Volunteering in South and Central America

  • Cross-Cultural Solutions
    Cross-Cultural Solutions is a short-term international volunteer organisation with programmes in 12 countries. Staff members have years of experience in cultural exchange, and are dedicated to helping you achieve your goals. All in-country staff members are from the local communities where the project takes place. Ages 18 to 99; families are welcome with children 8 and older. Members of the Year Out Group and IVPA.

    www.crossculturalsolutions.org

  • Global Volunteer Network
    GVN's vision is to support the work of local community organisations in developing countries through the placement of international volunteers. They believe that local communities are in the best position to determine their needs, and provide volunteers to help them achieve their goals.
    www.globalvolunteernetwork.org
  • Globalteer
    Affordable, sustainable volunteer placements working with children and animals. You could be helping get kids off the streets in Colombia, or working with elephants in Thailand. Globalteer strives to ensure that projects can not only sustain the amazing work that they do but also expand to ensure their continual existence. Globalteer is a registered charity.
    www.globalteer.org
  • Kaya Responsible Travel
    Kaya works with over 200 projects in 24 countries, focusing on community development and environmental conservation. Volunteer placements are from 2 week to 12 months and are for singles, couples, groups and families. Kaya also offers a range of courses, including languages, field guiding, marine conservation, diving, photography and cooking. Specialist placement advisors can help you source a career break that best suit your skills and interests, so you can make the most of your time and make a world of difference.
    www.KayaVolunteer.com
  • Oyster Worldwide
    Volunteer or do paid work around the world in a wide variety of projects. Language courses, sports coaching and ski instructor courses available. Volunteer in medicine, conservation or health - projects are sustainable so you know you're really making a difference. Go on a trek or safari - there’s plenty of opportunities for extra adventures!
    www.oysterworldwide.com
  • Projects Abroad
    Projects Abroad offer a diverse range of volunteer projects, plus the opportunity to become part of a local community overseas. Placements are flexible you can choose when to go and how long to stay. One of the oldest and most respected gap year organisations, Projects Abroad sends over 2,000 volunteers abroad each year. Founder member of the Year Out Group.
    www.projects-abroad.co.uk
  • Projects Abroad PRO
    Professional volunteer projects in the developing world. You will use your qualifications, skills and experience, and be partnered with an in-country professional in the developing world. Placements are specifically for professionals (including retired people) and you must have a relevant degree or experience. You will be making a valuable contribution to one of the world's poorest communities.
    www.projects-abroad-pro.org
  • Raleigh

    Raleigh International, a youth and sustainable development charity, needs career breakers to take the role of volunteer manager and help lead overseas expeditions. You could help run community, environmental and adventure projects for young people aged 17 – 24 from many different walks of life and nationalities. Expeditions take place in Borneo, Costa Rica & Nicaragua, India and Tanzania throughout the year. Two weeks training is provided in-country before the expedition begins. Raleigh are on Facebook and Twitter.

    www.raleighinternational.org
  • Travellers Worldwide
    A leading overseas voluntary work provider. Teach English, sports or other subjects in underprivileged communities. Work in conservation with endangered animals. Work experience internships available and language and cultural courses. Flexible placements with start and finish dates you choose, tailored to your requirements with excellent in-country support. Founder member of the Year Out Group.
    www.travellersworldwide.com
  • VSO
    Paid volunteer placements from two months to two years in the areas of business management, education and health. Programmes for experienced professionals (with relevant qualifications and experience) between 20 and 75 years old. You'll have the opportunity to share your skills to support and develop others to fulfil their potential. Not only will the local community benefit, but you will return to the UK equipped with invaluable professional experience, a wealth of memories, and a whole new perspective! Local salary, training, flights, accommodation and support throughout your contract included.
    www.vso.org.uk/volunteering
  • The Volunteer Site Works with small community-based projects in Mexico. Environmentally friendly and genuinely useful.
  • VolunteerSouthAmerica.net Directory of free and low-cost volunteer opportunities in South America.
  • Volunteer Latin America Offers more free and low cost volunteering opportunities in Latin America than anyone else.
  • Inka Magik Volunteer projects and Eco-tours in Peru
  • Yanapuma Foundation Promotes sustainable community development in Ecuador in indigenous and marginalized communities with the aid of international volunteers and career-break professionals.