Environmental Volunteering
Environmental volunteering in Cusco and the surrounding region of Peru offers a practical way to support sustainability, conservation, and responsible land use while living and working alongside local communities. Our environmental projects focus on long-term impact, cultural exchange, and community-led solutions rather than short-term or extractive volunteering.
At present, our environmental volunteering program centres on organic farming initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture, food security, and environmental stewardship as well maintaining traditional farming practices used in the region for centuries. As our partnerships grow we hope to add additional environmental projects.
Overview of Environmental Volunteering in Peru
Many rural and semi-rural communities in Peru face environmental challenges linked to climate change, soil degradation, and limited access to sustainable resources. Community-based environmental projects play a key role in protecting local ecosystems while supporting livelihoods and traditional knowledge.
Environmental volunteers contribute directly to initiatives that prioritise sustainability, responsible resource management, and community resilience. These placements are designed to create meaningful impact while offering volunteers hands-on learning and deep cultural immersion.
Projects
Organic Farming in the Sacred Valley
Project description
We partner with a community farming project in the town of Urubamba, located about an hour and half’s bus ride from Cusco in the beautiful Sacred Valley. Volunteers help local families and workers with the planting and cultivation of food plants and trees in community and family spaces. Volunteers help collect seeds, fruits and other products as well as assisting with general tasks.
This project is only available with homestay accommodation. Your host family will be based in or near Urubamba, and a transfer from Cusco to Urubamba is included in the package.
Due to the nature of this program, flexibility with hours and tasks is required.
Project Profile
- Minimum stay: 1 week
- Working hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 am until 1:30 pm
- Spanish: Basic
- Donation: $60 once
Accommodation
Your accommodation will be at an Homestay Family in Urubamba
Tasks
- Support and help local families and workers
- Plant and maintain all types of local trees and plants
- Collect seeds, fruits and other products
- Support in the process of storing produce.
- Support in reforestation
Work gear
You may get a little dirty, so bring old clothes and shoes and also a hat against the sun!
Good to know
Enthusiasm and a genuine interest in nature would be beneficial
Be proactive, patient, and take initiative!
