Volunteer and Teach English in Peru - Cusco

This was my second time volunteering through IVHQ and it was just as memorable as the first. Since my first volunteer I have thought about it everyday. I knew I needed to do another one because it truly is so life changing. I’ve only been home a week and I miss the country, the people, the students, all of it. Through this program I found my dream job and something I wanted to work towards everyday.

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I had a great experience because it allowed me to step out of my comfort zone, discover new aspects of myself and immerse myself in a completely different culture. Teaching English to motivated and enthusiastic students was incredibly rewarding; their curiosity and eagerness to learn inspired me daily. The programme gave me the chance to develop communication skills that transcended language barriers, enabling me to connect with people from all over the world. Living with a host family and sharing daily life with other international volunteers further enriched my cultural understanding and personal growth. In my free time, I explored Cusco, its traditions, cuisine, and stunning landscapes, The organisation provided a meaningful volunteer placement that connected me with the local community, creating opportunities for genuine cultural exchange. The programme matched my skills and interests with the needs of the local NGO, enabling me to make a real impact through my work. Support from the local team and host family was excellent, ensuring that despite cultural differences, I felt welcomed, safe and included. The programme's structure allowed for both volunteering and free time to explore, enabling me to fully experience the country and its culture. However, I believe the organisation of the local team could be improved, as communication was limited in some situations.

From this experience, I gained a deeper understanding of myself, my strengths, and my ability to adapt to new and sometimes challenging situations. It taught me to listen to my needs, be flexible, and embrace cultural differences with an open mind. Volunteering in Cusco also gave me the opportunity to explore the possibility of teaching as a future path, thanks to the inspiring energy and curiosity of the students I worked with.

I had an amazing time in Peru. IVHQ organized all my accommodations, volunteering, and Spanish lessons for me. I was in a really nice homestay with other amazing volunteers. And the location was right next to Cusco's town center and the local program headquarters. Volunteering was enriching and I got a lot of independence to teach my students how I saw fit. On the weekends I booked many trips through IVHQ add-ons. All of the locations and activities were beautiful and fun. This experience opened my eyes to an amazing culture I've never experienced before and taught me how to be a better teacher. 10/10 would do again.

The support from the local team and my field worker was exceptional. The office staff were always friendly and helpful with resources, ideas and activities for the volunteers. The Homestay was clean, friendly and ideally situated. I fell ill within the first few days of arrival, and needed hospital and close monitoring. From the moment I called my fieldworker, she moved me to their preferred Clinic which resulted in top standard care with an English speaking doctor. She was always checking in on me to ensure I was happy and getting the best care. I would highly recommend this volunteer organisation and also the Travel Insurance they suggest.

IVHQ was very organized and allowed me to feel at ease while in Cusco, Peru. From day 1, I never felt lost since there was an overwhelming amount of support provided. This was my first time out of the country with my 3 best pals and along the way, I met many awesome people. We're actually planning our next outing together. It felt great teaching English and knowing you're making a difference, seeing as the students ask if I'll be present the next evening, or being greeted with firm handshakes, hugs, and kisses. I have grown a lot from this entire experience and have definitely realized I live in a luxurious world. I won't complain about the little things like I used to, since the little things are what made the locals smile, and now, those same little things make me smile. Now back home, my friends and I recount our stories and experiences countless times to our peers, which often end with a few tears. Through it all, I made some lifelong relationships, bettered an already awesome country, and cherished the very best views, inner reflections, laughs, and all-around fun. You shouldn't have to experience the world the way you were told, so don't think twice, make it happen, you won't regret it. I sure didn't. Peru, you stole my heart.

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