Volunteer with Children in Cusco, Peru: Teach, Play and Inspire in the Andes
Spend your afternoons teaching English, helping with homework and supporting children at Picaflor House, our after-school project in Cusco, then spend your free time exploring Cusco and the Sacred Valley. Volunteer directly with Globalteer, the UK charity that has run this project since 2010. Stay 1–12 weeks, with Spanish and salsa classes, weekly trips and a home full of volunteers from around the world.


20+
Years of impact

180+
Children supported

4.9 ★
Volunteer rating

UK & Peru
Registered charity
Volunteer with Children in Cusco
Volunteer with children in Cusco at Picaflor House, our after-school programme in Cusco, where you'll spend your afternoons teaching English and helping children from a low-income Andean community with homework, arts, games and sport. You'll also get the chance to join our mobile library as it brings books and reading support to children in rural villages across the Cusco region, many of whom have very little access to either. Volunteers work Monday to Friday from 1pm to 5pm, supporting local staff who give around 80 children free classes, a safe place to learn and a nutritious daily meal. Every lesson and story you share builds skills and confidence that open doors for these children later, including into Cusco's growing tourism industry. It's one of the most rewarding ways to volunteer in South America.
Integration of Volunteering + Cultural immersion + Tourism
The volunteering gives your stay its purpose. Everything around it gives it life. Learn to salsa, pick up Spanish, cook Peruvian dishes and share dinners with volunteers from around the world. Explore Cusco on guided walks, visit local markets and viewpoints, and take part in an authentic Pachamama ceremony, a traditional Andean offering of thanks to Mother Earth. Then make the most of your free time in one of South America's most remarkable cities.


Support children's education and after-school activities at Picaflor House, and help bring books and reading to rural villages with our mobile library, all in a structured, supervised environment.
Take part in salsa classes, shared dinners, group outings and a traditional Pachamama ceremony honouring Mother Earth, alongside volunteers from around the world
From your first day, our international team and fellow volunteers are there to welcome you, support you and share every adventure
Explore Cusco's historic centre, hike to Cristo Blanco at sunset, wander San Pedro Market, or relax at a café at your own pace
- Supporting local teachers with teaching English, maths and reading
- Helping children with their homework
- Helping with arts & crafts, games and sports
- Helping out with the daily lunch programme
- Preparing materials and resources for classes
- Supervising children on local outings
- Reading with children on the mobile library
- Helping keep classrooms and play areas tidy
Is This Programme Right for You?
This Cusco volunteer programme is the right fit for you if:
- You want a well-organised, meaningful placement, where the Globalteer team and permanent local staff guide your work and the children's progress doesn't depend on volunteers alone
- You'd like your free time to explore Cusco and the Andes with fellow volunteers from around the world
- You want to support a long-term community project, working alongside the international and local staff who run it all year round
- You're travelling solo or with friends and would love to join a ready-made community of like-minded volunteers
- You don't need to be a qualified teacher: our team gives you the training, guidance and support to make a real difference from day one
- You'd rather volunteer with a registered charity than a commercial company, and want to know exactly where your money goes and how the project is run
Not sure it's right for you? Send us a message and we'll help you decide.
Impact & Ethics
Ethical Volunteering You Can Feel Good About
We've worked with the Cusco community at Picaflor House since 2010, and our mobile library now takes books and reading support to children in rural villages across the region. Our permanent local team runs both projects day to day, so the children's progress never depends on volunteers alone. Your role is to strengthen what's already there.
How Picaflor House Began
Globalteer opened Picaflor House in the village of Oropesa in November 2010, after seeing children left alone on the streets once state school finished. Many parents moved from remote mountain areas and speak Quechua as their first language, so helping with homework is hard. Today up to 80 children use our classrooms, computer room, art room, kitchen, playground and garden. The project receives no state funding, so volunteers and donations keep it running. Find out more about Picaflor House →


