Volunteer in Animal Care in Peru - Cusco
![International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] logo](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.goabroad.com%2Fimage%2Fupload%2Fc_pad%2Cw_67%2Ch_67%2Fv1%2Fimages2%2Fclients%2Flogos%2FMAIN%2Fb7aQwxqKkTQs1TCbQKDnmQAVGPjGCilE6Nj4ktx5.jpg&w=128&q=75)
Program Overview
Volunteers on the Animal Care programme in Cusco support local shelters and rescue centres caring for abandoned, injured or neglected animals. Placements may include a dog shelter, alpaca farm or small rescue centre/zoo focused on rehabilitation and animal wellbeing.
At a dog shelter, tasks include feeding, grooming, walking, socialising dogs, cleaning kennels, assisting with upkeep and supporting rehoming efforts.
On an alpaca farm, you may feed and care for alpacas and llamas, clean pens, assist with maintenance, support basic care when animals are unwell and learn about traditional wool processing such as shearing and weaving. Helping with farm upkeep and visitor education may also be included.
In a zoo/rescue-centre placement you might assist with feeding, cleaning enclosures, habitat maintenance, record-keeping and supporting staff.
This placement is ideal for volunteers who love animals and are ready for physically active work. No previous experience is required as staff provide training. You should be comfortable adapting to basic living conditions.
Ready to dive deeper into this program?
Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.
Program Highlights
What's Included
Quick Details
- 1-2 Weeks
- 2-4 Weeks
- 5-8 Weeks
- 9-12 Weeks
- Tours
- Vacation Packages
- Animal Welfare
- Volunteering
Updated May 20, 2026
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Cusco, Peru
Available Terms / Availability
- Years Offered
- Year Round
Eligible Nationalities
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Solo, Group
Education Levels & Language
- Education
- Any/All Education Levels Accepted
Accommodation Options
- Group living
- Home-stays
- Other
Application Procedures
- Online Application
Age Requirement
18-30
Duration
- 1-2 Weeks
- 2-4 Weeks
- 5-8 Weeks
- 9-12 Weeks
- After College
- Career Break / Mid-Career
- During College
- During High School
- Post High School
Program Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
Be the first to review International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
If you've participated in this program, your review helps future students decide.
Review this ProgramInquire
Inquire about this program
Have a question? Send us a message and the program team will get back to you.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all the most common questions about International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ].
What does the program with IVHQ involve?
The Animal Care project in Cusco allows volunteers to assist at a dog shelter, alpaca farm or rescue-zoo caring for animals that have been abandoned or harmed.
- Work includes feeding, cleaning, socialising and grounds maintenance
- Placement options: dog shelter, alpaca farm, rescue zoo for exotic animals
- Based around Cusco, with some placements in rural surroundings
When can I start and how long can I volunteer?
You can start almost any Monday and stay from 1 up to 24 weeks depending on your choice.
- Weekly Monday start dates
- Duration range: 1–24 weeks
- Volunteer hours typically up to 4 hours per day
What are the eligibility requirements for the program with IVHQ?
Volunteers must be aged 16 or older (families welcome) and over-18s must provide a criminal background check.
- Minimum age: 16 years or older
- Adult volunteers (18+) require a criminal background check
- English proficiency and adequate travel insurance required
What accommodation and support are included?
The fee includes homestay or volunteer-house accommodation, airport pickup, orientation and full in-country support from the local team.
- Accommodation in homestay or volunteer house
- Airport pickup on arrival included
- Orientation and 24/7 local in-country support provided
What skills and impact can I expect from Cusco’s Animal Care?
You’ll gain hands-on experience in animal welfare, improve your communication skills and contribute to the wellbeing of rescued animals in Peru.
- Gain experience caring for dogs, alpacas and exotic species
- Develop communication, animal-care and teamwork skills
- Engage in meaningful rescue work and learn about Peruvian culture
Recognitions & Awards
Awards and accreditations earned by this provider
Related Programs
Browse programs you might like
![International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] logo](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.goabroad.com%2Fimage%2Fupload%2Fc_pad%2Cf_auto%2Cw_100%2Ch_100%2Fv1%2Fimages2%2Fclients%2Flogos%2FMAIN%2Fb7aQwxqKkTQs1TCbQKDnmQAVGPjGCilE6Nj4ktx5.jpg&w=96&q=75){kind=small}
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
4.83
12 reviews
Join one of the most accessible and affordable volunteer programs in South America with International Volunteer HQ. Trusted by more than 147,000 ...
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
4.38
8 reviews
Looking to give back while exploring one of South America’s most iconic destinations? International Volunteer HQ’s Cusco-based volunteer programs...
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
4.68
831 reviews
At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. ...
Have more questions?
We're here to help!
The GoAbroad team is here to support you as you choose the best program for you, and International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] is also happy to answer any questions you have.
Trusted by millions of travelers worldwide since 1997