11 Reasons to Volunteer in Mexico
Hola amigo! Welcome to Mexico - famed for rich history, vibrant culture, and jaw-dropping natural beauty. With over 6,000 miles of pristine coastline and 33 UNESCO World Heritage sites, it's a paradise for adventure fans too.
From the sandy beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula to the ancient Maya ruins that'll transport you back in time, if the scenery doesn’t win your heart, the food and local people most certainly will.
But what makes Mexico a stand out destination to volunteer and not just visit? Why should you drag yourself away from the beautiful beach resorts and dive into the local communities instead? Let us explain…
Reasons to Volunteer in Mexico
1. Learn Spanish in no time!
With over 460 million native speakers, Spanish is the second most widely spoken language in the world. Not only is it the official language in 21 countries, including Argentina, Colombia, Costa Rica, Peru, Spain, and Chile but Mexico too. In fact, Mexico has the largest number of native Spanish speakers in the world - over 125 million people!
So why does this make it a good reason to volunteer in Mexico? Well, on average it takes 600-750 hours to become proficient in a new language. Imagine how many days you’d need glued to apps or audiobooks, to make up those numbers!
Instead, by volunteering you can totally immerse yourself in Mexican culture and pick up Spanish in no time. Workaway is one of the best ways to learn Spanish as you’ll be surrounded by the language 24/7. You’ll also have patient hosts on hand to practise with and ask any questions to.
As a tip, use our “find a language buddy” tool before you set off. This will help you learn a few basic phrases before your Mexican adventure. Fancy teaching a language instead? Workaway is also one of the best ways to travel the world as a language teacher. Not only does it provide hands-on experience that will boost your CV, but it can help boost your confidence in the classroom too.
2. Live Like a Local
It’s not only language that Mexico can help you with. As a nation, Mexicans are renowned for their warmth and generosity. Whether it’s showing you how to make the best homemade guacamole or letting you join in the famous Jarabe Tapatío (the Mexican Hat Dance), they will open their hearts and homes without question, making you feel like part of the family with ease.
This makes it easy to befriend the locals in Mexico and make genuine connections. With such a friendly and tolerant nation, it’s no wonder we have over 600 hosts in Mexico ready to share their homes with you! Instead of the usual beach resorts where you’ll be surrounded by other tourists, by volunteering in Mexico with Workaway, you can live like a local, eat like a local, and make unforgettable memories.
From diving schools to organic farms, hostels to house sitting - Mexico has it all. Overwhelmed where to start? Take a peek at our guide to the different types of volunteering which includes a fun quiz to help you pick your next project!
3. Let's Taco 'bout Food
This could easily be the only reason you need to volunteer in Mexico – the food! Known for its bold flavours, vibrant colours, and fresh ingredients, nowhere else does cuisine quite like it.
From tacos to tamales, there are countless dishes to treat your tastebuds. Best of all, by volunteering in Mexico you won’t just get to eat like a local, but learn how to cook like a local too! By staying with a Workaway host, you’ll learn those secret family recipes, those sneaky shortcuts and the local dishes that you’ll never have the opportunity to learn (or eat!) anywhere else.
Alongside the famous Mexican dishes you’ve heard of already, here are a few you must try:
- Chilaquiles: Breakfast is a big deal in Mexico and chilaquiles is a cherished morning delight that takes breakfast to a whole new level. This beloved dish stars lightly fried tortilla pieces that are then generously dressed with salsa and topped with your favourite breakfast foods such as eggs, cheese, cream, or chicken. Not forgetting a generous side of refried beans, known as frijoles.
- Chiles en nogada: As delicious as it is patriotic, this dish mirrors the Mexican flag's colours. It starts with fruits, spices, and chopped meat stuffed into Poblano chiles (the green) then a drizzling of creamy walnut sauce (the white) and a sprinkling of pomegranate seeds to finish for the red.
