Offer NGO Support While Visiting Quito

Ecuador's capital, Quito, is a vibrant and culturally rich city nestled in the Andean mountains. The city is known for its diverse climate, ranging from temperate conditions in the city to tropical lowlands and the lush Amazon jungle nearby. The city's rich history and dynamic atmosphere make it a fascinating place to explore. As a volunteer in Quito, you'll engage in meaningful work supporting local NGOs, assisting with tasks such as administrative duties, fundraising, marketing, and helping children from underprivileged backgrounds. Your mornings start with a hearty breakfast, followed by travel to your placement. Afternoons offer opportunities for Spanish lessons, city exploration, or preparation for the next day, while evenings can be spent enjoying local cuisine or participating in social activities like salsa lessons or movie nights. Weekends provide ample time to explore Quito and its surroundings. Volunteers can delve into the city's rich history at the historical center, enjoy panoramic views from the El Teleferico cable car, or hike and horseback ride to the Guagua Pichincha volcano summit. Coastal excursions for snorkeling or visits to the pristine beaches of Los Frailes will also be an option for volunteers who are looking to add something more to their trip. For the more adventurous, jungle excursions reveal Ecuador's unique wildlife, including toucans and monkeys, and longer weekends can be spent exploring national parks or the renowned Galapagos Islands.

As the world's #1 rated volunteer travel organization, IVHQ aims to provide travelers with affordable volunteer travel, ethical and responsible practices within the organization, cultural diversity, and the chance to make an impact in the world. While also offering internships abroad and other travel adventures, IVHQ is determined to make travel and making a difference accessible to everyone. Starting at $360 per person, and has a minimum of 1 week and a maximum of 12 weeks running time. IVHQ programs include breakfast, airport pick-up, accommodation, 24/7 in-country support, discounts on language lessons and travel and tour add-ons, a certificate of International Volunteer Service, and more.

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Walk the Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain Day Hike

Spend an unforgettable day hiking Peru’s awe-inspiring Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, a natural marvel painted with vivid hues of red, gold, and turquoise by mineral deposits. Towering at over 16,500 feet above sea level in the Andes, this trek is perfect for adventurers eager to experience one of the world’s most surreal landscapes. This hike is moderately to highly challenging due to the altitude rather than the terrain. While the trail is not technically difficult, a good level of fitness and prior acclimatization to high altitudes is strongly recommended to enjoy the experience safely and comfortably. On the journey, the traveler will pass through remote Andean villages, herds of Alpacas, and breathtaking vistas of snow-capped Ausangate Mountain, a sacred peak in Incan mythology and the highest in the Cusco region. The colors of Rainbow Mountain itself–believed to represent the energy of the Pachamama (Mother of Earth)--are a rare geologic wonder and the ultimate reward at the summit. If seeking dramatic scenery, cultural richness, and a true high-altitude adventure, the Rainbow Mountain day hike is the perfect Andean escape.

This 1-day trip costs $270 per person. The trip is led by Follow Alice, an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities.

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Escape to Peru’s Machu Picchu

Beginning in Cusco, the oldest city in the country, travelers will have the chance to explore the city before departing for Machu Picchu. Here, they can enjoy the old capital of the Inca Empire with a morning tour and enjoy the city’s gorgeous architecture. The next day, travelers will venture to the historic Sacred Valley, which is full of farmland, Inca ruins, and Spanish towns. Travelers will also visit the Maras Salt Flats before they start on the Classic Inca Trail for Machu Picchu the next day. During this trek, travelers will first climb up into alpine grassland and cross Dead Woman’s Pass, where they will see more Inca ruins and gorgeous views. The most challenging day of hiking will also provide a chance to see wildlife such as Himalayan deer, Andean condors, and more. Travelers will reach Machu Picchu at the historic Sun Gate by day seven of this trip. Travelers will then be driven back to Cusco before departing the next day.

Follow Alice is an outfitter focused on adventure trips worldwide. All guides are local, and 70% of all trip prices stay in the local economy. The company started in 2014 when the cofounder, Reto, climbed Kilimanjaro with Chris, a local Tanzanian guide, and the two teamed up to form Follow Alice.

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Explore the Amazon in Peru

The Peruvian Amazon is home to approximately ten percent of the world’s biodiversity and is the second-largest expanse of the Amazon rainforest. On this trip, travelers will spend four days enjoying the rainforest, beginning with a climb to the high lookout tower in the Refugio Amazonas lodge. The next day, travelers will explore the Tambopata River, known for its colorful scenery, where they will get the chance to bird watch. Then, travelers will head to Condenado Lake to see more wildlife, such as otters and capybaras. There will also be time for the option to visit an organic farm. Then, travelers will visit a Brazilian nut farm to see the large chestnut trees before going on a guided walk into the rainforest to learn about the medicinal properties of the local vegetation. Travelers will then head back to Puerto Maldonado via boat ride before departure.

