Volunteer Opportunities in Arequipa
For those who would like to support people in need, we have compiled a list of organizations that welcome volunteers. If you are interested, please contact these organizations directly.
If you need any advice or guidance, feel free to contact us—we will be happy to help.
If you know of an organization that is looking for volunteers, please let us know so we can add it to our list.
Organization | Volunteer Opportunities | Languages |
Volunteers Peru | Education, community development, children’s homes, and social projects in Arequipa and Cotahuasi. One of the leading organizations working with international volunteers. | Spanish and English |
HOOP Peru | Education, tutoring, English teaching, community development, and project management. | Spanish and English |
Peruvian Red Cross – Arequipa Branch | Healthcare, first aid, emergency response, and humanitarian assistance. Regularly recruits new volunteers. | Mainly Spanish |
Intiwawa | Educational support, workshops for children and families, nutrition programs, and community projects in vulnerable areas. | Spanish and English |
Caritas Arequipa | Social programs, assistance for vulnerable families, community development, and charitable initiatives. | Spanish |
Hogar de Cristo | Support for people in vulnerable situations through social assistance and community programs. | Spanish |
YWAM Arequipa (Youth With A Mission) | Community projects, social outreach, and missionary activities. | Spanish and English |
Arequipa Ayuda | Community service and social assistance projects. | Spanish |
OPA Niños Libres | Programs supporting children and young people in vulnerable situations. | Spanish |
Recommended for Spanish Students
If you are learning Spanish, the following organizations are especially recommended:
- Volunteers Peru
- HOOP Peru
- Intiwawa
These organizations provide an excellent opportunity to combine volunteer work with daily Spanish practice and cultural immersion, allowing participants to improve their language skills while making a meaningful contribution to the local community.
Animal Shelters (Dog Rescue)
Many animal shelters welcome volunteers who can help with feeding, cleaning, walking, socializing dogs, and supporting adoption campaigns.
- Arequipa Abandoned Dogs Shelter
- HOPE – Association for Animal Protection and Welfare
- Ayúdanos a Ayudar Shelter
- Huellitas en Busca de Amor Rescue Center
- Somos su Voz Arequipa
- Rescatando Angelitos Shelter
- La Casa de Amelie (accepts volunteers and donations to support the care of rescued dogs)
Some of these shelters also participate in joint adoption and animal welfare campaigns organized by the Municipality of Arequipa.
Important Note for International Students
Most organizations welcome international volunteers. Basic Spanish is helpful but not always required. We recommend contacting each organization directly before your arrival to learn about volunteer requirements, schedules, and the minimum length of stay.