Volunteer Directly, No Middlemen
Many volunteer companies pass you on to a local agency, which then places you with another organisation's project. We don't. Our own team lives in Cusco and runs Picaflor House and our mobile library, so you always know who you're working with.
A Charity, Not a Company
We're not a commercial company. We're a registered UK & Peruvian charity, so every spare part of your fee goes back into our projects and our volunteers, not to shareholders. We publish independently examined accounts every year, so you can see exactly where your money goes.
Happy Volunteers, Greater Impact
In our 20 years of experience, we have learned that a well-supported volunteer makes the biggest difference. Our team prepares you before you arrive, welcomes you in Cusco and stays by your side throughout your placement, so you can settle in quickly, enjoy your time and give your best to the children.
Respect, Not Tourism
Children aren't an attraction. We put their privacy, safety and dignity above everything else.
Gallery
Life of a Volunteer in Cusco in Photos








































































































































































Included Cultural Experiences
Explore Cusco Like a Local
Once the capital of the Inca Empire, Cusco is full of history, colour and culture. Our included experiences take you beyond the guidebook to experience real local life – through bustling markets, hidden viewpoints and ancient streets, with people who call this city home.



Your neighbourhood, the historic centre and the hidden streets of San Blas, with our local team.



Join a local Andean Shaman for a traditional offering of thanks to Mother Earth, a living tradition older than the Incas.



Watch the city turn golden from above, a moment you'll remember long after you leave.



Learn to move like a local in fun, social classes that are perfect for complete beginners.



Discover the flavours of Peru as you learn to prepare classic dishes, then sit down together to enjoy what you've made.



Build your confidence with weekly lessons that make it easier to chat with locals, find your way and feel at home.
- Week 1: Pachamama CeremonyA traditional Andean offering to Mother Earth, led by a pampa paqo (Andean priest), to welcome you and give thanks for your time in Peru.
- Week 2: Peruvian Cooking ClassLearn to cook classic Peruvian dishes with a professional chef, then sit down and enjoy what you've made.
- Week 3: Rainbow MountainA full-day trip to Vinicunca's famous striped peaks at over 5,000 m – one of Peru's most spectacular hikes.
- Week 4: City Tour by CarDiscover Inca Cusco with a local guide: the Qorikancha sun temple, Sacsayhuamán, Q'enqo, Puka Pukara and Tambomachay.
- Week 5: Sacred ValleyA full day in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting Chinchero, the circular terraces of Moray, the Maras salt mines, Ollantaytambo and Pisac.
- Salsa ClassesSocial, inclusive and fun – no experience needed.
- Spanish ClassesWeekly lessons from week 2, so you can chat with the children and get around the city with confidence.
- Cristo Blanco WalkSweeping views over Cusco from the white Christ statue above the city.
- Pisco Cocktail ClassLearn to mix a pisco sour, Peru’s national cocktail, in a fun evening class in your third week.
- Farewell DinnerCelebrate together with the team and fellow volunteers before you leave.
Explore Further
Extend Your Adventure
Make the most of your time in Peru. These trips are arranged by a trusted local travel partner and aren't part of your programme fee. Just let us know which ones interest you when you apply.


