As a volunteer teaching English in Peru, you will play a vital role in supporting local teachers throughout the city of Cusco. In addition to contributing to the classroom, PMGY’s Peru volunteer programs offer a fantastic opportunity to improve your Spanish. The Peruvian school system provides only a basic level of education and English instruction, which often falls short of what students need. By deciding to teach English in Peru, you can make a meaningful impact and help bridge this gap in education.
Teaching Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 Through Education
- Build Teaching Skills Across Cusco Schools & Community Afterschool Projects
- Teach English Through Lessons, Language Activities & Classroom Support
- Explore More Of Peru With Weekend Trips To Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca
- Experience Peruvian Culture Through Salsa, Local Cuisine & Fruit Tasting
Background to the Teaching Program
Peru’s education system lags behind many of its South American neighbours. Much of the curriculum focuses on tradition and history, leaving core subjects like Maths, Science, and communication underdeveloped.
In Peru, three main languages are spoken: Spanish, Quechua, and Aymara. English holds significant importance in many regions, particularly due to the country’s thriving tourism industry. However, educators often face challenges, including inadequate training and overcrowded classrooms, resulting in poor educational outcomes.
Economic disparity also plays a role. Low-income families often require children to work evenings in markets or collecting rubbish, limiting their study time. Conversely, children from higher-income families can access specialised language schools and institutions, gaining greater proficiency in English and opportunities to develop skills in sports, music, and social activities.
In the 1970s, nearly 40% of Peruvians spoke only the indigenous Quechua language, facing social prejudice due to its association with rural labour. Over time, education’s growing importance has led to a decline in Quechua speakers, raising concerns about the loss of cultural tradition.
A strong education enables individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds to travel within Peru, secure roles in tourism and trade, or even take up governmental positions. Recognising this, many families prioritise giving their children the chance to learn English, which opens doors to better prospects.
Alongside academics, Peruvian schools often incorporate sports and hygiene education to prepare students for a well-rounded future. These activities ensure children are ready to contribute effectively to society when they enter the workforce.
To address these educational gaps, PMGY has partnered with local primary and secondary schools to expand English learning opportunities. In Peru, children typically begin learning English at age 12 when they start secondary school. However, early exposure to English through volunteers significantly enhances their learning potential and future opportunities.
Volunteer opportunities with PMGY provide a platform to make a meaningful impact when you teach English in Peru. By working at our volunteer teaching English abroad projects, your energy, enthusiasm, and creativity will inspire students. Having a fluent English speaker in their classroom can be transformative for these children.
As a volunteer teaching English in Peru, your dedication and skills will play a vital role in improving educational outcomes. If you’re looking for additional options, PMGY also offers a variety of animal conservation volunteering projects in Peru to complement your experience.
Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples
The Colegio Francisco Sirvichi - Colegio Francisco Sirvichi operates as a primary school with separate morning and afternoon programs. The morning program caters to girls aged 6-11, while the afternoon program is co-educational, creating a more interactive environment for the same age group. Each class typically has 30-40 students, and volunteer support is invaluable to the local staff.
Instructors include one to three general education teachers and one English teacher who handles both the morning and afternoon shifts. Due to limited assistance and teaching resources, English lessons often fall short of their potential. As a volunteer, you’ll support teachers by supervising students, assisting with English pronunciation, correcting exams, and helping with lesson planning.
The school also incorporates sports into the curriculum to ease the burden on overcrowded English classes. Sports activities take place in a local field and are part of the regular schedule. Volunteers are welcome to assist by supervising, facilitating exercises, and introducing new activities.
The schedule at Colegio Francisco Sirvichi is divided into two shifts: mornings from 8am-1pm and afternoons from 1pm-6pm. Flexibility is essential for volunteers teaching English in Peru at this school.
Learn More...
The Police Department organises recreational activities like painting, dancing, and drawing. When volunteers are present, they are encouraged to lead activities based on their skills and interests. Volunteers also help with teaching English, assisting with homework, and organising engaging lessons or creative workshops.
Many children in the program have experienced domestic violence or abuse, so patient, positive, and energetic volunteers are vital to creating a nurturing environment. This project is especially rewarding for long-term volunteers who can form deeper connections with the children.
The program operates on weekdays from 2pm-6pm, with attendance ranging from 15 to 45 children each day. As a volunteer in Peru, you are encouraged to provide motivation, support, and creativity to make a lasting impact at the Colibri project.
Colegio San Francisco de Borja – Founded nearly 400 years ago, Colegio San Francisco de Borja is a historic public school located just two blocks from Cusco’s main square. Once exclusive to Inca royalty and the early educational ground of Tupac Amaru, the school now serves 670 primary and 720 secondary students across 11 grades.
Volunteers work alongside English teachers in the afternoons, primarily with students aged 12-17. While the schedule typically runs from 1pm-6pm Monday to Friday, flexibility is key as it may change based on class timings.
