Volunteer Programs in Cusco, Peru

Filter Results
63 Volunteer Programs in Cusco, Peru

Featured Provider of the Month


International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
4.68
827
At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. ...
See All 8 ProgramsMAXIMO NIVEL
4.7
583
Maximo Nivel is a locally based organization in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Volunteer abroad—get involved, make an impact, and learn to serve by working on local projects: - Working with Kids - Teaching English - Conservation - Construction - Animal Care - Eco-Agriculture - Medical and Healthca
See All 8 ProgramsGoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
4.75
4
Embark on a six-day volunteering trip at an ecological reserve in the extremely dense and diverse Amazon rainforest combined with guided tours around the southern region of Peru! For those who are interested in rainforest conversation and experiencing the wonders of Peru, this is the perfect trip fo
See All 4 ProgramsInternational Medical Aid (IMA)
4.96
168
IMA offers an opportunity to enhance your medical and healthcare knowledge with International Medical Aid's Pre-Med and Health Fellowships. Crafted for pre-med undergraduates, medical students, and high school students, these fellowships offer a unique chance to engage deeply with global health care
See All 6 ProgramsLove Volunteers
4.7
201
Find out why more and more people are choosing to become a Love Volunteer! Love Volunteers is the most affordable way to volunteer and help local communities in developing countries! Why are we cheaper than other organisations? Firstly, we are just a handful of passionate people working hard to h
Volunteering Journeys
4.6
15
Sign-up for our medical volunteering programs abroad if you are a medical or healthcare student who is aspiring for a medical career but needs real-time training and mentoring. You don’t necessarily have to have a medical degree, as requirements are different for each program. There are even pre-med
See All 7 ProgramsMEDLIFE
5
10
Classic Service Learning Trips (SLTs) are week-long, immersive educational journeys to Peru, Ecuador, Costa Rica, Guatemala, or Tanzania. During these trips, volunteers actively collaborate with local communities on various development projects, including constructing homes, improving access to clea
See All 3 ProgramsTravel For Teens
5
3
Peru Service is one of our most spectacular trips for teens finishing grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. It offers the opportunity to perform meaningful service helping the local communities of Misminay and Urubamba while exploring the most iconic sites of this South American gem! Your rewarding days of ser
See All 2 ProgramsWorldStrides
0
0
Build your skills through a service-learning experience in Cusco, Peru, a historic Andean city rich in Inca heritage and vibrant local traditions. Partner with schools, women’s shelters, clinics, dental offices, and other community organizations while exploring the culture, language, and daily life
Volunteer World
0
0
Dental internships abroad are a great opportunity for everyone who is studying to become a dentist and would like to gain some valuable work experience. Especially in developing countries, there is still a lot of room for improvement when it comes to dental hygiene, so dental volunteers are much nee
See All 3 ProgramsKaya Responsible Travel
0
0
Contribute to an amazing conservation research programme in Peru that works to unite international volunteers, indigenous communities, local non-profit organisations, and the National Park Authorities. The program aims to protect natural resources and work with the local community. Volunteers get
ARCC Programs
5
1
Join us for an unforgettable 14-day cultural immersion experience in Perú, where we explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich traditions of the Sacred Valley. Our adventure begins with stunning hikes to Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain, where we walk in the footsteps of the Incas. We’ll engage i
United Planet
4.52
113
Peru is one of United Planet’s most popular volunteer destinations. Join participants from around the globe for 1-12 weeks in this diverse nation with friendly people, breathtaking landscapes, and ancient ruins. Discover a society that is as complex as the handwoven tapestries you find in the market
See All 3 ProgramsGlobalteer
4.29
7
Volunteer at a dog rescue center in the magnificent city of Cusco in Peru with Globalteer. Participants work directly with the dogs at the rescue center, preparing their food, walking them, socializing with them, and training them. Many of the dogs at the center previously lived on the streets and s