Wonder of the World
Machu Picchu
Explore the iconic Inca citadel on a day trip by train or a multi-day trek.
Rainforest Adventure
Amazon Rainforest
Swap the mountains for the jungle, or join our Amazon conservation project. Watch the video
Choose Your Duration
The Longer You Stay, the Deeper You Go
Stay from 1 to 12 weeks, with programmes running Monday to Monday. One week gives you a taste of Cusco life, with salsa classes every week, while longer stays add weekly Spanish classes, a Peruvian cooking class and a chance to build closer bonds with the children and the community.
1 WEEK
Perfect Introduction
A powerful first experience. You’ll hit the ground running: orientation, project, cultural experiences, and a weekend free to explore.
2 WEEKS
Most Popular
The sweet spot. Two full weeks let you build real relationships at the project and have an adventure-filled second weekend too.
3 WEEKS
Best Balance
Go deeper. Three weeks gives you time to grow into a trusted presence at the project, explore more of Peru, and truly feel at home.
4 WEEKS
Deep Immersion
A month in Cusco. Transformative. You’ll leave fluent in the rhythms of the city, close friends with your cohort, and with a story you’ll tell for life.
Volunteer Schedule
What Does a Typical Week Look Like?
Each week combines meaningful project work, cultural activities and plenty of time to explore. Here's how your first four weeks typically fit together.
This schedule is a sample and may change due to public holidays, local events or circumstances outside our control.
VolunteeringCulture & activitiesFree time & restEach bar shows morning, afternoon and evening.
- Arrive in Cusco
- Airport Pickup
- Settle In
- Orientation Walk
- First Visit to Picaflor House
- Free Evening
- Rest & Acclimatise
- Picaflor House
- Free Evening
- Pachamama Ceremony
- Mobile Library
- Salsa Night
- Explore Cusco
- Picaflor House
- Free Evening
- Your Day, Your Way
- Optional Tours
- Night in Town
- Rest & Recharge
- Explore Cusco
- Farewell Dinner (if leaving)
- Slow Morning
- Picaflor House
- Free Evening
- Spanish Class
- Picaflor House
- Free Evening
- Cooking Class
- Picaflor House
- Free Evening
- Spanish Class
- Mobile Library
- Salsa Night
- Museum Visit
- Picaflor House
- Cristo Blanco Sunset
- Your Day, Your Way
- Optional Tours
- Night in Town
- Rest & Recharge
- Explore Cusco
- Farewell Dinner (if leaving)
- Slow Morning
- Picaflor House
- Free Evening
- Spanish Class
- Picaflor House
- Pisco Cocktail Class
- Explore Cusco
- Picaflor House
- Free Evening
- Spanish Class
- Mobile Library
- Salsa Night
- Museum Visit
- Picaflor House
- Free Evening
- Early Start
- Rainbow Mountain Day Trip
- Early Night
- Rest & Recharge
- Explore Cusco
- Farewell Dinner (if leaving)
- Slow Morning
- Picaflor House
- Free Evening
- Spanish Class
- Picaflor House
- Free Evening
- Explore Cusco
- Picaflor House
- Free Evening
- Spanish Class
- Mobile Library
- Salsa Night
- City Tour by Car
- Picaflor House
- Free Evening
- Your Day, Your Way
- Optional Tours
- Night in Town
- Rest & Recharge
- Pack Up
- Farewell Dinner
Where Will You Stay in Cusco?
Choose the option that suits you best. Stay at our sociable Volunteer House in a safe neighbourhood next to the city's main mall, enjoy the privacy of your own hotel room, or live with a local host family. Whichever you choose, our team is always close by.
Standard - Included
Volunteer House
Our most popular option. Share a home with volunteers from around the world and never explore alone.
- Shared room with fellow volunteers
- Hot showers & shared bathrooms
- Shared bedrooms & Communal area
- Free WiFi throughout
- All food provided – a fully stocked shared kitchen where you cook with your housemates
- Near the mall, cafés and supermarkets


Comfort Upgrade
Hotel - Private Room
Prefer to have your own space? Enjoy a private hotel room in the heart of Cusco's historic centre.
- Private ensuite room
- Breakfast only included
- In-room heating
- Free WiFi & cable TV
- Regular housekeeping & hot showers
- Close to the main plaza


Local Family Stay
Host Family
Prefer deeper immersion? Live with a local family, share home-cooked meals and practise Spanish.
- Private room in a local family home
- All home-cooked meals included
- Daily Spanish practice at home
- Carefully selected host families
- Full support from our Cusco team
- Close to the Volunteer House
Cost to volunteer with children in Cusco
One Price. Everything Taken Care Of.
No surprise costs once you arrive. At the Volunteer House, your fee covers your placement, accommodation, three meals a day, daily transport, cultural activities and support from our team in Cusco. Because we’re a charity, there are no agency fees or profits – your money goes straight into your support and our projects. Major tours and accommodation upgrades are the only extras.
- Flights and visas
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Background check
- Optional tours such as Machu Picchu
- Accommodation upgrades
- Personal spending money
Hear From Our Volunteers
Real reviews from real people, unedited and verified on Google and Facebook.
- Globalteer is a great place! Absolutely unreal experience! Was out in Peru for my university placement. Cusco was an amazing place and Globalteer is a great place to build working experience !read moreread less


Louis D×

Louis DGlobalteer is a great place! Absolutely unreal experience! Was out in Peru for my university placement. Cusco was an amazing place and Globalteer is a great place to build working experience !I totally recommend! My Globalteer experience in Peru has been wonderful and I totally recommend anyone who wants to make a difference volunteering in any of the projects. Everyone I have met is kind, lovely, welcoming, and really dedicated to the work, always trying to achieve the best for the kids and for the animals. Much love ❤️❤️read moreread less

