LATEST NEWS

  • CONTACT
  • 0161 870 6212
  • 1.413.517.0266

LATIN AMERICA

Visit a continent of ancient history, culture and natural wonders from the stunning Amazon to the Manu Biosphere and Mindo Cloud Forest. The region was the cradle of powerful ancient civilizations and is a cocktail of European influences, mixed with indigenous identities and diverse ecosystems. 

Volunteer in Latin America

You can volunteer in Latin America as part of a gap year, or choose an internship project in locations such as Ecuador, Belize and Costa Rica. But be warned, you will fall in love!

Volunteering in Latin America is perfect for those wanting an ethical way to visit its famous biodiversity and its impressive natural features. Latin America yields the most biodiverse rainforest in the world, The Amazon Rainforest, which is home to more than half of all the world’s species of plants and animals. Volunteer or intern in Latin America and visit the highest waterfall in the world, Angel Falls, the largest river by volume, Amazon, the longest mountain range, The Andes and the driest place on earth, the Atacama Desert.

The richness of Latin American culture has developed from ancient traditions, colonial influences and the mixing of different ethnicities immigrating to the region. While there is a rich history and culture, however, income inequality is more prominent in Latin America than in most other continents. Volunteers in Latin America play an instrumental role in the continual sustainability and growth of our projects. There are many grassroots initiatives that understand the struggles of the communities they work within and are able to support them on multiple levels. From creating Healthy Kitchens in Peru to Building and volunteering in Belize on an organic farm, you can find a project that utilizes your skills and builds towards a better future.

Since Latin America is rich in natural resources, plants and animals, it has become a target for exploitation. That makes environmental and wildlife conservation projects an important aspect of the future of Latin America through education, research and hands-on work. If you want to take part in conservation volunteering in Latin America, we have amazing projects like Turtle and Marine Environmental Conservation and Education in Ecuador or Environmental Conservation on Biological Stations in the Amazon and on the Coast. These projects have made important and forward-thinking impacts in the world of conservation in line with the UN sustainable development goals.

Just as Latin America is diverse, the volunteer and intern programs that Kaya offers vary. Some of our volunteer projects in Latin America require Spanish-speaking skills, meaning you can enhance your language knowledge by adding Spanish lessons to your trip. After all, there is no better way to learn than to completely immerse yourself in the language. All our placements that require Spanish have been assessed in line with the Common European Framework for Languages (CEFR), to help the projects and volunteers understand what is needed to make the placement a success. Spanish and Portuguese are the majority languages in Latin America, however, you can find over 600 native languages throughout the continent. If you speak one of these languages and want to volunteer in Latin America make sure you let one of our placement advisors know!

Why Intern or Volunteer abroad in Latin America with Kaya?

  • You can volunteer in Latin America on one of our projects for anywhere between 2-12 weeks.
  • Kaya’s volunteer and internships in Latin America are available to start throughout the year.
  • All of our projects work towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
  • Kaya provides all volunteers and interns with accommodation for the duration of their trip.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

  • Population – 347,369 (July 2015 estimate)
  • Language – English (official language), Spanish, Creole, Mayan, German, Garifuna
  • Religion – Catholic 40%, Protestant 30%, Jehovah’s Witness
  • Currency – Belizean Dollar (BZD)
  • Climate – tropical, very hot and humid, rainy season: May to November, dry season: February to May

FUN FACTS ABOUT LATIN AMERICA

It rains fish in Yoro, Honduras. ‘Lluvia de peces’ has been a spectacle for more than a century and occurs as much as four times a year! Scientists believe that strong winds and stormy weather are to be thanked for the fish falling phenomenon.

