Peru: La-Raya-Pass-by-David-Stanley-2012

Peru

In Central and South America, Destinations by EditorLeave a Comment

Peru

Peru is a country in South America, situated on the western side of that continent, facing the South Pacific Ocean and straddling part of the Andes mountain range that runs the length of South America. Peru is bordered by Ecuador and Colombia to the north, Brazil and Bolivia to the east, and Chile to the south.

Peru has a diversity and wealth not common in the world. The main attractions are their archaeological patrimony of pre-Columbian cultures and the hub of the Inca’s empire, their gastronomy, their colonial architecture (it has imposing colonial constructions) and their natural resources (a paradise for ecological tourism).

Although Peru has rich natural resources and many great places to visit, the poverty scale reaches 25.8% of the population. The rich, consisting mostly of a Hispanic (or “Criollo”) elite, live in the cities. Nevertheless, most Peruvians are great nationalists and love their country with pride (largely stemming from Peru’s history as the hub of both the Inca empire and Spain‘s South American empire). Also, many Peruvians separate the state of Peru and its government in their minds. Many of them distrust their government and police, and people are used to fighting corruption and embezzlement scandals, as in many countries.

Why volunteer in Peru

The rapid migration of families from rural areas surrounding Lima into the city has generated many social problems and left thousands of children homeless or neglected. But, thanks to our host partners, loving and safe “homes” give vulnerable children in Lima a chance for a fulfilling future. Global Volunteers works in partnership with public and private children’s homes to offer compassionate support in a number of ways. Family and individual volunteers can contribute to childcare and labor projects to change children’s futures! Read an account by 13-year-old volunteer Amy Pinkus.

What’s more, through our partnership with an impressive English Language Center accessible to students of all means and backgrounds, you’re able to help deliver valuable English skills which can be a passport out of poverty for many. Whether working one-on-one with “at-risk” children, or serving as a classroom resource, you have an unprecedented opportunity to help others while immersing yourself in a complex and colorful culture as a volunteer in Peru.

Getting there

Recent warnings by Australian government agency Smart Traveller have advised travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Peru due to serious crime. It additionally cautions against travelling to areas bordering Colombia and Ecuador due to drug trafficking and armed guerrilla forces in the former and landmines in the latter.
If you visit Peru in the six days prior to your return to Australian, local customs officials will ask you to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate. It is imperative to receive a Yellow Fever vaccination prior to travelling.
Altitude sickness can affect anyone, so take caution if trekking to great altitudes, such as those of Machu Picchu.The Australian Embassy is located in Lima

Image: La Raya Pass by David Stanley 2012

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