Larissa Rodrigues Cimini×

Larissa Rodrigues CiminiI totally recommend! My Globalteer experience in Peru has been wonderful and I totally recommend anyone who wants to make a difference volunteering in any of the projects. Everyone I have met is kind, lovely, welcoming, and really dedicated to the work, always trying to achieve the best for the kids and for the animals. Much love ❤️❤️I am so grateful to Globalteer for all that you do! I had the privilege of working as an NGO Assistant Intern in Peru with Globalteer for 6 months. I did this as part of university placement year and truly had such an enriching and valuable experience. The team of people you work with are all passionate about the mission of the charity and never fail to make you feel supported and at home. Picaflor House and the children that attend it everyday were by far the highlight. My time in Peru with Globalteer came to an end a few short months ago and I have not stopped thinking about it since. I have undoubtedly grown as a person and learnt such more from Lena and Jim and the lovely interns I lived with who are now life long friends. I am so grateful to Globalteer for all that you do and for allowing me to be part of this team. Do not hesitate to intern at Globalteer it is an experience unlike any other. Thank you for everything, I miss you all so much. ❤read moreread less

Milly O'Connell×

Milly O'ConnellI am so grateful to Globalteer for all that you do! I had the privilege of working as an NGO Assistant Intern in Peru with Globalteer for 6 months. I did this as part of university placement year and truly had such an enriching and valuable experience. The team of people you work with are all passionate about the mission of the charity and never fail to make you feel supported and at home. Picaflor House and the children that attend it everyday were by far the highlight. My time in Peru with Globalteer came to an end a few short months ago and I have not stopped thinking about it since. I have undoubtedly grown as a person and learnt such more from Lena and Jim and the lovely interns I lived with who are now life long friends. I am so grateful to Globalteer for all that you do and for allowing me to be part of this team. Do not hesitate to intern at Globalteer it is an experience unlike any other. Thank you for everything, I miss you all so much. ❤ - It was an ineffable experience! Being at Globalteer this season meant broadening my horizons, professional and personal growth, taking on challenges, closing my eyes and seeing with my heart, but above all it was an ineffable experience and as a result I lost count of the good memories I took with me. from here. Creating, designing, editing, writing, among other functions, was my job for 4 months here and I couldn't be more proud of my entire process as an intern/intern, which allowed me to enhance my soft skills, be self-taught and, above all, to get out of my comfort zone. Colombia is my home, but Peru will always have a part of me. Total thanks. Thank you Globalfam.
Estar esta temporada en Globalteer significo ampliar mis horizontes, crecimiento profesional y personal, asumir retos, a cerrar los ojos y ver con el corazón, pero sobre todo fue una experiencia inefable y como efecto de ello perdí la cuenta de los buenos recuerdos que me llevo de aquí. Crear, diseñar, editar, escribir, entre otras funciones, fue mi trabajo por 4 meses aquí y no puedo estar mas orgullosa de todo mi proceso como pasante/interna mismo que permitió potencializar mi habilidades blandas, ser autodidacta y sobre todo a salir de mi zona de confort. Colombia es mi casa, pero Peru tendrá siempre tendrá una parte de mi. Gracias totales. Gracias Globalfamread moreread less

Jessica Vallejo×

Jessica VallejoIt was an ineffable experience! Being at Globalteer this season meant broadening my horizons, professional and personal growth, taking on challenges, closing my eyes and seeing with my heart, but above all it was an ineffable experience and as a result I lost count of the good memories I took with me. from here. Creating, designing, editing, writing, among other functions, was my job for 4 months here and I couldn't be more proud of my entire process as an intern/intern, which allowed me to enhance my soft skills, be self-taught and, above all, to get out of my comfort zone. Colombia is my home, but Peru will always have a part of me. Total thanks. Thank you Globalfam.
Estar esta temporada en Globalteer significo ampliar mis horizontes, crecimiento profesional y personal, asumir retos, a cerrar los ojos y ver con el corazón, pero sobre todo fue una experiencia inefable y como efecto de ello perdí la cuenta de los buenos recuerdos que me llevo de aquí. Crear, diseñar, editar, escribir, entre otras funciones, fue mi trabajo por 4 meses aquí y no puedo estar mas orgullosa de todo mi proceso como pasante/interna mismo que permitió potencializar mi habilidades blandas, ser autodidacta y sobre todo a salir de mi zona de confort. Colombia es mi casa, pero Peru tendrá siempre tendrá una parte de mi. Gracias totales. Gracias GlobalfamGlobalteer in Cusco was one of the best summers of my life. This was one of the most life changing experiences i have had. the people i worked with became some of my best friends. the children that i worked with were so amazing and fun that they made it so hard to leave. globalteer cusco was one of the best summers of my life. if you have doubts about what to do with your life or just want to do something meaningful, I cannot recommend globalteer enough. i promise you will not regret it.read moreread less

