Volunteering is free, but the organizations that we work with need to cover their administrative and material costs. Volunteer South America also charges a fee to cover the cost of research, advertising, production of material and mailing. We believe that the benefits of volunteering should go to the communities and reserves not to line our pockets.
Volunteer South America Fee
Our fee is US$236.50, which has not increased since 2005. In return for our fee you will receive;
Before you go
When you get there
The cost depends on the organization and where you are volunteering, but expect to pay between US$475-900 for 4 weeks. These fees cover the cost of accommodation, food, transport within the reserve and all materials used for the program and the expertise of a dedicated professional team. They may also cover laundry service, guided hikes during your time off and other things. Please see the details for each positions for an exact list of what is covered.
Most local organizations use part of your fee to finance associated running cost such as staff salaries of those engaged in supporting your volunteering, maintenance of facilities etc.
Visa - Most nationals do not need a visa for Bolivia, Peru or Ecuador for stays of less than 90 days. Our counterpart organizations can normally arrange for visa extensions for stays over 90 days. Costs vary.
Vaccinations. Costs vary.
Pre-program accommodation (normally two nights)- US$20-35 per night
Travel and medical insurance. Costs vary.
Airport departure taxes - $35-42.
Spending Money - We recommend US$100-175 per month.
A number of volunteers take the opportunity to study Spanish before taking up their volunteer position. We work with one of the best local language schools in Quito. Their program includes cultural visits, cooking local dishes and expert Spanish tuition from a qualified professional. Taking these classes in a Spanish speaking environment makes the task of learning Spanish easier. Encouragement and opportunities to practice are all around you.
A further incentive is the price of classes, which is significantly less than what you pay in North America or Europe.
Spanish Classes - From US$220 per week (4 hours a day)
An additional service that we offer is a family home stay. The best thing about our family home stays is that you really experience what it is like to be a local. There is no better way to immerse yourself in the culture and understand the way that things truly work than this.
Home stays may be booked in conjunction with Spanish classes or not. For Spanish students, it gives you a great opportunity to improve your conversational skills. But both Spanish students and others will take comfort that each family has at least one person that speaks English. It's great to know that when you just can't find the right word, help is at hand.
Accommodation is in a private room with a private bathroom. Laundry service and three meals a day are included in the price. The family will also take you on visits to places of interest.
Home stay with a local family - US$155 per week.
Volunteers usually arrange there own flight, but we are happy to give advice. Because overall volumes of flight to South America are relatively low, bargain airlines do not operate on the routes. But prices vary considerably throughout the year. We advise you to explore out of season fares before booking your volunteer position. Try to fly on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday as prices can be cheaper. Booking on-line with the airline will sometimes achieve a discount or extra air miles. Our suggestions on airlines that service South America are;
From the US
Try Copa, Delta, American Airlines (Miami) and Continental (Houston).
From Europe
Try Iberia which has direct flights from Madrid to Quito and Lima. KLM has flights out of Amsterdam direct to Quito and Lima. American Airlines has direct flights from Madrid.