UpClose Bolivia- interesting and useful projects in a fun, caring and beautiful setting

I had a fantastic experience volunteering with UpClose Bolivia. As an older, retired professional I wasn't sure how I would find the experience of living and working alongside a lot of much younger travellers, but I loved every minute! The projects involve work which is important within the small community of Mallasa and UpClose staff work hard to ensure that volunteers are supported to be involved in work they like and which uses their skills and experience where possible. I worked in a Children's Centre and an wonderful Equine Therapy centre and, as a psychologist, I had the opportunity to be involved in parent groups and nursery staff training, as well as working with the (incredibly cute) little ones, which was amazing. The project provides lovely housing in a beautiful area and Emma and Rolando who run the project really go the extra mile to make sure volunteers are supported and cared for. The project is in a rural area, so night life needs a taxi to La Paz (about half an hour away), but when I was there the amount of barbecues, parties and other fun events on site and locally meant no-one was ever bored. I even got the chance to learn Tinku dancing to participate in the local carnival. All in all a fabulous project- highly recommended.