Volunteer with Horses in Peru and help care for rescued horses at the Peru Horse Sanctuary!
Do you love Horses? Want to give back and make a difference? Why not volunteer with Horses in the amazing city of Cusco!
1 to 12 weeks from £441 / US$485
Volunteer at the Peru Horse Sanctuary in the UNESCO world heritage-listed city and help care for rescued horses. Have the experience of a lifetime while saving a species!
Questions? Candice is happy to help! E-mail me at info@globalteer.org
Peru Horse Sanctuary Project Overview
Volunteer with Horses and experience the rich Peruvian culture while volunteering in the incredible city of Cusco. Volunteer with horses alongside the dedicated team at a beautiful ranch in the heart of the Andean Mountains.
Help care for rescued horses at the Peru Horse Sanctuary! This programme provides an unforgettable experience for volunteers who wish to help rescued horses; and help save a species! The Peruvian Andes Highlander Horse is at risk of extinction due to such high numbers being killed for meat.
Horses at the sanctuary have been rescued from being over-worked in bad conditions or a fate of being slaughtered for meat.
Meet the Horses
There are currently 8 horses and 1 donkey at the Peru Horse Sanctuary. Each of the rescued horses has their own sad history of mistreatment, abuse and overwork. Some have been forced to work in terrible conditions, including while injured. Others have been generally mistreated as the Peruvian Andes Highlander species is considered an unfavorable breed as they are not as 'attractive' as other equestrian breeds.
You will have the opportunity to learn a new language and visit amazing sites that Cusco has to offer; including the incredible Machu Picchu!
Bring your love of horses and equestrian experience to help care for these beautiful creatures while on the trip of a lifetime!
Apply now at the horse sanctuary and help us save the wonderful Peruvian Andes Highlander Horse species from extinction!
Summary of the Peru Horse Sanctuary
The Horse Sanctuary: The horse sanctuary is set up to be an equestrian refuge for horses rescued from bad working conditions or a fate of being slaughtered for meat. The Peruvian Andes Highlander Horse is smaller and not considered as 'attractive' as Peru's national horse (the Peruvian Paso). Due to this they are not popular among horse owners & riders and large numbers of them are slaughtered for meat.
Project Location: The horse sanctuary is located in Peru’s breath-taking Andes Mountains; in a small village just outside of Cusco. You will Volunteer with horses while surrounded by beautiful countryside and mountains.
Main Volunteer Activities: Volunteers work with local Peruvian staff assisting them to feed and prepare food for the horses. Additionally volunteers will assist with washing and grooming the horses and with cleaning the shelters and paddocks. Volunteers will also help with other general tasks and animals at the shelter.
Hours: Volunteers work around 4 hours per day at the horse sanctuary. Volunteers work Monday - Friday with weekends free. Volunteers normally start at 9am and finish around 1pm; although exact times can vary.
Duration: Volunteer placements are year-round, from 1 to 12 weeks.
Volunteer Accommodation: When you volunteer in Cusco with Globalteer, you’ll be staying in our very own Volunteer House, where you can share your experience in Peru with like-minded people from around the world. The house is located in a safe, residential neighbourhood with easy access to all the projects, our office, and the historical centre of Cusco, via local transportation in bus or taxi. You can also book your own accommodation in Cusco.
Requirements to volunteer at the Horse Shelter: The minimum age for volunteers is 18. Project volunteers must have experience with horses and a passion for animal welfare.
The Peru Horse Shelter History
The project began with a great passion for equestrians and one horse rescued from the slaughterhouse. The Peruvian Andes Highlander Horse is a small breed of horse, but they have developed great balance, strength and stamina due to the conditions high in the Andes where they are found. However, despite their strength and stamina their small size is seen as unattractive and therefore not as desired as the Peruvian Paso (Peru's national horse). Due to their low popularity among horse owners and businesses, they are mostly slaughtered for meat, or used in unfavorable working conditions.
The project now currently has 8 horses all rescued from either being turn into meat, from terrible working conditions or general mistreatment from former owners. Some of the rescued horses were forced to work in harsh conditions while injured; one of the horses at the sanctuary was even previously used in Bull Fights. Another of the horses was badly mistreated by it's previous owners due simple to the fact it had an 'odd look' as it is an albino. In addition to the horses the project has rescued several other animals including a donkey; who loves playing with the horses!
How the Peru Horse Sanctuary is helping
All of the horses at the project have suffered in their previous lives before being rescued by the horse sanctuary; from abuse or mistreatment, bad working conditions or a fate as meat. The horses have now been able to recover from their various injuries & problems and live a peaceful life in much better conditions; grazing in the paddocks free from work.
The horses are well feed and groomed daily. Each day each individual horses has one on one time with one of the staff at the project to help further calm their temperaments and build their trust for humans again.