See All 3 ProgramsProjects Abroad
4
3
Peru is a land of incredible contrasts, where the snow-capped peaks of the Andes meet the lush depths of the Amazon Rainforest. Whether you are an aspiring medical professional, a history enthusiast, or on an adventurous gap year, Peru offers a breathtaking setting for cultural immersion and meaning
See All 3 ProgramsGlobe Aware
5
2
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
5
1
Join the Multilingual School of Cusco and become part of an educational movement dedicated to expanding opportunities for children through bilingual education. As the first English-speaking kindergarten, our mission is to help break cycles of inequality by providing high-quality early childhood educ
A Broader View Volunteers Corp
5
1
Volunteer in Peru with A Broader View Volunteers, a highly rated non-profit charity organization. Our placements are based in the Inca city of Cusco, Peru, and you may choose from 20 program options available. In recent years, Peru has experienced a rise in tourism, providing some economic relief.
See All 2 ProgramsInvolvement Volunteers International
0
0
Cusco, Peru – easily one of the top 5 ancient civilization centers of the world - is also home to immense scenic beauty, biodiversity, and incredible culture. Bordering the Pacific Coast, Andes & Amazon, Peru is an ancient land with one of the richest collections of historic artifacts known to man.
Peru Volunteer and Travel
0
0
Speaking English in Peru is very important due to the good job opportunities it provides to locals. However, many students cannot afford to study another language, especially children. Therefore, our Teaching English program is very important because it gives those who would not normally be able to
See All 3 ProgramsThe National Registration Center for Study Abroad
0
0
The Study and Volunteer in Cusco, Peru program of the National Registration Center for Study Abroad includes 20 hours of group Spanish classes per week and a four-week volunteering placement in a wide range of fields. It begins with four weeks of Spanish study, with the volunteers attending 20 hours
A Guide to Volunteering Abroad in Cusco
Projects & Placements
You do not need to know Spanish to volunteer in Cusco, since tourism is so strong here, not only will many people speak English, but they will prefer to speak with you in English so they can practice. Don’t worry, if you are hoping to learn Spanish you will not have a problem practicing in the markets, with locals, and especially in the surrounding area.
Teaching English. There are many volunteer placements in Cusco centered on teaching English. Even if it is not the main event, there will typically be some aspect of English teaching included. You may even teach onsite representatives that are affiliated with the organization you are volunteering in Cusco with. You will have a lot to learn from one another in more ways then one. Most teaching placements in Cusco require a 20 to 30 hour a week commitment and most volunteer opportunities will be with young children or in elementary schools.
NonProfit Support. This can cover the whole spectrum from construction to office work. Nonprofits are typically able to use your skill set and put them to work in some capacity. You could work in web development, construction, or work in a school. This is a great area to be involved with because it is so tailorable. It is a good way to do skilled volunteering abroad in Cusco, which is a growing area in the international volunteering industry. This type of volunteer work in Cusco will also lead to a more applicable way of showcasing your experience on your resume. If you are interested in Project Management, Intercultural Relations, or working in the NGO/nonprofit sector, this is a great way to get started. It is also a good way to get involved with volunteer providers because many hire alumni.
Public Health. Volunteers can work in local clinics helping staff or in schools spreading awareness of good health practices. Areas that are typically covered include hygiene, sexual health, and basic nutrition. These items may seem like common knowledge to Westerners, but these subjects are not included in curriculum in Peru traditionally.
Individuals can volunteer in Cusco for one week to one year, but the average length of stay is around four weeks.
Life in Cusco
