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Peru

Whether you're a history fan eager to explore the mystical ruins of Machu Picchu, an adventure seeker ready to hike the Inca Trail, or a nature lover yearning to discover the wonders of the Amazon rainforest - Peru has it all!

But beyond these awesome attractions, Peru offers a unique opportunity for volunteering. Through Workaway, you can immerse yourself in local communities, make a meaningful impact, and create unforgettable memories. If you crave an adventure like no other, here’s everything you need to know about Peru.

Peru at a Glance

As the third largest country in South America, Peru borders Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Chile to the south, Brazil and Bolivia to the east, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. Some would argue there are two main reasons nearly four million people flock to Peru each year – to hike and to eat! As a bonus it also happens to be one of the cheapest countries in South America !

It is a country of contrasts; from the towering Andes to the lush Amazon rainforest. The capital city, Lima , is home to over 10 million people and is known for its stunning colonial architecture and incredible foodie scene. The country boasts a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of indigenous and Spanish influences.

If there’s one thing you’ve heard about Peru, it’s likely the ancient Incan city of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Wonders of the World. In addition to Machu Picchu, Peru is also home to many other fascinating archaeological sites, such as the Nazca Lines and the Chan Chan ruins.

If you're looking for an adventure, Peru is the place to go. It is also home to Lake Titicaca, one of South America's largest lakes and the world’s highest navigable body of water. As well as the Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons on the planet. You can hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, go white-water rafting on the Urubamba River, or trek through the Amazon jungle.

Then when you're ready to relax, indulge in the country’s famous food, which is a fusion of indigenous and European flavours. You cannot leave the country without trying ceviche, a delicious blend of fresh seafood marinated in citrus juices and spices. Another must-try delicacy is roasted guinea pig (yup, guinea pig!) known as cuy, which is deeply rooted in Peruvian tradition.

Although Peru is a country full of natural wonders, fascinating history, and adventure, that's still not the best part. The best part is with nearly 300 Workaway hosts in Peru , it could not be easier to live like a local and explore this epic destination first hand!

Reasons to volunteer in Peru

1. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture: By volunteering in Peru, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the community, learn about their traditions, and make meaningful connections with local people. You'll leave with a deeper appreciation and understanding of Peruvian culture that you wouldn't get from just passing through as a tourist.
2. Make a positive impact: By volunteering in Peru, you have the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that address important issues such as education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and community development. You'll be part of initiatives that aim to make a real difference in the lives of local communities - all without expensive agency fees !
3. Learn Spanish:  Peru is a fantastic destination to learn or improve your Spanish skills. Volunteering is one of the best ways to learn a language . This is because you’ll be communicating with locals, navigating daily life, and working on projects. All of which will open doors to new friendships and opportunities.
4. Explore stunning landscapes: With epic landscapes on your doorstep, there is so much fun to be had when the work is done. Volunteering provides a chance to venture off the beaten path, hike ancient trails, spot exotic wildlife, and soak in the natural wonders that make Peru truly incredible.
5. Forever Friendships: Sure, you can vibe with others in a hostel, or meet people on group tours but the connections you make volunteering are a whole new level. With so many hosts to choose from it’s easy to find like-minded individuals who share your passion for adventure and making a difference. It's an opportunity to forge lifelong friendships, exchange travel stories, and create unforgettable memories together.
6. Taste the incredible cuisine: Volunteering is one of the best ways to travel through your tastebuds  and Peru is a gastronomic paradise! By living with a local you won’t only indulge in mouthwatering dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and causa but likely learn how to make them too!
7. Experience the warmth and hospitality of the Peruvian people: Peruvians are known for their warmth, friendliness, and hospitality. Volunteering offers a unique opportunity to connect with locals, share stories, learn from their wisdom, and create lasting bonds with the incredibly welcoming people of Peru.

Is Peru safe to visit?

When it comes to safety, Peru is generally considered a safe country for travellers. Popular tourist areas like Cusco, Machu Picchu, Lima, and the Sacred Valley have a strong security presence, ensuring the well-being of visitors.