Your role as a volunteer teaching English in Peru includes assisting with grammar and pronunciation exercises, preparing lessons, and helping to create an engaging learning environment. You’ll also design creative activities to enhance language skills, evaluate quizzes and exams, and provide constructive feedback to support students’ progress. Through your contributions, you’ll help students gain confidence in English, fostering a love for learning while enriching their educational experience.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day
As a participant in volunteer work in Peru, you will play a key role in supporting local teachers during their class schedules. This includes assisting with lesson preparation, tutoring students, and engaging with them during class breaks. While volunteers often work as teacher assistants, there may also be opportunities to lead classroom activities.
The teaching program operates during both morning and afternoon shifts. Before your arrival in Cusco, the local team will email you detailed information about your specific project, assigned tasks, and working hours. Your commitment to the project will typically run Monday to Friday, with 3-5 hours of work per day.
For those who enjoy a scenic stroll, reaching your English teaching placement can involve a pleasant 45-minute walk through the heart of Cusco. Alternatively, you can opt for a 30-minute bus ride to your project site. Bus stops are conveniently located near the host family or the Spanish school. The local team will guide you in navigating the routes to and from your placement, ensuring you are comfortable and familiar with the journey.
Other Things to Consider Teaching Children in Peru
Return Airport Transfer - Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Alternatively, ridesharing apps are a common and cost-effective option. Many participants travel during their final days and may not return to the airport directly from the accommodation. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants.
Experience - Prior teaching experience is not required for the English Teaching program, as the presence of a fluent English speaker is invaluable. As long as you are creative, determined, and resourceful, you will have a positive impact on the children's educational development.
TEFL Course – We recommend that volunteers prepare thoroughly for their teaching program overseas. To maximise your impact, consider completing our convenient, affordable, and internationally accredited 60-hour Online TEFL Course.
Resources – On the teach English in Peru project, resources can be limited. We recommend that volunteers bring materials with them each day to enhance productivity and involvement. Preparing in advance will help you get the most out of your teaching English overseas experience.
Spanish Requirements - For the volunteer in Peru programs, we recommend having a reasonable level of Spanish before your trip. While there are no mandatory language requirements, and beginners are welcome, being able to communicate in Spanish will significantly enhance your experience. English is not widely spoken in Peru, so the program should also be seen as a language immersion opportunity. Limited Spanish skills may lead to communication challenges and a more frustrating experience.
PMGY also offers Online Spanish Lessons before your trip, providing one-on-one classes with trained Spanish teachers via Zoom.
Additionally, you can enrol in our learn Spanish in Peru program, which includes 20 hours per week of Spanish lessons. Both options can be added during the online application process and are highly recommended to help you make the most of your volunteer work in Peru.
Once in Peru, you can arrange additional lessons with the local team. However, volunteer feedback suggests that balancing language lessons with your Peru volunteer programs can be tiring. For this reason, we recommend only extending your Language Immersion Program if you wish to focus on improving your Spanish skills.
Project Commitment – We recommend a minimum commitment of four weeks for childcare and teaching projects to ensure both volunteers and the projects maximise the experience. Shorter placements of two or three weeks are also available but are typically limited to kindergarten and after-school teaching projects.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Embark on a breathtaking 2-day journey from Cusco to the world-famous Machu Picchu. Travel through the lush Sacred Valley by scenic train or choose a picturesque drive that lets you see more of local life. Spend the night in the charming town of Aguas Calientes, surrounded by mountains and rivers, before enjoying a guided tour of the ancient Incan citadel and its magnificent terraces and temples.
Getting There
• 2 hours from Cusco
• Scenic Train – 370 USD
• Car – 200 USD
Where to Stay
• Accommodation in Aguas Calientes – Included
Things to Do
• Explore Aguas Calientes – Included
• Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Included
The Salkantay Trek is a stunning five-day adventure through Peru’s most dramatic landscapes. You’ll journey from snow-capped peaks and alpine passes to cloud forests and subtropical valleys, reaching the 4,630m Salkantay Pass for breathtaking views of the glacier. Along the way, you’ll pass remote villages, waterfalls, and coffee farms before arriving at Machu Picchu for a guided tour and return to Cusco.
Getting There
• Start – 4 hours from Cusco
• End – 3 hours from Cusco
• Private Tour Bus
Where to Stay
• Glamping in the Andes – Included
Things to Do
• Hike Through Mountain Landscapes – Included
• Visit Scenic Viewpoints – Included
• Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Included
A full-day trip from Cusco takes you to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), where colourful mineral layers paint the Andean slopes. Enjoy a scenic drive through highland villages before hiking to the summit at over 5,000 metres. Alternatively, visit Palccoyo Mountain for a less crowded, easier hike with equally beautiful rainbow hues and sweeping views of the Andes.
