Volunteer Programs in Chile

Chile is South America’s most prosperous country and is situated between the Andes and the Pacific coast, stretching along the entire bottom half of South America. It is the longest country in the world with geography that varies from the driest desert on earth to vast southern glacial fields and everything in between. The locations with the most volunteer placements in Chile include the capital city of Santiago, the beach city of Viña del Mar, nearby Valparaiso, and various rural destinations. There are also various remote locations that offer volunteer programs in Chile, where volunteer work and live amidst the beautiful nature of Chile or with the indigenous Mapuche people.

Santiago, the capital city, is the most developed area in Chile. In additional to the lure of a big city lifestyle, Santiago also boasts many nearby attractions, and is known for being calm and clean. After a fulfilling day of teaching, community development, human rights activism, or working with animals, volunteers will enjoy hanging out in Santiago’s cafes, touring the vineyards, and visiting the shops, businesses, and nightlife of the city in their down time.

Viña del Mar is just over an hour drive away from Santiago and is located along the Pacific Coast. Sandy beaches, museums, historic buildings, conservation efforts, and various service projects are some of the many reasons volunteering in Viña del Mar is a great choice.

Valparaiso, Chile’s most chaotic yet charming city, is built around the largest, and nearly the oldest, port in the country. Surrounded by endless hills, long staircases, eclectic architecture, and crazily-angled streets, Valparaiso offers volunteer placements in teaching as well as working within the unique community.