In addition to caring for the horses that are currently at the sanctuary, the sanctuary also aims to promote better treatment of the Peruvian Andes Higherlander breeds! And in order to save the Peruvian Andes Highlander species the sanctuary is also aims to create a viable breeding population. With the rate they are currently being killed, the species may no longer exist in 10 years; unless more people are educated and more viable breeding populations are created.
Why the Horse Sanctuary needs volunteers
The project receives no state funding. Without funding from the government, the Horse Sanctuary relies on volunteer support, private donations and grants in order to carry out their important work. Additionally, looking after several horses is no easy task; the staff at the project work very long, hard days. The help of volunteers also makes the horse shelter's work that little bit easier.
Learn more about the Peru Horse Sanctuary
Globalteer has been working in Peru since 2007. We have a wealth of experience in this amazing country. If you want to Volunteer with Horses, come and join our amazing team in Cusco.
Find out about what it was like for volunteers visiting Cusco during Inti Raymi; the biggest festival of the year.
Get to know the Best Time to go to Peru and experience it's wonderful and ancient culture.
See more posts about the Peru Volunteer Programme.
Typical Volunteer Duties at the Horse Shelter
Volunteers work from Monday - Friday with weekends free. Work hours at the horse shelter are around 4 hours per day. Volunteers normally start at 9:00am and finish around 1pm; although exact timetables can vary. Volunteer roles can vary depending upon the needs of the shelter and your relevant skills and experience.
Tasks when you volunteer at the Horse Shelter
When volunteering with Horses your main duties may include some or all of the following:
- Collecting food for the horses and feeding them
- Cleaning the horse shelters and paddocks
- Washing and grooming the horses
- Training the horses (including riding the horses for experienced volunteers)
- Assisting with care of other animals at the shelter
- General maintenance of the shelter
The first couple days at the project will be a bit slower to allow you and the horses to get used to one another. After orientation and training on your first day you will get to know the horses and begin work. Some of the horses at the shelter are more comfortable around people; however some of the horses are still a bit nervous around humans which is why the 'meeting' the horses phases is very important to ensure a smooth relationship is formed.
Accommodation when you Volunteer in Peru with Globalteer
Volunteers at the Cusco Projects can choose from a range of accommodation options including our very own Volunteer House, private room in a hotel, and a family homestay. All accommodation has been carefully selected by us to offer the best value for all our volunteers regardless of budget. So, if you are looking for somewhere quiet to lay your head at the end of a busy day, somewhere fun where you can socialise with other travellers or a family home where you can brush up your Spanish, we have what you are looking for.
All of our accommodations are clean, comfortable and safe and well located for transport to the project as well as all the attractions that Cusco has to offer. When you volunteer in Peru you can choose one of these great accommodation options:
Globalteer's Volunteer House
When you volunteer in Cusco with Globalteer, you’ll be staying in our very own Volunteer House, where you can share your experience in Peru with like-minded people from around the world.
The house is located in a safe, residential neighbourhood with easy access to all the projects, our office, and the historical centre of Cusco, via local transportation in bus or taxi.
Volunteers stay in comfortable, shared rooms with clean, shared bathrooms. You also have access to a large kitchen, where the pantry is stocked with all the basics for cooking meals! But if you need anything extra, grocery stores are mere blocks away.
When you stay in the Volunteer House, your local transportation costs to and from the project is included in your fee. We’ll also pick you up from the airport and make sure you get to the house safe and sound!
Our former volunteers and interns love the community atmosphere of the house and feeling nestled into the local neighbourhood, and we know you will too!
Private Room in a Hotel
Volunteers can also stay in a comfortable 3* hotel close to the city centre. The hotel is situated a short walk from the main square of Cusco.
Enjoy a colonial atmosphere and authentic Inca terraces with traditionally decorated rooms
All rooms have cable TV, heating system, hot and cold-water system, mini bar, safe, high-speed Internet WIFI connection.
All rooms are single occupancy or can be shared if volunteers are travelling together.
Family Homestay
If you choose to stay at a homestay, you will live with and be part of a Peruvian family. The homestays are in safe areas with middle class families that are screened by Globalteer. Your room will be private with a shared bathroom.
This is a wonderful experience to immerse yourself in Peruvian culture and a great way to practice your Spanish skills. Volunteers eat with the family when not volunteering at the project.
If you do not wish to stay in our accommodation options…
That is okay! We understand that this setup is not the best choice for everyone volunteering with us, especially if you are travelling as a family or would simply prefer more luxurious or private lodging during your stay. You are welcome to make your own accommodation arrangements; just let us know when you are making your booking. Also be aware that in this case, you must also cover your own transportation costs to and from the project and arrange for your own airport pickup upon arrival.
Free Time in Cusco and Peru
Whether you plan your entire trip in advance or decide to wait until you get to Peru, our team in Cusco are all very well travelled and can offer advice and help in planning the perfect itinerary for your weekends or for travel before or after your placement. Combine your volunteer opportunities with many of the wonders Peru has to offer!
