Archaeology Volunteer Program in Peru - Cusco

I gained a strong sense of purpose, which had been lacking for me since I retired from teaching. Although I dislike having to rise early, I did so easily, had my breakfast (sometimes with freshly squeezed orange juice!), walked a mile to the zoo, where ultimately I took on the job of gardener. Then I walked another mile to the school, where I had daily, hour long Spanish lessons, one on one with a number of professors, all of them great. Then I took the Batman bus back to the apartment, where I did a lot of reading and interacting with mi familia.

I also enjoyed extra activities each weekend, including, visiting Machu Picchu, horseback riding in the mountains, zip lining (at age 70!) and also exploring an Alpaca farm and various archaeological sights. Lucky for me, the prices of these activities were most reasonable and the guides that I had were warm and wonderful. I am still in touch with my family and the women who run the zoo. I've shared dozens of photos with them.

I learned a lot from this experience especially I developed a greater passion for dentistry and now I am more clear that this is the job I want to do. I was able to see how much it helps change people’s lives and health. I also loved getting to learn more about myself by learning from a different culture and developing a new sense of confidence.

I would highly recommend this to someone and say that sometimes putting yourself in an uncomfortable or scary position is where you can develop the most and become the person that you want to become.

I met a lot of lovely like-minded people who care about protecting the Amazon and the planet. I feel I gained confidence and experience in the world of conservation. My IVHQ Program Manager was fantastic from start to finish, she answered all of my long-winded questions to the best of her knowledge and always made me feel supported. The local team was incredibly supportive, professional and knowledgeable.

I would definitely advise others to join the program but I would prepare them that the living conditions are good but very basic. But if they are prepared to live without luxury and rough it in the jungle, then it is an incredible experience.

Everyone was so helpful! My host family was amazing, and went out of their way to make sure I was okay as a younger volunteer. I gained confidence in myself to be more independent and learn how to live on my own. You come out a whole new person, having met so many people from around the world, and being able to see what it’s like to live outside of your country.

It was an amazing experience. The preparation before going was perfect and I felt safe.

IVHQ provided very important information and their pre-departure support was good. Don't hesitate - joining this program will give you an unforgettable memory and it was a great experience in my life. I made lots of friends and learned a lot from the Amazon Jungle.