire the lives of those in need.

Cross Cultural Solutions http://www.crossculturalsolutions.org/

Cross Cultural Solutions established in 1994 and is a US based organization. Volunteering oppor-tunities in Peru are located in Lima and range from Education and Literacy, Child Develop-ment, Aging with Dignity projects, Support for Disabilities, Women Empowerment programs and Health projects. Prices start from $2674 for a one week project placement and $3283 for a 2 week placement.

Cross Cultural Solutions have been providing volunteers and communities with rewarding ex-periences for over 20 years. They are dedicated to working closely with their communities and providing projects which are of benefit to the environment, facilities and people of each com-munity.

Global Leadership Adventures https://www.experiencegla.com/

Global Leadership Adventures is a US based organization which began in 2003. They provide projects specifically designed for High School Students. They offer 2 different Teen Summer Programs in Peru. Service in the Sacred Valley is a placement which has a 14 to 21 day dura-tion and a starting cost of $3399 and the Spanish Service Adventure in Cusco which is a 4 week volunteer placement program with costs starting at $4999.

Global Leadership Adventures is aimed at devel-oping awareness of global issues and developing leadership, compassion, respect and integrity in teenagers through immersing them in cultur-ally rich community based projects which aide in creating a positive impact on communities in need.


CHAPTER 3 : Getting Ready to Volunteer in Peru

Now that you have chosen your volunteer pro-ject in Peru it is time to start planning for this adventure of a life time. There are always so many things to think about when travelling abroad so here are a few important things for you to consider.

Visas

Citizens of the US do not need to apply for a visa prior to travel. Once in Peru you will re-ceive a tourist visa stamp. Which will allow you to stay in Peru for up to 183 days. Your passport will need to have at least six months validity and at least 2 free pages to be granted this.

Passport

For entry into Peru, citizens of the US must hold a valid passport with at least a 6 months validity from the date of arrival into the country. When in Peru it is recommended that you carry around your passport or at least have a copy of it with you at all times.

Vaccinations

Before entering Peru it is recommended that you have the following vaccinations and they are up to date: Tetanus, Rubella, Mumps and Measles Chicken Pox, Polio and a flu shot. Hepa-titis A vaccination is highly recommended as this can be contracted in Peru through contaminated foods or water. Typhoid vaccinations are also strongly recommended especially if you are volunteering in smaller cities or rural areas of

Photo Credit: goeco.org


Peru. Other vaccinations that you may want to consider are Hepatitis B, and Rabies. Malaria and Yellow Fever are suggested if you are volun-teering in areas of the Amazon.To keep up to date with all required vaccina-tions and medical advice for Peru be sure to check the below website before you travel. http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/peru

Air ticket

Your flight to Peru might be one of the most ex-pensive parts of your volunteering experience, but there are many ways in which you can keep an eye out for the best deals. Here are some tips to help you.

▪ Create a Peru air ticket deal in your Google alerts

▪ Sign up to newsletters of airlines who fly to Peru

▪ Check and compare flying from and into al-ternate airports

▪ Compare prices using search engines such as Tripadvisor.com, kayak.com, cheapoair.com.

▪ Have flexibility in your travel dates.

Raising funds

Embarking on a volunteering placement in Peru may seem like an expensive undertaking, but fear not! These days there are many ways that can help you fund your adventure includ-ing several online fund raising sites such as Go Fund Me or Volunteer Forever. These sites allow you to set up your volunteering experience as a campaign, where you can get family, friends and local communities to help support you and donate towards your cause. Check out the sites below for more information on getting started with setting up your campaign.http://www.gofundme.com/tour/ https://www.volunteerforever.com/

These online campaigns are simple to set up and use, however if you do not feel confident us-

ing an online system than there are many other ways in which you can raise funds to support your trip. Check out http://www.wikihow.com/Raise-Funds-to-Volunteer-Abroad for some other effective fund raising ideas.

Suggested reading

To help prepare you for your Peru trip it is rec-ommended that you obtain one of the following useful guidebooks which will provide you with relevant destination information, travel advice and important information about traveling in Peru.

▪ Lonely Planet – Peru Travel Guide ▪ Rough Guides – The Rough Guide to Peru ▪ Fodor’s Peru

The above guides are available in hard copy or online versions.

