Volunteer Programs in Cusco

Volunteering in Peru

Make a Difference

Volunteering in Peru with us is an opportunity to support meaningful community projects while experiencing life in the amazing Andean city of Cusco. Our programs are designed for people who want to contribute to impactful local projects, learn from Peruvian culture, and connect with real communities in a responsible and respectful way. We offer structured placements, clear guidance, and ongoing support, with programs suitable for students, those on gap years, career breakers, backpackers, and anyone looking for a meaningful travel experience.

Whether you want to teach, help with community initiatives, support conservation, or combine volunteering with Spanish language immersion, this page will help you explore some of the over 30 projects we work with and choose the option that is right for you.

Since 2005 Proyecto Peru has helped over 6000 volunteers make a genuine difference here in Cusco. Will you be next?

"For the past six weeks I have been volunteering with Proyecto Peru at the kindergarten and primary school, and I have had an amazing time. Everything is well-organized and the staff are friendly and helpful"
Mateo

“My experience with Proyecto Peru was super great. I did a project to take care of the wildlife in a sanctuary. I like having people willing the help me get used to the country and they help solve the problem I encounter really fast. The weekly activity is super useful to meet new people of the same age and having good times. I really recommend volunteering with Proyecto Peru!” – Rozenn

Why Volunteer With
Proyecto Peru?

You make a direct impact : Our programs are small scale and community-driven. We only work with programs where the work of volunteers makes a genuine difference. For this reason each project has its own minimum time commitment to ensure you have time to contribute to the project’s mission.

Volunteering not Voluntourism: Proyecto Peru has a transparent pricing policy and does not profit from arranging volunteer projects. Each project requires a set donation, ranging from $60 USD, the entirety of which is kept by the project you volunteer at. Project Peru charges for accommodation, language classes and tours which can be added to your experience.

You live within the community: Volunteers can choose from living with a local Peruvian Homestay family or joining our international community at the Proyecto Peru Volunteer House.

You can combine volunteering with Spanish learning: We offer optional Spanish classes at our school in Cusco and/or online before you arrive to ensure you make the most of your Peruvian experience.

You are supported throughout your stay: Our team are available throughout your placement. We offer help with planning, logistics and safety guidance as well as day to day support. We also arrange weekly social, cultural and sports activities so that you can meet volunteers from all over the world.

Rated over 4.9 out of 5 by more than 250 volunteers on Trustpilot, Tripadvisor and Google Reviews

Our Local Volunteer Projects

Each of our Cusco volunteering projects offers a unique chance to engage with the local community. Whether you’re passionate about education, healthcare, archaeology, animal welfare, or environmental sustainability, these projects enable you to contribute meaningfully and experience the essence of Peruvian life. Follow the links in each section for a breakdown of the different types of project available in each category.

Medical Volunteering

As a healthcare support volunteer you will work in one of our local medical clinics or hospitals. The day to day task will depend on your goals and experience as well as your level of Spanish. You may be assigned a nurse to shadow as they do their tasks before being given specific tasks to perform. Depending on your placement their may be the opportunity to rotate through various specialisms.

As well as volunteering opportunities we also offer a variety of medical internships which you can read about on our Internships page.

Animal Care Volunteer Projects

Animal care projects are some of our most popular volunteering opportunities. We partner with a number of local organizations commited to promoting animal welfare in Cusco and the nearby Sacred Valley. Options including a local dog shelter which not only looks after injured and mistreated animals, but organizes educational campaigns, a horse ranch near Urubamba, and a wildlife center which cares for a wide range of animals with the aim of reintroducing them to nature.

Volunteer in Education, Youth & Development, Childcare and Social Work

These projects are ideal for volunteers who want to support schools, community centres, and youth programs in and around Cusco. Roles focus on helping children and young people build confidence, strengthen core skills, and access safe and structured learning environments. Volunteers assist local teachers with classroom activities, support after school programs, help with homework, organise sports or creative sessions, and lead simple workshops based on their strengths.

These projects are valuable for anyone interested in education, child development, social work, or youth leadership. No formal teaching experience is required, although some tasks may require prior experience. All volunteers receive guidance from local staff. The aim is to provide practical support where it is needed and to contribute to a positive and stable environment for children and young people in the community.

Environmental Volunteering

This is the project for volunteers who want to support sustainable agriculture and community based environmental work in Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Many local farmers continue to follow traditions that honour Pachamama, the Andean goddess concept of Mother Earth, which has shaped land management in the region throughout Inca history. These practices focus on balance, respect for natural resources, and careful stewardship of the soil.

Volunteers take part in day to day activities on organic farms, including planting and maintaining various trees and plants, seed collection and assisting with the small scale production of tea, coffee or chocolate. You will work alongside farmers who combine traditional Andean knowledge with modern sustainable methods to protect the local environment and maintain productive small scale agriculture.

These placements are ideal for anyone interested in environmental conservation, food systems, sustainable development, or outdoor hands on work. No experience is required because all tasks are guided by local staff. The aim is to support ongoing sustainability efforts while learning from communities that continue to preserve Inca influenced approaches to caring for the land and giving back to Pachamama.