However, as with any travel destination, it's important to exercise caution and be mindful of your surroundings. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded areas or public transport, so always keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying large sums of cash. To stay safe, it’s also recommended to only use registered taxis (especially for women travelling solo ) and avoid walking alone at night.

Follow our safety tips , especially if travelling solo  and always stay vigilant. By using common-sense and staying informed about local conditions, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the wonders of Peru. Finally, as always, don't forget travel insurance ! Not only will it cover you from lost or stolen belongings, but it can also cover medical costs, cancelled flights and more.

As a tip, altitude sickness will probably be your biggest safety concern when travelling in Peru. If you plan on hiking, you will need to make sure your travel insurance will cover you. Many cheaper policies exclude coverage for hiking above 2,500m - 3,000m so double check you’ve found a good policy before you sign up!

Regional Highlights of Peru

Now you’re armed with reasons to visit and our top safety tips, it’s time to plan where to go. Peru is divided politically into 24 departments but geographically into three regions. These regions are known as Costa (coast), Sierra (highlands) and Selva (jungle).

The Costa region is located to the west and is mainly arid. This is where you’ll find the capital city of Lima. The Sierra region is home to Andes and includes the Altiplano plateau as well as the highest peak in the country, Huascarán at 6,768 m (22,205 ft.) Selva, the third region is mainly flat terrain covered by the Amazon rainforest. In fact, almost 60 percent of the country’s area is located within this region!

Each region has its own unique characteristics, which we’ve summarised to help inspire your perfect Peruvian adventure…

Costa

As the smallest of the three regions, Costa covers only 12 percent of the country’s land but contains around 53 percent of the population. This is where you’ll find the capital city Lima which is considered the gateway to Peru for many travellers. While most of the region is desert, there is still so much to see and do. A few highlights include:

Regional Highlights of Costa

• Lima: Step back in time and wander through the narrow streets of the Historic Centre of Lima, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you'll find magnificent colonial architecture and ancient churches. Then head for the trendy, bohemian vibes of Miraflores and Barranco. Here you can stroll along the scenic coastal cliffs, visit art galleries, enjoy the bustling nightlife, and indulge in delicious Peruvian foodie finds. Sounds good? Check out Workaway hosts in Lima .
  
• Huacachina Oasis:  Located around five kilometres from the city of Ica and 5 hours from Lima, the Huacachina Oasis is a stunning natural oasis in the middle of the desert. Home to the largest sand dunes in South America, it is an incredibly unique destination that is Peru's fastest growing destination,.You can admire the Sahara-like sand dunes, relax on the lagoon or even enjoy sand buggy or sand boarding rides.  
  
• Paracas National Reserve:  Nature lovers will adore The Paracas National Reserve. It is a protected area on the coast that’s home to a variety of wildlife, including sea lions, penguins, and dolphins. It's a great place to take a boat tour and explore the dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches.

La Sierra

This region is home to the Andes mountains, one of the most iconic features of Peru as they offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. Some of the world's highest mountains can be found here, like the Huascaran (6768 m) and the Yerupaja (6634 m). This region is also where you can learn about the ancient Inca heritage through landmarks such as Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

Regional Highlights of La Sierra

• Machu Picchu: No trip to Peru would be complete without a visit to Machu Picchu. This ancient Inca citadel is one of the most famous landmarks in South America. There are a number of routes to choose from along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The route you opt for will depend on your fitness, budget and time allowance. The Classic Inca Trail route is a moderate 26 mile hike. On average it takes 4 days to complete, while reaching a maximum elevation of 13,828 feet (4,215 metres).
  
• Cusco and The Sacred Valley: The city of Cusco is famous for its spectacular main square, cobbled streets, and terracotta tiled houses that will remind you of European villages. If you’re travelling on a budget,  the best way to explore the city’s world famous architecture is with a free walking tour . Look out for the red T-shirts of the tour guide at Portal de Carnes, Cusco 08002 . They offer tours in English and Spanish every day at 9:45 am, 12:30 pm, and 3:00 pm.
  