Cusco
Cusco is a beautiful city that has something for everyone; from Inca ruins and splendid Spanish colonial architecture to elegant squares and outstanding mountain scenery. The historic city centre is a lively hub of cafes, restaurants and bars with dozens of boutiques and markets, such as the thriving San Pedro Market. Many shops offer an astonishing range of unique locally made goods to take home as souvenirs of your trip to Peru. There are museums, galleries, churches and monasteries to visit and every Sunday sees a magnificent civil parade in the City’s stunning main square, the Plaza de Armas.
Cusco’s Indian and Catholic traditions are frequently celebrated with street parades, live music and food stalls springing up across the city at any excuse. There are also some wonderful walks and hikes in and around the city centre. You can stroll amongst whitewashed houses and along the cobbled lanes in the Bohemian quarter of San Blas. Maybe climb high above the city to the Inca fortress at Sacsayhuaman and take in the unrivalled views of the city and the surrounding Andes.
Machu Picchu
Surely the number one reason that many visitors come to Peru is to visit the incomparable wonder of the Inca Empire; Machu Picchu. Whatever you read and no matter how many photos you have seen, nothing can quite prepare you for the first time you see the Inca citadel rising high above a bend in the river.
Machu Picchu is easily accessible from Cusco. You can go there by luxury train, trek the amazing Inca Trail high in the Andes or take any other number of routes all ending with lost city itself. Built, but never completed by the Incas around 1450 the Inca capital was only re-discovered in 1911. The breath-taking lost city of the Incas is now discovered by hundreds of enthralled visitors every day.
The Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is a must-see on anyone’s Peru itinerary. Barely half an hour’s drive from Cusco and you will find a magical, steep-sided valley where fresh mountain rivers and streams tumble between ancient mountains and majestic glaciers.
The Sacred Valley’s centuries-old towns and villages are home to remarkably preserved Inca fortsand citadels. Markets with traditional textiles and souvenirs draw visitors to lovely towns like Pisac, Chinchero and Ollantaytambo. The amazing salt terraces and pre-Inca agricultural terraces at Maras are also an easy day trip from Cusco.
More great things to do in Cusco
Cusco has a rich culture as the ancient capital of the Incas.
From many museums, incredible Inca and Spanish architecture, religious festivals to the biggest festival of the year, Inti Raymi.
For more detail on events in Cusco, you can read our blog on the Best Time to go to Peru.
You could be there for the Chocolatada in December or the amazing Inti Raymi Festival in June.
Volunteer in Peru and the Globalteer team will make sure you have an amazing cultural experience!
Lake Titicaca
For long weekends or those travelling before or after their placement with us, Lake Titicaca, the highest navigable lake in the world is under 5 hours from Cusco by car or 7-8 hours by bus. Here you can take a cruise on the lake, visit the famous floating Uros Islands or do a spot of star gazing in one of the least light-polluted skies on the planet.
Lima
You are almost certain to travel through Lima on your way to Cusco. Peru’s capital is worth a stop before or after your placement with us. There is excellent shopping in the ocean-side district of Miraflores, wonderful galleries and museums in trendy Barranco, some truly impressive Spanish colonial buildings in the historic centre and amazing restaurants throughout the city.
Arequipa
Less than a day’s drive from Cusco, the city of Arequipa is Peru’s second largest city. It is known as the white city due to the colour of the historic buildings constructed using local white stone called sillar. Like Cusco, Arequipa is located in the Andes mountains bit at a lower altitude so enjoys almost year-round warm and sunny weather. The city is overlooked by the magnificent dormant volcano, El Misti.
Arequipa is also the staging post for trips to the Famous Colca Canyon.
Volunteer in Peru with Globalteer to get specially negotiated generous discounts for our volunteers with a well-respected agency in Cusco. The responsible agency can arrange services such as visits to Machu Picchu, Amazon trips, Lake Titicaca as well as many other amazing trips in Peru and South America.
What’s Included
√ In-country support from Globalteer staff in Cusco.
√ Peru orientation guide and induction on arrival.
√ Free Cusco town tour.
√ All necessary project equipment and materials.
√ All necessary project training by experienced staff.
√ Project donation.
With the Accommodation Package
√ Free airport pick up from Cusco international airport.
√ Accommodation in the Volunteer House and all the basics for cooking meals.
√ Daily local bus transport to and from your project.
Upgrade your package!
As a UK charity, Globalteer only works with ethical and responsible partners. These value add-ons are part of our social enterprise efforts to support our projects and charitable objectives.
Tailor-made Spanish classes suitable for beginners or people with advanced language skills. Globalteer can also organise your trip to Machu Picchu or other tours in Peru. Please let us know your requirements.
Family and Group pricing
We can arrange family and group volunteering at our projects in Cusco. If you are interested in this then please contact us and we can tailor the placement to your requirements!
