At a glance
- Discover different archaeological sites around Cusco and the Sacred Valley
- Learn directly from experienced archaeologists as you uncover and protect ancient Incan and Pre Incan structures and artefacts
- When you’re not working, our staff will organise fun cultural activities and an exciting weekend trip to Machu Picchu.
- Volunteer Service Hours: 20
- Download an itinerary for this project.
Is volunteer archaeology for teenagers in Peru right for me?
Are you a history enthusiast? Do you want to know more about how the ancient Inca people lived? If so, this is the project for you!
This project is also ideal if you want to explore an interest in archaeology, history, or anthropology. The experience you get will add value to your CV, and a professional archaeologist will teach you what you need to know.
This project is available for teenagers in high school. You do not need any experience or qualification to take part. Our staff and archaeological team in Peru will guide you through all your work activities, and will oversee all your weekend activities as well.
What will I do on this project?
In Peru, you’ll join a group your age and take part in various exciting archaeological activities. Your project work can include the following:
- Work with professional archaeologists and help with their activities at famous sites
- Attend presentations to learn more about the ancient Incan Empire
- Help preserve and maintain national heritage sites
- Take part in community outreach days to give back to the local community
Your work will focus on the following areas:
Work with professional archaeologists and help with their activities at famous sites
You will spend a large amount of time working at archaeological sites. You’ll join our archaeological team, and they’ll teach you everything you need to know. You’ll gain experience with activities like:
- Mapping
- Workshops (drawing, registry works, ceramics and weaving)
- Cleaning and maintaining current sites
- Exploring areas for new sites
- Classifying artefacts
Attend presentations to learn more about the ancient Incan Empire
We also teach you a lot about archaeology outside of excavation sites. Our staff will organise presentations for your group to give you a deeper insight to local history and events. You’ll learn about the famous ancient Inca death cults, the Great Inca Rebellion and more.
Help preserve and maintain national heritage sites
As an Archaeology volunteer, you’ll become part of our efforts to protect and preserve natural heritage sites.
You’ll work at Incan and Pre Incan ruins in and around the Cusco area. Unfortunately, some of the ruins here have been damaged by tourists in the past. You’ll help preserve and maintain these sites, so we can protect the country’s history.
Take part in community outreach days to give back to the local community
Aside from archaeological work, there will also be opportunities to help the local community. We will organise community outreach days in disadvantaged areas. For example, you can paint and renovate a play area at a local school.
Where will I work in Peru?
Cusco
You’ll live in Cusco, the second largest city in Peru, and stay with a local host family.
Today, Cusco is a UNESCO World Heritage Site near the Urubamba Valley in the Andes mountain range. The city is filled with beautiful architecture from many centuries of civilisation. You should definitely try local Peruvian dishes like ceviche (Peru’s national dish), rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy peppers), or lomo saltado (stir fried beef).
Most of your project work will take place outside of Cusco. We work at various archaeological sites.
Over the weekend, our staff will take you and the other teenagers in your group to visit other ancient wonders. These include Ollantaytambo, where the Inca fought their last battle with the Conquistadors, and Machu Picchu.
What are the aims and impact of the Archaeology Project for teenagers?
The main aim of this project is to advance research into the ancient civilisations of South America. We work with experienced archaeologists to do this. This partnership allows us to uncover and protect ancient Incan and Wari structures and artefacts.
This kind of research is critical. By having a deeper understanding of the past, we can see how it has shaped our present. This is also a way to protect history and cultural heritage.
We rely on volunteers like you to help us do this. Travelling to Peru is also a way for you to gain experience and do something different and unique. It is especially valuable if you want to study history, anthropology, or archaeology at university. You’ll learn from professional archaeologists and do hands-on work at some of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.
Join us in Peru and work with other teenagers to continue to uncover the past, and explore your passion for archaeology and history.
Measuring our impact
Every year, thousands of High School Special volunteers and interns actively make a difference around the world. During their time abroad, they contribute towards achieving long-term goals and make a long-lasting positive impact on the communities where they work.
We produce an annual High School Specials Impact Report, which documents some of these achievements. Find out more about the impact of these projects, and read the latest report.
Food and accommodation
You'll stay with a host family in Cusco. They will welcome you into their home, eager to share their customs and have you teach them about your own culture. We believe that this is the best way to immerse yourself in the culture of Peru and have a truly unique experience.
On our High School Specials, we will always try to have you share a room with at least one volunteer or intern of the same gender and approximate age. Your room will be modest, but comfortable, clean, and safe.
Your program fee includes three meals a day.
Find out more about our accommodation.
Safety and staff support
Your safety and security is our prime concern. We have many procedures and systems to ensure you have all the extra support you need as a young person travelling abroad. Our Projects Abroad staff are there for you 24 hours a day during the week and over weekends to provide constant support and guidance. Our staff also make sure you feel comfortable and safe at your placement and accommodation. If you encounter any problems, they will be available to help at any time.
Find out more about safety and backup.
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