A day in the life of volunteer in Cusco will be laid back and adventurous at the same time. Cusco is extremely easy to navigate on foot so you won’t need to rely on public transportation. It is easy to arrange taxis and buses to sites around the area, such as to the ruins of Pisac or Moray which is home to the famous round terraces. Longer bus trips will cost you only a few dollars while you can get a taxi to Pisac for only around $40. It is an all around affordable place to volunteer abroad, with programs that start at less than $200 a week.
There are also plenty of sites within the city too, such as the cathedrals, the Plaza de Armas, and Sacsayhuaman, all of which can be reached by foot and are within 10 minutes walk of each other.
Volunteers will have access to fresh fruits and vegetables, but the markets are not top notch. There are very “touristy” markets and the local markets can be a bit dodgy, but still beautiful and fun. Take the opportunity to purchase something made from Alpaca, which feels like a cloud on your skin. You can get everything from Alpaca lined boots, to scarves, to miniature alpacas actually covered in the soft hair.
Cusco is known for its restaurant scene and the flatter street that run off the plaza are filled with places to eat. The plaza itself is lined on one side by cafes, but the other sides are taken by Spanish cathedrals, trekking gear and trinket shops, and travel agencies. It is also popular for its social life which is not kept indoors. The city itself is part of the nightlife. The Plaza de Armas often has live music and festivals.
Accommodation & Visas
There are many hotels in Cusco. The narrow, steep side streets that veer off the Plaza de Armas are lined with accommodations. It is easy to find budget housing, but if you are in need of some pampering and comforts you’ll need to pay a little extra for a soft bed and reliable hot water. Most volunteer organizations in Cusco will arrange your housing or at least help you to arrange it. There may be special group housing for volunteers, but homestays are the most popular arrangement for volunteer programs in Cusco.
American citizens can volunteer abroad in Peru for up 183 days on a tourist visa, so it is a great location for participating in long term volunteer placements. The Customs Agent will stamp your passport upon arrival in the airport and it is basically up to their discretion how long they stamp it for, but they will ask you what you are doing in Peru and how long you plan on staying. It important to have free pages in your passport and be sure it will not expire while you are volunteering in Peru. A good rule of thumb is to have at least six additional months past your planned exit date. Logistics and visa regulations are easy to manage in Peru so you will be able to focus on immersing into the Peruvian culture instead of stressing about your paperwork.
GoAbroad Insider Tips
Machu Picchu. Volunteering in Cusco mean you are already at the popular starting point for a trip to Machu Picchu. The famous Inca Trail hikes can be arranged from here, but you can also take a train if that’s more your style.
Community. Cusco is somehow touristy and authentic and modern and historical at the same time. Be sure to spend a great deal of free time wandering up and down the side streets. Many are narrow cobblestoned ways and no two are alike. Some will be filled with fancy restaurants, others dark bars, and still other quaint cafes.
Spanish Learning Opportunities. If you want to try a more academic and structured setting you’re also in luck. Cusco is bursting with affordable Spanish language schools. Courses will sometimes be included in your volunteer program, but are easy to arrange on the side if they aren’t. Choose from an hour of conversational Spanish with a local or intense all day courses with students from around the world learning from a certified teacher.
Health & Diet. The Peruvian diet, especially in the Cusco area, is not healthy. Peruvians eat lot of greasy meats and starchy foods. They have survived for centuries on what the high Andean elevation will allow so their diet is basic and sturdy, but not nutritious. Peru continues to make progress in terms of development, but the idea of choosing something to eat based on its health properties is completely foreign to many.
Read our comprehensive guide on volunteering abroad in Peru.
Popular Providers
Latest Program Reviews
I had an amazing time
August 16, 2026by: worthy Idahosa - CanadaProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
I really enjoyed becoming interconnected with the Costa Rican experience. My host parents Tulio and Carmen were the best people ever. They became my home away from home. They were so kind and showed me the true Costa Rican kindness everyone talked about!