Financial Transparency
As a UK registered Charity, Globalteer is completely financially transparent to you, our donors. You can therefore see a full breakdown of where your money goes and our independently audited accounts by clicking below:
To discover why you should consider choosing Globalteer, please visit the following page:
Why do we charge a fee for volunteering?
Globalteer requests a donation from volunteers to allow us to achieve our charitable objectives and support our partner programmes. In return, Globalteer provides volunteers with an amazing, responsible and ethical volunteer experience and in-country support from the Globalteer team in Cambodia. Ensuring that your placement is responsible as well as rewarding, safe and enjoyable takes a good deal of work.
A summary of Globalteer’s total expenditure for the last financial year is shown below:
Donations and Grants 60% – This includes a share of volunteer placement fees, grants we have secured for our projects and donations managed by Globalteer that are made by individuals and groups to our projects and partner projects.
Support Costs 29% – This includes volunteer accommodation, volunteer transport, support staff costs, travel costs and some volunteer meals.
Operational Costs 11% – Costs of running Globalteer.
What’s not included
- Flights
- Medical and travel insurance
- Vaccinations and inoculations
- Onward travel after your placement
- Police or background check (where necessary)
What do everyday items cost?
The official currency of Peru is the Nuevo Sol, and there are approximately 4.20 Soles to the pound and 3.20 Soles to the US dollar. The cost of living in Peru is low compared to most countries in the developed world. The costs of some typical items are:
- Bus ride up to half an hour - 1 Sol
- Taxi journey up to 10 minutes - 4 Soles
- Meal in a market - 6 Soles
- Bottle of soft drink - 1.5 Soles
- Coffee - 5 Soles
- Meal in a restaurant - 10Soles to 40 Soles
Quick Summary of the Peru Horse Sanctuary
The horse sanctuary is set up to be an equestrian refuge for horses rescued from bad working conditions or a fate of being slaughtered for meat.
The Peruvian Andes Highlander Horse is smaller and not considered as 'attractive' as Peru's national horse (the Peruvian Paso). Due to this they are not popular among horse owners & riders.
The UNESCO world heritage-listed city of Cusco in Peru’s breath-taking Andes Mountains. The city is home to countless museums, restaurants, Inca ruins and fabulous Spanish colonial architecture.
Volunteers work with local Peruvian staff assisting them to feed and prepare food for the horses. Additionally volunteers will assist with washing and grooming the horses and with cleaning the shelters and paddocks. Volunteers will also help with other general tasks and animals at the shelter.
Volunteers work around 4 hours per day from 9am to 1pm, Monday to Friday with weekends free.
Volunteers at this project must be aged 18+ and have fluent English or Spanish.
Volunteers must have experience with horses and a passion for animal welfare.
What’s Included
√ In-country support from Globalteer staff in Cusco.
√ Peru orientation guide and induction on arrival.
√ Free Cusco town tour.
√ All necessary project equipment and materials.
√ All necessary project training by experienced staff.
√ Project donation.
With the Accommodation Package
√ Free airport pick up from Cusco international airport.
√ Accommodation in the Volunteer House and all the basics for cooking meals.
√ Daily local bus transport to and from your project.
We have a list of answers to questions frequently asked about the project.
Frequently Asked QuestionsYou can come to the project and help!
To apply click here: Apply nowYou can also donate to support the animals projects!
Donate Now!Real Reviews of Globalteer on Volunteer's Social Media
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Anyone wanting to volunteer I would 100 percent recommend Globalteer!!!! I had the pleasure of volunteering with Globalteer at Picaflor... read more House. From the Moment I arrived I was collected by staff and shown around Cusco. I also got to enjoy the weekly quiz nights with staff from globalteer. The staff went out of there way to make me feel welcome. I had an amazing time at picaflor house. The children were beautiful. Anyone wanting to volunteer I would 100 percent recommend globalteer!!!! read less
Katrina Baxter
7/04/2017 -
The whole experience was fantastic from start to finish. All the Globalteer staff made me feel really welcome. I spent a couple of weeks volunteering at the Helping... read more Hands School just outside Siem Reap. The whole experience was fantastic from start to finish. All the Globalteer staff made me feel really welcome and were always on hand to answer any questions. The school itself was really well run and the kids were brilliant to work with. It felt like such a worthwhile way to spend my holiday. Will definitely be going back! read less
Holly Bygrave
7/26/2018 -
Could not fault the hard work these people put in to support people less fortunate than myself. Great experience in Peru, couldn't fault the hard work these... read more people put in to support people less fortunate than myself. No ones perfect but all you can do is your best. Thanks guys read less
Mark Catling
6/30/2017 -
Accommodation was perfectly chosen and I made friends for life during my month working there. Learnt so much in an authentic and safe environment. Accomdation... read more was also perfectly chosen and I made friends for life during my month working there. Working hours flexible for a passionate explorer like myself read less