- Elote: We get it, what’s so special about corn? Although elote translates to corn on the cob, in Mexico they take it from ordinary to extraordinary. It is often served with an abundance of spices and garnishes such as lime, sour cream, salt, chilli powder, cheese, and more!
4. It's the Home of Chocolate
Talking of food, did you know that chocolate is originally from Mexico? The cocoa plant is native to the south, and Mayans considered it a gift from the gods. Chocolate has played an important political, spiritual and economic role in ancient Mesoamerican civilizations for centuries.
Originally locals would roast cacao beans then ground them into a paste before mixing it with water, vanilla, chilli peppers and other spices to create a delicious drink. Centuries later, not much has changed as drinking it warm is still the main way chocolate is enjoyed in Mexico. Although if you can, indulge in the irresistible churros or chocolate croissants which you’ll come across in the south especially.
Instead of just eating the chocolate, why not learn how to grow it too? By volunteering on a farmstay in Mexico you can be part of the entire harvesting process from bean to bar (or cup!)
5. Opportunities for Adventure
Don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to burn off those cacao calories! From the stunning sandy beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula to the rugged mountains of the Sierra Madre and the beautiful deserts of Baja California, Mexico feels like several countries in one. This means endless opportunities for adventure in the great outdoors.
Whether it's diving into the majestic cenotes in the Yucatan, kite surfing at La Ventana, hiking the Copper Canyon in Chihuahua, swimming in the lakes, lagoons, cenotes and waterfalls in Chiapas or admiring the epic Popocatepetl volcano - you could say Mexico has A LOT of adventure on offer.
By volunteering, you won’t just get to visit these highlights, but explore the hidden gems too. Swap expensive tours where you’ll be battling the crowds for a local family, farmer or even furry friend! With a local as your tour guide you’ll get to embrace the adventures off the beaten track that the guide books don’t know about.
6. The Party!
Arriba! As the tequila capital of the world, it’s no secret that Mexico knows how to party. Whether you want to dance until sunrise or enjoy beers on the beach with friends, there is something for all types of traveller.
Not to mention, one of the best ways to truly experience the cultural traditions of a country is to celebrate with them. While hotels and airlines hike up their prices during these festivities, you’ll get to enjoy them safe in the knowledge you’re staying with a local - for free!
There are SO many ways to celebrate in Mexico with famous festivals throughout the year. One of the best things about volunteering is that you can be part of the party, but also the community too. You’ll learn the traditions, music, dances and dishes from a local’s perspective, not just the overpriced tourist version.
You can even be part of the preparations, with artist residencies, music workshops and schools all looking for volunteers to help create the magic of a Mexican fiesta.
Ready to party? Take note of these dates:
- Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead): Celebrated from October 31st to November 2nd, this festival is a vibrant and meaningful commemoration of deceased loved ones. It features colourful ofrendas (offerings), parades, sugar skulls, and marigold flowers. Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, Merida hosts one of the best Dia de los Muertos celebrations in Mexico - best of all we have over a dozen of hosts in Merida alone!
- Cinco de Mayo: Although often associated with Mexican independence, Cinco de Mayo actually commemorates the Battle of Puebla on May 5th. It's celebrated with parades, traditional music, and dance. The most obvious place to celebrate is in Puebla, where the battle first took place. It’s also home to over 20 Workaway hosts!
- Fiesta de la Candelaria: Taking place on February 2nd, this religious festival marks the conclusion of the Christmas season. It features processions, traditional costumes, and music.
- Guelaguetza Festival: Held every July in Oaxaca City, the Guelaguetza is a two-week-long event celebrating the indigenous cultures of Oaxaca. It showcases traditional dances, music, and regional performances.
- Mexican Carnival: Often referred to as "Carnaval" in Spanish, it’s a lively and colourful celebration that takes place in various regions of Mexico in the days leading up to Lent, usually in February or March. While the specific dates and customs can vary from one location to another, some of the most renowned Mexican Carnivals are held in Veracruz, the island of Cozumel, Mazatlán and the city of Ensenada in Baja California.
