Peru – Archaeology Volunteering in Sacred Valley of the Incas

Cusco, Peru’s historic capital, nestles in the Andes Mountains and once formed the heart of the Inca Empire. The surrounding Sacred Valley is home to awe-inspiring archaeological treasures, including Machu Picchu, Ollantaytambo, and Moray. This region boasts stunning landscapes of high-altitude mountains, lush valleys, and ancient ruins. Cusco itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore ancient stone streets, savor world-renowned Peruvian cuisine, and take part in traditional festivals that merge Incan and Spanish customs.

The archaeological project sites and accommodations are located 1 to 2 hours outside Cusco. The program provides public bus transportation to and from the project site at the beginning and the end.

About the Organization/Program
The archaeology program partners with Peru’s Ministry of Culture and has worked on cultural preservation projects for over 15 years. With access to over 300 heritage sites, volunteers play a key role in conserving the region’s rich archaeological history through supervised tasks led by experienced archaeologists and local experts.

Volunteer Tasks
Volunteers engage in archeological site maintenance, artifact classification, and the creation of historical maps. You will assist in archaeological workshops focused on ancient crafts such as weaving and ceramics while preserving national heritage. The work is physically demanding, but highly rewarding.

Some of your tasks may include:

• Create site maps and explore new areas.
• Take part in workshops on drawing, ceramics, weaving, and artifact registry.
• Clean and maintain sites by sweeping, cutting grass, and removing weeds.
• Mark, reticulate, and codify newly discovered rocks.
• Classify and document archaeological artifacts.
• Support the conservation and restoration of national heritage sites.
• Take part in community events to engage and support the local population.

Working Hours: Volunteers typically work 4-6 hours per day, Monday to Friday, with shifts scheduled in the morning or afternoon based on project needs. If additional help is required, the project director may request help on weekends. Please note that local holidays may affect the regular work schedule.

Please note: Our Field Managers provide ongoing support, though they are not present at the project site. You will work directly with the Spanish-speaking project director and their assistants.

Internet: Wi-Fi may not be available at the project site. However, sometimes, a neighboring family may allow volunteers to use their Wi-Fi to contact friends and family when needed. It’s recommended to plan for limited connectivity while volunteering. Volunteers can also purchase local SIM cards in Cusco for mobile data access. A computer lounge with internet access is also available at the program’s Spanish Institute in Cusco.

Laundry: Laundry services provided by host families for a small fee (approx. $2 per kilo).

Accommodations:

• In Cusco: During your orientation and optional Spanish Week, you will stay with a welcoming middle-class Peruvian host family in a shared room with 1-3 same-gender volunteers. You’ll have your own house key, offering flexibility to come and go, while respecting household routines and rules. Host families are conveniently located 10-25 minutes from the Spanish Institute for orientation by foot or public bus. Your host family will guide you to the institute on your first day.
  
• At the Archaeology Project Site: Once at the project site, you will stay with a local host family in a farming cooperative that shares resources. Accommodations are basic but comfortable, including shared rooms with access to warm showers and electricity. Volunteers enjoy an authentic cultural experience while living close to the archaeological sites. Taxis are available to nearby towns located 15-20 minutes from the project site, costing approximately $12 to $15 (USD). These towns offer access to shops, ATMs, and other essential services.

Food: While in Cusco, breakfast and dinner are provided daily by your host family. At the project site, you’ll enjoy three meals a day—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—prepared using local ingredients. Special dietary needs can be accommodated with advance notice. Peruvian cuisine is one of the best in South America, blending culinary influences from Africa, Europe, and Asia. Volunteers can expect home-cooked meals featuring staples like rice, beans, and corn, as well as root vegetables like cassava, taro, and sweet potatoes—Peru is home to nearly 4,000 potato varieties, including bright purple ones! Fresh fruits and vegetables, such as avocados served with spicy aji salsa, are common.

• Minimum age of 18
• GoEco Interview
• Good physical fitness; tasks involve hiking and manual labor.
• Passion for cultural preservation and archaeology.
• Police clearance required.
• Spanish proficiency is helpful but not mandatory.

Spanish Immersion Week—Recommended Add-on:
Kickstart your volunteer experience with a Spanish Immersion Week in Peru! During your first week, join small-group Spanish classes held Monday through Thursday for four hours each day. In the evenings, take part in cultural activities while connecting with fellow volunteers from around the world. See Additional Options below for fees.

Included in the Spanish Immersion Week:

• Spanish Classes: 4 hours of group classes per day (Monday-Thursday).
• Accommodation: Host family stay in a shared room.
• Meals: Breakfast and dinner provided 7 days a week.
• Extra Night Stay: Accommodation included between the immersion week and your volunteer program.

Important Note: If a suitable group cannot be formed at your language level, you will receive one hour of private tutoring for every two hours of group classes. This ensures a personalized and effective learning experience.

Activities & Tours:
Cusco and its surrounding towns host vibrant celebrations year-round, blending Inca and Catholic traditions. Volunteers can experience a wide range of cultural events, with a monthly events calendar posted by local staff for simple planning.

During your time off, you can explore the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu and hike the legendary Inca Trail. Visit Ollantaytambo’s impressive terraces, the mysterious Moray agricultural site, and the ancient city of Chinchero. Adventure seekers can enjoy mountain trekking, river rafting, and zip-lining through the Andes. Relax at Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake, or take a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley. Cultural enthusiasts can immerse themselves in local festivals, Andean music performances, and artisanal markets. Food lovers will enjoy sampling Peruvian delicacies, like ceviche, alpaca meat, and authentic empanadas.

You can conveniently book tours and excursions through a trusted travel partner. We can provide contact details after registration.