Volunteering in Cusco

Cusco is a city located in the south of Peru; at 3310m high (11000 feet) the climate is temperate most of the year during the day, but cold at night. The average temperature is 18 ºC (64.5 ºF) during the day and 6-7 ºC (44 ºF) during the night. Called as the Archaeological Capital of the Americas is also the tourism capital of South America, it is a beautiful city riddled with contrasts between the indigenous styles and the modern western world.

The local people are extremely friendly and welcoming and you will also meet lots of foreigners from all over the world. but Cusco itself has a lot to offer the visitor and most travelers usually end up seduced with this vibrant city and stay longer than first planned.

As Cusco is a touristic town the majority of Cusquenan children will tell you that they want to be a tourist guide when they grow up. They are also aware that this dream requires a high level of English and are therefore very excited to learn English with native speakers. This is one of many reason to give children a genuine opportunity to support themselves find work on completing their education, as tourism forms an integral part of the local economy.
Volunteers will work in local schools, community centers and shelters for street children. Work varies but generally consists of providing tutoring to local students, setting up small workshops, assisting local teachers and organizing educational games and activities. NB Volunteers DO NOT need to be a qualified or experienced teacher.

If you are planning to volunteering in Cusco here are some tips to consider before your trip:

• It is recommended to take insurance before visiting Cusco -Peru.
• Vaccines are not a compulsory before traveling to Peru, but most visitors consider immunizations against Hepatitis B. If however you are planning a trip to the jungle, vaccines to yellow fever are required.
• Altitude sickness can affect some visitors, especially if flying directly to Cusco, remember the city is located at 3310m high (11000 feet). Symptoms include headaches, dizziness and vomiting. If theses occur drink plenty of water and the local's advice coca tea, which is excellent.
• It is common that no body wants to accept dollar bills that look old or are torn. Not even banks
  The change currency is aprox.
  US$1= S/ 2.80 approximately
  EUR 1= S/ 3.584 approximately
  Currency converter here ( http://www.xe.com/ucc/  )
• There are many unidentified dogs in Cusco, be careful if approaching them, however the majority are not dangerous.
• Cusco is extremely safe, however be careful when walking alone at night and always take registered taxis.

For more useful information about Cusco just contact us