Some suggested travel literacy books to check out are:

Inca Land: Explorations in the Highlands of Peru, by Hiram Bingham - A classic traveler’s tale of Bingham’s treacherous journey and the discov-ery of the lost city of Machu Picchu.

At Play in the Fields of the Lord by Peter Mat-thiessen – A thriller set in the jungle of South America about the conflicts between religion, development and forces placed upon the indig-enous people of the Amazon.

What to pack

When packing for any trip abroad there are always many things to take into consideration. Some things to take into consideration when packing are:

1: The country’s culture, religion and beliefs. It is important to respect the beliefs and rules of the country so do your research before you go to ensure that you pack appropriate clothing


2. Climate – Due to varying climates throughout Peru it is very important to know the type of climate and temperatures that you will be en-during during your volunteer placement so you can pack accordingly. A useful guide for what to pack for different regions in Peru is LAN Airlines: An Insider’s Guide to the Ultimate Peru Packing List - http://www.lan.com/onlyinsouthamerica/insiders-guide-ultimate-peru-packing-list/

3. T type of volunteer work you will be under-taking will also be a good guide for packing. If you are working in areas of Medicine, Child-care, Teaching and Supporting people than you are most likely be required to wear formal or smart/neat casual. If you are doing construction or conservation work than you may need to con-sider packing comfortable, durable and protec-tive clothing.

Below is a general list of things to pack when volunteering in Peru.

▪ Travel document – passport, insurance, itin-erary, tickets

▪ Credit cards (remember to let your bank know that you will be traveling to Peru be-fore you go.)

▪ Cash in local currency (Peruvian nuevo sol) ▪ Camera, charger and memory cards ▪ Comfortable walking shoes ▪ Headlight/torch for volunteer work in rural

areas and the jungle ▪ Light weight clothes that dry quickly are rec-

ommended for areas with high humidity ▪ Long socks if doing volunteer work in the

Amazon jungle to prevent being attacked by the sand flies.

▪ Warm clothing for Cusco especially for work-ing inside and for the cooler evenings.

▪ Clothes that are suitable for layering. ▪ Rubber boats (especially if you are working

in wet rural areas or the Amazon) ▪ Day pack for excursions and day trips ▪ Beach wear ▪ Lightweight rain jacket and umbrella ▪ Towel and toiletries

▪ Spanish phrase book ▪ Insect repellant for the Amazon rainforest

and areas that experience high humidity ▪ Scarves and gloves for cooler climates ▪ Travel pillow, sleeping bag or sleeping sheet

if bedding is not provided.

Gifts for the project

Giving a gift to your project is a great sign of respect and appreciation. What type of gift you give really depends on you the type of project you are undertaking. If you are working with children then some common gifts are station-ary (pens, pencils, sharpeners etc.), notebooks, coloring-in and story books, board games and educational supplies. Check with your project to see what types of gifts are usually given.


CHAPTER 4 : Information you must know before you volunteer

Embarking on an exciting volunteering experi-ence in Peru can be both exciting and a little scary. You are never going to be fully prepared for what this experience will bring but there are steps which you can put into place before you go to help you prepare the best you can for your project.

Ask your organization as many questions about your project as you need, to ensure you are fully informed before you go. Some good ques-tions to ask are:

• What exactly is required of you and what you will be doing during your placement (jobs you will be undertaking, hours of work, who you are working with)

• Who will be looking after you (your host fam-

ily and volunteer placement supervisors)• How you will you get to and from your ac-

commodation and project• What you may need to take with you. (For

some projects you may need to take certain equipment or clothing)

• Location of project and climate• If any in-country support is available

Learn about your host family

As part of your volunteer program in Peru you are likely to be provided with accommodation in a host family. Your host family will be your home away from home and will be there to not only provide you with accommodation, food and support but will most likely want to help you embrace your experience by providing true Pe-ruvian hospitality, and help you to integrate into

Photo Credit: globalteer.org


the community, practice your Spanish skills and teach you about their traditions and customs. Before you arrive in Peru it is a good idea that you find out some information about your host family so you can start to get to know them.Be sure to find out the following:

• Where they live, and what the area is like.• Names of the family members• If any meals are provided or facilities to

make your own meals are available• If you will have a private or shared room

and what access you have to the rest of the house (i.e. laundry, kitchen, lounge area)

• If bedding supplies, towels and toiletries are supplied

• Whether there are any cultural immersion programs available

• If they have any house rules which you will need to respect and abide by (i.e. curfew, no smoking)

Get connected with local support

Most International volunteer companies provide a local office or hire local staff to ensure that you have a main contact point and support dur-ing your placement. Before going to volunteer in Peru it is strongly recommended that you get to know your contact and introduce yourself to them through an email or phone call. They will be your point of contact in Peru if any issues or problems may arise during your volunteer place-ment.

