I gained insight of different culture in Peru. I also gained insight on the various problems that occur and it felt good to volunteer and make an impact.
Community Support Volunteering in Peru - Lima
Purpose
Support marginalized & low-income communities
Start dates
Programs start the first and third Monday of the month
Duration
Choose from 1-12 weeks
Volunteer hours
Up to 5 hours a day
Age
Volunteers aged 16+ and families
Accommodation
Volunteer house or homestay
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
This program is ideal for:
Volunteers who want to try a variety of different kinds of volunteer projects and are willing to help out with a wide range of different tasks and activities according to local priorities.
Project details
Interested in being a Community Support volunteer in Peru - Lima? International Volunteer HQ’s Community Support project is a great way for volunteers to assist with a wide range of important community initiatives designed to help vulnerable people. Volunteers will gain experience in schools, childcare, community soup kitchens, a women’s refuge and any other community projects which have an urgent need for help and support.
What to expect and how you'll make an impact
This is a wide-reaching project that allows volunteers to assist in a range of important community initiatives, with a particular focus on helping vulnerable people. The work on this project is varied as volunteers are placed wherever support is most urgently needed at the time.
As a Community Support volunteer you can help in schools, soup kitchens, childcare centers and a women’s refuge. Volunteer duties depend entirely on the needs of the community at the time but can include things like:
- Preparing and serving meals
- Small renovation projects and building maintenance
- Gardening, landscaping and outdoor work
- Charity and fundraising for disadvantaged communities
- English, art and sports workshops
This is a great project for those who don’t have a strong preference for volunteering in a specific area as it can give you experience in a range of activities. Work will also be influenced by volunteer numbers at the time of your placement.
Why do Community Support volunteering in Lima with IVHQ?
As a Community Support volunteer in Peru - Lima you’ll be adding value to the local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:
- Improving quality of life for vulnerable people
- Supporting local community initiatives that need help
- Developing your communication skills
- Gaining a wide range of volunteer experience
- Immersing yourself in Peruvian culture
- Exploring the stunning mountains and ancient ruins of Peru
Volunteer requirements
- Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to participate in this program
- Volunteers aged 16 or 17 on their program start date are required to provide IVHQ with parental consent in order to participate on the program, and may be asked to provide additional document to the local team.
- All volunteers aged 13+ are required to provide a criminal background check to IVHQ prior to departure. Those aged 13-17, if unable to obtain a criminal background check, can provide two character reference letters instead
- All volunteers are required to have adequate volunteer travel insurance
- All volunteers must speak fluent English.
Are you eligible to volunteer?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Not sure which program to join?
Get personalized recommendations >
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
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Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
RS
Ryan Sugita
26 Jun 2024
...
TM
Tina Merino
17 Oct 2023
It was nerve-wracking to be pushed outside of my comfort zone and travel on my own at first, but once I got there and started the program it was so easy to connect with others and make friends. It was honestly one of the best experiences of my life and I would definitely do it again!
...
BP
Beatriz Pinto
09 Oct 2023
I gained a new perspective about life, 'problems', and how we stare at them. From this experience I do believe that there is always a way to do things and that everyone always has something to teach us. The advice that I would give is to give it a go as beautiful things can happen when step out of our comfort zone.
...
TC
Tinzie Conteh-Morgan
20 Jun 2023
Getting to know all the volunteers within the program and meeting the local people was such a great emotional connection. The relationships formed touched my heart and I will always remember the gratitude people had.
...
LT
Lila Tauzin-Fox
19 Aug 2021
This experience is like no other. Go into it with an open mind and willingness to try. Try to speak the language. Try to immerse yourself in the culture. Try to make friends. Cast aside your preconceived notions and fears.
...
EM
Emily Mateo
22 Jul 2021
My volunteer experience in Lima, Peru changed my life forever. I was able to meet incredible people and learned things about myself that I would have not previously. Make sure to listen, have fun and put your best effort forward. The community that you become part of will definitely appreciate it! The time will go by faster than you think so make it worthwhile.
...
To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Academic course credit
Academic course credit
Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!
Learn about course creditLocation
Location
Lima, Peru’s capital city, is perched along the country’s Pacific coast. As the biggest city in Peru and one of the largest in South America, Lima is an important hub of culture, commerce, finance and politics. It’s also got a long history dating back to Pre-Columbian times as well as a strong Spanish influence and both of these can be explored in the many museums, art galleries, churches and ancient historical sites dotted around the city.
