Volunteer Programs in Cochabamba, Bolivia

The people of Bolivia have one of the world’s lowest life expectancies, so volunteering in the cities can make a huge impact. Whether you’re an environmentalist junkie, an animal lover, an activist, or a teacher, volunteers are sure to find a placement in Cochabamba that pulls on their heart strings while making a positive change in the community. 

Popular causes. Despite Cochabamba’s progressive nature, there is much to be improved throughout the city. Volunteers can work in environmental conservation amongst thousands of plant and animal species. Others can lend a hand at community development, improving social rights, health care, or living conditions for people with disabilities. And there is always opportunity for teaching placements where volunteers will provide a safe and loving environment for marginalized youth and adults.

Summer and short-term programs. Although your impact drastically increases with more time spent volunteering, every little bit helps. Volunteers can find placements for as little as two weeks. So if you don’t have all the time in the world, have no fear! You can still make a difference in underdeveloped areas on the outskirts of the city with a short-term or summer volunteer program in Cochabamba.

Long-term stints. Those who want to volunteer long-term can find placements in Cochabamba from six months to one year. Settle into Bolivian living and blend into the community as you become the familiar face at after-school care, or see the progress you’ve made while helping in the rehabilitation of injured ocelots and monkeys. The community won’t want to let you go!

Cochabamba is a city of contrasts. The most present is the contrast of poverty and prosperity that can be felt as you wander the streets. Most of the city is very poor, while other parts of town flourish. While volunteers will spend most of their time with impoverished members of the community, life after work will be quite different. Avenues in the city center are filled with lively bars, popular restaurants, busy students, and young professionals. While the contrasts may be shocking, don’t be afraid to treat yourself after a hard day’s work to a chicha (locals’ favorite fermented corn drink) and salteñas (savory pastries stuffed with spicy meat). In no time you’ll be calling yourself a cochabambino (Cochabamba foodie).

Cochabamba is known for being an affordable travel destination. This is great news, especially since most volunteer work is unpaid. Volunteers usually have accommodation and meals provided, so it is not necessary to spend your life’s savings while volunteering in this Bolivian city. Cochabamba is even cheaper than most other parts of Bolivia. You know what that means? You can volunteer for even longer!

With traveling abroad to any destination comes culture shock. To minimize culture shock while volunteering abroad in Cochabamba, it may be very useful to learn Spanish. Spanish is Bolivia’s native language, and it is spoken everywhere throughout the country. While volunteering in the heart of South America, you will not hear English very often. Take some classes and pack a translator so you are able to communicate on some level while volunteering abroad.

Although you’re sure to be hard at work while volunteering abroad in Cochabamba, don’t forget to take a break to smell the flowers. Cochabamba isn’t nicknamed the “Garden City” for nothing. The city features a semi-arid Mediterranean climate that is never too hot or too cold. Parks are filled with green spaces, trees, and beautiful flowers. This creates a relaxing setting that should not be overlooked by volunteers.

There is no doubt that Cochabamba is an ideal location for volunteering abroad. Locals are in dire need of external support, and volunteers will have plenty of opportunity to make a large impact on the communities throughout the city. At the same time, volunteers will find a safe working environment, ongoing support from the community, and will have plenty of time to explore and make lifelong friends. What are you waiting for? 

Want to make a bigger impact? Check out our more programs on volunteering abroad in Bolivia.