Crystal
2/13/2018 -
It was a huge eye opener and I would do it again in a heartbeat! I volunteered with Globalteer in Cambodia last year and I... read more had an amazing experience. Every member of the team there were so hospitable and friendly, that it made it feel like a home from home. I worked on two projects, building waterfilters and the women's empowerment program, where we made intricate products with the locals from plastic bags! It was a huge eye opener and I would do it again in a heartbeat! read less
Fiona Mehmet
1/16/2018 -
If you’re considering getting involved, just do it! I guarantee you won’t regret it. I had an AMAZING experience volunteering on two different projects... read more with Globalteer. You really get to experience life in a completely different culture, whilst making a significant difference to the projects and local communities. The Globalteer staff are all so helpful and welcoming, and the little things like being picked up from the airport and being shown around the local area made my trip so much easier, and meant I settled in straight away. If you’re considering getting involved, just do it! I guarantee you won’t regret it. read less
Jess Robinson
1/12/2018 -
Everything was well organised from day one and any special requirements were met with ease. Volunteering with Globalteer at Picaflor House was an incredible experience... read more - everything was well organised from day one and any special requirements were met with ease. I can fully recommend volunteering with them to anyone who wishes to spend their time and energy on a worthwhile charity project! read less
Hannah Verity Stone
6/30/2017 -
The most eye-opening and inspiring experiences I have had. My time spent volunteering in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with Globalteer... read more was one of the most eye-opening and inspiring experiences I've had. Volunteering in local schools allowed me to see parts of the area that I wouldn't have been able to as a tourist, and coaching sports to the school children offered me a chance to interact with locals and engage in their culture. Communication with Globalteer leading up to and during my trip was easy and constant. All the staff and volunteers I worked with were very friendly and supportive, always eager to help me out with any issues or concerns I had. Free time during the evenings and weekends allowed me to explore and enjoy what Siem Reap has to offer. I would definitely recommend Globalteer to anyone wishing to immerse themselves in a new culture, step out their comfort zone and make a difference to the local area! read less
Colin Elkington
1/14/2018 -
I met a fab group of people and they made the trip even better! I had the best time volunteering, especially with a background... read more in childcare I found this an amazing experience and highly recommend to anyone who is thinking about doing it. I met a fab group of people and they made the trip even better! The people who support you from Globalteer keep you informed and are always there through-out your trip and I hope to come back in the near future! read less
Hope Wilson
1/16/2018 -
I felt very much taken care of and I met amazing people who worked on other Globalteer projects. Coming from a country with very few organisations that offer... read more international volunteering jobs (Austria), I had to trust online reviews from other volunteers when I tried to find a suitable project for my sabbatical. And in my research, Globalteer was described as a very reliable organisation which offers an authentic insight into the countries where it operates. As a volunteer of the Cambodia Community Project for 4 weeks where I worked as a teacher in the rural Helping Hands Cambodia School outside of Siem Reap, I can only say that I had made the best choice. Everyting worked out perfectly - all my questions were answered promptly before my stay, I felt very much taken care of during the project and I met amazing people who worked on other Globalteer projects and they have all become an important part of my life. I think my teaching job out there in the country couldn't have given me a better insight into the life of this young country. I feel very much connected with the teachers and especially these fantastic kids that I met and since my return I have been following all their projects very closely. Should you want to know more about my volunteering experience with Globalteer, you can visit my blog, which you find if you google for: evaoff4abit.wordpress read less
Eva Deix
1/14/2018 -
All the Globalteer staff I have worked with have become friends and I value their support and encouragement. I have volunteered with the Globalteer Cambodia Community Project in... read more 2014 and twice in 2017 and will be returning this year, 2018. It is my home away from home. All the GT staff I've worked with in that time have become friends and I value their support and encouragement. The project itself is amazing and I highly recommend it to anybody who loves kids, is keen to be involved in a sustainable education project and who wants to see and learn about Cambodia village life. The work that Globalteer does will go on to benefit Cambodia and Cambodians for many years to come. read less
Sally Bateman
1/17/2018 -
Great organisation making a real difference. Great organisation making a real difference in Peru.