Make a final call before leaving

To ensure that you have peace of mind when you arrive in Peru for your volunteer placement it is important to make a final call to your or-ganization or project before leaving your home country. This is to help ensure that there are no misunderstandings in communication and eve-rything will run smoothly when you arrive. Be sure that you have given the organization all the

correct details and if you have any flight delays make sure you inform them of these. Make sure you have a clear understanding of your project and what is required of you, who your main point of contact is and ask any questions that you still need clarified.


CHAPTER 5 : Arrive in Peru and Volunteering

Photo Credit:smallerearth.com

Once you arrive in Peru for your volunteering placement you may feel a little overwhelmed. You will be surrounded by new sights, sounds, environments and a whole new way of living. You will never be fully prepared for your experi-ence and you will never know what impact your volunteering placement will have on you and those you work with, however this is all part of the incredible journey you are about to embark on.Below are a few tips to help you embrace your experience in Peru and make it a memorable and rewarding one.

How to help make your volunteer experi-ence rewarding

Be Prepared & Be Organized

This is the first step to ensuring you have a posi-tive experience when you arrive. Before leaving your home country:• Make sure that you have a copy of all your

important documents. A good idea is to email them to yourself and family so there are cop-ies available if you happen to lose them.

• If you are taking your phone with you, you may want to let your phone provider know that you are travelling abroad and get your international roaming turned on or buy an international sim card. This is handy in the case of an emergency or needing to contact someone on arrival.

• Make sure you have some Peruvian money (Peruvian nuevo sol) with you before you leave your country.

• Confirm that there is going to be someone there to pick you up at the airport.


Do your research before you go, so you have an understanding of Peru

Before you go it is useful to understand some basics about the cultures, customs, language, geographic regions, economical situation, edu-cation, healthcare systems and laws that exist in Peru. Read travel guides and blogs on Peru to help you prepare yourself for your experience. Also it’s a good idea to read news articles to find out if there are any safety concerns you need to be aware of before you go and what cur-rent events are happening, showing an interest in what’s going on in the country can help you when interacting with the locals.

Networking and Support

This is especially important when you are far away from your friends, family and comforts of home and may feel homesick at times. Dur-ing your volunteer placement there are likely to be many others who have experienced or are also experiencing these feelings. Build yourself a network of friends with fellow volunteers and locals from your project. It is often so much more fun when you have people to hang out with and to experience a new place with, es-pecially with locals who know the place, local hangouts, language and culture.

Also build a bond with your host family and re-ally get to know them. They are after all, your Peruvian family and most will embrace you as part of their family.

Embrace the culture, destination and people:

Peru has so much to offer in terms of land-scapes, adventure, exploration, traditions and cultures and friendly, polite locals.

Make the most of your volunteering experi-ence, get to know the people you work with. If working with children spend time with them, a child’s smile can sometimes make all the dif-ference. Get to know them and their family. If

working with the elderly listen to their stories, you are likely to hear some remarkable tales while learning about Peru. Find Peruvian people your own age and share stories about your cul-tures and see if they will show you around. Most will be more than happy to share the wonders of their country with you. Also use these bonds to help you learn and practice the local language.

Experience the culture and traditions first hand. In Peru there are many places where you can witness and learn about their traditions, cus-toms and cultures. Indulge in the regions cui-sines, spend time at local arts and crafts mar-kets, visit museums and archeological sites and attend festivals and events.

Get out and explore the varied landscapes, participate in some adventure activities, and discover the real Peru for yourself.

Take pride in your actions and small achieve-ments

If you have signed up to volunteer in Peru it means that you have a passion in wanting to change the lives of others and want to have a positive impact on the world, but let’s face it; all your efforts are not going to be able to make the world a better place in a short period of time.