Follow Alice is an outfitter focused on adventure trips worldwide. All guides are local and 70% of all trip prices stay in the local economy. The company started in 2014 when the cofounder, Reto, climbed Kilimanjaro with Chris, a local Tanzanian guide, and the two teamed up to form Follow Alice.

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Explore Lima’s Cuisine and Peruvian History

Bring yourself on a three-day journey through Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital, where colonial charm meets culinary excellence. This low-intensity adventure is perfect for travelers of all ages who love food, culture, and storytelling. Explore the bohemian Barranco district, famous for its colorful street art and the romantic Bridge of Sighs. Wander through Lima’s UNESCO-listed Historic Centre to discover grand colonial landmarks like the cathedral, government palace, and the San Francisco Monastery with its fascinating catacombs. Dive into Peru’s rich food culture with a guided market tour and hands-on cooking class, where travelers will prepare classics such as ceviche, a traditional Latin-American dish made from raw fish or seafood marinated in citrus juice–and lomo saltado, a Peruvian stir-fry with strips of beef sauteed alongside red onions, tomatoes, soy sauce, vinegar, a type of yellow chili pepper native to the land (Aji Amarillo), garlic, and other spices. Additionally, travelers will learn the secrets of Peru’s national drink in a Pisco Sour workshop. Whether sampling exotic fruits, admiring Spanish architecture, or learning local legends, this immersive experience offers a delicious as well as insightful taste of Peru’s past and present–all in the coastal heart of the country.

This 3-day trip costs $485 per person. The trip is led by Follow Alice–an adventure travel company known for its ethical, community-centered approach to tourism. Founded in 2014 after cofounder Reto climbed Kilimanjaro with local Tanzanian guide Chris, Follow Alice was born out of a shared passion for exploration and cultural connection. Today, all of their guides are local, and 70% of each trip’s cost remains within the local economy, supporting sustainable travel as well as empowering communities.

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Immerse Yourself in Peru’s Nature and Culture

This trip is perfect for the curious and outdoorsy adventurer, as travelers will spend five days in the Peruvian Amazon. Upon arrival, travelers will have the chance to climb the high lookout tower at Refugio Amazonas lodge (where they will be staying) to see various birds such as macaws and toucans. The next day, travelers will head down to the Tambopata River to see hundreds of parrots come together to create a colorful display. Then, travelers will walk around Lake Condendado to see other wildlife such as otters and capybaras. There is also an opportunity to visit a local organic farm. Travelers will then visit a nearby mammal clay lick to spot even more wildlife, such as white-lipped peccaries, before having the chance to go on a mountain bike ride through the jungle. The next day, travelers will visit a Brazil nut camp to see and learn about how chestnut trees are the region’s most sustainable economic activity. Then, they will venture on a guided walk into the rainforest to learn about the medicinal uses of local plants and trees before departing.

Follow Alice is an outfitter focused on adventure trips worldwide. All guides are local, and 70% of all trip prices stay in the local economy. The company started in 2014 when the cofounder, Reto, climbed Kilimanjaro with Chris, a local Tanzanian guide, and the two teamed up to form Follow Alice.

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Explore Central America

Take the road less travelled on the volcano trail in Central America. This trip gives travelers the chance to experience the natural wonders, tropical climate, lush rainforests, and local culture of Central American countries from Guatemala to Costa Rica. Travelers begin in Antigua, a city full of movement with plenty of bars and vibrant marketplaces with views of the nearby volcanoes. From there, the group heads to Honduras to visit the Mayan Copán Ruins and soak in the natural hot springs. Travelers will then cross into El Salvador, visit Suchitoto, and then head to La Libertad Region, an area full of beach towns where the group can relax or take a surf lesson. The next stop in Nicaragua is Granada, a city full of colorful buildings with opportunities to hike and explore, go on a day excursion to Masaya Volcano, or visit Laguna de Apoyo. In Costa Rica, a country known for its biodiversity, the group will visit more beautiful volcanoes and rainforests as well as the Isla de Ometepe, which is known for its petroglyphs and stone idols, and Monteverde’s cloud forests. Travelers can go zip lining, visit a butterfly garden, go horseback riding or take a coffee plantation tour. This trip ends in San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica, where travelers can explore the city and even go rafting on the Sarapiqui River before departure.

This is a 17-day trip and costs $959. This trip is led by the sustainable travel company G Adventures. All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community.  This trip caters to travelers 18 to 30-something with plenty of free time to make new friends and go with the flow.

