Peru – Culture Week in Cajamarca

Peru, known for its incredible cultural heritage sites, such as the renowned Machu Picchu, is the third largest country in South America. Peru is geographically diverse, with a variety of landscapes, climates, and ecosystems. This makes it possible to go surfing at its northern beaches one day, and hiking in its vast mountains the next.

The volunteer project is in Shaullio Grande, a rural community near the northern Andes city of Cajamarca, known for its natural thermal springs, breathtaking mountain views and relaxing atmosphere. The location provides the best of both worlds with its proximity to both natural wonders such as the Andes Mountains and Amazon Rainforest, and the bustling commercial center of Cajamarca. There is also a rich Incan history to explore, as the city is known for the Battle of Cajamarca, where the Inca Empire fell.

Internet: There is Wi-Fi in your rooms and in the public areas at your accommodation. There are also internet cafes around town, yet we recommend using 3G data if staying connected is important to you.

Laundry: Laundry facilities are available.

Accommodations: As a volunteer, you will stay in guesthouse accommodation in Cajamarca. A three-floor urban complex with dorm rooms, each equipped with lockers, drawers, and shelves. Participants will share bathroom, separated by gender. The accommodation is very secure with cameras operating 24/7. It also has beautiful gardens and several dining and lounge areas, table tennis, and a patio for barbecues. Participants should be environmentally aware and use water, paper, and electricity with restraint. Although the staff cleans the rooms daily, they will expect you to clean up after yourself as well.

Food: The program includes three meals on weekdays and two on weekends. You will have access to a communal kitchen to store and prepare your own food for other meals. There are affordable local eateries you can enjoy too!

• Minimum age of 17
• Police clearance form
• Good level of written and spoken English
• Desire to explore a different culture
• Immunizations (please consult your local travel clinic)
• Proof of a COVID-19 vaccination & a negative PCR test for COVID-19 Before arrival
• Open-mindedness and willingness to learn

Travel Extras (Not Included):
You can extend your stay with one or more great travel extras for an additional fee. Choose from one or more of the following and sign up upon registration.

Culture Week (Recommended): This program provides a comprehensive introduction to South American culture, the Cajamarca region, and the traditions and customs of Northern Peru. You’ll get to visit some of the highlights of Northern Peru, besides learning some basic Spanish, trying typical Peruvian dishes, and experiencing the local culture.

Spanish Classes: Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to brush up on your skills, this add-on is a great way to make the most of your volunteer experience. Classes are 20 hours per week, with a maximum of six students per class. They also offered afternoon conversation classes for those who wish to further their Spanish in a more informal setting.

Volunteers can join the following activities during the volunteer program: 

• Daily Peruvian cooking lessons (free)
• Visit a local farm (free)
• Bicycle tours (extra fee)
• Thermal baths and massage treatments (extra fee)
• Camping, hiking and photography with a local university club (extra fee)

Our local team can book the following activities for you in advance on the weekends. 

Short day trips: 

• Llacanora Waterfalls and Namora
• Cumbe Mayo – the oldest man-made structure in South America. Built around 1500 B.C.E

 Full weekend trips: 

• Cuzco & Machu Picchu
• Chiclayo
• Huanchaco – surfing hot spot
• Chan Chan – the largest adobe city in the world
• Kuelap – the second Machu Picchu
• Gocta – the world’s third-highest waterfall