Change however is progressive, know that al-though you cannot change the world you can certainly change the lives of others in a small space of time. Take pride in your actions and passion for your cause and you will notice the small achievements. Taking care of children in an orphanage, listening and observing your students’ progress, building a home for a rural community, providing medical assistance to someone in need, conserving the environment, interacting with those you work with and build-ing bonds and friendships. These are some of the small day to day activities that you might take for granted, but these activities are cre-ating positive impacts for the community and Peruvian people involved. Every small step you


take to create a positive change, can be a big step to positive change for those in need.

Raise any issues or concerns

If you have any issues or concerns regarding your volunteer project or host family in Peru it is really important that you raise these with your local support member, organization, host family or project. This is so the issue or concern can be addressed and resolved and that your placement can remain a positive experience. If you do not raise the issue then you may find you start to think and act negatively towards the project and your overall experience.

Safety while volunteering in PERU

Your safety when traveling abroad is a huge factor in ensuring that you have a positive and rewarding experience. When volunteering in Peru here are a few things to consider for your safety.

• Be sure to purchase a good travel insurance policy

• Register your travel plans with the local embassy

• Ensure your family and friends have a copy of all your important documents.

• Get the contact details for emergency ser-vices in Peru (police, ambulance) along with details for the embassy and your country coordinator

• Carry a copy of your passport at all times. Make sure you have a copy of your photo page and page which shows your entry stamp into Peru

When traveling to any destination it is useful to apply simple common sense to not bring un-wanted attention upon yourself. Street crime is present throughout Peru especially in the larger cities. Be sure to take precautions to minimize your chances of being a target of this. It is also useful to know that Peru is a developing country and health care and hygiene are not up to the

standard of the Western world, so take precau-tions when eating street food.

Do’s and Don’ts for travelling in Peru

Here are a few tips to help you with your safety while travelling and volunteering in Peru.

DO

• Always carry around a copy of your passport• Use an official taxi service• Be aware of your safety and who might be

watching you when withdrawing money or using your credit cards

• Be sure to only drink bottled water. Water in Peru is not safe to drink without boiling first

• Always carry tissues with you as toilet paper is not always supplied in public bathrooms. Also note that you may need to pay to use these services so always have some cash available.

• Be aware of your surroundings when carrying around valuable items

• Try to travel in a group• Dress appropriately and don’t bring unwant-

ed attention upon yourself• Learn some Spanish words and phrases to

help you get around• Try the local cuisines. Peru is known for its

culinary delights around the world, so be sure to experience it.

• Respect the people, culture, customs and environment

• Explore the city and surrounding areas. If you are traveling on your own or even in a group, join a tour or hire professional guide to show you around.

DON’T

• Don’t venture into areas where the streets are empty and you feel unsafe, especially at night.

• Don’t carry all your valuables or have them clearly visible, otherwise you will look like a potential target.


• Don’t leave your bags unattended in any public places.

• Don’t leave drinks unattended. There have been reports of drinks being spiked especial-ly among female travelers.

• Do not use unregistered taxi services. There are often many people trying to offer to take you places and possibly for a cheaper price. Although this may sound appealing this is not always safe and you cannot always trust them.

For more information on safety and the do’s and don’ts in Peru check out the following useful sites.

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/peru/safety-and-securityhttp://traveltips.usatoday.com/peru-travel-safety-recommendations-1295.htmlhttp://www.traveltaboo.com/peru-travel-tips-dos-and-donts/http://goperu.about.com/od/perutraveltips/tp/12-Things-Not-To-Do-In-Peru.htm

Culture Shock

Culture Shock comes in many forms, and is something that you are bound to experience during your volunteer placement in Peru. Work conditions, living conditions, daily living and hy-giene standards are all different to what you are probably used to, and at times the acceptance of the new cultures that you experience will be hard.

Here are a few tips to consider to help you deal with culture shock in Peru.

Learn the Language:

Arriving to a country where you don’t know the language is always a little daunting. Before you go learn some greetings and phrases to help you get by when doing day to day tasks like order-ing food, asking for directions, asking for help or doing some shopping. Buy a phrase book or

download a Spanish learning app to your smart phone. When in Peru make the most of your time with the Peruvian people, interact with them and practice your language skills.

