GoAbroad

Volunteer with Global Aware - Care for Cuzco

by: Globe Aware

5 (2)VerifiedSince 2001

Volunteer abroad in Cusco, the enchanting ‘belly button’ of the Inca civilization and the main doorway to Machu Picchu - one of the world’s greatest wonders. With its narrow, cobblestone streets, Inca stonework, and women in ancient dress, you will forget you are living in the 21st century. But the real charm and the challenge come from the orphans with whom you will be working. Globe Aware offers diverse opportunities to volunteer in Cuzco, including working in a home for impoverished children from rural households. Many of these kids come from families who are too poor to care for them. Without this home or "albergue," these children would have no educational opportunities. Other service vacation projects include improvements and maintenance to facilities, such as painting classrooms, creating a garden, or constructing desks and beds. The children attend a public school in Cuzco during the day, but you will have ample opportunities to work directly with them after classes and on weekends. You may also visit a local family to construct a Lorena stove.

Program Highlights

Meet with a traditional shaman to learn about their way of life.

Make a scheduled excursion to Machu Picchu (at your cost, since your program fee cannot be used for this due to tax regulations).

Enjoy free time to explore the charming pedestrian town of Cuzco.

Learn how to make Peruvian food.

Experience life in the Peruvian Andes and participate in cultural activities and excursions to sites of historical and archaeological importance.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Cusco, Peru
Starts At: $1250-1500
Availability
Year(s) Offered: Year RoundDuration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
Age Requirement: All Ages
Types & Subjects
Adventure Types:
  • Hiking
Causes:
  • Building & Construction Projects
  • Childcare & Children
  • Computer Training
  • Culture
  • Orphans
  • Public Health
  • Volunteer Management
  • Youth Development
Guidelines:
  • All Nationalities
See all program details
Last Updated: Dec 02, 2025

Awards

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

5

Total Reviews

2

Fulfilling experience

February 21, 2017by: Polina - United States
5

The Globe Aware program in Cuzco, Peru was one of the most fulfilling, giving, and inspiring trips that I have taken, and I've visited 28 countries. During the week we became so close to our host Rosio, her family, and the kids at the Albergue, we felt like we were leaving our family, so it was hard to say goodbye. If you're looking to immerse yourself in the culture, to learn about the people and the history of the land, this program gives you a chance to do that. Your volunteer week will start with two days of exploring Cuzco and its surroundings while guided by your incredibly knowledgable host. The work week is thoroughly thought out and you know exactly what you're doing every hour, down to your rest time (because you'll need it in the high altitude). The food... we cannot say enough about how authentic, fresh, and delicious the food was! Every day it was something different; from quinoa battered chicken fingers to stuffed peppers, and daily served with savory soup. Mid week you will get a chance to visit Machu Picchu, reason why everyone comes to Peru! We were able to also squeeze in an additional hike to Rainbow Mountain after our last day with the program so if you have an extra day or two, it's worth the trip! If you're a first time traveler, a family, or a seasoned traveler, you will feel safe, taken care of, and inspired by what this program offers. I've traveled with Globe Aware to Ghana and Peru and feel they will do everything in their power to ensure you're ready, safe, and well taken care of.

Gardening after paintingBoys of AlbergueMachu Picchu

Care for Cuzco

February 10, 2017by: Laney Lyons - United States
5

Caring for Cuzco was a great volunteer and travel experience. We were able to stay in the children's home we worked in which was a great opportunity to spend time with the children. We rebuild the outdoor kitchen and also did medical and dental clinics. We were able to truly see the difference we made for the children and mountain communities we traveled to do clinics in. I highly recommend it. It's a totally different lifestyle - I felt completely safe with wonderful hospitality.

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Cusco, Peru

Types and Subjects

  • Adventure Types
  • Hiking
  • Causes
  • Building & Construction Projects
  • Childcare & Children
  • Computer Training
  • Culture
  • Orphans
  • Public Health
  • Volunteer Management
  • Youth Development

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks

Age Requirement

Open to All Ages

Guidelines

All Nationalities

This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Families

Starts At

$1250-1500

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • Medical / Accident Insurance
  • Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
  • In-Country Orientation

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Group living

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is the trip if I want to see Machu Picchu?

There are only 2 routes: a 26-mile hike on the Inka trail, which needs to be registered through a licensed agent months before your arrival, OR a 3-hour train ride. We usually do this on Thursdays.

Will we have much interaction with kids?

Depending on the time of year (schools are closed on Christmas to March 1st), you will be interacting with them during and after school days.

What kind of clothing should I pack?

The weather in Peru is usually cool enough to wear long pants and long sleeves with layered jackets and outerwear.

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