Paxton Perry×

Paxton PerryGlobalteer in Cusco was one of the best summers of my life. This was one of the most life changing experiences i have had. the people i worked with became some of my best friends. the children that i worked with were so amazing and fun that they made it so hard to leave. globalteer cusco was one of the best summers of my life. if you have doubts about what to do with your life or just want to do something meaningful, I cannot recommend globalteer enough. i promise you will not regret it.I had the privilege of working as an Intern in Peru with Globalteer I had the privilege of working as an NGO Assistant Intern in Peru with Globalteer for 6 months. I did this as part of university placement year and truly had such an enriching and valuable experience. The team of people you work with are all passionate about the mission of the charity and never fail to make you feel supported and at home. Picaflor House and the children that attend it everyday were by far the highlight. My time in Peru with Globalteer came to an end a few short months ago and I have not stopped thinking about it since. I have undoubtedly grown as a person and learnt such more from Lena and Jim and the lovely interns I lived with who are know life long friends. I am so grateful to Globalteer for all that you do and for allowing me to be part of this team. Do not hesitate to intern at Globalteer it is an experience unlike any other. Thank you for everything, I miss you all so much. ❤read moreread less

Milly O'Connell×

Milly O'ConnellI had the privilege of working as an Intern in Peru with Globalteer I had the privilege of working as an NGO Assistant Intern in Peru with Globalteer for 6 months. I did this as part of university placement year and truly had such an enriching and valuable experience. The team of people you work with are all passionate about the mission of the charity and never fail to make you feel supported and at home. Picaflor House and the children that attend it everyday were by far the highlight. My time in Peru with Globalteer came to an end a few short months ago and I have not stopped thinking about it since. I have undoubtedly grown as a person and learnt such more from Lena and Jim and the lovely interns I lived with who are know life long friends. I am so grateful to Globalteer for all that you do and for allowing me to be part of this team. Do not hesitate to intern at Globalteer it is an experience unlike any other. Thank you for everything, I miss you all so much. ❤ - I really really appreciate everything... I stayed in Picaflor House for like one month and a half. I really really appreciate everything they've done for the kids, and what I have learned from them. They are so happy, so pure, and so cute. If you go there, you would definitely love it. If you are wondering where you should go for volunteering, especially for those who love kids, Picaflor is the best choice, and Cusco is one of your best destinations. You would not regret.read moreread lessJINGRUO WANG×JINGRUO WANGI really really appreciate everything... I stayed in Picaflor House for like one month and a half. I really really appreciate everything they've done for the kids, and what I have learned from them. They are so happy, so pure, and so cute. If you go there, you would definitely love it. If you are wondering where you should go for volunteering, especially for those who love kids, Picaflor is the best choice, and Cusco is one of your best destinations. You would not regret.If you go there, you would definitely love it. I stayed in Picaflor House for like one month and a half. I really really appreciate everything they've done for the kids, and what I have learned from them. They are so happy, so pure, and so cute. If you go there, you would definitely love it. If you are wondering where you should go for volunteering, especially for those who love kids, Picaflor is the best choice, and Cusco is one of your best destinations. You would not regret it.read moreread lessPICKLE SMART×PICKLE SMARTIf you go there, you would definitely love it. I stayed in Picaflor House for like one month and a half. I really really appreciate everything they've done for the kids, and what I have learned from them. They are so happy, so pure, and so cute. If you go there, you would definitely love it. If you are wondering where you should go for volunteering, especially for those who love kids, Picaflor is the best choice, and Cusco is one of your best destinations. You would not regret it.I volunteered with Picaflor House in November 2018 for couple of weeks
Globalteer team put children into their heart and they direct you accordingly during your volunteer program. The kids are amazing, teachers are so helpful and everything is so well organized that you don’t have anything to worry about.
I can’t stop talking & thinking about this amazing experience I had!
Wish others would also find the opportunity and be as lucky as I am to have such an amazing experience!
Thanks much for this great experienceread moreread lessburcu eren×burcu erenI volunteered with Picaflor House in November 2018 for couple of weeks
Globalteer team put children into their heart and they direct you accordingly during your volunteer program. The kids are amazing, teachers are so helpful and everything is so well organized that you don’t have anything to worry about.
I can’t stop talking & thinking about this amazing experience I had!
Wish others would also find the opportunity and be as lucky as I am to have such an amazing experience!
Thanks much for this great experience - Great program, great volunteer opportunities, would recommend to anyone. I volunteered for a month with Globalteer in Peru and absolutely loved it! Great program, great volunteer opportunities, would recommend to anyone.read moreread less