IVHQ’s Lima projects are set in and around the city, near the tourist hotspots of Barranco and Miraflores, wildly different in nature but both known for their beauty, great food and buzzing nightlife.
Arrival and orientation
The program orientation begins on the first and third Monday of each month and volunteers will need to arrive in Lima on the day before orientation in preparation.
After you have registered for the program, please book your flights to arrive at Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM). When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and transported to the volunteer accommodation in Lima.
Your accommodation, and airport pick up is covered by your Program Fee and is provided the night before your program orientation. If you are traveling in Peru - Lima prior to your volunteer program, we can arrange for you to be picked up at a prearranged destination in central Lima the day before your program orientation.
Orientation is hosted by the local team at the volunteer house in Lima and begins on the morning of your chosen start date. It will cover everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Lima, including:
- An introduction to Peru and Peruvian customs
- Program rules and expectations
- Safety guidelines
- Transportation options
- Travel opportunities within Peru
- Local tour to explore the area, obtain a SIM card, and withdraw cash
- Details about your specific project and placement
The orientation also provides an opportunity to meet other volunteers and exchange contact details for weekend travel and socializing!
Volunteer schedule example
First Day You’ll kick-start your program with a warm welcome from our local staff, who will provide you with an orientation and a local city tour to prepare you for the week ahead!
Weekdays - A typical day would be as follows:
| 6:00 AM | Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast that is provided at the volunteer house and homestay, fueling up for the day ahead. |
| 7:00 AM | Departure: At this time, volunteers, accompanied by local coordinators, embark to their placements to commence their day of volunteering. |
| 12:30 - 1:00 PM | Volunteer day concludes: Volunteers will now journey back to the volunteer accommodation, where you can prepare your lunch in the communal kitchen or enjoy the flavors of the local cuisine at a nearby food cart or restaurant. |
| 2:00 - 6:00 PM | Free Time: With your volunteering duties complete, the afternoon is yours to explore! Whether you’re immersing yourself in Spanish lessons, discovering hidden gems in Lima, or simply soaking up the vibrant culture. |
| 6:30 - 7:00 PM | Dinner: This is when typically when volunteers unwind, enjoy their dinner, and make any necessary preparations for the following day. |
Weekends
During the weekends, explore the wonders of Lima and beyond! From paragliding over the cliffs of Miraflores to surfing the coastal waters of Barranco, the possibilities are endless. Venture further afield to discover the ancient ruins of Pachacamac or the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu.
Looking for more ideas of things to do in Peru - Lima? Check out our Lima Travel & Tours page!
Accommodation and WiFi
Volunteers will either be accommodated in the volunteer house or a homestay experience. Typically, volunteers are housed in our main housing facility, unless capacity is reached.
Volunteer house: The volunteer house offers shared bedrooms, a communal area and kitchen, creating a sociable environment for meeting and connecting with other volunteers. Each room is equipped with single bunk beds, usually shared with up to 4 - 8 volunteers of the same gender. Amenities include Wi-Fi, hot water, bedding, a fridge, and a TV in the common area for your comfort.
Homestay: Alternatively you will be placed in a homestay hosted by a local Peruvian family who has been approved by our local team in Lima. This offers an immersive experience with a local family to learn about the Peruvian way of life, meet local people, try traditional food and speak the local language - especially when host families in Lima tend to have limited English.
Living is often basic but comfortable and all homesteads have electricity, hot water and western style bathrooms. You can expect to be accommodated with up to 6 volunteers of the same gender, with bedding provided. WiFi is typically available in our homestay accommodation but please expect that some homesteads do not have WiFi. If you would like to keep connected during your stay, we recommend bringing an eSIM or an unlocked mobile phone and purchasing a local SIM card when you arrive in Lima.
Accommodation Upgrades: For those seeking a quieter retreat, we do offer private rooms for individuals, couples and families. This option places you either in the volunteer house or in a homestay with a local host family. While preferences can be noted, room allocation cannot be guaranteed. Reservations incurs an additional cost and is subject to availability.
Meals
Volunteers are provided with both breakfast and dinner throughout their stay on the program. Breakfast is conveniently available as a self-service offering in the volunteer kitchen. It features a selection including tea, coffee, toast, breads, fresh fruits, cereals, assorted condiments, savory options like ham and eggs, and yogurt and cheese.
