Roaming the world and thinking about what to do next? if you’re keen on new experiences – South America is a great way to start, each year thousands of volunteers have had the chance to discover the rich culture and the opportunity to give back to the community either through programs such as wildlife conservation, teaching English abroad, or even participate in medical volunteering.

Here are a few reasons and benefits of volunteering and why you should start planning your next trip to one of the 12 countries in South America.

Culture

South America is an excellent destination to find a mix of old and new, as well as Incan/European cultures, with a mix of ancient indigenous ruins and Spanish influences. Indigenous peoples and cultures continue to have a major presence in South America, accounting for nearly half of the population in some nations like Brazil and Peru.

Machu Picchu Pueblo, Peru Machu Picchu, Peru. One of the new Seven Wonders of the World.

Join Pro TripLeader Lisa on her mission to v olunteer and conserve the wildlife in Bolivia.

Cost

While the cost of living varies from country to country, volunteering in South America can be affordable. Although it all depends on which city you choose to settle in and ultimately how your lifestyle is. Stay away from popular tourists destinations and stick to more rural areas.

Some of the most expensive cities and countries to live in would be Rio de Janeiro, Cuba, Sao Paulo, and Brasilia.

Medellín, Colombia

To save some cost, why not join the destination expert which is TripLeader Omar’s who is planning a 4-month backpacking adventure in South America.

Making an Impact

You may make a difference in the society and world you wish to live in by volunteering. Whichever cause you choose to support, whether it’s community development or women empowerment – you’ll have the chance to be a part of something bigger than yourself and contribute to good causes all around the world.

Cusco, Peru

And like the famous quote by Neil Armstrong; “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind”

Traveling responsibly

it’s no secret that during our travels we leave an abundance of carbon footprint, by volunteering you can travel with a purpose as it allows you to lessen your social and environmental imprint by participating in ethical and sustainable activities.

Colca, Peru On the way up into Colca Canyon, you’ll find these beauties all over the place.

Always remember that you’re there to help make a difference, and you can’t do that if the community’s needs aren’t being met, not to mention there are a bunch of volunteer opportunities available.

Making new connections

You will be able to meet people from all different kinds of backgrounds and walks of life, it is a great opportunity to create meaningful relationships that will last way beyond the volunteering programs.

Who knows that maybe you will find your next best friend, business partner, or even form a stronger bond than all of those combined.

Neon sign on a wall

If you want to go on a CoWorking trip, check out TripLeader Fede’s CoWorking trip to Portugal.

There is a bunch of trips you can choose from in JoinMyTrip to South America. You definitely should add volunteering as a new way to travel. Not only is it more socially responsible it also plays a huge role in the community that you are volunteering in.

So what are you waiting for? create your own trip here and find like-minded fellow travelers or join a trip and head out to the unknown with our dedicated TripLeaders.

It’s 2022, this is your sign to join the community and take that leap of faith.