Volunteering in Bolivia

Boasting stunning landscapes, colourful markets, vibrant fiestas and historic landmarks, Bolivia is a dream destination for many a traveler. Overshadowing this rich tapestry however is a nation deep in poverty. The country is home to a large indigenous population living in unimaginable circumstances and sadly the elderly, infirm, disabled and young are the most vulnerable. In Bolivia you will see many children working on the street instead of at school in order to survive.

Types Of Volunteer Options Available

Fortunately there are a number of wonderful organisations throughout Bolivia providing constructive and worthwhile projects to help improve the lives of the country’s most afflicted. Various volunteer programs aim to promote assistance in education, healthcare, human rights, economics and the environment. Options include working with animals, applying medical skills, teaching English, building houses, helping the homeless, social media marketing, and much, much more. No matter your skill-base, age, education level or length of stay, there are opportunities available to anyone willing to help.

What To Expect From Your Placement

Travelers looking to volunteer in Bolivia should be under no illusion that the experience will be easy, smooth sailing or even enjoyable. Placements can be frustrating, scary and difficult, with many tourists expecting to entice change, only to be met with unfair bureaucracy, minimal organisation and lack of funding. That being said, volunteering in Bolivia can also be life-changing, fulfilling and amazing. If approached with careful research, an open mind, flexible nature and can-do attitude, working to help others will allow you to make positive impacts, build relationships, learn new cultures and discover the true spirit of a country; something that can not always be achieved as a tourist. While volunteering aims to improve the lives of individuals, it is the rippling effect throughout a community which shapes the future for generations to come. You may never get to witness the fruits of your labour, but remember, what may be a small change in your eyes can be life-changing to the receiver. At the end of the day, if you’re volunteering for the right reasons and with the right attitude, the benefits will be reciprocal. Leave your expectations at the door, listen to concerns, and look for the ways your individual experiences and skills can help to make a difference.

Where To Volunteer

Due to Bolivia’s poverty and lack of resources, there is a significant need for volunteers. While there are many locations throughout Bolivia that require assistance, the departments of Santa Cruz, La Paz, Sucre, Tarija and Cochabamba are most conducive to tourists. These destinations are recommended not only for their relative prosperity and developing infrastructure, but for their temperate climate and easy access by public transport. Below we have listed some truly inspiring organisations to consider when traveling through the heart of South America: Please note, the majority of placements on this list do not require a fee to volunteer, however a couple do ask for a basic admin fee . We advise contacting the organisations directly for more information.

• BiblioWorks (Rural areas in the department of Chuquisaca)
• Inti Magazine (Sucre)
• Condor Trekkers (Sucre)
• Yo Voy a Ti (Cochabamba)
• Sustainable Bolivia (Cochabamba)
• Proyecto Horizonte (Cochabamba)
• Bolivia Digna (Cochabamba)
• Luz del Mundo (Santa Cruz)
• Up Close Bolivia (La Paz)
• Artificial Limbs Center (La Paz)
• Senda Verde (North Yungus)
• Inti Wara Yassi (Cochabamba, Santa Cruz and North of La Paz)
• Esperanca (Tarija)
• Mano a Mano (Countrywide)

You can also read Brigid’s personal experience volunteering with Inti Magazine, helping to improve the lives of Sucre’s working children.

Accommodation Options

As an alternative to a hostel, many of the volunteer placements provide the option of a homestay, giving travelers the opportunity to play an active part in the local community as well as experience the unique customs, traditions, and cuisines of Bolivia. Spending time with a local family encourages relationship building, providing both the volunteer and host with memories that will last a lifetime. Volunteers are usually required to cover their own living costs, but most organisation are able to provide guidance in finding short or long-term accommodation, Spanish schools, tours etc.

• Where To Sleep On A Budget In Bolivia

Visa Requirements

Before committing to a volunteer position in Bolivia, make sure to research if you require a visa. The type of visa you will require (if you need one at all) will depend on which country you are from and on how long you intend to stay in the country. For more information, see the following post:

• Understanding Entry Requirements For Bolivia

Volunteer Tips

• Spanish is spoken throughout Bolivia, with few locals speaking English. Therefore it’s recommended to acquire some basic language skills in order to get the most out of your experience. Spanish classes in Bolivia are some of the cheapest you will find in South America and because the Bolivian accent is quite neutral, it’s also one of the easiest places to learn the language
• As a volunteer in Bolivia, you are recommended to be vaccinated for Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever. If you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors make sure to prevent yourself against mosquitoes. For more information on health and safety in Bolivia visit MD Travel Health and consult your doctor
• Look into the correct type of travel insurance before  embarking on your volunteer placement as standard backpackers insurance will usually not cover you if you are injured whilst undertaking hard manual labour
• If you are able, many ogranisations appreciate donations of good used clothes, cleaning products,, vitamins, toys, games, teaching materials, etc.
• Much of Bolivia’s Altiplano region is situated 2500 meters or more above sea level meaning travelers should give themselves time to adjust to the altitude, taking it easy, avoiding alcohol and drinking plenty of water
• Volunteering in Bolivia can be a very rewarding experience, however, it’s always important to be aware of the impact a traveler’s presence can have on a local community.

Have you volunteered in Bolivia? Share your experience in the comments below: