You might have been thinking of volunteering somewhere in South America, but don’t know where to go yet. Would you like to visit a place with a great culture, an interesting history and a country to live various adventures? You might want to visit a country that has great ecosystem variety, and wonderful traditions. And, do you want to experience all this while doing something good for somebody else? Then you need to volunteer in Argentina!
Argentina was colonized by Spain, like most Latin American countries, in the 16th century. But in the 19th century the nation formed a federal state, known today as the Republic of Argentina. Today, it is the second largest economy in South America, and a member of the G-15 and G-20 major economies. It is the country with the highest Human Development Index in Latin America, and because of its stability, and continuous technological improvement, it is classified as a high-income country.
Top 6 fun facts about Argentina
Argentina is the eighth-largest country in the world, with a mainland area of 2, 780, 400 km².
Argentina comes from the Latin word Argentum, that means silver. Original European settlers believed the country was full of silver!
37% of the Argentine population are of Italian descent. This is: around 12,8 million people.
Argentina’s retired soccer played Diego Maradona has his own religion made by his fans.
There is a Welsh-speaking part of Argentina. Yes, Argentina has its own dialect of Welsh!
Government officials in Lionel Messi’s hometown banned parents from naming their children “Messi”.
Fields of interest in Argentina
Argentina covers most of the southern South America, and it is bordered by Chile, Bolivia, Uruguay and Paraguay. The country can be grouped into four regions: The Andes, the North, the Pampas, and the Patagonia. And although the country has great biodiversity and a significant variety in climates, it struggles to keep its environment unpolluted.
The major environmental issues Argentina faces are air and water pollution, as well as the loss of agricultural lands. Argentina’s soil is mainly threatened by erosion, salinization, and deforestation; and air is highly polluted due to chemical agents from industrial sources. Nevertheless, in 2003 about 6.6% of the total area of the country was considered as protected land. Argentina has four natural areas, that are considered UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Los Glaciares, Iguazu National Park, Peninsula Valdes and Ischigualasto/Talampaya National Parks. Additionally to this, Argentina has 14 sites designated as Ramsar Wetlands of International Importance.
Fauna
Many species in Argentina live in the subtropical north. Prominent animals of the region include big cats, like the jaguar, puma, and ocelot; as well as primates, large reptiles and the Argentinean black and white tegu, among others. Other animals that inhabit this are the tapir, the peccary, capybara, bush dog, and various species of turtle and tortoise. Argentina also hosts a great variety of birds, like hummingbirds, flamingos, toucans and swallows.
The Argentinean mountains on the West are home to all sorts of animals, including the llama, the guanaco, and vicuña which are the most recognizable species of South America. Also, part of this region are the fox, viscacha, Andean mountain cat, and the largest flying bird in the New World: the Andean condor.
Flora
As stated before, Argentina is a large country, with a lot of regions; so, one can only expect there to be a lot of different vegetation. The Northwest of Argentina is a fairly dry and desert-like region, which propitiate particular plant species to thrive, like: many types of cacti, and the famous candelabra cactus. However, between the Andes and the Chaco lies one of the country’s most diverse areas of vegetation known as the “Yungas”. This subtropical region highly benefits from the summertime rainfall and it hosts a variety of species ranging from grasslands to gallery forests.
The region around Bariloche is a unique location for vegetation, as well. Here, the vegetation has been able to flourish with many different types of pine, fir and cedars in abundance. The region is often compared to the Alps in Europe, and this area is filled with wildflowers during the spring months. On the other side, right at the foot of Argentina, at the Tierra del Fuego (literally: Land of Fire), it is cold but it is a region where the famous Lenga can be found in abundance; as well as many evergreens.
Health
Argentina’s health care system is divided in three sectors: the public sector, that is financed through taxes, the private sector, which is financed through voluntary insurance schemes; and the social security sector, financed through obligatory, insurance schemes. The responsible of regulating these sectors is the Ministry of Health (MSAL). The Ministry also evaluates these sectors and collects statistics.
The public sector is funded and managed by Obras Sociales (in English: Social Works), which are umbrella organizations for Argentine workers’ unions. There are over 300 Obras Sociales in Argentina and they vary greatly in quality and efectiveness. Only workers that are employed in the formal sector are covered under Obras Sociales insurance schemes.
