Volunteering and Learning Spanish in Peru: A Couple’s Story

I’ve just returned from an incredible journey that I’m so excited to share with you. Over the past four weeks, my boyfriend and I have been in Peru, volunteering with Maximo Nivel, immersing ourselves in the culture, learning Spanish, and giving back to the community. It’s been an experience like no other, and I’m bursting with stories to tell.

Why We Chose Peru

The decision to volunteer in Peru wasn’t just about adventure—it was deeply personal. My boyfriend’s native language is Spanish, and while his English is flawless, I’ve always felt a bit of a gap because I couldn’t fully communicate with him in his first language. So when the opportunity arose to combine learning Spanish with volunteering in Peru, I knew it was perfect. It wasn’t just about learning a language—it was about connecting more deeply with my partner and his culture while making a meaningful contribution to the lives of others.

Volunteering in Cusco

Our volunteer program focused on working with children in Cusco, a city rich in history and culture but also facing significant challenges. Many families in Peru struggle with poverty and lack of resources, creating tough conditions for kids to thrive. Maximo Nivel’s efforts to support these children rely heavily on volunteers, and it was an honor to be part of their mission.

From the moment we arrived in Cusco, the team at Maximo Nivel made us feel at home. They guided us through settling into the city—a task that’s far more daunting when you’re staying long-term rather than just as a tourist. My boyfriend, having grown up near the coast of Peru before moving to the U.S. at 14, wasn’t familiar with Cusco either, so we leaned heavily on Maximo Nivel’s support. Their help in navigating everything from accommodations to local customs made all the difference.

The work itself was incredibly fulfilling. Whether we were helping with homework, playing games, or simply being there to listen, every moment felt meaningful. The kids were so sweet and full of life despite the challenges they faced. They even became my unofficial Spanish tutors, helping me learn in the most organic and heartwarming way. My boyfriend’s pride in seeing me embrace his culture added another layer of joy to the experience. A word of advice for future volunteers: brush up on your volleyball and soccer skills before you go. I definitely looked like a newbie, but the kids’ patience and enthusiasm made it all fun.

Learning Spanish Together

For me, learning Spanish was a major goal of this trip. While my boyfriend didn’t need classes, I threw myself into the lessons offered by Maximo Nivel. The teachers were native speakers and incredibly skilled at making the learning process engaging and effective. They even taught me some Peruvian slang, which earned me plenty of laughs and appreciation from my boyfriend. Seeing his surprised smile when I used phrases, he never expected me to know was a highlight of the trip. By the end of our stay, I was confidently chatting with locals and beginning to feel at ease in Spanish.

Exploring Peru

Beyond volunteering and classes, we took every opportunity to explore the beauty of Peru. Cusco itself is a treasure trove of history and charm. We wandered through the artistic neighborhood of San Blas, explored ancient ruins within walking distance of the city, and indulged in mouthwatering Peruvian dishes like Aji de Gallina, trout ceviche, and lomo saltado.

Before and after our program, we ventured further afield. The towering Andes around Cusco, the lush Amazon jungle in Madre de Dios, and the breathtaking Pacific coastline near Lima all felt like scenes from a dream. Every new destination deepened our appreciation for the country’s incredible diversity and beauty.

What We Gained

As we prepare to head home, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for this journey. Volunteering in Peru not only gave me a deeper understanding of its culture and the challenges its people face but also strengthened my relationship in ways I never imagined. My boyfriend and I have grown closer through this shared experience, and I’m excited to return home with a new level of connection. Instead of just nodding and smiling during conversations with his friends, I’ll be joking and chatting right along with them.

This experience has also ignited a passion for volunteering and making a difference. Peru will always hold a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to carry the lessons and memories from this incredible adventure into the next chapter of my life. If you’ve ever thought about volunteering abroad, especially as a couple, I can’t recommend it enough. It’s a journey of growth, discovery, and connection that you’ll treasure forever.