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Volunteer in a Community Garden in Colombia

Medellin, the capital city of Colombia’s Antioquia province, is sometimes called the “City of Eternal Spring” and is known for its flower-growing and festivals. The city is also famous for its friendly people and natural beauty. On this trip, volunteers will help local organizations transform neglected areas of Medellin into gardens to produce fruits, vegetables, and herbs, all of which will later be shared with the local community to help families live healthier lifestyles. Additionally, they assist in landscaping and producing organic fertilizers, as well as supporting environmental workshops, marketing, and fundraising. Other projects include painting, clearing areas for the creation of new gardens, and assisting staff with workshops to present to educational institutions. Volunteers will work up to seven hours a day in the community gardens and will also have ample time to enjoy the gorgeous city of Medellin. This is a minimum 1-week and maximum 24-week trip offered by International Volunteer HQ. IVHQ is a leading volunteer travel organization, offering sustainable and community-oriented experiences all around the globe. This trip costs $345 for one week and $4,712 for 12 weeks.

IVHQ is a volunteer travel company with 338 projects in 50 countries, rated #1 Volunteer Travel Company by Go Overseas for 7 years in a row. It is a cost-effective option with some programs as low as $20 per day with accommodation and meals included. They are a Certified B Corporation, 100% carbon neutral, and every project aligns with a UN Sustainable Development Goal.

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Volunteer to help in the Peruvian Amazon

Peru is one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world and has a stunning variety of landscapes, from mountains to beaches and rainforests. The country is home to the source of the Amazon River and the historical Incan settlement of Machu Picchu. In fact, the Peruvian Amazon is the second-largest stretch of the Amazon and includes thousands of different animal species. The forest’s tropical climate also has lots of the country’s natural resources. However, construction and commercial mining have led to the deforestation of the Peruvian Amazon, which threatens the unique and endangered species that live there. Volunteers will work to plant trees, monitor animals and remove non-native species to combat deforestation. Additionally, volunteers will get to learn about the tree species of the Peruvian Amazon and its inhabitants. 

This Maximo Nivel volunteer program has the goal of helping communities while giving volunteers a one-in-a-lifetime experience. All Maximo Nivel volunteer programs are supported by professional program managers, multilingual teams, and 24/7 in-country support. This project ranges from one-to-four weeks and  costs $685 for one week and $1295 for four weeks. Airport transfers, breakfast and dinners, four-to-six hours per day (Sunday to Thursday), letter of recommendation, emergency contact number and accommodation are included.

Discover Costa Rica Through Conservation

Costa Rica, the “Land of Pura Vida,” is celebrated for its laid-back lifestyle, focus on happiness, and deep appreciation for nature and simple living. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, ecotourism, biodiversity, adventure activities, peacefulness, and stability, this small country boasts around 5% of the world’s biodiversity, with 25% of its land dedicated to national parks, wildlife refuges, and biological reserves. Travelers will start their 14 day journey in the capital, San Jose, where they will get to know each other and their leaders. In Tortuguero National Park, the group will enjoy a guided boat trip through tropical waterways and visit the Sea Turtle Conservancy, the world’s oldest nonprofit organization dedicated to sea turtle protection. In La Fortuna, they will learn about coffee production. Next, in Monteverde, a nature lover’s paradise, travelers can go ziplining, visit the Monteverde Institute, and explore butterfly gardens and local forest trails. At Manuel Antonio National Park, they will witness abundant wildlife, including monkeys, armadillos, sloths, iguanas, and countless bird species. The journey concludes with a return to San Jose for a farewell dinner, with departures scheduled for the following day.

All G Adventures trips are led by a local guide, a CEO, Chief Experience Officer, and trip revenue is driven to help the local community. Starting at $2324 per person, this experience lasts over the course of 14 days. Transportation between destinations, some meals, and accommodation will be included.

Volunteer to Help Conserve Peru’s Rainforests

Peru is a land of contrasts. The country is home to mountain systems, arid deserts and coastal plains, and its three prominent topographical bands are Costa, Sierra and Amazonia. The Amazon Rainforest covers almost two-thirds of Peru, about 60% of the nation's territory! The Peruvian Amazon is home to over 1,800 species of birds, 700 kinds of fish, 500 types of mammals, and over 300 reptile species. Ecotourism has become an essential industry in Peru; the nation has a higher percentage of protected land than any other country in South America. Specifically, there are fifty-three protected areas throughout the country. This includes national parks, reserves, sanctuaries and reserved zones. Volunteers can help with a wide range of conservation activities that add to preserving Peru’s climate and animals. Participants will be based in the heart of the jungle, where they will receive a different kind of insight into Peru’s rich biodiversity. Tasks include (but are not limited to) reforestation, home-based maintenance, research projects, trail conservation and animal inventories. Volunteers will immerse themselves in Peruvian culture and gain conservation and research experience, all while making a difference in the nation's ecosystem.

This is a minimum two-week and maximum 24-week trip offered by International Volunteer HQ. All IVHQ volunteer programs include airport pickup and accommodation, program orientation and 24-hour IVHQ staff support. This project costs $105 for two weeks and $1,510 for 4 weeks.

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