On the other hand, the private health care sector in Argentina is characterized by great heterogeneity and it consists of a great number of fragmented entities and small networks. It is formed by over 200 organizations and covers approximately 2 million Argentines. Finally, the public system is highly decentralized, and it is administered at the provincial level. Since 2001, a great number of Argentines have been increasingly relying on public services.
Education
Argentina’s education system is considered one of the most advanced, and progressive educational systems in Latin America; along with Cuba and Uruguay. It is recognized by various international organizations, such as the UNESCO, and UNICEF. Education in State institutions is free at the initial, primary, secondary and tertiary levels; as well as in the undergraduate university level.
Education in Argentina guarantees that education won’t be commercialized, and that it will favour multhi-ethnic populations; as well as special education. This is probably the reason why illiteracy rate in Argentina is 1.9%; the second lowest in Latin America. The country is very progressive on this matter, it is so that in the last decade, the country has created nine new universities. But, even though education in Argentina has always been free, there is a large number of private schools and universities, as well.
Education in Argentina is divided in four levels and two different systems (one with duration of 7 years, and the other one with duration of 6 years): initial level, primary level, secondary level, and tertiary level. In both systems of Educación Primaria (grades 1st to 7th), is mandatory to all students; as well as secondary education, according to the National Educational Law established in 2011.
Technology
The most important aspects of science and technology in Argentina are, mainly, the fields of medicine, nuclear physics, biotechnology, nanotechnology, space and rocket technology, and several fields related to the country’s main economic activities. According to data from the World Bank, Argentine exports in high-technology are products with high R&D intensity, such as in aerospace, computers, pharmaceuticals, scientific instruments, and electrical machinery.
But even though Argentina shares a high level of multiculturalism and stability, it has lost many of its most talented professionals over the years; due to the country’s economic instability and lower wages. Nevertheless, it continues its commitment to cultivate the most educated work force possible.
Living costs for a volunteer in Argentina
This is just an estimate of the costs of living as a volunteer in Argentina. While this is only an estimation of what a single person might spend in US Dollars in the country, you should be aware that costs might vary with time. So, saving money to cover your expenses as a volunteer in Argentina is key to have a happy trip! We want to give you a general idea of how the country does economically, and how much money you should consider saving to volunteer in Argentina, to travel and for leisure.
Hotel
$100
Big Mac®
$2.39
Coca-Cola®
$1.39
Eating out
$1o.20
Rental car
$385 /week
Hostel
$15
Marlboro™
$2.25
Beer
$2.25
Fuel
$1.20
Public transport
$0.44
Best time to volunteer in Argentina
Seasons in Argentina are opposite to those in the Northern Hemisphere. And its climate is classified as temperate. However, climate varies depending on the region, from North to South in the case of temperature; and from East to West, in the case of humidity.
Summer (December-May)
Resorts are packed, and temperature is hot and great during this season! While Buenos Aires becomes somewhat deserted of locals, the beaches and resort towns are packed with tourists and vacationing Argentines. This is also a great time to plan a trip to Patagonia and the Andes; because days are usually longer and warmer during these months.
Winter (June-August)
This is the best time to visit Iguazú and the Northwest part of Argentina. In this time of year, the rains and heat have subsided; it is usually referred as the dry season. The Northwest is generally hot but high-altitude deserts cool off substantially in the evenings, to a point where the perceived temperature can be close to freezing.
What precautions should I consider as a volunteer in Argentina?
Safety
You should expect crimes of opportunity, such as distraction thefts in Argentina; which usually occur in popular tourist areas and in other public areas, such as buses, train stations, subways, airports, etc. Pickpocketers and bag snatchers often work in pairs or groups and employ a variety of tactics to divert their victims and then robbing them while they rob them. We suggest to take this advice, to avoid any uncomfortable situations when you volunteering in Argentina:
A common scam involves spraying a substance on victims and then robbing them, while pretending to clean the stain, or distracting the victim by asking questions while another person perpetrates the theft.
Keep your personal belongings and important travel documents with you at all times! It also makes sense to bring attested photocopies of these documents, in case you loose them!
If you are going out, please don’t take a lot of money with you, as well as jewellery or other fancy possessions. Take only the money you will need and leave everything else back home!
If you are unfortunately robbed, do not resist robbery! Your life is more valuable than any item robbers can take away from you!
Take care when withdrawing money form a bank or at an ATM!
