Everyone before signing up for such a big commitment is a bit hesitant, but I recommend you go for it as the experience is one not worth missing. You meet great new people and discover a new place all while making a positive impact. I can't think of a better way to travel and will definitely be back again.
Construction and Renovation Volunteering in Lima - Peru
Purpose
Improve infrastructure for the local community
Start dates
Programs start the first and third Monday of the month
Duration
Choose from 1-12 weeks
Volunteer hours
Up to 5 hours a day
Age
Volunteers aged 16+
Accommodation
Volunteer house or homestay
Program fees
From CA$458 for 1 week
What's included
Find out here
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
This program is ideal for:
Active volunteers who enjoy physical work and using their hands to improve and upgrade buildings. You will need to be able to speak English fluently, and having some Spanish is enormously helpful on this project.
Project details
Want to be a Construction and Renovation volunteer in Peru - Lima? International Volunteer HQ’s Construction and Renovation project is a fantastic chance for volunteers to make a tangible difference to the lives of people in disadvantaged communities in Lima. Volunteers gain building and renovation experience while
What to expect and how you'll make an impact
Families in disadvantaged communities around Lima often live in makeshift homes that they can’t afford to improve, and community buildings that house valuable services are also often in need of basic maintenance and repairs. Volunteers can play a big part in bringing these buildings up to a good standard for the people that use and live in them. You can assist with:
- Roofing
- Flooring
- Electrical work
- Plumbing
- Painting
- Gardening
- Other repairs
The scope of the project you’ll assist with will vary depending on the need in the community and feasibility of completing tasks, based on the number of volunteers available. You don’t need any building or renovation experience to participate, but if you list any relevant skills on your application then we can ensure you’ll be able to use them to make a difference.
Volunteers during the busy season from May to August generally have the opportunity to assist with more large scale projects, with September and October involving continued renovation and beautification activities.
Why do Construction and Renovation volunteering in Lima with IVHQ?
As a building volunteer in Peru - Lima you’ll be adding value to the local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:
- Improving vital infrastructure for the community
- Supporting local initiatives with construction projects
- Developing your communication skills
- Gaining building and renovation experience
- Immersing yourself in Peruvian culture
- Exploring the stunning mountains and ancient ruins of Peru
Volunteer requirements
- Volunteers under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to participate in this program
- Volunteers aged 16 or 17 on their program start date are required to provide IVHQ with parental consent in order to participate on the program, and may be asked to provide additional document to the local team.
- All volunteers aged 13+ are required to provide a criminal background check to IVHQ prior to departure. Those aged 13-17, if unable to obtain a criminal background check, can provide two character reference letters instead
- All volunteers are required to have adequate volunteer travel insurance
- All volunteers must speak fluent English.
Are you eligible to volunteer?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Not sure which program to join?
Get personalized recommendations >
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
Peru photo gallery
IVHQ Teaching project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Medical Outreach project
IVHQ Construction & Renovation project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Medical Outreach project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Medical Outreach project
IVHQ Construction & Renovation project
IVHQ Teaching project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Medical Outreach project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Special Needs/Childcare project
IVHQ Medical Outreach project
IVHQ Special Needs/Childcare project
IVHQ Community Support project
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring Lima, Peru during an IVHQ weekend
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
ZP
Zubin Panday
26 Jun 2024
...
LM
Lachlan McMillan
25 Oct 2023
I feel I gained a greater appreciation for the life I have. I am comfortable with it and seeing the less fortunate parts of the world has opened my eyes. My advice would be to definitely learn the language before going over as I didn’t and made it hard, and I'd also recommend volunteering for a longer period of time.
...
SM
Spencer Marlier
16 Oct 2023
I feel like I have gained a whole new understanding of a part of the world I never thought I’d get to see. Advice that I would give to someone who is hesitant is to just do it, it may seem scary at first but it’s 100% worth it!
...
MP
Matthew Pence
09 Aug 2023
I definitely have a better appreciation for what I have and the way I live than I did before. I am glad I was with a host and would encourage everyone to explore that option, I learned so much about the culture and their way of life.
...
SD
Stephen Danev
02 Aug 2023
My Program Manager and the local team made it really easy to follow the process, sending me detailed instructions and keeping me on schedule. The organization before and after arrival in Peru was excellent and communication was prompt and to the point. My host family was very friendly, open and accepting us. I made good friends and enjoyed the time we spent together. Our host showed us the local famous cites and entertainment.
My volunteer experience was an eye opener: meeting local people and immersing in their culture. I have gained appreciation of the way of life of the Peruvian families in a different walks of life. From our friendly hosts to the people in need in Pachacutec. This experience helped me develop further my confidence and see the difference I can make to others. I am planning to do it again next year, now that I know what to expect. Thank you IVHQ team!
...
NH
Nicholas Houghton
22 Jul 2022
We were volunteering at a dog shelter, fixing up the walls and painting them. Finishing the murals on the last day was my favorite part! The local team was happy with the work and everyone there seemed to love it.
