I did the Andean Immersion experience and it was such a unique way to join a family in a tiny Indigenous village. I got to go with them to the market which was very cool as it’s not a touristy town (I was the only western person there), to their family’s house on the weekend and they even drove me and another volunteer to see the salt flats on our last day. It was very overwhelming at first for me because I was the only volunteer for my first week and my Spanish is very basic. But they are all very kind and you’ll get to be fully immersed into their lifestyle and family right away. Even if your don’t know any Spanish I’m sure they could get by with them; they have hosted many people and are good caretakers. Lots of farm jobs but also some more chill jobs, helping with house chores, playing with their young son or knitting etc; also the location is stunning — surrounded by mountains.
Go with an open mind to joining a completely different lifestyle but it is so cool and an amazing experience I’ll never forget!
I also did the Amazon Jungle Conservation project and it was so amazing! There was lots of other volunteers and Peruvians doing research projects there, so lots of kind people to hang out with, play cards with etc. It is really hot and buggy and the cold showers will be something you look forward to. But it’s all so worth it for getting to work in the jungle with your new friends each day. The food is great, accommodation is better than I expected for the location (basic bungalows) and the staff onsite are all amazing.
Highly recommend both programs for anyone wanting to try a bit of everything (work wise) in two very different climates that Peru has to offer.