Do not use unregistered taxis! Doing so increases the risk of becoming a victim of a crime, or being kidnapped.
Watch out for pickpocketers when using public transportation, particularly the subway system!
Be cautious in all tourist areas, particularly in the bus terminal and Parque General Martín.
Theft from unattended vehicles -especially rental cars- is common throughout the country, particularly in the cities of Bariloche and Mendoza.
When travelling to Iguazú Falls, exercise caution when crossing the tri-border area between Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay where criminal activities occur often.
Law
Possession, trafficking and manufacture of drugs are serious offences in Argentina. Please do not get involved!
Get all proper vaccinations four to eight weeks before travelling to Argentina.
Do not exchange currency at airport booths.
Don’t drink alcohol in public spaces or on public transportation.
Do not eat on the street or on public transportation.
Argentine law prohibits arbitrary arrest and detention, and the government generally observes these prohibitions. Expatriates can generally expect better police response and less harassment than in many other Latin American countries.
It is illegal to change money through non-official channels, but it is a fact of daily life in Argentina at the moment: the risk is you end up with forged noted or with a better exchange rate, than the official one. If possible, ask someone you trust –like a good local rep- for recommendations.
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Social Etiquette
Most Argentines are primarily of European descent, which makes them slightly different from other Latin American countries, where European and Indian cultures are more mixed. But there are some cultural aspects, where they show that they are as Latin American as any of their neighbours:
Initial greetings are formal and follow a set protocol of greeting the eldest or most important person first. Normally, a standard handshake will suffice; but an embrace and one kiss on the cheek is common between friends and acquaintances.
Argentines are “touchers” and stand close to each other when speaking.
The “Ok” and “thumbs up” gestures are considered vulgar.
Hitting the palm of the left hand with the right fist means “I don’t believe what you are saying”, or “that’s stupid”.
Avoid pouring wine, which is a complex ritual in Argentina.
For social events, arrive thirty to sixty minutes late, it will be ok; but for lunch appointments, theatre and soccer, you better be punctual!
Argentines are extremely fashion conscious. Dress well, if you want to make a good impression.
Eating in the street or on public transportation is considered to be rude.
If you are going to try the famous mate, be aware of the “circle of drinking rules”. Only the server can pass the mate. Don’t touch the “bombilla” (mate straw), and don’t stir the mixture! (Seriously, don’t stir!)
Packing Essentials
Apart from the essential travel documents, like passport, travel medical insurance information, and Visa, you should also keep photocopies or scanned copies of these; in case you lose them.
Get protected from the sun! Always carry sun cream with you, especially if you are taking a tour!
Keep enough cash with you!
Carry a money belt with you to keep your money secure.
Carry appropriate luggage with you: daypacks or backpacks for short excursions and trips around the city; as well as soft shell bags, if you plan on taking bus or train rides in the region.
Pack appropriate clothing and shoes! This means: comfortable, loose-fitting shorts, singlet-tops, kaftans, board shorts, summer dresses, t-shirts, and other items you routinely wear during summer at home.
Walking shoes are a MUST, as you may find that you end up walking several kilometres a day.
Over-the-counter medicines are available, BUT if you need to take special medication, bring enough with you, as it might be difficult to find it here!
Locks for hostel lockers and also for your luggage!
Prepare for a variety of climates, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the country.
Don’t forget to pack all the essentials for your electronics –like chargers and pre-charged battery packs.
How to spend your free time as a volunteer in Argentina
At this point, you have already received an extensive amount of information about what you should expect as a volunteer in Argentina. It is time that we tell you all about the fun and interesting activities you’ll get to do in this beautiful country. There is certainly a lot to do and see in Argentina, so we will just mention some of the various places you should go, and some of the activities and festivals you might want to attend. Have fun!
Sights
Be ready to experience the best of Argentina- the wine, the mate, the fishing, the tango, the mountaineering, the literature, the beef, the architecture, the clubbing! You will have one of the most exciting journeys you’ll ever have. So, let’s get started!
The Andes
Stretching nearly the whole length of Argentina’s western edge, it is an amazing mountain range -you’ve surely heard about it before. The Andes offer high deserts, scenic lakes, great hiking and the continent’s highest peak: the Cerro Aconcagua, often called the “roof of the Americas”. The Quebrada de Humahuaca, located in the Andean northwest, is listed as World Heritage Site by the UNESCO, and it snakes its way upward toward Bolivia.
