How to Volunteer in South America

Volunteering in South America is a fantastic way to get to know a new culture, give back to the community, and change the world. Numerous South American countries have interesting and rewarding volunteer opportunities, ranging from working with children and animals to doing conservation initiatives and neighborhood improvement projects.

In case you're wondering how to volunteer in South America, we’ll cover that here—and it's a lot easier than you might think. Discover which countries in South America require a visa and whether it's possible to volunteer in South America for free, then take the next steps necessary to begin your new volunteer experience.

No matter where in South America you decide to volunteer, whether it be in Colombia, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, or another nation, you will have the chance to experience a new culture and develop new perspectives. You’ll also have the chance as a volunteer to work with neighborhood nonprofits and contribute to initiatives that genuinely improve people's lives.

Can I volunteer in South America for free?

While there are some free volunteer opportunities available in South America, many reputable organizations charge a fee to cover costs like lodging, meals, and transportation. Depending on the organization, the program, and the length of your stay, this cost can vary significantly.

You should avoid volunteer opportunities that market themselves as “free” because those organizations might not be as reliable or effective at assisting local communities. Furthermore, it’s possible that these groups do not offer volunteers enough resources, support, or training.

When signing up for a volunteer program, it's crucial to thoroughly investigate the organization and comprehend what the costs will cover. Some organizations may provide financial aid or scholarships to volunteers who need it because they cannot afford the program expenses.

Which countries in South America require a visa for volunteering?

Depending on where you want to volunteer and your nationality, you may need a visa to volunteer in South America. Different South American countries have different visa requirements.

Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Colombia do not require a visa for visitors to enter, and visitors may then stay up to 90 days. This applies to citizens of numerous nations, including the United States, Canada, and the majority of European nations. You might need to apply for a work visa if you intend to volunteer for more than 90 days.

In contrast, visitors to Peru are permitted a visa-free stay of up to 183 days. You might need to apply for a work visa if you intend to volunteer for more than 183 days.

Make sure your travel documents are in order before embarking on your volunteering adventure.

Before making any travel arrangements, it’s important to confirm visa requirements based on the country you intend to volunteer in and your nationality. For the most recent information on visa requirements, it is best to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you intend to visit.

3 other requirements for volunteering in South America

Each country in the large and diverse continent of South America provides special volunteer opportunities. There are many groups that would appreciate your assistance, whether you wish to work in conservation, English teaching, or community development. However, keep the following considerations in mind:

• Language: South America is a majority Spanish-speaking continent (with a few exceptions). Knowing, or at least actively learning, the language can improve cross-cultural communication.
• Compatibility: Be sure that the volunteer organization’s mission aligns with the main goal of your time volunteering abroad. You don’t want to commit to a project that ultimately leaves you (and the community) unfulfilled.
• Commitment: A serious commitment and a genuine desire to help is essential. Remember, volunteering abroad isn’t a vacation—it’s impactful work, first and foremost.

Talk to our FREE Online Advisor and get matched with 5 volunteer programs in South America

How to volunteer in South America

Looking for more guidance on how to volunteer in South America? Here are the next steps to take ASAP to make it happen!

1. Research and prepare

Start by researching organizations and volunteer programs in South America. Look for reputable organizations that have a positive impact on the community and align with your interests and skills. Ask yourself what kind of skills you have to offer, and what kind of opportunities those skills are compatible with. It can also be important to carefully consider which country to volunteer in! Which leads us to…

2. Choose a country

South America is a vast and diverse continent, and each country has its own culture and needs. Choose a country that you feel passionate about and where you can make a meaningful impact. If you don’t already have a destination in mind, this step can take a while, so start researching early. Don’t worry though—it’s one of the most fun steps!

3. Choose a cause

Decide on a cause or project that you want to support. Some popular areas to volunteer in South America include education, conservation, health care, and community development. When volunteering abroad, it’s important to consider your ability to contribute to your chosen cause, as well as the skills you can offer. That means that choosing a cause can sometimes come before choosing a destination, and vice versa. During your research period, ask yourself what matters the most to you during a volunteer project. That’ll help narrow down your search!

4. Apply

Once you have identified an organization or program you are interested in, fill out an application form and provide the necessary documentation. Some organizations may require a background check, references, or a volunteer fee. Discover whether or not you will need a visa for the duration of your stay, and what the application process is like. (Do you need to apply in advance? How far in advance? How long is your visa valid? Do they grant visas on arrival?) If applicable, prepare essential documents and apply for your visa as soon as possible.

5. Plan and prepare

Have you packed the essentials for your time abroad?

Make sure to plan and prepare for your trip to South America. This includes getting any necessary vaccinations, obtaining travel insurance, and packing appropriately. Don’t forget that seasons in parts of South America are flip-flopped from North America. So if you’re heading to Argentina in June, you better pack some warm clothes!

6. Be open-minded

Volunteering in a foreign country can be a challenging and humbling experience. Be open-minded, respectful, and willing to learn from the local community. Engage with your host community as often as possible (and avoid Westernized comforts when you can). Traveling is always more meaningful when it includes authentic cultural exchange.

7. Reflect and share

After your volunteer experience, take time to reflect on what you learned and how you can continue to support the cause. Share your experience with others and inspire them to make a difference too. Many organizations offer the opportunity to become an alumni ambassador! And on that note, if you haven’t reached out to program alumni prior to applying for programs, make sure to do so. They’ll have the best insight on what to expect and how to prepare for your experience.

3 volunteer opportunities in South America to consider

1. Working with Kids—Volunteer in Peru!

• Highlights: During this volunteer program within and around Cusco, attend to the needs of at-risk youth. Volunteers can mentor, assist with homework, plan sports and arts and crafts events, teach English, and more depending on their specific talents and interests. Placements are made in programs for street children, community centers, orphanages, and rural schools.
• Location: Peru
• Read Maximo Nivel reviews

2. Global Service Learning Program

• Highlights: With Bright Light Volunteers, motivated middle and high school students can grow as leaders, serve, and learn anywhere the Global Service Learning (GSL) program is offered. Volunteers are exposed to a variety of social and cultural facets of their host community. Along with expanding their knowledge, participants gain a broader comprehension of regional, international, and global challenges.
• Location: Ecuador, Peru
• Read Bright Light Volunteers reviews

3. Global Health in La Paz, Bolivia

• Highlights: Child Family Health International works with individuals and academic institutions to offer community-based global health education initiatives. The organization places its members at the cutting edge of global health and works on projects that grapple with the complexity of health and wellness.
• Location: Bolivia
• Read Child Family Health International reviews

Can’t pick? Sign up for MyGoAbroad and compare these programs side-by-side for FREE

You’re on your way to volunteer in South America!

Wherever your volunteering journey takes you, you have the chance to make an impact in South America.

So now that you know how to volunteer in South America, why not take a leap that will leave a positive impact on your life and the world? In addition to a host of ways to help others, the continent offers a wide range of natural wonders, from the Amazon rainforest to the Andes Mountains to the beaches of Brazil and beyond.

There is undoubtedly a volunteer program that matches your interests and abilities given the wide range of nations and possibilities available. Volunteering in South America just may be the fulfilling and transformative experience you’ve been waiting to pursue.