Amazing
August 16, 2026by: Valerie Casserly - CanadaProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
It was a great experience I would do it again 100 hundred percent would recommend to everyone I know.i loved my host family so much and the food was great the kids were amazing and the people were super friendly
AMAZING
August 13, 2026by: Daniel Abdulla - United KingdomProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I was, probably like some of you, a bit sceptical when initially applying due to the low price compared to other organisations. However, the experience I had was absolutely amazing and I have learnt so much about not only myself, but about different cultures and etiquettes. My program manager, Marissa, was absolutely fantastic at answer all of my questions and adjusting any mistakes I submitted onto my application such as flight number and pick-up time. Despite the huge time difference between Marissa and myself, she was able to reply to my email promptly and with extreme care - I was really at ease throughout the whole process and that made the experience a bunch better. Everything on my volunteering was as described on the program guide and there were no surprises when I landed, everything that happened during my week I was prepared for. I would really recommend this company and I want to thank them once more for the fantastic and truly life-changing experience they provided for me.
An unforgettable experience in Split!
August 12, 2026by: Nicole Boduch - AustriaProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
I had such a wonderful experience in Split! I met so many amazing people from different countries and made memories that I will definitely never forget. The Youth Support program gave me the opportunity to connect with the local community, experience a different culture and grow personally at the same time. The local team was very welcoming and supportive and I always felt comfortable asking questions or getting help when needed. I especially loved the international atmosphere and meeting people with completely different backgrounds and stories.besides volunteering, I had enough time to explore Split, enjoy the beautiful beaches and nature and experience Croatian culture. This experience helped me step outside my comfort zone, become more independent and see things from new perspectives. I’m really grateful for all the people I met and everything I experienced during my time here. I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who wants to travel, volunteer, meet new people and create unforgettable memories abroad. ❤️
Amazing Family Experience
August 10, 2026by: David Cannon - United StatesProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
The support and organization of IVHQ was strong and great. Traveling and volunteering with a family of five, with 3 Jr High School kids but was amazing. Very comfortable and things were laid out well, we all felt extremely safe and comfortable the entire experience.
Happy
August 09, 2026by: Hamza Talhawi - MoroccoLettre de motivation – Candidature pour une mission de volontariat Madame, Monsieur, Je souhaite vous présenter ma candidature pour participer à votre programme de volontariat. Motivé, sérieux et ouvert d’esprit, je souhaite vivre une expérience internationale qui me permettra de développer mes compétences, de découvrir une nouvelle culture et surtout de contribuer activement aux activités de votre organisation. Je suis une personne dynamique, responsable et capable de m’adapter facilement à de nouveaux environnements. J’apprécie particulièrement le travail en équipe, la communication avec les autres et l’apprentissage de nouvelles compétences. Je suis également prêt à participer aux différentes tâches proposées et à m’investir pleinement dans la vie quotidienne du projet. Pour moi, le volontariat représente bien plus qu’un simple voyage. C’est une occasion de rencontrer des personnes venant de différents horizons, de partager nos expériences et de contribuer positivement à la communauté d’accueil. Je suis prêt à sortir de ma zone de confort, à apprendre et à donner le meilleur de moi-même. Je serais très heureux d’avoir la possibilité de rejoindre votre projet et de mettre ma motivation, mon énergie et mon sérieux au service de votre équipe. Je vous remercie pour l’attention portée à ma candidature et reste à votre disposition pour tout entretien ou information complémentaire. Cordialement, Hamza Talhawi

