Description

Bolivia is one of the poorest countries in South America and is an immensely rewarding place to volunteer abroad. International volunteer work in Bolivia is available in Teaching English, Care, Sports, Performing Arts, Medical internships, and Journalism internships. Volunteer projects and internships abroad are available for anyone interested in volunteering in the developing world -- whether you are on a gap year, a summer placement, or a career break.

Projects Abroad Bolivia is based in Cochabamba, a town over 2500m above sea level in the central highlands. Cochabamba has been described as having the world's best climate dry, warm days and cool nights. This vibrant university town is a magnet to students from all over South America. By living in Cochabamba, you'll have all the benefits of a historic town which has also prospered commercially.

Living in Cochabamba is a great way to improve or discover your Spanish language skills. You will stay with a host family in the town and can choose to take Spanish lessons before or during your volunteer experience or internship abroad. But why not learn some Quechua, too? This language is indigenous to the area and is widely spoken, alongside Spanish, by the locals.

Landlocked Bolivia occupies the heart of South America. Its attractions include Andean Peaks, tropical Amazonian forests, bustling cities, and peaceful, traditional communities. Bolivia will give you a real taste of this varied continent, usually a long way off the tourist trail. Squeezed between five other countries, it's unsurprising that Bolivia's history is full of border disputes. Consequently, Bolivian culture is a melting pot of Amerindian and European. On any visit to Bolivia, you will encounter local festivals and activities; people might be throwing water-balloons at each other or there could be street processions full of color and vibrancy.

Although in economic terms Bolivia is a poor country, its riches lie in its history, its geographic and cultural diversity and, of course, its people.

Highlights

When you're not working, Bolivia offers a fantastic selection of places to explore. Cochabamba is a short trip from the National Park of Toro Toro. This primeval environment contains waterfalls, caves, magical landscapes and dinosaur footprints. There are plenty more opportunities in the rest of Bolivia. You can trek in the Andes, relax by the shores of Lake Titicaca, visit volcanoes or salt lakes, or explore the tropical forests of the Amazon Basin, rich with distinctive jungle wildlife.

Qualifications

Volunteers must be at least 16 years old

Intern Types

• Education
• Medicine
• Sports

Type of Programs

• Adventure Travel
• Community Service / Volunteerism
• Language Immersion
• Student Tours

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Please go to our website for prices.

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country staff support
• In-country orientation/Training
• Language instruction
• Medical insurance
• Travel while in host country
• Written materials abroad
• Written materials pre-departure

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

Anyone with an open mind and a desire to travel.

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups of 2-10

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

10 days

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Job and Internship Network

Projects Abroad's Mission Statement

As part of the global economy, Projects Abroad helps create local employment wherever we send volunteers. Employing local staff overseas and using their talents and knowledge is important to us. This local knowledge and support enables the organization to channel the skills of the volunteers from more affluent countries to regions around the world where they are needed. Volunteers also learn from their placements and the people they meet, and they gain experience in a chosen field. In the 21st century, we believe this mutual respect is what cultural exchange is all about.

Year Founded

1992