VOLUNTEERING
Requirements
Please see the procedure below.
Procedure to become a volunteer
Please send us a brief resume, outlining your interests and preferences. We will then send you an application form with a few basic questions.
Once we have met you, you must choose the program you wish to participate in. Some programs have limited spaces depending on the visit date, and we will confirm your participation as soon as possible.
Upon your arrival in Cusco, we will meet you at the airport or bus station, drive you to our volunteer house, organize your work, and provide all the necessary preliminary information. There will be an introductory meeting with general information about the country, and we will answer any questions, concerns, and additional inquiries that may arise.
The following day, you will be taken to and introduced to the program you will be participating in.
To ensure meaningful work, we request a minimum stay of 3 weeks. Exceptionally, it could be 15 days. Ultimately, if your desire is strong but time constraints prevent you from staying longer, we are flexible regarding dates and length of stay. If you have more time (3 weeks or more), it will be very beneficial for the program. There is no maximum stay; you can stay for months. We will help you with the visa.
Volunteer Fee
Participation in the volunteer program is free, but you will need to pay a small fee to cover your lodging and food. Most programs that host volunteers do not have funding to cover the expenses incurred by a volunteer. If the project is outside of Cusco, you will need to pay for bus transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you don't find the answer to your question, please contact us.
Why do I have to pay to volunteer?
Participation in the volunteer program is free, but you will need to pay a small fee to cover your lodging and food, as most programs that host volunteers do not have funding to cover the expenses incurred by a volunteer.
Do I need a passport and visa?
Yes, you need a passport valid for at least six months from your travel date. Visa requirements depend on your country of origin; please check with the Peruvian embassy in your country.
Is there an application deadline?
Most people register months before traveling, but we also accept last-minute applications. For any additional information, please contact us.
Do I need vaccinations?
We recommend that participants consult with a doctor before traveling to get advice on necessary vaccinations and personal medications.
Is travel insurance included in the program?
The organization does NOT provide travel and/or accident insurance. Each participant must decide on their own insurance coverage.
Is it possible to combine projects or programs?
Yes, you can combine programs; it all depends on your total stay.
Can I go with a friend or family member as a volunteer?
Yes, we coordinate so you can work together and share the same room.
How are volunteers selected?
When you submit the completed application form with the requested information, the organization analyzes and reviews it. Then, they check the availability of spaces. Each program and/or project has a limited number of places; if there is no space, we will offer you an alternative.
How do I pay the participation fees?
You can make prepayments to the indicated bank account, and the remaining balance will be paid directly upon arrival in Cusco.
How many hours are required?
An average of 5 hours per day is required, depending on the program and length of stay. It can be Monday through Saturday or Sunday.
Is there any training?
Upon arrival in the city, you will be met at the airport, taken to the volunteer house, and provided with all the necessary information and orientation to familiarize yourself with the environment.
What happens if volunteers get sick?
Most participants do NOT experience any serious illness. The most frequent complaint is stomach pain due to the change in food. The high altitude of Cusco (3200 meters above sea level) can cause headaches, which are remedied with the famous coca tea and rest. For a pleasant stay, it is recommended to drink bottled water and eat cooked food, and to bring stomach medication. If symptoms persist, you will be taken to a medical center. Your travel insurance should cover these cases.
Can I stay more than 3 weeks?
Yes, we can arrange for a longer stay. Many volunteers have changed their plane tickets to be able to stay longer.
If I don't speak Spanish very well, can I take classes before the volunteering?
Yes, you can take a few weeks of intensive Spanish classes. The duration of the classes will depend on your total stay in the country.
Can I bring clothes, school supplies, vitamins, and gifts for the children?
Yes, you can bring them, but we recommend buying what you want to donate to the program you're supporting here. Sometimes it's cheaper, it won't take up space in your suitcase, and most importantly, you'll see for yourself what's urgently needed and you can buy it here.