  The Sacred Valley is the region surrounding Cusco, and it's home to a number of Inca ruins and traditional villages. It's a great place to explore on foot or by bike. As a tip, it’s best to visit Cusco and the Sacred Valley right before peak season in April – May or just after peak season in September or October before the rainy season. The weather is still good during these times but you’ll avoid the crowds! Check out hosts in Cusco  here.
  
• Rainbow Mountain: Rainbow Mountain is a stunning natural wonder in the Andes that's become increasingly popular in recent years (thanks, Instagram!) It was actually hidden under thick layers of snow and ice until 2015, so visiting here is still relatively new. The colourful stripes on the mountain are caused by mineral deposits and can look a different colour depending on the time of day or year.
  
  The trail to Rainbow Mountain starts just outside the town of Pitumarca, making it a 2-hour drive from Cusco. Altitude sickness is a big issue for those visiting Rainbow Mountain, so while the views are breathtaking it's recommended to only spend 20-30 minutes at the top.
  
• Colca Canyon: Fun fact, although it’s not nearly as world-famous as the Grand Canyon in the USA, the Colca Canyon is twice as deep, making it the deepest canyon on earth! It is also home to the Andean condor, one of the largest birds in the world. As well as the breathtaking views, here you can enjoy rafting, climbing and trekking. You will also find many other typical highland animals including alpacas, vizcachas and pumas.

Selva

The Amazon rainforest is one of the most biodiverse regions on earth, and it's home to a staggering array of wildlife and plant life. Whether you’re an eco-warrior  wanting to spread the word on sustainability, or fancy trialling an off grid lifestyle  with a remote community, the selva region offers a unique destination to volunteer in Peru.

• Manu National Park: As one of the most biodiverse areas on Earth, Manu National Park boasts an incredible array of plant and animal species. It is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve, protecting over 1.5 million hectares of pristine rainforest, cloud forest, and Andean landscapes. Here you will find iconic wildlife species such as jaguars, giant otters, tapirs, macaws, and an incredible variety of monkeys, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers!
• Iquitos: Iquitos is the largest city in the world that's inaccessible by road. This means you can only reach it via air or waterways. It is a unique blend of urban civilization and untamed natural beauty so is a great place to base yourself for exploring the Amazon in Peru . It's a vibrant and bustling city renowned for its markets where you can purchase traditional crafts and exotic fruits as well as book wildlife excursions or tours. Check out hosts in Iquitos  here.
• Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve: As a protected area in the Amazon it is home to more than 1,400 plant species, 449 bird species, 102 mammal species, and numerous reptiles, amphibians, and fish. This includes iconic Amazonian creatures such as pink river dolphins and giant river otters. It covers an extensive area of approximately 20,800 square kilometres (8,000 square miles).
  
  The Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve is particularly unique due to its flooded forest ecosystem. This means during the rainy season, large areas of the reserve become submerged under water. This creates a unique habitat for wildlife as well as stunning landscapes of winding waterways and mirrored reflections, promising an unforgettable visit!
  
• Tambopata National Reserve: The Tambopata National Reserve is another protected area in the Amazon that's home to a huge variety of wildlife. It is particularly famous for the unique phenomenon known as “macaw clay licks.” This is where vibrant macaws and parrots gather to feed on the mineral-rich clay. This creates a spectacular display of colourful birds, making it a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts. Additionally, the reserve offers opportunities for jungle trekking, riverboat tours, and cultural encounters with local indigenous communities, providing an immersive experience in the Amazon rainforest.

Volunteering in Peru

Volunteering in Peru is a unique opportunity to make a positive impact while immersing yourself in the country's culture and world famous natural beauty. Such diverse regions means a vast range of volunteering opportunities, from the arid coastline to the Andes mountains, we have hosts dotted all over the country.