Eli Joshua Echt-Wilson×

Eli Joshua Echt-WilsonGreat program, great volunteer opportunities, would recommend to anyone. I volunteered for a month with Globalteer in Peru and absolutely loved it! Great program, great volunteer opportunities, would recommend to anyone.It was organised so well and I felt so comfortable throughout the whole process. Late last year I was able to spend a month in Peru to volunteer at two of the Globalteer programs- The Dog Shelter in Cusco and The Amazon Wildlife Sanctuary in Puerto Maldonado. It was organised so well and I felt so comfortable throughout the whole process. I was picked up from the airport and the staff made me feel so welcome and at home. Being a young girl in a country like Peru, my family and friends were quite worried at first, as was I, however, I felt safe the entire time. I didn't have to worry one bit about the organisation of both volunteer groups, even though they were on the opposite sides of the country, it was an easy process with the staff being so quick and prompt in replies and helpful when I arrived in Cusco. I genuinely had an incredible time with so many life lessons and learning experiences taught throughout the trip. Would definitely recommend even if this is your first time overseas alone - as it was mine.read moreread less

Tiarne Biviano×

Tiarne BivianoIt was organised so well and I felt so comfortable throughout the whole process. Late last year I was able to spend a month in Peru to volunteer at two of the Globalteer programs- The Dog Shelter in Cusco and The Amazon Wildlife Sanctuary in Puerto Maldonado. It was organised so well and I felt so comfortable throughout the whole process. I was picked up from the airport and the staff made me feel so welcome and at home. Being a young girl in a country like Peru, my family and friends were quite worried at first, as was I, however, I felt safe the entire time. I didn't have to worry one bit about the organisation of both volunteer groups, even though they were on the opposite sides of the country, it was an easy process with the staff being so quick and prompt in replies and helpful when I arrived in Cusco. I genuinely had an incredible time with so many life lessons and learning experiences taught throughout the trip. Would definitely recommend even if this is your first time overseas alone - as it was mine.Wish others would also be as lucky as I am to have such an amazing experience! I can’t stop talking & thinking about this amazing experience I had! I volunteered with Picaflor House in November 2018 for couple of weeks Globalteer team put children into their heart and they direct you accordingly during your volunteer program. The kids are amazing, teachers are so helpful and everything is so well organized that you don’t have anything to worry about. Wish others would also find the opportunity and be as lucky as I am to have such an amazing experience! Thanks much for this great experienceread moreread less

burcu eren×

burcu erenWish others would also be as lucky as I am to have such an amazing experience! I can’t stop talking & thinking about this amazing experience I had! I volunteered with Picaflor House in November 2018 for couple of weeks Globalteer team put children into their heart and they direct you accordingly during your volunteer program. The kids are amazing, teachers are so helpful and everything is so well organized that you don’t have anything to worry about. Wish others would also find the opportunity and be as lucky as I am to have such an amazing experience! Thanks much for this great experience
Personal Growth
What You Take Home


Cultural Understanding
Living and working alongside a Peruvian community, not just visiting one, helps you build lasting cross-cultural communication skills.


Spanish Language
Practical, real-world Spanish immersion. Combine weekly Spanish classes with everyday conversations at the project, at the market and around town.