Although lunch is not provided, you have the flexibility to explore the diverse flavors of Peru. You can either use the fully equipped kitchen in your volunteer accommodation to prepare your meals or explore the nearby food stalls and restaurants for a taste of local cuisine.
Dinner offers a fusion of Peruvian and Western-style dishes. Featuring locally sourced ingredients, our menu provides pasta, rice, bread, corn, potatoes, vegetables, and flavorful chicken dishes.
Should you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, please inform us in advance, and we’ll make the necessary arrangements. While we strive to accommodate your needs, we also recommend bringing extra spending money for any personal dietary snacks. As a volunteer, flexibility is key, so expect some variation from your usual dining habits.
IVHQ volunteer orientation
IVHQ volunteer orientation
IVHQ volunteers dining
Typical volunteer breakfast
Typical volunteer breakfast
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer accommodation kitchen
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer communal area
Typical volunteer homestay
Pricing
Secure your place for just US$299 (approximately $299), pay your Program Fee later.
Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$299 (approximately $299) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.
You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.
Duration |
Program FeeDue 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
|
|---|---|
| 1 week | $285 Equivalent to $41/day |
| 2 weeks | $498 Equivalent to $36/day |
| 3 weeks | $710 Equivalent to $34/day |
| 4 weeks | $845 Equivalent to $30/day |
| 5 weeks | $984 Equivalent to $28/day |
| 6 weeks | $1,124 Equivalent to $27/day |
| 8 weeks | $1,414 Equivalent to $25/day |
| 10 weeks | $1,694 Equivalent to $24/day |
| 12 weeks | $1,974 Equivalent to $24/day |
- All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$299 (approximately $299) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
- A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
- Recommended spending money: Volunteers in Lima generally find US$50 - $100 per week to be sufficient for expenses, such as snacks, lunches, in-country tours, and Spanish language lessons.
- Anyone volunteering during the week before Christmas will have a one-off surcharge of US$70 added to their file when registering, for Christmas activities within the community.
- Breakfast and dinner
- Airport pick-up
- Accommodation
- 24/7 in-country support
- In-country program orientation
- Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
- Personalized preparation tools, guides and check lists
- Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
- Discounts on language lessons
- Discounts on travel and tour add-ons
- Certificate of International Volunteer Service
Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.
- Transport to and from your placement each day
- Return to the airport when your program finishes
- Lunch
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
- Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.
Popular add-ons & experiences in Lima
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ Lima program.
Full day bus tour in Lima
Discover the stunning beauty of Paracas and Huacachina from sailing the waters to exploring towering sand dunes and thrilling sandboarding adventures!
$177
Spanish Lessons
Elevate your volunteer experience in Lima with personalized Spanish lessons!
From $22
Private Room for Two
Upgrade to private room for you and your travel partner!
From $212
Spanish language lessons
Spanish language lessons are available for all volunteers regardless of their ability. IVHQ strongly recommends these for all volunteers, unless they are fluent in Spanish. If volunteers have little or no Spanish ability and are volunteering for a period longer than 2 weeks, they should strongly consider these courses, so they can work and communicate with all parties more effectively during their program. These language lessons can be pre-booked by the hour via your MyIVHQ profile and the class schedule confirmed on your arrival in Lima at your program orientation. The language lessons are tailored to each volunteer’s current level of Spanish. The cost is very affordable and offered exclusively to IVHQ volunteers at $20 (approximately $20) per hour for a private class.
Check what's required to visit Peru
Safety and support
Safety and support
IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.
- All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
- All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
- All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
- All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
Essential country information
Essential country information
| Capital | Lima |
| Population | 32 million |
| Languages | Spanish |
| Currency | Nuevo Sol (PEN) |
| Time zone | UTC-05:00 |
Weather and climate: Peru, unlike other equatorial countries, does not have an exclusively tropical climate; the influence of the Andes and the Humboldt Current causes great climatic diversity within the country. The coast has moderate temperatures, low precipitation, and high humidity, except for its warmer, wetter northern reaches. In the sierra, rain is frequent during summer, and temperature and humidity diminish with altitude up to the frozen peaks of the Andes. The jungle is characterized by heavy rainfall and high temperatures, except for its southernmost part, which has cold winters and seasonal rainfall.
Apply to check if you're eligible!
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