Getting There
• 4 hours from Cusco
• Private Tour Bus
Where to Stay
• Day trip option from Cusco
Things to Do
• Hike Over Rainbow-Coloured Mountains – Included
• Take Photos with Alpacas – Small Donation
• Traditional Buffet Lunch and Dinner – Included
Experience Peru’s rich culture on a two-day trip from Cusco to Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. Travel overnight to Puno before setting off by boat to explore the floating Uros Islands and Amantani Island, where you’ll stay with a local family. Enjoy home-cooked meals, stunning views, and a lively evening of traditional music and dance before returning to Cusco.
Getting There
• 8 hours from Cusco
• Tourist Night Coach
Where to Stay
• Local Homestay – Included
Things to Do
• Visit Reed Houses on the Uros Islands – Included
• Sunset Hike on Amantani Island – Included
• Assist With Traditional Cooking – Included
• Try on Traditional Dress – Included
• Enjoy Local Music and Dancing – Included
Discover the beauty and history of the Sacred Valley on this full-day trip from Cusco. Visit ancient Inca sites like Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Moray, explore vibrant artisan markets, and see the stunning Maras Salt Mines carved into the mountainside. Learn about Andean culture, local weaving traditions, and Incan agricultural ingenuity on this immersive and scenic tour.
Getting There
• 2 hours from Cusco
• Private Tour Bus
Where to Stay
• Day trip option from Cusco
Things to Do
• Explore Chinchero, Moray, and Maras Salt Mines – Included
• Visit Local Weaving Communities and Markets – Included
• Leisurely Afternoon in Ollantaytambo – Included
-
- A group of friends celebrating their mountain hike adventure amidst stunning views and lush Peruvian landscape.
-
- Three hikers celebrate their achievement atop Perus vibrant Rainbow Mountains, surrounded by colourful geological formations and stunning mountain views.
-
- Four friends enjoy stunning views of Cuscos cityscape, mountains, and vibrant culture during a joyful trip.
Accommodation - Shared & Comfort Options Available
Host Family
During your time on our Peru volunteer programs, you will stay with a local host family in Cusco. Staying with a host family provides a comfortable base for your time in Peru while giving you the opportunity to experience everyday local life and become more immersed in Peruvian culture.
Host families have their own routines and living spaces, but volunteers are welcomed into the home and have the opportunity to interact with their hosts throughout their stay. It is a great way to learn more about life in Cusco and, for those learning Spanish, provides plenty of opportunities to practise the language in a natural setting.
Both shared and private room options are available across our host families. Rooms include single beds, bed linen and space for your clothes and personal belongings. You will also have access to the communal areas and facilities available within your individual host family home.
Our host families are located across central Cusco and the surrounding residential areas, with your accommodation arranged according to your volunteer project and local logistics. If you would like to stay with another PMGY participant, please mention this on your online application and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option is a great choice for volunteers who enjoy a more social living experience. Rooms are same sex and shared with other PMGY participants, giving you the opportunity to get to know other volunteers while also experiencing life with a local host family.
Bathroom facilities are shared within the host family home and include a shower and western style toilet. This is our standard accommodation option and works particularly well for volunteers who enjoy the social side of sharing their experience with others.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room Upgrade 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer more personal space, our Comfort Option provides a private bedroom within a local host family home. This gives you your own space to relax and unwind while still enjoying the interaction and cultural experience that comes with staying with a host family.
You should expect bathroom facilities to be shared within the host family home. As these are private family homes, facilities are generally comfortable and shared between a relatively small number of people. Some of our host families do have private or ensuite bathrooms available, and where possible we may be able to arrange one, but this is subject to availability and should be considered an added benefit rather than a standard feature of the Comfort Option.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 3 (Shared) or 1 (Comfort)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
15 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
10 Minute Walk
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Peru, international volunteers receive breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by your host family. Breakfast and dinner are served at the homestay, while lunch is provided as a packed meal or pre-cooked option that can be reheated at the Spanish school. Boiled and filtered water is also available at the homestay for volunteers.
Meals are typically traditional Peruvian dishes, which can be quite carb-heavy. Peruvian cuisine often features rice or quinoa as staples, with chicken being the primary meat. Due to the high altitude, you’ll notice smaller portions for breakfast and dinner, with lunch being the largest meal of the day. It may take a few days for your body to adjust to these changes, but this traditional eating style supports better digestion in Cusco’s altitude.
Common meats include chicken, fish, and alpaca, but there are also several vegan, vegetarian, and international dining options around Cusco. Restaurants and western-style food outlets are just a 10-minute drive from the homestay, offering some home comforts if you’d like to explore. Vegan and Indian cuisine are also available, and the local team will provide recommendations during your orientation.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Eggs, Bread, Porridge, Fruit, Coffee, Tea
Lunch
Chicken Sandwich, Rice, Vegetables, Salad
Dinner
Pasta, Vegetables, Chicken, Pork, Rice, Plantain
Program Location
FAQ's
As a Peru teaching volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the teaching projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Peru teaching program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Saturday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Peru, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Peru teaching volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Many of our Peru teaching volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Peru teaching volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Peru teaching volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