- Independence Day (El Grito): Celebrated on the night of September 15th, this holiday marks Mexico's independence from Spanish colonial rule with lively street parties, fireworks, and the traditional "El Grito'' ceremony. Although it's celebrated all over the country, many would agree Guanajuato in central Mexico, is the best place to celebrate.
- Festival Cervantino: Also held in Guanajuato (where we have over 20 hosts!) this international arts and culture festival is one of the most prominent in Latin America. It features music, theatre, dance, and visual arts performances.
- Semana Santa (Holy Week): Observed during the week leading up to Easter, Semana Santa features religious processions, reenactments, and a blend of Christian and indigenous traditions.
7. It's Paradise Without the Price Tag
In a country of 32 states, it would be unfair to label the entire country “cheap.” Like all destinations there are expensive areas and budget friendly regions. Generally speaking however, Mexico is affordable for most budgets.
If you stick with street food or "comida corrida," (a set menu at a fixed price) you can dine out for as little as $5. Coffee costs as little as $1 and beer the same. Expect to spend around $10-15 a night for a dorm bed, and $30 for a private room - or free when staying with a Workaway host! This makes Mexico ideal for those travelling on a budget.
Not only is Mexico well connected (especially if you’re travelling from the US or hopping over from central America) but domestic travel is inexpensive. If you start your trip in a large city like Mexico City or Guadalajara, you can find domestic flights for as little as $50USD or $20USD for a bus ride to most other parts of the country.
This also means it’s easy to enjoy the benefits of slow travel as every corner of the country is accessible on a budget - especially if you’re using Workaway. You can take your time and head off the beaten path with hosts in every region of the country without rushing from one overpriced tourist spot to the next.
8. Live Your Digital Nomad Dream
If the food, fiestas and financial savings haven’t sold you on Volunteering in Mexico already, maybe making money while discovering Mexico will? You may be interested to know it is one of the best destinations for digital nomads. Thanks to affordable accommodation and adventure on your doorstep it's easy to see why many remote workers choose Mexico to perfect that work life balance.
Popular destinations for digital nomads include:
- Mexico City: As Mexico’s capital, there are endless things to eat, see and do. Digital nomads like the safe and trendy neighbourhoods of Roma, La Condesa, Reforma and Polanco in particular. Plus, it's an easy day trip to famous attractions such as Teotihuacán (home to the ancient pyramids of the Sun and Moon), the UNESCO World Heritage site of Puebla and Popocatépetl, one of Mexico's most active volcanoes.
- Playa del Carmen: This once-sleepy fishing village is now a bustling hub of expats, retirees, and digital nomads. Thanks to speedy internet and endless adventure, it’s no wonder there is a growing digital nomad community here. After a long day on your laptop there are Mayan ruins to explore, cenotes to swim in and beautiful beaches calling your name!
- Tulum: Tulum is a digital nomad's dream. It combines pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and a growing coworking scene. Enjoy the relaxed bohemian atmosphere, work from beachfront cafes, and explore ancient Mayan ruins. With reliable Wi-Fi and a backdrop of turquoise waters, Tulum beckons remote workers who want to blend work and play.
As a tip, If you’re thinking of volunteering in Mexico and checking out the destinations above, did you know many of our hosts welcome digital nomads? Just make sure to tick the box for “digital nomad friendly” when filtering the host search results.
9. UNESCO Sites
Mexico is a haven for history fans as its home to an insane amount of UNESCO protected sites. As well 35 properties inscribed on the UNESCO Heritage Site or Biosphere Reserve list, there are 9 cities that are fully or partly protected – Mexico City, Oaxaca, Puebla, Guanajuato, Morelia, Zacatecas, Queretaro, Tlacotalpan and Campeche.
