Top Internships in Latin America

Latin America is emerging as one of the most exciting destinations for international internships, where career development meets rich cultural immersion. This vibrant region offers a diverse array of opportunities across diverse sectors. 

In this article, we explore why Latin America is an attractive destination for interns, highlight some of the top programs and providers, and offer practical tips to help you make the most of your experience.

Why Choose Latin America?

The region’s rapid economic growth, coupled with its deep historical roots and cultural richness, creates a unique backdrop for professional and personal development. 

Whether you’re looking to enhance your language skills, gain experience in emerging markets, or simply immerse yourself in a new cultural setting, Latin America provides an environment that is both challenging and rewarding. 

Many programs are designed to help interns not only build their resumes but also develop a global mindset — a quality increasingly valued in today’s interconnected world

Diverse Internship Opportunities

A number of organizations have carved out a niche in facilitating high-quality internships across Latin America:

Maximo Nivel

Maximo Nivel is a dynamic organization dedicated to providing immersive international internship programs in Latin America.

Gain global experience and boost your career with Maximo Nivel’s dynamic international internships across Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. Here are our top picks:

• Micro-Business Internships: Work closely with local entrepreneurs to enhance your marketing, sales, and operational expertise while contributing to the growth of small businesses in vibrant, developing markets.
• Dental Internships: Assist local dental teams in clinics and public health settings. Learn patient care, treatment procedures, and dental hygiene practices while boosting your medical Spanish vocabulary.
• Education Internships: Step into classrooms as a teaching assistant in private or public schools. Develop lesson plans, manage classrooms, and engage directly with students while experiencing diverse educational systems.

Internships range from four to 24 weeks and include private accommodations, meals, Spanish classes, and 24/7 support. Your journey will enrich your resume and shape your future success!

Intern Abroad HQ 

Intern Abroad HQ connects students and recent graduates with global internship opportunities across various industries and countries.

By partnering with reputable companies and organizations worldwide, Intern Abroad HQ makes it easier for emerging talent to gain real-world experience, build professional networks, and kick-start their careers in an increasingly globalized job market.

Experience two exciting international internships! 

• In Argentina, the Law & Governance internship immerses you in municipal research and cultural integration with local government and legal firms. Enhance your Spanish skills through mandatory language lessons and intercultural seminars while engaging in legislative research, casework, and public events over 8 to 24 weeks. 
• In Belize, the Veterinary & Animal Care internship offers hands-on experience in wildlife clinics, eco-parks, and community outreach programs, fostering compassionate animal care in an English-speaking environment. 

Both programs include accommodation, select meals, and enriching professional development opportunities.

GoEco 

GoEco is dedicated to sustainable tourism and responsible travel experiences worldwide.

The organization champions eco-friendly adventures that empower travelers to explore nature responsibly and engage deeply with local cultures. Here are their leading programs in Latin America:

• In San Jose, Costa Rica, gain hands-on healthcare experience in clinics and assisted living facilities, with daily Spanish lessons, dedicated supervision, and a final project. Enjoy cultural immersion, professional growth, and diverse placements, including healthcare and dental. 
• In Antigua, Guatemala, work one-on-one with medical professionals in a historical setting, strengthening diagnostic and patient care skills with daily Spanish classes and structured mentorship. 

Both programs offer host family accommodations, meals, and cultural experiences.

Projects Abroad

Projects Abroad is a global organization that aims to provide immersive, hands-on experiences in over 30 countries, allowing participants to make a positive impact while gaining valuable professional skills and cultural insights.

With a strong emphasis on ethical travel, Projects Abroad supports both community growth and personal transformation, making it an ideal choice for those seeking meaningful international experiences.

• In Ecuador, gain hands-on social work experience at a Galapagos kindergarten supporting underprivileged children, especially those with special needs. Live on San Cristobal island, study children’s development, and improve your Spanish in a supportive, immersive environment. 
• Explore business in Guadalajara, Mexico. Work at a consulting firm, assist professionals with cases and document reviews, and learn about international business practices while enhancing your Spanish and CV. 

Involvement Volunteers International (IVI)

Involvement Volunteers International (IVI) is a pioneering non-profit organization established in 1989 that coordinates affordable, meaningful placements worldwide.

With over 25,000 volunteers placed in 15+ countries, IVI offers a diverse range of programs all backed by 24/7 in-country support and a commitment to ethical, responsible travel. 

• The Human Rights Internship in San Jose, Costa Rica, involves website updates, event planning, and community outreach with NGOs. Improve your Spanish and professional skills while staying with a friendly host family. 
• The Hospitality & Tourism Internship in Cusco, Peru, offers experience in customer service, reservations, and marketing. 

Both programs include daily Spanish lessons and supportive coordinators, ensuring a rich cultural immersion and practical work experience in vibrant international settings.

Volunteering Solutions (VolSol)

Volunteering Solutions is a globally recognized organization offering affordable and flexible programs across the world.

Founded in 2007, they’ve connected over 21,000 travelers with meaningful projects, with a strong focus on personalized support, practical experiences, and cultural immersion. 

Their flagship Latin American program in Peru is the Dental Elective Internship, designed for dentistry students to gain practical clinical experience by working alongside dentists in local hospitals and clinics. Interns assist with procedures, lead oral hygiene campaigns, and educate children on oral care. 

Working 4 to 5 hours daily, you enjoy free weekends to explore iconic sites like Machu Picchu, with accommodations, meals, and airport transfers provided. Intermediate Spanish is required.

Global Vision International (GVI)

Global Vision International (GVI) is an award-winning, non-political organization founded in 1998, and collaborates with over 150 local project partners in more than 30 countries, delivering impactful programs.

Through hands-on opportunities, GVI empowers participants to gain valuable skills while contributing to ethical, locally-led initiatives that ensure lasting positive change.

• In Mexico’s Puerto Morelos, immerse yourself in coral reef ecology with 40 hours of weekly fieldwork, eco-diving, and conservation training.
• In Costa Rica’s Cartago, develop community skills by teaching English, leading empowerment workshops, and supporting local initiatives, advancing quality education and gender equality. 

Both programs offer hands-on learning, mentorship, and lasting impact for your career, inspiring personal growth.

Practical Considerations for Interns

Before embarking on your Latin American internship adventure, consider the following practical tips:

• Language Skills: While many programs are available in English, acquiring basic Spanish or Portuguese can significantly enhance your experience and communication with local communities.
• Visa and Legal Requirements: Research the visa requirements for your destination country well in advance. Many internship programs offer assistance with visa applications.
• Cultural Adaptation: Embrace the local customs, try regional cuisines, and participate in cultural events. This not only enriches your personal experience but also deepens your professional network.
• Budget and Living Costs: Latin America generally offers a lower cost of living compared to North America or Europe, but it’s important to plan your budget carefully. Some programs include accommodation and meals, which can ease financial concerns.
• Networking and Professional Development: Take full advantage of any career coaching or professional development workshops provided by your internship program. Building a network in Latin America can open doors to global opportunities.

Embrace your LatAm adventure!

Internships in Latin America provide a compelling mix of professional development, cultural immersion, and personal growth. With reputable providers and a growing number of programs designed to foster both skill development and cultural exchange, Latin America stands out as an ideal destination for the next generation of global leaders.

Embarking on an internship in Latin America is about experiencing life in a way that broadens your horizons, enriches your perspective, and prepares you for a truly global career. Explore your options, do your research, and take the leap into a transformative adventure that promises to shape both your career and your worldview.