Latin American countries with intern and volunteer projects

Volunteer on Intern in Belize

Click here to checkout our varied volunteer projects or internships in Belize

Volunteer or Intern in Ecuador

Click here to checkout our varied volunteer projects or internships in Ecuador

Volunteer in Kenya

Volunteer on Intern in Brazil

Click here to checkout our varied volunteer projects or internships in Brazil

Volunteer or Intern in Peru

Click here to checkout our varied volunteer projects or internships in Peru

Volunteer in Ghana

Volunteer on Intern in Costa Rica

Click here to checkout our varied volunteer projects or internships in Costa Rica

Latin America Travel FAQs

Do I need a visa to volunteer or intern in Latin America?

Most nationalities do not need a Visa to volunteer or intern in a Latin American country. However, rest assured, if you do require a Visa, Kaya’s placement advisors are happy to answer any questions or worries you may have. Our placement advisors will support you applying for any Visas necessary. Request a call back from one today.

Do I need to pay for accomodation whilst volunteering?

Kaya provides accommodation for interns and volunteers across all our Latin American locations. The different types of accommodation vary for each one of our projects, so you could be staying in one of the following;

  • A home-stay
  • Shared accommodation in student hostels
  • Shared guest house
How do I apply to intern or volunteer in Latin America?

If you want to apply to volunteer or intern in Latin-America, you can follow these 4 easy steps!

  • Reserve your spot online!
  • Complete a telephone interview with one of our Kaya advisors
  • Once your application has been confirmed, pay the program fees
  • Receive your pre-departure pack and get ready to embark on your next adventure! Our Kaya advisors will help you if and when you need advice or guidance before leaving. If you have any questions, get in touch!
Do I need to speak Spanish to volunteer in South America?

There are around 600 native languages spoken over Latin America, so many of our volunteer programs don’t require knowledge of the Spanish language; however it is definitely an advantage if you speak Spanish or Portuguese. Good news is, you can always add Spanish language lessons to your program or internship and learn Spanish in Latin America. Request more information for one of the projects to find out!

What are the benefits of interning or volunteering in Latin America?

There are many reasons why you should volunteer in Latin America! Here is a list of just a few benefits of volunteering abroad with Kaya Responsible Travel;

  • You are helping local communities in their mission to make a real impact, whether that be in eco-related or wildlife conservation, education or community work.
  • Having real-life experiences is always a valuable experience to have and is a great addition to any CV/resume.
  • Volunteering or interning abroad on one of our projects in Latin America will help you in becoming an independent and responsible individual.
  • Volunteering abroad will also make you more comfortable traveling and give you more experience in another cultural environment.

 

Our Volunteer Projects and Internships in Latin America

Sustainable Development Micro-Internship in Costa Rica

Join a 2-week group micro-internship that combines lectures, interactive discussions on sustainability models, learn about the challenges and successes of these in Costa Rica and finish off the program with practical fieldwork.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Sustainable Farming, Food Security & Animal Husbandry Project, Belize

Join this organic farming and food security initiative, aimed at providing a sustainable source of healthy foods for young mothers and inner city youth in Belize.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Environmental and Community Gap Year Program Adventure in Costa Rica

Join our 10 or 7-week environment conservation and community development gap year adventure program, and explore Costa Rica in an exciting and meaningful way!

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Marine Science Education Internship in the Cayman Islands

Join this fantastic Marine Science Education Internship in Little Cayman and experience life on a tropical island whilst contributing to meaningful conservation work!

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Marine Science Research Internship in the Cayman Islands

Join this amazing Marine Science Research Internship in Little Cayman and get some real insight into marine conservation in the Caribbeans!

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Turtle & Marine Conservation Volunteering in Costa Rica

Join us as a volunteer for this Turtle and Marine Conservation Project in Costa Rica while living the pura vida!

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Study & Intern in Ecuador: Environmental Science & Conservation Track

Combine study abroad and intern this fall or spring in Ecuador

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Summer Internship & Study Abroad in Ecuador – Spanish & Latin America

Combine study abroad and service-learning in fall or spring in Ecuador

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Sports Volunteering in Costa Rica

Join us in the rural community of Costa Rica and contribute to local education through sports while living an adventure of a lifetime!