Read about what volunteers have to say

You are not the first person who has embarked on a volunteering journey to Peru. Many volun-teers are overwhelmed by their volunteering ex-periences in Peru and have written about their experiences. Search the internet and you should be able to find blogs and reviews from previous volunteers. These are great reads to give you an insight into their volunteering placement and to also give you a small insight into what you can expect from your placement and Peru. Remem-ber these are personal opinions and everyone’s experiences are different, use it as a guide but create your own perceptions and journey once you arrive.

Expect the unexpected.

Remember that cultures and traditions in Peru are very different from what you are probably used to. Be prepared that you may see sights, hear noises and experiences environments which are completely foreign to you, these however will all have an impact on your unique volunteer experience in Peru.

This article by Paige Claassen gives a great over-view of culture shock and the unexpected expe-riences she endured during her Peru experience. http://paigeclaassen.com/culture-shock/

Learn about the culture, customs and tradition of Peru:

These will be very different from what you know. You might find many of them hard to un-derstand and you may even find that they seem prehistoric or go against your beliefs. It is im-portant to learn about these, understand where they come from and why they are present. This


will help you to gain a greater appreciation for the people and by showing an interest in learn-ing these it will help you connect more with the ways of life in Peru. Try the local cuisines, attend cooking classes, learn about medicinal plants, watch the ladies and men masterfully create their colorful arts and crafts by hand, at-tend a religious ceremony or custom, take part in a celebratory festival and really get to know Peru, the people and its cultures.

Things to do in Peru

With such diverse landscapes, climates and traditions, rich history and ancient archeologi-cal sites - Peru is a land of mystery and wonder and has so much to offer its visitors. Below are a list of just a few things you should not miss. But sure to do your research and discover Peru for yourself as it has so many hidden treasures for you to encounter and explore!

• Hike the Inca trail and discover the wonders of the ancient city of Machu Picchu.

• Experience the diverse ecosystem of the Amazon Rainforest. Take a boat ride along the expansive river and stay in an Amazon jungle lodge for a true jungle encounter.

• Take a tour to the remarkable floating reed islands of Lake Titicaca and gain an insight into the lives of the indigenous Peruvians who call these islands home.

• Embark on an adventure into the desert of Huacachina for some sand-boarding action down giant dunes or some dune buggy fun.

• Visit the Sacred Valley and the areas along the Urubamba River for remarkable land-scapes, adrenalin, adventure, history and archaeological sites.

• Indulge your taste buds and experience the diverse flavors of the local and regional cui-sines

• Visit local arts and crafts markets and attend local festivals

• Take a boat out to the Ballestas Islands to witness the diverse marine life and species of birds

• Explore the rich history of Lima and discover its many museums, cathedrals and archeo-logical sites. Also be sure to enjoy its shop-ping opportunities, Peruvian food and vibrant nightlife.

• Find your perfect beach spot along the Pacif-ic Coast to swim, surf, snorkel or just relax.

Photo Credit: frontiergap.com


CHAPTER 6 : Completion of project and follow up

Photo Credit: projects-abroad.com.au

No matter how long your volunteer placement in Peru is, it is likely to be a life changing experi-ence. You will want to share your experiences and stories with others. Start a blog outlining your experiences, perceptions of Peru, high-lights, unexpected moments and even difficult times.

You will find sharing your experience with others valuable for raising awareness of your experi-ence, but also of what others in less fortunate positions endure and the positive impact you had on your project. This is also a useful tool as future volunteers can gain insight through your experience. It is also a good idea to write an honest review of the project on the organiza-tions website. Another good idea is to provide the organization and project with constructive feedback which can be used to help enhance

and continually develop the project for the future.

Keep the passion of your cause and experi-ence alive. Although you may not be able to provide your service as a volunteer again you can still support your cause, by donations and raising awareness in your community. Also keep in contact with all those that helped in making your volunteer position a positive one, your host family, locals you meet along the way and vol-unteers who you worked alongside of.


CHAPTER 7 : Most Frequently Asked Questions From VolunteersHow will I get from the airport to my host family/volunteer house?

When you volunteer in Peru most volunteer organizations will arrange transfers from the airport to your accommodation. To ensure that there is someone to greet you at the airport be sure that you have confirmed all your details with the organization and that they have been received. Make sure you have a contact for the organization so you can contact them in case of any flight delays.

Will there be volunteer support from staff in Peru?

