Volunteering in Cusco, Peru

Learn / Improve your Spanish & Teach English as a Foreign Language

We need volunteers with TEFL skills to work in community owned schools in Peru.  The work is important as the area is deprived and being able to speak English allows individuals and communities to benefit from being involved in tourism.  Your efforts will make a difference to many people.

The work

Teaching posts are available in a number of areas in Peru, most are in the Cuzco Province.

Cuzco Province map

Located in the south eastern section of the Peruvian Andes, the province of Cuzco is at a fairly high altitude (3250m / 10662ft).  The word Cuzco is probably derived from the Quechuan word "qosqo" which means the centre or navel.  From this point there are many ancient pathways radiating out to all parts of South America.  It is from here that thousands of hikers a year tackle to trek to Machu Picchu, the "Lost City of the Incas". This being one of many hundreds of archaeological wonders in the region.  Nearby to the east is the Amazon rainforest, with thousands of natural wonders to be seen.

The Climate

There is a dry season and a wet season, with November to March being the wet season.  Temperatures are fairly constant throughout the year due to the proximity to the equator, with an average of 12 degrees C in the period November to March and 9 degrees in the remaining period. The nights can be freezing in the winter or at any time if at higher altitudes.

Getting There

Cuzco is easily reached by air or road from Lima and regional airports and cities / towns. It is about 1050km from Lima and 450km from Arequipa.

Airfare to Lima
As a guide, the international airfare should be about GBP700 / USD1100 for economy class. The departure taxes are about GBP65 USD110 in total.

Lima to Cuzco
You can either fly or take a bus to Cuzco, we would prefer you taking the bus as there is less pollution involved.  Flights cost about USD95 one way and take off in the morning, most days.  the bus is 

Visas
A visa is not required for passport holders of most countries.

Personal Insurance
Comprehensive personal travel insurance is required.