Nick James
12/20/2017 -
It was a life-changing experience for me, one that I will never forget. I absolutely loved my time volunteering in Cambodia with Globalteer!... read more I worked at Helping Hands School in a rural village outside of Siem Reap--very different from my native New York City. Globalteer representatives Jillian and Theavy worked with me to find a placement that allowed me to use my skill set. I am a School Librarian, and I was able to start a lending library with books that had been donated by students at my school in New York. I also assisted with English classes. The Globalteer staff was supportive, and the students and teachers were absolutely amazing. It was a life-changing experience for me, one that I will never forget. read less
Ann Quinlivan
5/31/2018 -
All the staff and volunteers I worked with were very friendly and supportive. My time spent volunteering in Siem Reap, Cambodia, with Globalteer... read more was one of the most eye-opening and inspiring experiences I've had. Volunteering in local schools allowed me to see parts of the area that I wouldn't have been able to as a tourist, and coaching sports to the school children offered me a chance to interact with locals and engage in their culture. Communication with Globalteer leading up to and during my trip was easy and constant. All the staff and volunteers I worked with were very friendly and supportive, always eager to help me out with any issues or concerns I had. Free time during the evenings and weekends allowed me to explore and enjoy what Siem Reap has to offer. I would definitely recommend Globalteer to anyone wishing to immerse themselves in a new culture, step out their comfort zone and make a difference to the local area! read less
Colin Elkington
1/13/2018 -
Had a great time and was happy to support such a worthwhile project. Having done lots of research on volunteer projects, I decided... read more that this program was the best for me. Globalteer was different to the other organisations, they are a registered charity so I felt straight away that I had some trust in them. They did not disappoint, I had a great time and was happy to support such a worthwhile project. read less
Diego Alonso
11/13/2017 -
I had an amazing time and look forward to volunteering with Globalteer again in the future! I volunteered with the Peru Community Project out of Cuzco... read more for 5 weeks. I was so impressed with the amazing work they are doing at Picaflor and how well the kids and the community responded to the project. Furthermore, I was grateful for how helpful and welcoming the staff was. I had an amazing time and look forward to volunteering with Globalteer again in the future! read less
Lauren Franklin
6/30/2017 -
Well organised, really helpful and welcoming staff. I had an amazing experience volunteering with Globalteer earlier this... read more year. Well organised, really helpful and welcoming staff and a great range of really worthwhile and sustainable projects! Definitely recommend!!! read less
Jessica Robinson
1/12/2018 -
They are great in every way. I have worked with them twice and I am counting down the days until I return next. Working with Globalteer and Picaflor house is amazing. They're great... read more in every way. I've worked with them during two extended stays in Peru and I'm counting down the days until I return next. read less
Jeff Bartlett
6/30/2017 -
I think it speaks volumes for the quality and impact of the experience, that I returned for a second trip! I first volunteered at Picaflor House Children's Community Project in... read more Peru in 2014, as a solo traveller, staying in Cusco for two months. I think it speaks volumes for the quality and impact of the experience, that I returned for a second trip at the end of last year - this time for just two weeks, but with my husband, as part of a wider trip through South America. Two very different visits, but both equally rewarding and life-changing. During my first trip, I met with a wide variety of lovely volunteers from all over the world, some of whom I am still in touch with today. In contrast, on our recent trip, we were the only volunteers. However, this allowed us to sample a broad range of experience at the project, and the opportunity to take more responsibility - we got to run two days worth of Art lessons which was great fun, and a real eye-opener, especially for my husband, who had no previous classroom experience. The volunteering at Picaflor is very flexible - our individual skills were used to their best advantage. I focussed on the English classes, using my language and communication training to the full, and my husband worked in the Nursery class, supporting the children to develop their social and practical skills (and honing his fledgling Spanish). In addition, on my first much longer trip, I was able to take the odd day off, enabling me to take in the local art and culture by visiting places of interest further afield. Picaflor House is a really valuable resource for Oropesa. It provides occupation and fun for the children in the afternoon after their school day finishes, allowing parents to work full days, and provides extra academic support, especially with English - particularly important as it enables the children to get better jobs when they leave school. The children at Picaflor are extremely lively (expect more noise, and less formal seated activity than in your average British school), but on both trips we particularly enjoyed the sporting days (as did the children!) on Fridays when everybody came together to play volleyball, football, and to skip, play on the swings and slide, and to dig in the sandpit - Chris enjoyed a particularly muscle-building day breaking up and raking the sand for the children, and I enjoyed a spot of gardening - as I said the experience was very varied! The regular, permanent staff at Picaflor are particularly supportive. We were prepared well in advance - I particularly needed this reassurance on my first trip alone, and even though on my second trip, I knew where everything was, we were confident that we could still access any extra help if needed. As a couple, we received an especially warm welcome on my return, and would definitely consider a third visit in the future. I would highly recommend Picaflor to future volunteers 🙂 read less
Katharine Hughes
2/28/2018 -