For nature lovers, there are also six natural sites worth exploring including the Sonoran Desert, the Monarch Butterfly reserve, Prehistoric caves of Yagul and the endangered islands and protected areas of the Gulf of California.
With so many precious areas in one place, it's no wonder conservation, eco-tourism and environmental projects are in need of volunteers! Not only will you get to play your part protecting these incredible areas, but live amongst the incredible surroundings too. Who wants to sit by a pool when you can be helping to protect our precious planet instead?
10. Wonderful Weather
Craving some sunshine? You won’t be disappointed with Mexico! While temperatures can vary by season and altitude, many areas experience comfortable, sunny, and warm conditions throughout the year.
In particular, The Central Mexican Plateau has consistently pleasant, spring-like weather across much of the country. This region includes major cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, and Puebla. Coastal areas like Cancún and Puerto Vallarta also offer pleasant weather, making them ideal destinations for those seeking sunshine and outdoor activities.
To help plan your Workaway adventure, the best time to visit for favourable weather is during the dry season from November to April. In Summer, expect hotter and more humid conditions, with temperatures averaging around 77-86°F (25-30°C) in coastal areas. Winter is milder, with averages of 68-77°F (20-25°C).
11. Vitamin Sea
With high temperatures and nearly 10,000 km of coastline, it is no surprise Mexico is a place of amazing beaches, surf and snorkelling spots. From cosy coves without the crowds to sandy beaches neighbouring the jungle and ancient ruins - your vitamin sea fix won’t be hard to find. It also means there are endless ways to support marine conservation, sailing or boating hosts, diving schools and surf camps.
With over 500 beaches in Mexico to choose from, here are a handful of highlights for your beach bucket list:
- Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca: Known for its massive barrels, Puerto Escondido is a world-renowned surf spot, especially at Zicatela Beach, where you'll find some of the most challenging waves in Mexico. Perfect for those who want to make waves with Workaway!
- Tulum Beach, Quintana Roo: Tulum's beach offers a mix of surfing and stunning coastal scenery. It is famous for its dramatic coastline with ancient Mayan ruins perched on a cliff overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea.
- Playa Balandra, Baja California Sur: This beach is known for its unique landscapes, including a shallow, turquoise lagoon surrounded by striking desert scenery. It's often considered one of the most beautiful beaches on the Baja Peninsula.
- Isla Holbox, Quintana Roo: Located off the Yucatan Peninsula, Isla Holbox is a prime destination to swim with whale sharks, particularly from June to September. The warm waters attract these gentle giants, offering a unique opportunity for snorkelers to observe and swim alongside them.
- Playa Zipolite, Oaxaca: This beach is renowned for its laid-back and bohemian atmosphere. It's located on the Oaxacan coast and offers a beautiful, unspoiled stretch of sand perfect for relaxation.
- Playa de Amor (Hidden Beach), Marietas Islands, Nayarit: Feeling really adventurous? This beach is unique as it's hidden within a crater on one of the Marietas Islands. To reach it, visitors often have to swim through a tunnel. The secluded and picturesque setting makes it one of Mexico's most enchanting beaches.
- Akumal, Quintana Roo: Akumal's calm and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal location for snorkelling with sea turtles. The bay is home to green and loggerhead turtles, with snorkelling available year-round.
Hopefully this guide has opened your eyes to not only Mexico’s enchanting landscapes and vibrant culture but an even greater treasure - the opportunity to make a difference. As you immerse yourself in the heartwarming communities and contribute to meaningful projects, you’ll discover a side of Mexico that goes beyond those beach resorts or postcard perfect scenes. Volunteering isn’t just a chance to explore paradise, it's a chance to leave a lasting impact and make friends for life. ¡Vamos a México!
About Lauren
Growing up in a small coastal village in Scotland inspired Lauren to seek adventure and challenge the norm. Armed with just her backpack and trusty travel companion Darren, she quit her day job to liv
