Community Development Volunteer Programs in South America

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservatio

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

GoEco offers a range of enriching volunteer programs abroad, specifically designed for teenagers aged 15-17. These adventures provide a perfect blend of meaningful volunteer experiences, cultural immersion, and exciting local explorations. With a higher level of supervision, these programs are ideal

The farms of Isabela Island are working in greenhouses to optimize production year-round in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. The highland town of Tomás de Berlanga is about 10 miles uphill from the coastal part of town, where IOI headquarters, your accommodations, social life, and the

Mente Argentina's International Volunteer Program in Buenos Aires has been thoughtfully designed to promote change in the communities of Buenos Aires as well as in the individuals who participant in the program. Throughout the course of the program, participants will be giving the opportunity to

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

We are a non-governmental, non-profit organization that develops and supports projects in environmental education and scientific research on biodiversity, ecology, as well as on the behavior of fauna and flora of Brazilian ecosystems. Volunteers can participate as Biodiversity Research Assistants a

Looking for an international internship that will set you apart—and give you the skills, experience, and confidence to thrive in your career? Connect-123 designs fully customized programs that match your background and goals, offering hands-on experience in some of the world’s most exciting cities:

Ecuador's vibrant culture, dense rainforests, breathtaking Andean landscapes, and picturesque beaches make it the premier destination in South America. Volunteers with World Endeavors are based near the beautiful southern Pacific Coast. By choosing one of the several volunteer projects, participan

Eco Caminhos is an international permaculture farm and learning community located in the mountains of Nova Friburgo, Rio de Janeiro, within Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. For over 12 years, we have been developing regenerative projects focused on bioconstruction, agroforestry, sustainability education,

The Children & Sports Volunteer Program in Bucaramanga offers participants the opportunity to support local community initiatives through education, recreation, and sports activities. Volunteers work with children in underserved neighborhoods, helping to create safe, engaging, and positive environme

Engineering Without Borders Argentina (ISF Argentina) offers international volunteering opportunities focused on community development, humanitarian engineering, and social impact across different regions of the country. Volunteers collaborate with local communities, professionals, and civil society

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller g

Volunteering through Road2Argentina allows you to be more than a tourist, enabling you to interact with locals and practice your Spanish while giving back to the community. We offer placements in local organizations in Buenos Aires, where you will handle hands-on assignments that truly help those wh

This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language sk

Research the key development needs of low-income indigenous communities and propose integrated solutions that preserve their culture. THE CHALLENGE Guaranda is one of Ecuador's poorest regions. Most Indigenous people live in rural areas where poverty exceeds 40%, child malnutrition 48%, illiteracy

Build your skills through a service-learning experience in Valparaíso, Chile’s vibrant coastal city known for its colorful hillsides, historic harbor, and rich cultural heritage. Partner with a local organization while exploring nearby Viña del Mar and reflecting on your experiences through a guided

Discover the soul of South America on a 10-week journey through Peru and Ecuador that blends adventure, purpose, and connection. Hike through the Andes, explore the Amazon, and immerse yourself in rich Indigenous cultures and living traditions. This program goes beyond travel; you’ll engage in hands

Students have the chance to explore and become immersed in the local language and vibrant culture of Bolivia, with this health development opportunity. Volunteers will spend time working with children and their families, concerning wellness. They will observe clinical rotations and offer support in

Inspire, Educate & Empower Communities Across the World Are you passionate about education and cross-cultural exchange? Do you dream of making a positive impact while traveling the world? With Volunteering Journeys’ English Teaching Programs Abroad, you can inspire young minds, build confidence, an

Discover the wonders of the "Paris of South America" while supporting grassroots organizations in Buenos Aires. This program is the perfect combination of two weeks of Spanish Immersion and two weeks of community service. Your engaging Spanish classes taught by local instructors will give you the la

Venezuela sin Límites has built alliances for social transformation, connecting volunteers with a nationwide network of NGOs working in Venezuela's most underserved communities. After the twin earthquakes of June 24, 2026, — that work has shifted toward long-term recovery. Right now, Venezuela sin

The Ecuador Volunteers Foundation offers a wide array of volunteer opportunities across Ecuador, catering to diverse interests and skills. From environmental conservation and wildlife protection to teaching English and supporting healthcare initiatives, volunteers can choose a project that aligns wi

Travel from Ecuador’s Andean highlands to the legendary Galápagos Islands on a summer program designed for middle school students. Live for nine days in a welcoming Kichwa community and join residents in meaningful service—supporting light construction, harvesting crops, and learning local tradition

Launch your career in marine science with a Marine and Coastal Conservation Management Internship in the Galapagos Islands with Intern Abroad HQ. Designed for students and graduates in biology, oceanography, and environmental science, this program offers immersive field experience in one of the worl

Travel to Córdoba, Argentina, and join our Human Rights Internship program. Here, you’ll work with communities facing challenges like domestic violence, gender inequality, and homelessness. You’ll help create solutions, run awareness campaigns, and deliver empowering workshops that inspire change.