Confidence & Independence
Finding your way around a new city, adapting to new situations and working as part of a team build skills that employers value.


Friends Around the World
Share the experience with volunteers and staff from around the world. Friendships can last long after the trip.
Volunteer requirements
Who Can Volunteer with Children in Cusco?
Volunteering with children in Cusco is open to everyone aged 18 or over – whether you're taking a gap year, a career break, a sabbatical or a university service-learning placement, travelling solo or with a friend. Travelling as a family or group? We can tailor your placement – just let us know when you apply.
01
Minimum age of 18 unless you volunteer with an adult
02
Good English or Spanish is needed. No teaching qualification is required; full briefing and supervision are provided
03
A background check is required for all volunteers
04
Valid travel insurance covering your full stay is highly recommended
05
Volunteers should be comfortable working with children in a structured, supervised setting
Before You Arrive
We've thought of everything, so you don't have to.
From the moment you book, you're supported. Here's what to expect before your flight.


What to Pack
Cusco sits at 3,400m; layers are essential. We send a detailed packing guide covering climate, project dress code, and what to bring for evenings out. Light trekking shoes, a waterproof layer, and a good attitude are the essentials.


Staying Connected
We recommend picking up a local SIM or an eSIM (Holafly or Airalo work well in Peru) for affordable data. Wi-Fi is available at the Volunteer House, but having your own data gives you freedom to explore independently.


Arrival & Transfers
Fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ). Globalteer's coordinator will meet you at arrivals; just share your flight details during your pre arrival call.


Safety & Support
Cusco is a well-established tourist city and very safe for volunteers. Our coordinator is on call throughout your stay, and the volunteer house is in a safe neighbourhood next to the city's main mall.
Volunteers should arrive in Cusco on a Monday for their programme start date
Fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) — share your flight details during your pre-arrival call and we'll handle the rest
You'll be greeted at arrivals by our local Cusco team and transferred directly to your accommodation
On your first full day, our team shows you around in two parts:
Your neighbourhood
Supermarkets, ATMs, pharmacies and laundries near the house, our recommended cafés and restaurants, the bus stops for the centre and your project, and how Cusco's public transport works.
The historic centre
Plaza de ArmasMercado San PedroPlaza San FranciscoPlaza RegocijoSan Blas & Plaza San BlasCalle Siete BorreguitosAcueducto de SapantianaMuseo Máximo LauraAvenida El SolYou'll also get our tips for restaurants, bars and museums worth visiting.
Your first project day is typically the Tuesday following arrival
Your coordinator is on call throughout your stay for any issue, big or small.
The volunteer house is in a safe neighbourhood next to the city's main mall.
All Picaflor House staff are long-standing, local, and known to our team.
You're never left to run activities unsupervised.
Highly recommended. We can advise on suitable policies if you don't already have one.
Pre-departure guides, packing lists and a check-in call with your coordinator, so you arrive knowing what to expect.
How much does it cost to volunteer with children in Cusco?
Why volunteer directly with a charity rather than a volunteer agency?
Why volunteer in Cusco rather than elsewhere in Latin America?
Can I volunteer as a family or group?
Can I combine this with the Dog Rescue project?
Do I need to speak Spanish to volunteer at Picaflor House?
Do I need teaching experience to volunteer in Cusco?
Will I get training and an orientation?
Is it safe to volunteer in Cusco?
What about altitude, health and vaccinations in Cusco?
Do I need a visa to volunteer in Cusco?
When is the best time to volunteer in Cusco?
Can I fundraise for my placement?
How to apply
How to Get Started
When you volunteer directly with us, you deal with the same team from your first question to your arrival in Cusco. Here's how it works:
1
Ask us anything
Have questions first? Send Jim a message ↓ or email info@globalteer.org
When you’re ready, tell us your preferred dates and duration. Apply now →
3
We review your application
Our team will review your application and get back to you.
4
Secure your place
Once accepted, arrange a call with our team or pay a deposit to secure your placement.
5
Get ready to go
You’ll receive orientation guides and packing lists from us.
6
Final check-in call
A few weeks before your start date, our volunteer coordinator will call to answer any last-minute questions.



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Join thousands of volunteers who've called Cusco home and left a little piece of themselves behind.







