Argentina energizes like few places can, whether you’re sipping coffee at a streetside cafe in Buenos Aires or taking in views of the Andes’ snow peaks. From the fútbol games to the tango to the mighty Iguazú Falls, this country sweeps you into the action — and makes you want to stay.
Clearly, Argentina is a fabulous volunteer destination if you’re looking to make an impact while exploring the local culture. There is an abundance of service opportunities available, so you can do your part to improve this wonderful country.
This article is your guide for volunteering in Argentina:
Know Before You Go
Argentina gained independence from Spain in 1816. Following liberation, the country had to overcome internal conflict, but eventually became one of the most successful nations in Latin America during the 20th century.
A geographically diverse country, the highest and lowest points in South America are in Argentina. The country includes five major terrains: the rich forests near Brazil; the swampy, flat Gran Chaco plain; the fertile grasslands of La Pampa; the long plateau of Patagonia; and the Andes Mountains.
Argentina, though heavily impacted by the 2008 global financial crisis, has come out strong again. This doesn’t mean the country doesn’t face pressing issues in urban, rural, and natural areas. As a volunteer in Argentina, you can help tackle such problems.
Types of Volunteering and Interning Opportunities in Argentina
Volunteering in Argentina is particularly popular for those who are amazed by Argentina’s culture, history, and diverse natural beauty. Its mix of indigenous cultures and Spanish and Italian roots has created the fascinating atmosphere you see today.
The country presently faces challenges in protecting its wildlife and natural environments, meeting the needs of disadvantaged communities, and providing enough healthcare resources.
If you want to volunteer in Argentina, popular options include:
- Childcare: Work at after-school centers to provide children from low-income communities with a safe and healthy environment.
- Animal Rescue: Save local pets and farm animals that have been abused or abandoned, feed and care for endangered native animals, and more.
- Healthcare: Provide support to charity-run clinics in Buenos Aires and beyond, ensuring the country’s most vulnerable can access the healthcare they need.
There are also numerous internship opportunities in Argentina, from journalism positions in Buenos Aires to veterinary assignments in Cordoba. If you’re an aspiring dentist and hope to learn Spanish, there is even a dentistry internship.
Featured Volunteer and Intern Programs in Argentina
Most Popular Guidebooks
International Volunteer Headquarters (IVHQ)
Over 110,000 volunteers have chosen International Volunteer Headquarters (IVHQ) since 2007, thanks to their commitment to affordable opportunities. IVHQ empowers volunteers to make a difference through their 200-plus projects across the globe, including Argentina.
If you want to volunteer in Argentina with IVHQ, they have numerous reputable projects ongoing, such as:
- Teaching: Help local educators or attend classes under their guidance, concentrating on subjects like English, math, science, and more.
- Construction and Renovation: Help make local school buildings shine through building and maintenance activities.
- Sports Coaching: Play football and hockey with children and teenagers while encouraging teamwork, communication, and hard work.
IVHQ’s programs take place in and around Buenos Aires and Córdoba and last one to 24 weeks.
GoEco
Volunteering in Argentina with GoEco at the Puma Sanctuary & Wildlife Reserve offers an enriching conservation experience amidst the breathtaking landscapes near Cordoba. As a volunteer, you’ll work alongside individuals from around the globe, contributing to the well-being of rescued pumas and other native species such as eagles, ferrets, and monkeys. The program begins with a fun orientation in Cordoba, before moving to the reserve where you’ll engage in various conservation tasks. These include animal care, environmental education, habitat restoration, and data collection for research purposes. Volunteers play a crucial role in a re-wilding initiative, aimed at restoring the natural habitat for pumas and enhancing biodiversity in an area heavily impacted by urbanization.
Your weekly schedule will be filled with meaningful activities. You’ll participate in daily volunteer work such as feeding and caring for animals, maintaining enclosures, and supporting veterinary care. You’ll also help with habitat restoration by planting native vegetation and removing invasive species. The program provides comprehensive support, including accommodations, meals, and professional guidance. This volunteer experience not only allows you to contribute to vital conservation efforts but also to immerse yourself in Argentina’s stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture.
Projects Abroad
With more than 120,000 volunteers placed overseas since 1992, Projects Abroad has become one of the largest volunteer travel organizations in the world. Projects Abroad volunteers work on projects to help address a specific challenge, or do internships abroad to gain real-world experience. Whatever your motivation, Projects Abroad’s range of options allows you to discover what you’re capable of while seeing the world, including in Argentina.
You can volunteer with children in Argentina to promote early childhood development in care centers in disadvantaged communities.
Shadow experienced doctors and nurses in a hospital during a medical internship in Argentina. You’ll gain insight into the local healthcare system, and get to witness medical procedures first-hand.
If you love animals, you can work at a dog shelter. You’ll shadow a local vet and assist with the general running of the shelter. You’ll also be able to help prepare dogs for adoption.
Contact Projects Abroad to begin your volunteer adventure in Argentina.
Finding the Best Volunteer Program in Argentina
When it comes to volunteering in Argentina, you have numerous options. Even single organizations, like Projects Abroad, offer a diverse selection of programs in Argentina, from law internships to volunteer farming projects to healthcare positions.
To find the right volunteer program in Argentina, consider your budget, goals, and preferences. If you do your due diligence, you’ll find yourself having an awesome volunteer experience in Argentina.
Nick Callos · Writer
With a BA in English Literature & Writing from Boston College, Nick researches and writes about volunteer, intern, and teach abroad programs worldwide. He has studied abroad and taught English in Chengdu, China, and aims to help fellow travelers make a lasting impact on the communities they visit.