Volunteer in Mexico

Volunteer in Mexico

The bright indigenous culture of Mexico is still very much alive and thriving. If you'd like to experience this culture first-hand, the city of Oaxaca, the starting point of our programme, is the place to go. Since the region around  Oaxaca is one of the poorest regions in Mexico, you will also find many project possibilities in this area when you volunteer in Mexico.

City, culture, and beaches

As a volunteer in Mexico, you will also have plenty of time to explore your surroundings. Oaxaca is an attractive university town with beautiful colonial buildings, cosy pubs, museums, cinemas, and streets that never sleep. The pyramids of Monte Alban are located near the city, and the Zapotec ruins are also just a stone's throw away. The market days in one of the surrounding villages are definitely an unforgettable experience, and the Pacific beaches in Oaxaca are the perfect place to kick back and relax.

Volunteer in Mexico: Spanish course

Just a couple of blocks away from the most beautiful square in Oaxaca, the Zócalo, you will find the language school where you will take 5 Spanish lessons a day during the first 1 or 4 weeks before you volunteer in Mexico, each lesson lasting about 50 minutes. (The one-week course is only available to those who already have a good grasp of the Spanish language.) In mini-groups of up to 5 people, you will receive lessons suited to your Spanish level. The lessons focus on spoken communication. For example, as a beginner, you will learn how to barter effectively at a Mexican market, which will help you buy things at a lower price.

The language school is located in a colonial building with a Mediterranean-style courtyard. Here you can lay back between lessons and have a drink. Students here have the chance to participate in many cultural activities organised by the school, such as salsa dancing lessons, Mexican cooking, music workshops, exhibitions, and excursions.

If you don’t speak any Spanish yet, we advise you to extend the language course, for an additional fee of £ 245 (US$ 375 / 285 €) per week, including the course, accommodation, and meals. Better Spanish skills will help you as you volunteer in Mexico. During the language course, you will live with a host family and will receive half board.

Volunteer in Mexico: Overview

• Activities: Help with free-time activities (sports, games, crafts, etc.) for children. Support with child care, at mealtimes, cleaning the facilities, etc.
• Free Time: Normally at the weekend.
• Duration: 5 or 8 weeks, up to 90 days (subject to an additional fee).
• Application: At least 2-3 months before departure. We are happy to receive applications much earlier than this. Upon request, it is sometimes possible to apply later.
• Starting Dates: Every Sunday. The project possibilities are slightly limited between the end of November and January, as some facilities are closed during this time. The climate is pleasant year-round.
• Practical Experience: Not mandatory, but it would certainly make your stay easier.
• Other: Independence, flexibility, initiative, and adaptability are vital. Travel experience is an advantage for the volunteer in Mexico.