Youthlinc has been working in Peru since 2003. Our In-Country Coordinator, Carlos Acosta, has been with us from the very beginning. He is a Rotarian in the Rotary Club of Iquitos and his passion for humanitarian service is vibrant. Carlos has been instrumental in the success of many Rotary Global Grants for various clean water projects in the area.

The Youthlinc team stays at the beautiful Heliconia Amazon River Lodge situated along the Amazon River. Every day, the team takes a boat ride to the village. Over the years, Youthlinc has served many villages scattered along the Amazon river including Palmeras, Santa Rosa, Yanamono I, Yanamono II, Santa Isabel, Pucallpa, and Nuevo San Juan. Many Youthlinc participants choose to go back to Peru for a second trip because they form meaningful connections with the local people who welcome the team with open arms.

Youthlinc participants also have a lot of fun during their time in Peru! If you’re lucky you may get to see a pink dolphin jump out of the Amazon on your daily boat ride. You will go on a walk in the jungle where you will see all sorts of animals and bugs. You will go fishing and might even catch a piranha. If you are feeling adventurous, you can even hold a friendly sloth and huge anaconda (but not at the same time).