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Wildlife Science & Conservation Internship in Belize

Join this amazing Wildlife Science and Conservation Internship in Belize and get some real insight into conservation in the Caribbeans!

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Ecuador Semester Abroad: Latin American Studies Track

Combine study abroad and service-learning this fall or spring in Ecuador

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Ecuador Semester Abroad: Environmental Science & Conservation

Combine study abroad and intern this fall or spring in Ecuador

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Psychology & Social Work Internship in Ecuador

Take part in a Psychology and Social Work Internship in Ecuador and develop your skills and gain experience abroad

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
NGO Management Internship in Ecuador

Take part in a NGO Management Internship in Ecuador and develop your skills and gain experience abroad

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Social Justice Internship in Ecuador

Take part in a Social Justice Internship in Ecuador and help combat causes you care about

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Media & Marketing Internship in Peru

Intern in for a local social enterprise promoting financial independence through indigenous traditions in Peru

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Education Internship in Peru

Intern in a local school and gain some teaching experience in Peru

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Enchanted Forest Art Therapy Volunteer Program in Belize

Join the Enchanted Forest Art Therapy Volunteering in Belize and make a positive impact on local children.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Political Science Internship in Belize

Intern on a political science internship in Belize and gain experience in politics with the aim of running a campaign while living in San Ignacio.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Wildlife Conservation Volunteering in Brazil

Learn and experience wildlife conservation volunteering in Brazil

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Support Survivors of Violence & Human Trafficking in Quito

Human rights and girls’ empowerment volunteering in Quito

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Special Needs Therapy Internship in Peru

Intern in a special education centre in Peru that supports children age 3 to 20 by providing them special education geared to their specific needs

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
At-Risk Youth Social Work Internship in Peru

Intern in a social centre that supports children and adolescents considered at-risk and help the NGO provide a safe and comfortable environment.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Multimedia Internship in Peru

Multimedia internship in Peru to develop your CV/resume and help while supporting biodiversity conservation

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Environmental Conservation Internship in Peru

Environmental conservation internship in Peru to develop your CV/resume and help with scientific research

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Veterinary Internship in Ecuador

Join us as on this veterinary internship in Ecuador and contribute to improving the welfare of wildlife while developing your CV/Resume

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Fair Trade Internship in Ecuador

Join our Fair Trade Internship in Ecuador and work with a local sustainable environmental project that helps alleviate poverty locally.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Volunteering for Teenagers in Costa Rica

Spend your holidays doing something different and help others through volunteering overseas. Work on 1 of 4 projects in Costa Rica that accept teenagers from 15 years old.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Wildlife Rescue & Release Volunteer Project in Ecuador

In partnership with a local indigenous family that lives in the Amazon rainforest, this centre rehabilitates wild animals from the jungle that were victims of abuse and animal trafficking.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Sea Turtle Conservation Volunteering in Costa Rica

Volunteer on this Sea Turtle conservation project and protect female sea turtles, their nests and hatchlings on beaches along the coasts of Costa Rica.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Supporting Young Mothers Volunteering in Peru

Volunteer in Cusco and support young mothers and their children in Peru.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Healthy Kitchens Project in Peru

Join us in supporting local families by addressing hygiene and sanitation issues by working on our healthy kitchens volunteering in Peru project.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Environmental Conservation Volunteer Program: Peruvian Rainforest

Be part of a leading research programme and help with sustainable community and environmental conservation initiatives in the Peruvian rainforest.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Hospitals & Clinics Volunteering in Belize

Volunteer in Belize and lend a hand in a public polyclinic or private hospital that serve the local citizens, regardless of income or social standing.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Sustainable Economic & Community Development in Ecuador

Volunteer in Ecuador on an economic and community development initiative to help families preserve their values, culture and environment and create sustainable livelihoods.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Learn Medical Spanish in Ecuador

We’ve got the perfect program for medical students and professionals who want healthcare experience abroad.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Learn Spanish in Ecuador

By learning Spanish in Ecuador you will be immersed in the language as well as experiencing the wonderful culture.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Belize Spring Break Organic Farming Volunteer Week