Our program offers a unique opportunity to contribute to food security in Bolivia. If you speak at least basic Spanish and want to be actively involved in a meaningful job while also exploring Bolivia, this volunteering program is for you! As a volunteer, you will work with a local food bank in the

MEDLIFE Dental Service Learning Trips provides free, high-quality dental care directly to communities that lack access to basic services. Staffed by local practitioners from Movimiento Sonrisas, volunteer dental assistants will work closely with professionals to deliver high-quality care. In collabo

Planet Aid, in collaboration with Richmond Vale Academy (RVA), is seeking passionate and motivated individuals to join the People to People Volunteer Program. This unique 10-month program offers the chance to make a real impact by addressing global issues such as poverty, inequality, and climate cha

Prepare to go on a once-in-a-lifetime journey that encourages you to become an integral part of the ongoing mission to safeguard the unparalleled ecosystems and rare species on the Isabela Island in the Galapagos. This remarkable opportunity promises to be transformative, not only for you but also f

Get your kids involved in projects that contribute to the greater good through this volunteer program in Ecuador! Our ecotourism program allows your entire family to enjoy living in a tight-knit community while supporting conservation projects centered on environmental preservation in a misty cloud

In this internship abroad, help Ecuador meet the needs of the present population through the use of sustainable development techniques that will also preserve the environment for future generations. Support the monitoring, evaluation, and further improvement of existing programs in addition to worki

On the Ecuador: Galapagos & Andean Service Adventure program, immerse yourself in a meaningful homestay with local families on mainland Ecuador. Participate in impactful community service and cultural exchange. Work alongside community members, as well as visiting and learning from an indigenous com

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

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

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Volunteers For Peace (a Vermont-based nonprofit) can place you on a team of international volunteers who contribute to a meaningful community service project designed, planned, and hosted by local partners. We offer the most affordable projects and the best w

'Quilla', pronounced 'Kiya', is the Quechuan word for moon—the symbol of a new beginning. Kiya Survivors aims to give just that. Through education, therapy, love, and laughter, we encourage new beginnings for children with disabilities or learning difficulties and living below the poverty line, fro

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

We are looking for volunteers and interns with creative teaching ideas, such as playing games, singing, storytelling, acting, etc. The focus should be on developing curiosity about other cultures and experiencing language as a communication tool and part of a culture. You can also organize workshops

The Galápagos Islands are a must-visit for anyone who loves nature and adventure. By participating in our programs, you’ll go beyond tourism to immerse yourself in daily life within this legendary biodiversity hotspot. Work alongside local experts to meet real needs in the community while waking up

Join Vive Peru as we facilitate an English Teaching program. You will volunteer at public schools in Northern Peru, working alongside local staff and teachers. While your role is to provide primary and secondary students enrichment English classes, you will also assist with the pronunciation and flu

Based in Colombia and Italy, our mission is to connect people from all around the world through volunteering (organizing free activities for children and the elderly, providing food to people in need). You'll get to know new ways of living, and the experience includes tours around the country. Get

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.

Planning your summer trip? Why not travel with a purpose and make a real impact by volunteering? ELEP Volunteer Programs offers affordable, meaningful volunteer opportunities in Ecuador. Open to students, travelers, retirees, and professionals, our summer program promotes cross-cultural appreciatio

The Ceiba Foundation offers a variety of internships in conservation, research, education, and community development. These internships are a great way to combine your academic background with hands-on field experience. Broaden your horizons and gain valuable experience as you lend a hand to the Cei

Length: 4-6 months | Intakes: January Join the Global Leadership Programme, designed to provide you with hands-on experience supporting the work of an international development charity. We are looking for passionate graduates, who are keen to learn about global challenges, work with youth and defin

Trade the ordinary for the extraordinary. Based in Urubamba in Peru's stunning Sacred Valley, just an hour from Cusco, this 2 to 4-week community impact experience puts you at the heart of real change. You will design and deliver hands-on workshops centred around conversational English, STEAM, and c

Contribute to social missions in the fishing village of La Boquilla in Cartagena, Colombia. Join volunteer projects that address extreme poverty in local communities, choosing from the following areas: - Music workshops - Coconut and product manufacturing workshops - Community work - Animal shelter

Take your education beyond the classroom with a hands-on clinical experience in Colombia, a country known for its vibrant culture, rich biodiversity, and evolving healthcare system. This university-affiliated program allows nursing and pre-medical students to complete clinical hours in real-world se

CAYE is a registered youth charitable organization in Mzuzu, Malawi. Established in 2014, CAYE works in the Northern Region and parts of the Central Region to empower young people, women, and small-scale farmers to improve their livelihoods and contribute to national development. CAYE focuses on yo

Leave a lasting mark on communities and nature while gaining a broader perspective on global issues through our immersive program. Spanning South Africa, Ecuador, and Costa Rica, this journey offers a unique blend of community engagement, youth development, sustainability, ecotourism, expedition, an

We are seeking a Programme Coordinator to oversee our Huanchaco Education & Learning Programme (HELP) and manage partnerships. Key tasks include supporting Project Coordinators with planning and resources, monitoring project quality, maintaining and developing partnerships, aligning activities acros

Galápagos is one of the foremost ecotourism destinations on the planet. Despite being one of the best-preserved places in the world—with 95% of its pre-human, original biodiversity still intact, pressures from tourism are increasing. We help Galapagueños to continue on their path to sustainable deve

Join a program that combines volunteering and studying the Portuguese Language. During the first two weeks, participants will study the Portuguese Language, receive an orientation on Olinda (and the surrounding area), and a volunteer orientation. You are always welcome to take more than two week