Iguazú Falls
Known locally as “Cascadas de Iguazú -there are waterfalls and then there’s Iguazú! It is one of the world’s most stunning natural waterfalls, located on the Iguazú River. It is a jaw-dropping, visceral experience, and the power and noise of the cascades will forever live in your memory. The falls split between Brazil and Argentina in a large expanse of national park and rainforest. The park features a lot of excellent walkways and boat rides. The town on the Argentine side is called Puerto Iguazú, and it is a small, pretty town you also need to visit.
Puerto Madryn
It is a tourist destination located in Argentine Patagonia. The area was originally settled by Welsh colonists, and the area retains some links with Wales. It is located on the shores of Gulfo Nuevo, and it is a gateway to Península Valdés. It is a popular summer destination, because of its beautiful beaches although the water can be very cold. During the months of July to September, the whales are so close to Puerto Madryn that they can be viewed from the mainland.
Bariloche
San Carlos de Bariloche, is a city in the province of Río Negro, Argentina that is located in the foothills of the Andes, on the southern shores of Nahuel Huapi National Park. Bariloche has one of the most gorgeous settings imaginable. It offers a great variety of summer and winter activities in the surrounding countryside, which has helped it become the Lake District’s most popular destination. The peaks of Cerros Catedral, López Nireco and Shaihuenque (just to name a few) surround the town, and it gives picture-postcard views in nearly every direction one looks.
Festivals
Argentina is a place to party, and as a volunteer in Argentina, you will have the opportunity to experience one of its many festivals is a perfect way of gaining a better understanding of the culture. There is a wide range of festivals throughout the year: from religious festivals to fiestas, which invite everyone to socialize and have a good time. This is not an extensive list of the festivals you might want to attend in Argentina, but one we hope you’d be interested in. Have fun!
Carnavales de Corrientes
The city of Corrientes was declared the Argentine national capital of the Carnival in 2016. Each year, thousands of tourists visit the city and join the celebration of the festival goers. It is usually held for two weeks, starting in the last week of January. 10 out of the 12 nights that this Carnival is celebrated, people can enjoy the parades. All sorts of events and spectacles take place during this weeks, but one should buy tickets with enough time, to have access to the main events of the Carnival. It is something you’ll never forget.
Buenos Aires Tango Festival
You should not miss the annual Buenos Aires Tango Festival, which takes places between February and March. You can witness lots of performances all over the city and you’ll have countless opportunities to learn a step or two of this famous Argentinean dance.
La revolución de Mayo
It is celebrated each year on May to mark the anniversary of Argentina’s Independence from Spain in 1810. It is also called “Día Nacional” (National Day) and it is considered a public holiday in Argentina. During the Holiday, most public transportation is free for those attending the festivities. Celebrations start around mid-day and run late into the evening. On this day, Argentine people eat together, politicians make speeches and the country is brought together.
El Carnaval del Pais
Argentina celebrates this two weeks prior to Lent. It is much like New Orleans celebrates Mardi Gras. Many people gather on this day to enjoy the festivities, in part because the day is considered a public holiday. The town of Gualeguaychu, which is located between Buenos Aires and Iguazú, hosts the largest Carnival celebration in the country. On this days samba clubs, musicians and singers compete for the title of “Kings of the Carnival”. You’ll see people dressed in carnival costumes and dancing in the streets. Be ready to dance!
Food
Argentina is slowly but surely becoming a tourist favourite destination. Whether you are lured by the romance of the country, the cosmopolitan city life or if you are on a quest to find the world’s best steak, Argentina has a lot to offer. I made a list of some of the country’s favourite dishes. You definitely need to try this.
Asado
This is also know as parrillada, and it is the way to an Argentinean heart. This is the national dish, originating with the country’s gauchos or cowboys, who would subsist on the abundant cows dotting the country’s plains. Typical “asado” meats is beef, pork, ribs, sausages that are prepared on the fire. In Paragonia, look out for a whole lamb or pig roasting over an open flame. It is all slightly salted, and topped with chimichurri, and paired with Malbec.
Chimichurri
It is the country’s go-to condiment. It is basically a green sauce made of finely chopped parsley, oregano, onion, garlic, chilli pepper flakes, olive oil and a touch of lemon or vinegar. This tangy, garlicky salsa is used in all kinds of dishes and it accompanies a lot of meals in Argentina.
