Special Needs Volunteering in Lima, Peru

"Join one of the most accessible and affordable volunteer programs in South America with International Volunteer HQ. Trusted by more than 147,000 volunteers worldwide, IVHQ’s Lima-based volunteer projects give you the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while living in Peru’s vibrant capital city. With 6 unique volunteer opportunities to choose from—including Childcare, Medical Outreach, Animal Care, Construction & Renovation, Community Support, and Teaching English—there’s a project suited for every interest and skillset. Programs run from 1 to 24 weeks and are a great fit for those who thrive in urban settings and want to explore Peru’s cultural richness without venturing into more remote areas. Your all-inclusive experience covers airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, daily meals, and 24/7 in-country support. Volunteers are placed either in a shared house with fellow participants or in a Peruvian homestay for a more immersive experience. Even before you touch down in Lima, your dedicated IVHQ Program Manager will help guide your preparation—from travel planning to pre-departure training—ensuring you feel confident and supported every step of the way.

Lima, the capital of Peru, is located on the west coast of the Pacific along the Rímac River. This large, international city balances both modern and traditional influences, which evolved from Peru's history as the home of the Inca and numerous other civilized cultures dating back as far as 2000 BC. Opportunities vary from rehabilitating marine life to working with disabled or at-risk youth to creating environmental protection campaigns. By partnering with community-based organizations and following a structured, reflection-based curriculum, you will learn how local experts address these issues with available resources while developing intercultural and leadership skills in a real-world context. Each of our community-based organizations is unique, so visit our website to learn more about your options. Although all our programs are great, we especially recommend Lima for students who are interested in marine biology or human rights.