Few countries in the world capture the imagination like Peru. This medium-sized South American country was once host to one of the wealthiest dynasties in world history. Indeed, in the language of the Incan empire, Peru means literally, "land of abundance."

The earliest evidence of human civilization in Peru begins with the Norte Chico people, who flourished along the coast of the pacific some 4000 years ago.  Other pre-columbian cultures, including the Chavin, Paracas, Mochica, Nazca, Wari, and Chimu gave rise to the Incan empire in the early 15th century. In a little over a hundred years the Incans built the largest empire in the Americas, stretching along the spine of the Andres mountains from Columbia to Chile. Centered in Cuzco, Peru, the Incan empire developed highly sophisticated agriculture and transportation systems. In 1532 Pizzaro defeated emperor Atahualpa and began almost three centuries of Spanish colonial rule. Peru finally gained it's independence in 1821 as a result of the revolutionary battles of Simon Bolivar.

 Today, Peru is a presidential republic covering 25 provinces and an area two-thirds the size of Mexico. Peru is home to a staggering amount of geographical, ecological and cultural diversity. Almost 60% of the countries landmass is sparesly populated Amazon jungle and the Amazon river itself if fed by the world's second tallest mountain range, the Andes.

With a population of roughly 30 million people, Peru is extremely poor with a per capital  income of $3,375 USD. The economy relies largely upon mineral exports and according to one recent report an incredible 61% of the workforce is engaged in the 'informal economy.' Spanish is the primary language of around %80 of the population, indigenious languages, most prominently Quechua account for the other %20. Nearly %90 of Peruvian adults identified themselves as Catholic.

Our volunteer programs in Peru give you the opportunity to explore the incredible richness of Peruvian music, art, food, dance and ceremony while simultaneously helping improve the lives of people in need. Through the process of providing solidarity and support to needy populations in Peru we are confident you will find your own life enriched by the experience.