Dulce de Leche
This is loosely translated as “milk jam”, and it is a thick caramel result of condensed milk, reduced slowly until sweetened and sticky. You’ll find it in all sorts of desserts from alfajores, dessert empanadas, to ice cream. And don’t you dare confuse dulce de leche with caramel! You’ll likely get scolded by an annoyed Argentine for even suggesting this. I couldn’t find a picture of raw dulce de leche I could use, to show you how it looks like. So, here is a cake made with dulce de leche, for your enjoyment!
Empanadas
You have probably heard about Argentinean empanadas before. It is another gift given from the Moors to the Spanish and finally to the Argentineans. These are stuffed pastries that are baked or fried. Depending on the province, they can be filled with sweet stuffing, spiced ground beef, chicken, goat meat, cheese, or vegetables. Please eat empanadas -all of them! You won’t regret it!
Volunteer Requirements
-You should be at least 18 years old to volunteer in Argentina (although some programs require a minimum of 22 years old).
-You should have an intermediate level of English knowledge; some programs require advanced English-knowledge or basic to intermediate Spanish knowledge.
-For some programs a health declaration, and a criminal background check is required; especially if you are working with children.
– To be enrolled or have been already finish at High School or University studies; some programs require to have a studies on Social Sciences, Social Work, Community Development, Medicine, Women Studies, etc.
-You need to send a CV and an application form for some programs.
-To have strong inter-personal skills, and experiences in working with a wide variety of people is expected from all volunteers. Other skills like dancing, drawing, sports, etc. can favour you as well!
-You need to commit with the program you choose to volunteer with. This means: do respect the schedule given to you!
Do I need a Visa to volunteer in Argentina?
You have arrived to the most boring part of this guide, but it is probably the most important part of planning your trip! You might want to get over with eat quickly, before you can move on with your plans to become a volunteer in Argentina! So, let’s get started!
Citizens of all nations require a valid passport to enter Argentina, with exception of citizens of Bolivia, Brasil, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, and Uruguay, who can travel with their identification cards. Argentina does not offer a “Volunteer Visa”, so you will have to do volunteer work with a Tourist Visa. The following nations are exempt of issuing a Visa -however, some of them are required to pay a reciprocity fee:
United States of America (reciprocity fee), Andorra, Armenia, Australia (reciprocity fee), Austria, Barbados, Belgium, Bolivia, Brasil, Bulgaria, Canada (reciprocity fee), Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Holy See, Honduras, Hong Kong S.A.R., Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Montenegro, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russian Federation, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, San Marino, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, Suriname, Ukraine and United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and Uruguay.
Specifications:
a) Citizens of the European Union and United States of America for stays no longer than 90 days.
b) Citizens of Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela for stays of up to 90 days.
c) Citizens of all nations on transit, who will continue their trip within 6 hours of arrival, without abandoning the airport.
Note: These visa exemptions apply only for tourist and business trips. Tourist Visa extension is possible only for citizens of some nationalities; please consult this on the Consular Section of the Argentinean Embassy.
Elegibility:
Valid Passport or travel document that is valid for a minimum of 6 months from the intended date of entry and have at least one completely free page left for the visa.
Two completed (2) visa applications.
Two (2) recent passport size photographs.
If applicable: evidence of your immigration status in your country of residence. Please provide original documents and copies.
Proof of financial means (i.e.: bank statements of the last six months). Please provide original documents and copies.
Hotel reservation or address where you will be staying in Argentina.
Non-refundable visa fee of approx. $50 USD. (Free for India and Morocco nationals).
Onward or return flight ticket.
A letter of invitation of the Organization you are working with, in which your obligations are described, and the responsible of your stay is also clearly specified.
Minors travelling alone need to present an authorization letter from their parents or legal guardians, which needs to be approved by the Argentinean Consulate, where the person is submitting his/her application.
All visa applicants without exception are requested to be present for an interview with a consular officer.
Applicants may be required to provide additional information and documents.
Citizens of some nationalities need to present a letter of employment, signed by the employer and legalized.
If you still have doubts concerning the documentation you need to volunteer in Argentina, do not hesitate to approach the Argentinean Embassy or Consulate nearest to you! And if you have other questions concerning these and other topics, please visit Argentina’s tourism site and get all the answers you need! You are set!
How to find Volunteer Opportunities in Argentina
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