Volunteer in Belize this Spring Break and work on a small farm, cultivating sustainable organically grown food for a home that supports abused and abandoned children.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Counselling & Social Work Volunteer Program in Belize

Volunteer within the social services on this counselling and social work project in Belize to help an understaffed centre support young people and women who are in need.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Music Access & Development for School Children in Belize

Volunteer as a music teacher at a local state run schools where music access and development for school children in Belize is limited to only those who can afford it.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Dance Therapy Volunteer Program in Belize

If you have a passion for, and can inspire others to express themselves through dance and movement, then volunteer on this wonderful dance therapy project in Belize.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Teaching & Teacher Development Volunteering in Belize

Support over-stretched teachers in classrooms and through interactive training sessions on this teaching and teacher development volunteering project in Belize.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Ecuador Spring Break Sustainable Community Volunteering

Spend your Spring Break volunteering in Ecuador and support 50 families to preserve their cultural identity and community.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Rural Public Health Volunteering in Ecuador

If you are interested in community development with a health focus then this rural public health volunteering placement is perfect for you.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
At-Risk Youth Volunteering in Belize

Volunteer in Belize on this film camp and use your film-making and photography skills to empower and inspire students from an at risk youth centre.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Integrated Music, Dance & Art Therapy for Children with Special Needs

Volunteer and use your creative skills on this integrated therapy project for children with disabilities and learning difficulties in Ecuador.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Child Workers’ Education Outreach Volunteer Program in Ecuador

Volunteer in Quito and help with the education of children who work upwards of ten hours a day in the markets, streets and countryside of Ecuador to support their families.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Childcare Centre Volunteer Project in Costa Rica

Volunteer abroad with Kaya in Costa Rica and get hands-on childcare experience with children who will really benefit from international instruction.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Mother & Child Nutrition Volunteering in Costa Rica

Join us at nutrition centres improving diets in Costa Rica on this mother and child nutrition volunteer placement.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Learn Spanish in Costa Rica

Join our unique Spanish immersion language course that enable students to learn the language and at the same time experience Costa Rican culture.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Inca Jewellery-Making Marketing in Peru

Volunteer in Peru on this Inca Jewellery-making cooperative marketing project and assist with promoting traditional cultural techniques and products.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Agro Forestry & Environmental Conservation in the Mindo Cloud Forest

If you are interested in environmental science and conservation efforts then volunteer on this project located in the stunning Cloud Forest in Ecuador.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Microfinance Internship in Peru

If you are interested in banking, accountancy or economics why not support poorer local people by joining this Microfinance volunteer placement in Peru.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Global Health & Nutrition in the Andes

Come to Peru and participate in global health and nutrition volunteering in the Andes.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Community Empowerment Volunteer Program in Costa Rica

Become a volunteer in Costa Rica and join one of our most unique projects in Central America assisting local communities at 2 cooperatives.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Animal Rescue Volunteer Project in Costa Rica

Volunteer in Costa Rica in a busy animal rescue centre, helping animals that have been neglected, lost their natural habitats or injured and are undergoing rehabilitation.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist
Medical Internship in Belize

Volunteer in Belize and lend a hand in public hospitals and clinics that serve the local citizens, regardless of their income.

View projectAdd to
wishlist
Remove from
wishlist

Easy 4-step application process

APPLY ONLINE

Apply online and pay your application fee to apply for your space on your chosen project. Our advisors will then contact you to guide you through the next steps.

TELEPHONE INTERVIEW

Once we’ve received your application, we’ll review your details and be in touch to arrange your informal telephone interview with your Kaya Placement Advisor.

CONFIRMATION

Following your interview, we will provide you a placement offer. Once you are ready to confirm your placement and dates, you can pay your confirmation fee to book and secure your space.

GET PREPARED

When you have confirmed your project dates we'll send you your Welcome Pack and lots of other helpful information to assist you with preparing for your placement.