The staff working there are dedicated but also good fun. What an amazing experience! We spent a week with this... read more incredible sanctuary in August 2018. The passion for the animals in the care of this rescue sanctuary is genuine and heartfelt. The staff working there dedicated but also good fun. Loved the interactions with the monkeys, deer, and birds and building the monkey house for the howlers, I hope they enjoy it for many years to come. I strongly recommend anyone who is visiting Peru and wants to genuinely help wild animals to be returned back to their natural habitat to spend time here. read less
Hercules Moriarty
9/22/2018 -
Globalteer employ members of staff who themselves have a passion for travelling. Having chosen to spend three-weeks volunteering on a Cambodia Community... read more Project in Siem Reap, a perfect school placement was found, which allowed me to gain one of my most memorable life experiences to date. The regional Globalteer team in Asia managed to find an excellent placement school, which not only allowed me to gain new skills, but also share my teacher training experiences with others. From the moment I landed in Siem Reap, the local Globalteer helped me to settle in, and remained available as a support network, as well as my fellow volunteers. Regular catch-up nights meant that a shared social life was available. Such events facilitated wide-ranging conversations between volunteers who were working on a range of different projects whilst in town. At the same time, space was afforded for each volunteer to shape their own experiences. Globalteer employ members of staff who themselves have a passion for travelling and volunteering, and it’s this methodology that helps create a great experience for their volunteers. It’s therefore my pleasure to highly recommend Globalteer projects to future volunteers. read less
Nathan Crook
1/25/2018 -
This trip was very well organized by Globalteer. I had the amazing opportunity to volunteer with Globalteer at... read more the Northern Thailand Elephant Sanctuary! It was amazing being at this sanctuary and if you love being outdoors with animals then I highly recommend this one. One of the best things about this sanctuary is that you can stay overnight! It is incredible to see the elephants before you turn in for the night and then watch them get bathed in the morning as you eat your breakfast. This trip was very well organized by Globalteer. The sanctuary is small but it gives you the chance to really see the animals in their natural habitat. You can participate in feedings and sit in bungalows out in the jungle and just watch these magnificent creatures. Meals are filling and delicious and I highly recommend staying for a few nights. read less
Kayla Lynne Kiteley
1/25/2018 -
It was organised so well and I felt so comfortable throughout the whole process. Late last year I was able to spend a month... read more 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 less
Tiarne Biviano
2/02/2019 -
If you go there, you would definitely love it. I stayed in Picaflor House for like one month and... read more 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 less
PICKLE SMART
8/31/2019 -
The trip has changed my outlook on life and I believe that this is only the start of my volunteering career! Mid-life crisis? Mid-life adventure? It could have been either.....or even... read more a break from the husband! Following retirement from a demanding career in 2014 I had the luxury and freedom to enjoy being a lady that could wine and dine to her heart’s content but deep down I still yearned for a challenge. Then I came across the amazing opportunity, along with a friend, to work with underprivileged children in Cusco, Peru. This was for a month under Globalteer. I was able to be part of an inspirational and holistic after-school project for 70 children aged from 3-14 in a mountain village near Cusco. The project gives free classes and help with homework to underprivileged children, plus a safe place to play, to learn traditional music and dance, to enjoy free fruit, clean drinking water and a nutritious lunch. Once our applications had been accepted and the relevant checks completed I embarked on a fundraising campaign. Individual Just Giving pages were set up and I approached various companies to donate much needed items for the children such as educational books, art supplies, toys and clothing. My local M&S were very supportive and donated underwear and socks. Anxiety, apprehension and anticipation were just some of the feelings experienced but the time to embark on the adventure soon came round and we flew from Heathrow to Cusco via Bogota. The accommodation was in a family ‘homestay’ as we wanted to embrace and immerse ourselves in the culture and be part of a Peruvian family and also to practice the little Spanish I had learnt. In fact there were 11 people in the house in Wanchaq on the outskirts of Cusco. The family were very friendly and welcoming but you soon began to appreciate what you had left behind and not to take anything for granted. Altitude sickness was the first issue that had to be dealt with. Cusco is around 3400m above the sea level which can present a problem because the human body starts to react at around 2500m. Thankfully after taking the local remedy of Coca Tea and being given oxygen we were up and about after 36 hours. Meeting the children for the first time at Picaflor House was a very emotional experience and brought on the first of many tears. At the end of the first day with them I felt so privileged and humbled to have met them. They had nothing but were always smiling and wanting to hold your hand. I assisted with English classes, Mathematics and activities such as music, crafts and games on a Friday. They delighted in playing the simplest of games such as ‘Piggy In The Middle’ which started off with 3 and then everyone wanted to participate! The older girls made makeshift swings one day from cardboard and ropes! We were advised not to have favourites but I have to own up to having a soft spot for the Kindergarten class! The ongoing project focuses on the young and vulnerable to assist them in finding a way out of the trap of poverty and is aimed at keeping the children in a secure environment off the streets, and providing them with a safe place to learn and enjoy being children. I did witness in various parts of the area young children on their own begging in the streets or trying to sell sweets to motorists whilst waiting at the traffic lights. Sadly despite the wealth of tourist money that enters the country, very little of the money filters down to the average Peruvian and millions live in extreme poverty. This means a lack of education, healthcare