Volunteering in Archaeology

Our Inca Archaeology program in Peru is perfect for anyone interested in developing their archaeological skills and seeking to learn more about Peruvian and Incan history, or for someone that wants to spend their visit in a productive and adventurous way. No previous experience is required.

How It Works - Planning Your Volunteer Experience

Step 1
Choose Your Project Area

Step 2
Choose Your Options

Step 3
Complete Your Application

Explore the categories above and select the project/s that match your interest or skills. Review the required Spanish level, minimum number of weeks and the donation amount. Each project page includes clear breakdowns of the roles, settings and expectations so that you know what you will be doing in Cusco before you apply

Review the accommodation on options and decide whether you would rather stay with a homestay family or at our volunteer house. Decide whether you would like to add Spanish classes, either here in Cusco or online before you arrive. Finally decide if you want to add any tours such as a trip to iconic Machu Picchu

Once you choose a program, complete our package builder with your information and desired program and services. A team member reviews every application individually and responds within 24 hours. If you are unsure about which program you would like or have questions contact us at info@proyectoperucentre.org

Step 4
Confirmation & Planning

Step 5
Receive Information

Step 6
Make a Difference

After reviewing your application and answering any questions you have we will send you a payment invoice to finalize your booking. This process may involve a video call so that you can speak to us about your goals and needs. Once payment is received our team will begin planning your experience.

In the weeks leading up to your arrival we will provide you with the exact details of your project and (if booked) your homestay family. We will also arrange your airport pickup, which will be with either a member of the team or where applicable your homestay family. We will also provide any details about tours you have booked.

Arrive in Cusco and embark on a life changing adventure while make a genuine difference in our local community.

Make the most of it!

FAQ

Is volunteering in Peru safe?

Cusco receives over 2 million tourists a year and has a low crime rate compared to other Latin American cities of a similar size. People are generally friendly and the there is a strong police presence. As with any large city it is still important to act sensibly and be aware of your surroundings.

Is volunteering free?

Proyecto Peru does not charge for arranging and administering volunteer projects for those booking accommodation and/or language classes with us. Each individual project has a required donation ranging from $60 USD which is payable at time of booking. The local project at which you volunteer receives 100% of this donation.

Can I choose any volunteer project?

You can choose from many volunteer projects and community service opportunities based on your skills, Spanish level, and availability. We partner with more than 30 local sustainable volunteer placements in and around Cusco. We are always happy to discuss with you which projects would best suit your skills and interests.

How much time do I need to volunteer for?

Our projects are mostly in need of people who stay for at least a few weeks, rather than having lots of very short term volunteers. Each project has its own minimum time commitment ranging from 1 to 4 weeks. Each program page has a breakdown of its requirements.

How long can I volunteer for?

While each project has a minimum number of weeks there is no maximum length of time.

Can I volunteer with a friend or partner

Yes! Many of our volunteers choose to volunteer at a project with friends or partners. We can also arrange accommodation at the same homestay or shared rooms at our volunteer house.

How good does my Spanish need to be?

We have projects for every level of Spanish, even beginner, although your experience will be more rewarding if you study Spanish and know more of the local language. In many projects you will have the opportunity to perform more complex and interesting tasks if you speak more Spanish. Check the individual project descriptions to learn about the required minimum level.

Can I combine volunteering with Spanish classes?

Absolutely. We recommend this to anyone who wants to make the most of their time here. You can even take Quechua classes if you are feeling like a challenge.

Is a visa required to volunteer in Peru?

Visits for the purposes of tourism, which includes volunteering , are visa-free for up to 90 days for countries with which Peru has a visa waiver agreement. This list includes the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, the EU, the UK, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Singapore and some of the Caribbean. Citizens of China and India can visit without a visa if they hold a valid visa for the US, Canada, Australia, the UK or the Schengen Area. For detailed advice and for information about stays over 90 days we recommend consulting your nearest Peruvian consulate.

What are the age requirements?

The minimum age for participants varies by project. If you are under 18 and interested in volunteering please get in touch with us at info@proyectoperucentre.org and we will recommend suitable projects for you.

Is volunteering suitable for first time travellers?

Volunteering in Peru can be an amazing first travel experience. Proyecto Peru provides support from initial booking all the way through to the end of your time here in Peru, making it a safe and comfortable way to experience a different culture.

Can I volunteer at more than one project?

As long as you meet the minimum time commitment and donation amount to each project then you can experience more than one project. Many volunteers feel that doing two or more different projects enhances their experience.

Do programs run all year?

Many of our programs run all year while others have some seasonal restrictions.

What is the best time of year to volunteer?

There is no one best time of the year to volunteer in Peru. Cusco's quietest season is between November and February when the weather is wetter, however many volunteers enjoy the city having a few less tourists. It is worth remembering that if you wish to hike the Inca Trail, it is normally closed for maintenance during the month of February. Other hikes may also be less available during wetter periods.

Is airport pickup included?

Pickup at Cusco airport or at the bus or train station is included when you arrange accommodation through Proyecto Peru.

How do you ensure all your placements are ethical?

We only work with projects that make a meaningful difference here in Cusco. We vet each project to ensure that it meets our standards and provides a positive experience for volunteers. We constantly review feedback to ensure that each project is ethical and sustainable.