Information for volunteers
Essential information about Puerto Rico, travel requirements, climate, health, transportation and everyday life before joining one of our community-based programs.
Spanish is the primary language, with English also widely spoken.
The official currency used throughout Puerto Rico is the U.S. dollar.
Tropical weather with warm temperatures throughout the year.
United States travel and immigration requirements apply.
Get to know Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a Caribbean archipelago with mountainous landscapes, tropical forests, coastal plains, beaches, offshore islands and culturally distinct communities.
A diverse Caribbean destination
The main island of Puerto Rico covers approximately 3,500 square miles. Several smaller islands are located nearby, including Vieques and Culebra to the east, as well as Mona, Monito and Desecheo to the west.
Puerto Rico became a territory of the United States following the Spanish-American War. Puerto Ricans are United States citizens, the U.S. dollar is used for transactions and many federal laws, including immigration regulations, apply.
Puerto Rico has a rich cultural heritage shaped by Taíno, African, Spanish, Caribbean, Latin American and international influences. Volunteers will encounter distinctive traditions, communities, music, food and ways of life throughout the island.
Tropical climate
Puerto Rico has a tropical maritime climate with warm and humid conditions throughout the year. Coastal breezes help moderate the heat, while temperatures and rainfall can vary in mountainous and southern regions.
San Juan typically experiences warm daytime temperatures and mild evenings. Summer temperatures can rise considerably, especially during periods of high humidity.
Rainfall varies widely by region. The southern coast is generally drier, while the northeastern rainforest receives significantly more rain.
Spanish and English
The primary language spoken in Puerto Rico is Spanish. English is also spoken by many residents, particularly in tourism areas, educational institutions and professional settings.
Learning basic Spanish phrases is encouraged and can help volunteers communicate more naturally with community residents.
Mountains, coasts and forests
Puerto Rico has considerable geographic and ecological diversity. A central mountain range known as the Cordillera Central runs across much of the island and includes Cerro Punta, its highest peak.
El Yunque National Forest is located in the northeastern mountain range. Puerto Rico also contains dry forests, mangroves, karst formations, caves, sinkholes and coastal ecosystems.
The island is known for several bioluminescent bays, including Mosquito Bay in Vieques, Laguna Grande in Fajardo and La Parguera in Lajas.
United States territory
Puerto Rico is a territory of the United States. U.S. citizens do not require a passport to travel between the mainland United States and Puerto Rico.
Volunteers traveling from outside the United States must confirm their entry requirements with the appropriate United States government authorities before traveling.
Each participant is responsible for confirming current travel, identification and immigration requirements.
Prepare for your volunteer program
Review the following information before traveling. Select each topic to read its recommendations and requirements.
Travel requirements Immigration and visas +
Volunteers traveling from the United States generally do not need a passport or visa to enter Puerto Rico. A state-issued driver’s license or other accepted official identification may be sufficient.
Volunteers traveling from outside the United States must verify whether they need a visa or other authorization to enter Puerto Rico. In many cases, a United States tourist visa may apply.
Personal preparation Health and safety +
Non-U.S. volunteers may be required to purchase international traveler’s health insurance that includes evacuation and repatriation services. A copy of the policy may be requested before arrival.
Volunteers from the United States should verify that their health insurance provides coverage in Puerto Rico. Travelers without adequate coverage may need to pay for treatment and request reimbursement from their insurer.
Hospitals and health care services are available throughout the island, although patients in remote communities may need transportation to more populated areas.
Tropical mosquito-borne illnesses can be a concern. Volunteers should consider using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and long pants when appropriate, and reducing exposure during periods of high mosquito activity.
Puerto Rico is generally a safe destination, but volunteers should use normal precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated or poorly illuminated areas, remain aware of your surroundings and do not enter unfamiliar private areas without permission.
Payments and banking Money matters +
Puerto Rico uses the United States dollar. Banks, ATMs, credit cards and debit cards are widely available, particularly in urban and tourism areas.
Many businesses accept major credit or debit cards. Smaller businesses, community markets and rural establishments may prefer cash or may have limited electronic payment options.
Ask before completing a purchase if payment options are not clearly displayed.
Volunteers traveling from outside Puerto Rico should notify their bank before departure. This can reduce the possibility of a card being temporarily blocked because of unusual travel activity.
Getting around Transportation +
Public transportation is limited outside the San Juan metropolitan area. Bus and rail services are concentrated primarily around San Juan, Carolina, Bayamón, Guaynabo, Trujillo Alto, and nearby municipalities. To help overcome this limitation, the program facilitates transportation for participants, ensuring they can access scheduled services and activities.
Community experience Culture and local respect +
Volunteers will be working with community organizations, residents and local leaders. Participants should approach each community with respect, patience and a willingness to listen.
Ask permission before photographing residents, homes, private property, community activities or children.
Avoid making assumptions about a community based only on its physical condition or economic circumstances. The purpose of the experience is to learn from residents while supporting projects that they have identified as important.
Volunteers are encouraged to participate in local cultural activities, practice basic Spanish and learn about Puerto Rico’s history, traditions and social context.
Recommended preparation What to bring +
Recommended items may include lightweight clothing, comfortable closed shoes, rain protection, sun protection, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle and any personal medication.
Some community projects may require work gloves, long pants, durable footwear or clothing suitable for outdoor work.
Program-specific packing instructions will depend on the destination, season, planned activities and physical requirements of the project.