Being immersed in the lifestyle and culture of Pachacutec was very impactful to me. The poverty there was shocking; the people live without fresh food, without water, and without power. Many houses don't have roofs, and the walls are not a solid foundation. I think it is important for people to experience how other parts of the world live their lives. It felt like the work that we did there was impactful and meaningful.
All you have to do is show up, IVHQ takes care of all the little details for you. If you are hesitant, know that the experience will help you just as much as it helps those you are working with. The personal growth and commitment to others is SO worth the time.
...
To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Academic course credit
Academic course credit
Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!
Learn about course creditLocation
Location
Lima, Peru’s capital city, is perched along the country’s Pacific coast. As the biggest city in Peru and one of the largest in South America, Lima is an important hub of culture, commerce, finance and politics. It’s also got a long history dating back to Pre-Columbian times as well as a strong Spanish influence and both of these can be explored in the many museums, art galleries, churches and ancient historical sites dotted around the city.
IVHQ’s Lima projects are set in and around the city, near the tourist hotspots of Barranco and Miraflores, wildly different in nature but both known for their beauty, great food and buzzing nightlife.
Arrival and orientation
The program orientation begins on the first and third Monday of each month and volunteers will need to arrive in Lima on the day before orientation in preparation.
After you have registered for the program, please book your flights to arrive at Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM). When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and transported to the volunteer accommodation in Lima.
Your accommodation, and airport pick up is covered by your Program Fee and is provided the night before your program orientation. If you are traveling in Peru - Lima prior to your volunteer program, we can arrange for you to be picked up at a prearranged destination in central Lima the day before your program orientation.
Orientation is hosted by the local team at the volunteer house in Lima and begins on the morning of your chosen start date. It will cover everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Lima, including:
- An introduction to Peru and Peruvian customs
- Program rules and expectations
- Safety guidelines
- Transportation options
- Travel opportunities within Peru
- Local tour to explore the area, obtain a SIM card, and withdraw cash
- Details about your specific project and placement
The orientation also provides an opportunity to meet other volunteers and exchange contact details for weekend travel and socializing!
Volunteer schedule example
First Day You’ll kick-start your program with a warm welcome from our local staff, who will provide you with an orientation and a local city tour to prepare you for the week ahead!
Weekdays - A typical day would be as follows:
| 6:00 AM | Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast that is provided at the volunteer house and homestay, fueling up for the day ahead. |
| 7:00 AM | Departure: At this time, volunteers, accompanied by local coordinators, embark to their placements to commence their day of volunteering. |
| 12:30 - 1:00 PM | Volunteer day concludes: Volunteers will now journey back to the volunteer accommodation, where you can prepare your lunch in the communal kitchen or enjoy the flavors of the local cuisine at a nearby food cart or restaurant. |
| 2:00 - 6:00 PM | Free Time: With your volunteering duties complete, the afternoon is yours to explore! Whether you’re immersing yourself in Spanish lessons, discovering hidden gems in Lima, or simply soaking up the vibrant culture. |
| 6:30 - 7:00 PM | Dinner: This is when typically when volunteers unwind, enjoy their dinner, and make any necessary preparations for the following day. |
Weekends
During the weekends, explore the wonders of Lima and beyond! From paragliding over the cliffs of Miraflores to surfing the coastal waters of Barranco, the possibilities are endless. Venture further afield to discover the ancient ruins of Pachacamac or the breathtaking beauty of Machu Picchu.
Looking for more ideas of things to do in Peru - Lima? Check out our Lima Travel & Tours page!
Accommodation and WiFi
Volunteers will either be accommodated in the main volunteer house or a homestay experience. Typically, volunteers are housed in our main facility, unless capacity is reached or you express a preference for a homestay.
Volunteer house: The volunteer house offers shared bedrooms and a communal area, creating a sociable environment for meeting and connecting with other volunteers. Each room is equipped with single bunk beds, usually shared with up to 6 volunteers of the same gender. Amenities include Wi-Fi, hot water, bedding, a fridge, and a TV in the common area for your comfort.
Homestay: Alternatively you will be placed in a homestay hosted by a local Peruvian family who has been approved by our local team in Lima. This offers an immersive experience with a local family to learn about the Peruvian way of life, meet local people, try traditional food and speak the local language - especially when host families in Lima tend to have limited English.
Living is often basic but comfortable and all homestays have electricity, hot water and western style bathrooms. You can expect to be accommodated with up to 6 volunteers of the same gender, with bedding provided.
WiFi is typically available in our homestay accommodation but please expect that some homestays do not have WiFi. If you would like to keep connected during your stay, we recommend bringing an unlocked mobile phone and purchasing a local SIM card when you arrive in Lima.
For those seeking a quieter retreat, private single or matrimonial rooms are available as an accommodation upgrade. This option places you either in the volunteer house or in a homestay with a local host family. While preferences can be noted, room allocation cannot be guaranteed. Reservations incurs an additional cost and is subject to availability.
To ensure the safety and respect of all volunteers, our local team enforces an 11:00 PM curfew from Sunday through to Thursday. Exceptions may be granted for special occasions if requested in advance. The curfew is explained in detail during orientation.
