Maximo Nivel - Volunteer with Indigenous Communities

Maximo Nivel's Indigenous Communities volunteer program places international volunteers in rural Andean (Peru) and Mayan (Guatemala) communities for an immersive cultural experience. Volunteers live with host families in small towns approximately 30-60 minutes from the Maximo Nivel institutes and participate in everyday tasks that support local life and sustainability.

Placements offer direct cultural exchange and opportunities to learn local languages such as Kakchikel (Guatemala) and Quechua (Peru).

As a volunteer you may care for animals and livestock, help with agricultural work (planting/harvesting), assist with light local construction, learn traditional weaving and craft techniques, help prepare traditional foods, and work with children at local schools. Tasks vary by season, location, and community norms; gendered divisions of labor may apply and volunteers are expected to be sensitive and respectful.

Orientation is provided on Day 1 with a project-specific briefing; some offsite projects have limited internet but emergency phone access and Field Manager check-ins are provided.

Programs are all-inclusive with host family accommodation (shared rooms), breakfast and dinner, airport pick-up, and local transport included. New volunteer programs start every Monday year-round. The program is suitable for adults and youth aged 16+ (under-16s may participate if accompanied by a faculty leader, parent, or guardian).