Shamuy & Tarapoto – about the place and the project

Tarapoto sits in the high jungle of San Martín, on the edge of the Peruvian Amazon. The city is ringed by green hills, rivers and waterfalls, with warm–humid weather year-round (roughly 20–32 °C). It’s big enough to have markets, cafés and transport links, yet close to small communities and forest trails. You can fly from Lima in about 1 h 40 m or arrive by long-distance bus if you prefer slow travel.

Fundación Territorial Shamuy is a non-profit that works alongside community-led initiatives. The team documents local projects, shares stories through photos and video, and supports partnerships that bring practical results on the ground. The approach is collaborative: learn first, then help; respect local timing and customs; make materials that communities can actually use.

Volunteering with Shamuy is designed as a cultural exchange rather than a pay-to-volunteer package. Placements typically involve 4–5 hours a day, 4 days a week. Tasks may include audiovisual production, editing, translation, website and social media support, fundraising research, workshop assistance, and general help at events. No participation fee – accommodation, meals and local transport for project activities are covered. The program is bilingual (English/Spanish), and the team can provide visa information and invitation letters when needed.

Free time often means river swims, short hikes to viewpoints, visiting local markets or joining community festivities. Longer breaks can be used to explore nearby reserves or lakes. The climate and terrain require basic fitness and a willingness to live simply and sustainably. Volunteers are expected to be reliable, open to feedback and comfortable working in a small, mixed local–international team.

If you’re looking for a grounded, skills-based way to support Amazonian communities – and to learn from them – Shamuy is a solid option in northern Peru. Learn more at shamuy.org or on Instagram @shamuy.fundacion.