By volunteering in Peru with Workaway, you can gain valuable skills and make lifelong friendships all while having an unforgettable adventure!   As the world’s leading community for volunteering and cultural exchange, Workaway is the perfect platform to connect with locals and discover their way of life while making a difference.

Whether you are a solo backpacker trying to find a travel buddy , recently retired  or setting off on a grown up gap year  – your perfect host is only a few clicks away. Best of all, you can join as a solo traveller, as a couple, or even as a family. For a small membership fee, you’ll have access to over hundreds of hosts in Peru as well as 50,000 volunteer opportunities in 170 countries worldwide - all for less than the price of a night in a hotel.

In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your host will usually provide free accommodation, meals and a cultural exchange you’ll never find from the guide books. Whether you want to care for alpacas along the Inca Trail, live (and eat!) like a local in Lima or escape to the depths of the jungle in Iquitos,   with Workaway you can turn your Peruvian dreams into reality!

Making a difference in Peru

Volunteering in Peru is the best way to give back while experiencing the country's rich culture, diverse landscape, and warm hospitality. Thanks to the country’s diverse regions there are many ways you can make a difference in the lives of people, the environment, and the wildlife.

By contributing your time and skills you will help create lasting change and make a positive difference in communities across the country. All while living like a local, devouring delicious Peruvian treats and making friendships for life.

Unsure where to start? Check out our guide to the different types of volunteering  which includes a fun quiz to match your personality with your dream project!

Here are some of the ways you can make a difference in Peru:

Amazon Rainforest:  As one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, the Amazon is under threat from deforestation and environmental degradation. Volunteers can support wildlife conservation, permaculture projects or eco-tourism initiatives as well as help to educate local communities on sustainable practices.

Andean Communities: Many communities in the Andes Mountains struggle with poverty and lack access to basic resources like clean water and healthcare. This means there is a demand for volunteers to help with construction projects, teaching English, and preserving traditional culture.  

Coastal Communities:  Peru has more than 2500km of coastline dotted with impressive beaches. However, coastal communities have been impacted by climate change, overfishing, and pollution. Volunteers can help by working on beach clean-up projects, marine conservation and educating local communities on sustainable fishing practices. It’s also an epic destination for those interested in surfing. There are many ways surf fans can volunteer with Workaway  all over the world, or use surf as a keyword to find hosts in Peru .

Urban Centers: In locations such as Lima, Cusco, Arequipa there is a demand for volunteers to support education programs for disadvantaged children, support social welfare initiatives, engage in community outreach projects and promote sustainable urban development. For those looking to volunteer as a teacher  or build up experience working with children, Workaway is a great way to get your CV top of the pile .

Wildlife Conservation & Animal Rescue:  Peru is home to a variety of unique and endangered species, including llamas, alpacas, condors, and jaguars. Animal rescue centres provide care and rehabilitation for animals that have been injured, abandoned, or mistreated. Volunteers can help by providing care for the animals, building enclosures, and assisting with educational programs. Check out our guide to workawaying with animalsl  for everything you need to know!

How to find a Workaway host in Peru

Firstly, you can use the destinations above as a guide or you can use your skills and interests as keywords in the search box . This will help you to find your perfect Workaway host in Peru. For example, do you want to teach English in Iquitos? Promote eco-tourism in Cusco? Or learn to surf in the surfing Mecca of Mancora ?

Struggling to pick a project? Don’t panic! When you join Workaway  you are not limited to just one Workaway experience or host. Your membership allows you to access over 50,000 volunteer opportunities across 170 countries. As mentioned Peru shares its borders with Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Brazil and Bolivia. Best of all, we have hosts in each of those countries too!

Whether you're drawn to the vibrant communities, the inspiring natural wonders, or the fascinating wildlife, Peru has something for everyone who seeks adventure with a purpose. It is the perfect place to step out of your comfort zone, immerse yourself in a new culture, and leave a positive impact on the lives of others.  With Workaway you can join thousands of others who are helping to create a brighter future while exploring the wonders of this extraordinary country!