IVHQ in Cuzco

From the moment I signed up for the IVHQ volunteer program in Cuzco, Peru, I was impressed with the communication and level of detail from the head office. Jamie answered all of my questions and sent me more than enough information for me to feel comfortable arriving in-country.

When my TACA AIrlines flight was overbooked and I couldn't make it to Cuzco on the correct day, the local partner (Maximo Nivel) made me feel instantly at ease and promised to arrange an alternate orientation time for me.

The Manager of PATAS, the affiliated travel agent, was on time to greet me at the Cuzco airport and helped me get acclimatized to the altitude and a new city. From there, the Maximo Nivel staff (the local partner) did everything in their power to ensure I had a wonderful experience.

This included a comprehensive in-country orientation, an introduction to my project, and getting me settled into my cramped, but cozy shared accommodation. Although my project working with street kids at the local police station was emotionally draining, the staff at Maximo did their very best to support me by providing ideas for activities and checking in with me regularly.

The team at Maximo and Patas helped me sign up for Spanish lessons, find cafes to access wi-fi and work, and plan for my trip to Machu Picchu. The IVHQ/Maximo partnership provides excellent value to volunteers and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend IVHQ Cusco to anyone looking for a meaningful and reasonably priced volunteer experience.