Volunteering in Peru
August 08, 2026by: CHIARA MARUCCI - ItalyProgram: Working with Kids—Volunteer in Peru!
IT WAS AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE FOR PERSONAL GROWTH, EVERYONE IS VERY WELCOMING, KIND AND HELPFUL. IT WAS WONDERFUL SPENDING TIME WITH THE CHILDREN, HELPING THEM WITH THEIR HOMEWORK, AND PLAYING WITH THEM. I LOVED BEING HERE.
<childcare <review
August 08, 2026by: <heather <street - United StatesProgram: Working with Kids—Volunteer in Peru!
<we had a lot of fun working with the kids at our daycare placement. <also, the care and attention of the <maximo Nivel staff was top notch. <i had a minor illness while abroad and they got me all the treatment <i needed to be back on my feet in a day without missing my excursions.
amazing opportunity to grow
August 08, 2026by: John Avasapian - United StatesI had a great time volunteering for this program. I did not know what to expect from Cusco and it was a cool way to throw myself out there and get out of my comfort zone. For people solo travelling alone, this program made it easy and comforting to do. I learned a lot and had lots of hands on experience.
It was an experience amazing
August 07, 2026by: Adélaïde Graux - FranceProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
It was amazing to meet all these People ! meeting these children and teaching them was incredible. I learned every day. My family was really Nice ! I made friends for life !! I recommend this trip for everyone !
A great experience!
August 01, 2026by: Max Otto - SwitzerlandHonestly, I went into this with no expectations and then was really surprised with the beauty of peru. We got to see evey hike that we wanted to see, and they were all so beautiful! I also got a great room allocation with a lot of friends and made new ones as well! My first time in South America was such a different experience toi what I had known before and I was happy to contribute, if only for such a short time to this project.
Volunteering in Peru
August 01, 2026by: etan bryois - Franceit was an amazing experience, I had a great time and made many new meaningful connections that I never would have been able to make anywhere else. Overall, I would highly recommend this experience as it is truly eye opening and will change your life.
A great trip and voluteering experience in Cusco
August 01, 2026by: Antoine Khatchatourian - United StatesThis experience was my first time in South America and I couldn´t have wished for a more satisfying visit. Maximo was very helpfull in any inquiries I had and provided a tremendous amount of aid with city life, exploration, and my construction project. Finally, my host family was great and made me feel comfortable and welcomed me to the new country.
Construction in Peru Michael De Leon
August 01, 2026by: Michael De Leon - United StatesThe whole city of Cusco along with the Volunteer Abroad doing construction was an experience I will never forget, and one that changed how I view everyday life. Looking at the lived experiences of individuals in Cusco and Peru as a whole really changed my perspective. Overall, doing construction, living in Cusco, and experiencing the culture was unforgettable.
Best trip ever
August 01, 2026by: Julian Rousseau - United Statesbest time ever, everything was great. saw amazing things, and was able to do amazing things. The host house was amazing with really cool people. We were able to do our own thing and that made my trip just amazing. Maximo was just great.
Everything I wanted and More
August 01, 2026by: Miriam Raymond - United StatesProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
I have traveled before and Iove to experience new cultures. Learning spanish, talking to the locals, and getting to know everyone at Maximo Nivel was amazing! The staff were patient and listened whenever I had a problem, the tourism mixed with volunteering was a perfect mix. I learned so much from the children I taught and the teachers I got to know. I really loved the enviroment and feel this is a place anyone could thrive. Would not suggest coming for just one week, the longer you stay the better as theres so much to do, see, and learn!
Preparation before trip
July 30, 2026by: Yuange LiuProgram: Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
The preparation before trip was so detailed that I don’t have anything to worry about. It got everything listed and made it so much easier to tick off what I’ve done and what they need. The communication with the manager for the volunteer was so smooth and fast, and I was able to get a reply current evening or next morning (due to different timing in different countries). I wanted to change my volunteer from rural teaching to turtle reservation, it was so fast that there wasn’t any problems with the money nor arrangements, everything just went so smoothly, really impressed. The local team there really helped a lot, the driver, the leader, everyone was just so nice, even the cook and the receptionist. This volunteer as itself also helped me a lot on raising awareness for the sea turtles, learnt a lot and really hope to help them consistently. This is such a memorable trip and I hope to do these volunteers with IVHQ next summer with my friends.
A Character Building Experience
July 27, 2026by: Hannah Williams - United KingdomProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
I had a great time! Living situation was comfortable, the other volunteers I met were all amazing, and the park rangers and dorm we were at were all welcoming, a bit quiet - but friendly and kind. I think from my time here, and having spoken to a few different volunteers about their experience and perspective, my only issue would be that I think Maximo Nivel doesn’t always paint an accurate picture of their programs. Despite this, I still think it’s worth coming here if anyone is thinking about it, but that it’s really important to do your research on the program you want to do. As for example, me and another volunteer were confused as to why over email they’d been led to believe our program was on the Caribbean coast, when it in fact ended up being on the Pacific Ocean Coast. And also that online our sea turtle programs talk about various activities like helping hatchlings etc but doesn’t inform you if the season you are going on is nesting season or not etc. Host family were lovely, and transportation was fairly clear. The online and in person admin team at Maximo were especially helpful, and Kaylie was especially wonderful! Overall, would definitely recommend - just think it’s important to ensure the program detailings are clear to you before you arrive. Thanks! Miss Costa Rica already!!
Trip I Will Never Forget
July 26, 2026by: Matthew Halupka - CanadaProgram: Top-Rated Volunteer Abroad Programs in Latin America
Everything was super great. My host family was excellent, Monica was genuinely the sweetest lady ever. I did the Jungle conservation program at pantera sanctuary and it was a once in a lifetime experience. Everything from the food to the people to the work was excellent. Maximo was very helpful with any and all questions or concerns me or my friends had. 100% would recommend.
I felt the power of the madre de dios
July 26, 2026by: Taizo Shigematsu - CanadaWe would spend the days doing often manual labour and venturing deep into the jungle to collect data, but we still had a lot of time to bond with other volunteers and the staff. Emily, Aldo and Cristobal were all very helpful and they really embodied genuine passion for the conservation of nature. I highly advise anyone interested to try the program, as you really begin to appreciate the Amazon and its importance