Volunteer programs in Peru generally employ local staff or partner with local organizations.When you volunteer in Peru there should be support available for you however it is strongly sug-gested that you make contact with your local support before you leave to ensure that they will be a valuable, helpful and responsive source while in Peru. To find out more about local support when undertaking your volunteer work in Peru call your booking company as they should be able to help provide you with this information.

How many other volunteers will be participating with me?

Volunteering in Peru is becoming increasingly popular but the number of people you will volunteer with will depend on many factors. What season and time of year you are undertaking your vol-unteer program, how many volunteers the project requires and takes in at one time, if you have booked through a small or large booking organization, the type of project you are volunteering for. Summer however is a popular time for volunteers to offer their time so you may find a higher num-ber of volunteers during this period.

If I volunteer with my friend can we be placed in the project and housed together?

Yes, if you your friend/partner or family are all volunteering in Peru then you can be placed in the same project and accommodation. It is best to advise your organization of this when confirming your placement so that appropriate accommodation can be sourced for you.

Are meals and housing provided?

When undertaking volunteer work in Peru it is most likely that accommodation will be provided with a host family. In most cases meals will are included and prepared by your host family but it is best to check with the volunteer organization how many meals will be provided and what your fee actually includes.

Do I have to bring my own bedding and mosquito nets?

If your program fee includes accommodation in Peru then you will have a bed which usually comes with a sheet, blankets and pillow. If you feel the cold then it is suggested that you take a sleeping bag for winter evenings. Most host families do not have heating or cooling. If your Peru volunteer project is in the areas of the Amazon jungle or areas where high humidity is present then a mos-quito net is recommended.


What if I don’t speak the native language?

When volunteering in Peru it is advisable that you have some basic understanding of the Spanish language. Some programs will require you to speak and understand the language for your project. Be sure to check with your provider if knowledge of the language is a pre-requisite for undertaking your volunteer project in Peru. Also note that not all host families or project staff will speak Eng-lish. If you would feel more comfortable with English speaking hosts than it is recommended that you let your booking coordinator know in advance so they can find you a suitable host family

How will I get to my project every day?

When in Peru volunteering, how you get to your project each day will really depend on where you are based. If you are partaking in a city based project then you may be required to find your own way to and from the project, however if undertaking a project in a rural area transport may be arranged for you. It is strongly recommended that you speak directly with your provider to confirm these details to ensure you know exactly how you are going to get to your project each day.

What kind of food will I eat while I’m there?

When staying with a host family during your volunteer placement in Peru you will no doubt experi-ence the flavors of traditional Peruvian cuisines. Your breakfast will usually consist of bread, jam and fruits, while your lunch and dinner will often consist of rice, chicken or meat, vegetables and potatoes. This may however vary dependent on the region in which you are volunteering in.

Do the volunteer project or organizations s offer treks or excursions, or what can I do on the weekend?

No, your volunteer abroad provider does not offer or organize any excursions. You will need to ar-range any activities or travel within Peru that you want to do yourself. Your local support member or staff of your project may be able help you out with providing details of local providers for book-ing your travels and experiences.

Peru is a fascinating country which has so much on offer, from action to adventure, history and ar-cheology, rich culture and tradition, unique food experiences, breathtaking landscapes and hidden treasures. Be sure to make time to discover the wonder of this country for yourself.

How many hours per day will I be volunteering?

How many hours a day you work and what hours you work while volunteering in Peru will really depend on the type of project in which you will be undertaking. Most volunteer projects however work between 4-6 hours a day. Please check with your organization and project to find out your required volunteer hours each day along with start and finish times.


How much money do I need to bring?

Peru is a relatively inexpensive country to travel around. During your volunteer placement in Peru you should be able to get by with around $80 USD per week for personal expenses. Most meals will be provided by your host family so you will not need to spend much money on meals. Your personal expenses really depends on you and what you want to do and how you want to experience Peru. If you plan on exploring the country, travelling around, going out, shopping, visiting museums and galleries and participating in lots of activities than you may want to allocate more for this and budget accordingly.

This free eBook is just written to help volunteers. So please use this book just as a general reference or source

of information. We cannot guarantee the validity of information as changes in the field can be sudden. As it is

impossible to provide a definite or authoritative guide it is vital you verify information directly with a relevant

and up to date source. We cannot be held liable in any way for damages caused should you choose to overlook

this advice.

Volunteer in Peru

Travel

Transcript of Volunteer in Peru