Meals
Volunteers are provided with both breakfast and dinner throughout their stay on the program. Breakfast is conveniently available as a self-service offering in the volunteer kitchen. It features a selection including tea, coffee, toast, breads, fresh fruits, cereals, assorted condiments, savory options like ham and eggs, and yogurt and cheese.
Although lunch is not provided, you have the flexibility to explore the diverse flavors of Peru. You can either use the fully equipped kitchen in your volunteer accommodation to prepare your meals or explore the nearby food stalls and restaurants for a taste of local cuisine.
Dinner offers a fusion of Peruvian and Western-style dishes. Featuring locally sourced ingredients, our menu provides pasta, rice, bread, corn, potatoes, vegetables, and flavorful chicken dishes.
Should you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, please inform us in advance, and we’ll make the necessary arrangements. While we strive to accommodate your needs, we also recommend bringing extra spending money for any personal dietary snacks. As a volunteer, flexibility is key, so expect some variation from your usual dining habits.
IVHQ volunteer orientation
IVHQ volunteer orientation
IVHQ volunteers dining
Typical volunteer breakfast
Typical volunteer breakfast
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer accommodation kitchen
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer communal area
Typical volunteer homestay
IVHQ Medical project
IVHQ Medical project
Pricing
Secure your place for just US$329 (approximately CA$478), pay your Program Fee later.
Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$329 (approximately CA$478) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.
You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.
Duration |
Program FeeDue 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
|
|---|---|
| 1 week | $315 Equivalent to $45/day |
| 2 weeks | $568 Equivalent to $41/day |
| 3 weeks | $820 Equivalent to $39/day |
| 4 weeks | $995 Equivalent to $36/day |
| 5 weeks | $1,174 Equivalent to $34/day |
| 6 weeks | $1,354 Equivalent to $32/day |
| 8 weeks | $1,724 Equivalent to $31/day |
| 10 weeks | $2,084 Equivalent to $30/day |
| 12 weeks | $2,444 Equivalent to $29/day |
- All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$329 (approximately CA$478) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
- A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
- Recommended spending money: Volunteers in Lima generally find US$50 - $100 per week to be sufficient for expenses, such as snacks, lunches, in-country tours, and Spanish language lessons.
- Anyone volunteering during the week before Christmas will have a one-off surcharge of US$70 added to their file when registering, for Christmas activities within the community.
- Breakfast and dinner
- Airport pick-up
- Accommodation
- 24/7 in-country support
- In-country program orientation
- Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
- Personalized preparation tools, guides and check lists
- Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
- Discounts on language lessons
- Discounts on travel and tour add-ons
- Certificate of International Volunteer Service
Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.
- Transport to and from your placement each day
- Return to the airport when your program finishes
- Lunch
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
- Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.
Spanish language lessons
Spanish language lessons are available for all volunteers regardless of their ability. IVHQ strongly recommends these for all volunteers, unless they are fluent in Spanish. If volunteers have little or no Spanish ability and are volunteering for a period longer than 2 weeks, they should strongly consider these courses, so they can work and communicate with all parties more effectively during their program. These language lessons can be pre-booked by the hour via your MyIVHQ profile and the class schedule confirmed on your arrival in Lima at your program orientation. The language lessons are tailored to each volunteer’s current level of Spanish. The cost is very affordable and offered exclusively to IVHQ volunteers at US$20 (approximately CA$29) per hour for a private class.
Check what's required to visit Peru
Safety and support
Safety and support
IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.
- All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
- All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
- All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
- All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
Essential country information
Essential country information
| Capital | Lima |
| Population | 32 million |
| Languages | Spanish |
| Currency | Nuevo Sol (PEN) |
| Time zone | UTC-05:00 |
Weather and climate: Peru, unlike other equatorial countries, does not have an exclusively tropical climate; the influence of the Andes and the Humboldt Current causes great climatic diversity within the country. The coast has moderate temperatures, low precipitation, and high humidity, except for its warmer, wetter northern reaches. In the sierra, rain is frequent during summer, and temperature and humidity diminish with altitude up to the frozen peaks of the Andes. The jungle is characterized by heavy rainfall and high temperatures, except for its southernmost part, which has cold winters and seasonal rainfall.
Apply to check if you're eligible!
Latest blog posts
Other projects you may be interested in
Animal Care in Cusco, Peru
Medical and Healthcare in Cusco, Peru
Teaching English in Cusco, Peru
Amazon Jungle Conservation in Cusco, Peru
Construction and Renovation in Cusco, Peru
Andean Immersion in Cusco, Peru
Childcare in Cusco, Peru
Community Support in Lima, Peru
Childcare in Lima, Peru
Special Needs Care in Cusco, Peru
Dentistry in Cusco, Peru
Archaeology in Cusco, Peru
Animal Care in Lima, Peru
Teaching English in Lima, Peru
Christmas Holiday Experience in Cusco, Peru
Medical Outreach in Lima, Peru
Eco-Agriculture Conservation in Cusco, Peru
Medical Campaign in Cusco, Peru