Latest Interviews

Luisa Zaske
Kiya Survivors
We have a school organization called Team Peru, which I have been part of for a couple of years. This club offers a trip to Peru every two years for s...

Sarah Otley
Kiya Survivors
To experience volunteering as a family.

Ema Gurycová
Kiya Survivors
Before this trip, I had never been outside of Europe before. What inspired me to travel abroad was that I wanted to experience a different continent, ...

Pia Mehdwan
Kiya Survivors
I really wanted to help people who were less privileged than me and see how I could do that now and when I'm older. Also, just aiding in any way to ma...

Rosie Brockett
Kiya Survivors
I worked in the UK at a school and college for students with special educational needs and was passionate about the therapy areas of this work. After ...

Tim van Asdonck
Supporting Kids in Peru
What inspired me to go abroad is that I had researched how skateboarding can be used as a tool to stimulate positive youth development in deprived sit...

Adriana Chacon
Supporting Kids in Peru
I wanted to do something different from my regular job. Something where I would put myself in a new setting where I would be totally lost and I had to...

Hlu Vang
Vive Peru
Medicine. As a future health care professional in the United States, we see that we have too many resources that sometimes the U.S. does not know how ...

Angelica Björkman
Supporting Kids in Peru
I have always had a great interest in working with people and I just love South America, therefore I have thought about going abroad to do something l...

Anthony Stoll
The Fuller Center for Housing
What initially inspired me to go abroad was my love for travel and adventure. I love getting out there, working with my hands, experiencing new cultur...

Rebecca Marston
Supporting Kids in Peru
I study English and Spanish and needed to spend the third year abroad (in a Spanish-speaking country) as part of my degree program.

Zach Rice
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
I've been on a few of these trips before with other organizations such as World Vets around South America, and while I previously have always loved wo...

Mehruba Alam
Vive Peru
I always knew I wanted to participate in an abroad program while I pursued my bachelor's degree because I have heard nothing but amazing things about ...

Jenny Argyle
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
I study geography and development studies, so South America really interested me.

Joy Lafferty
MAXIMO NIVEL
I love to travel and felt I needed a purpose, and volunteering in any capacity certainly fulfills that need.

Tyler Werboweski
MAXIMO NIVEL
By volunteering with Maximo Nivel, I was able to volunteer and be immersed in the culture of the city I helped in. Traveling has always been a passion...

Emily Hooks
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
I studied abroad in Spain during college for a semester. As one of the best experiences of my life, the seed had been planted to want to see and exper...

Yijia Wen - 2016 Program Participant
MAXIMO NIVEL
I am always longing to live with a clear purpose, to make sure I am pursuing what I really want. So, I chose to go abroad to find myself. Before leavi...

Candace Taylor
MAXIMO NIVEL
I have always loved traveling. I've been to several counties within Asia, Europe, North America, as well as Australia and New Zealand. I was always mo...

Noah Graves
United Planet
Living in a small east coast Canadian town, I've always wanted to explore the world and escape the small town feel of where I live. I volunteer at man...
Popular Searches
Apply for Scholarships & Deals
Submit a single application on MyGoAbroad to get exclusive discounts on travel programs!