and nutrition effects the poorest the hardest. Many homes have no running water or proper sanitation and heating is unheard of. With volunteers Globalteer hope to help the least fortunate live healthily, with dignity and with a future. We caught a local bus to and from the project. The journey was just under 1 hour each way and cost 3.50 soles return – approx £1! On one of our weekends off we visited Machu Picchu – an incomparable wonder and despite having seen so many pictures nothing prepares you for the first time you see the Inca citadel rising high above a bend in the river. It was well worth the 3.45 am alarm call to see the sunrise which was absolutely breath-taking. Another challenge we took on was to eat the local dish ‘Cuy’ – otherwise known as guinea pig! A Peruvian delicacy it is either fried or roasted and cooked whole. We ate it with our hands and although the meat looked like the dark meat of chicken it tasted more like duck. I also celebrated my birthday whilst out there and I gave the children a small bag of ‘Haribo’ sweets as a treat. They were absolutely delighted and so happy to have in their eyes such a luxury. I didn’t need to translate in to Spanish on this occasion – I think ‘sweets’ is a universal language! The trip was an incredible experience not only because of the gratifying sensation of helping in a foreign and vulnerable country, but also learning more about ourselves and appreciating what we have. The children made a lasting impression and I do have intentions to one day return. Volunteering at Piclafor House has taught me to never take things for granted and to realise how we can manage with far less than we think we need – I have a wardrobe of clothes so why do I think I need more? I left a case of clothes and toiletries for a lady I met and she actually filled with tears when she saw the bottle of shampoo I had donated. The trip has changed my outlook on life and I believe that this is only the start of my volunteering career! I would recommend volunteering with Globalteer to anyone who wants to have a memorable life experience. read less
Geraldine Parkin
2/06/2018 -
The Globalteer staff was extremely friendly, helpful, and made me feel right at home. One of the best experiences I've ever had! The Globalteer... read more staff was extremely friendly, helpful, and made me feel right at home. Whenever there was an event going on, they always made me feel included. Such an amazing experience helping animals and being in such a great city. read less
Anna Von Foerster
6/30/2017 -
Each morning I woke up excited and full of energy to meet the other amazing volunteers and start our work! This experience was one of the most rewarding things I... read more have done - it opened my eyes to how other cultures in different countries cope without luxuries that we take for granted each day. I began volunteering with Globalteer on the Clean Water project in Cambodia for 2 weeks. Each week consisted of 3 days of building the water filters and 2 days going to the different villages and giving the water filters to those who needed them. All of the stages were important and I felt like I was really making a real difference. Each morning I woke up excited and full of energy to meet the other amazing volunteers and start our work for the day! I loved going into the villages the most, as you could see how grateful the locals were to receive such an important gift into their lives! After my two weeks of volunteering I managed to get a job with globalteer running the sports project ... yes that is how much I fell in love with Cambodia, the people, the culture and their way of thinking! Globalteer is brilliant and were so hands on with any problem or issue that arose! I have had nothing but positive experiences and will always follow the amazing things they do daily! read less
Robert Bisson
1/12/2018 -
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... read more 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 read less
burcu eren
1/10/2019 -
Would highly recommend them to anyone considering volunteering abroad. A wonderful organisation that's truly dedicated to helping the communities... read more they work with. They ensure the volunteers are contributing as much as possible and putting their skills to the best possible use. I had an incredible experience with Globalteer and would highly recommend them to anyone considering volunteering abroad. read less
Anna Hilbert
9/30/2019 -
Globalteer were there every step of the way to help facilitate everything. Such a rewarding experience. Candice and Globalteer were there every... read more step of the way to help facilitate everything. Spent 2 weeks at a dog rescue in Cusco, Peru. I highly recommend them! read less
Peter DiFrancesca
7/10/2017 -
The benefits of doing this work through Globalteer were many. I worked on the clean water project in Siem Reap... read more in October 2018 and it was one of the most satisfying experiences I've ever had. Although the water project was with another NGO (with who Globalteer is a partner), the benefits of doing this work through Globalteer were many. As a woman doing this adventure on my own I was part of the Globalteer family and very well looked after. Having that security mattered. The accommodation was terrific, the Globalteer volunteer co-ordinator who was my go-to person (the wonderful Theavy) was amazing, meeting and socialising with other volunteers was huge fun and spending some time with Chris, the country manager, was educational and insightful. I'm going back this year to do it all again. Can't wait to see old friends and meet new ones while making a tangible difference to the lives of many. read less
Justine Auton
1/14/2018 -
I would most definitely recommend Globalteer to anyone who is interested in volunteering. My experience with Globalteer was amazing and I've volunteered with... read more them two years in a row now in Siem Reap. The staff are incredible and very accommodating which definitely made the idea of travelling to a new country alone a lot less daunting. The projects they have really immerse you into Cambodian culture as you're working with locals so you get the opportunity to really see how the Khmer live. Siem Reap itself is a wonderful town with plenty of restaurants, local and western, and an endless list of things to do. I would most definitely recommend Globalteer to anyone who's interested in volunteering. read less
A.N. Barry
1/14/2018
“Volunteering was an amazing experience and I'd highly recommend it”
Maria, Ireland