Login

Select travel dates to see prices

Brilliant 4.71rating (174)

Horse and Organic Farm Assistant

location
2 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Live your dream of working with horses abroad.
  • Learn about the Uruguayan culture while living on a ranch.
  • Enhance your Spanish language skills through immersive experiences and interactions with locals.

Highlights

  • Live your dream of working with horses abroad.
  • Learn about the Uruguayan culture while living on a ranch.
  • Enhance your Spanish language skills through immersive experiences and interactions with locals.
  • Boost your CV with international volunteer experience showcasing your commitment to positive change and adaptability to different environments.
  • Cultivate a deeper passion for organic farming while engaging in agricultural practices alongside horsemanship.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    50+

    About the program

    Working with horses on an organic farm. The idea stemmed from a deep love for horses and the desire to pursue a sustainable way of living in rural areas.

    This charming farm situated in the heart of Uruguay is a family-run establishment overseen by Roberto, Margo, Rebeca, and Gabriela. The idea was born from their deep love for horses and the desire to embrace a sustainable lifestyle in the rural landscape. Guests have the option to visit for the day ...

    About the program

    This charming farm situated in the heart of Uruguay is a family-run establishment overseen by Roberto, Margo, Rebeca, and Gabriela. The idea was born from their deep love for horses and the desire to embrace a sustainable lifestyle in the rural landscape. Guests have the option to visit for the day or to stay overnight in one of the guest accommodations for one or more nights.

    In addition to the family owners, around 15 horses, dogs, cats, chickens, geese, a pig, a sheep, and a cow, along with various other farm animals, find a nurturing home here (the number and types of animals may fluctuate). The serene environment and breathtaking scenery radiate a unique allure. In this setting, time appears to flow at a more relaxed pace. While riding on horseback, one can nearly feel the essence of a genuine gaucho's life.

    The 17-hectare private estate provides an opportunity to appreciate the stunning countryside, engage with the local culture, enhance your Spanish language skills, and gain knowledge about horses. A nearby lake beckons you to unwind and rejuvenate.

    This farm stay experience is exceptional for those wishing to immerse themselves in Uruguayan rural life, enjoy the company of animals, and are willing to undertake physical labor. It is essential to be open to interacting with diverse individuals and cultures.

    Typical day

    A farm of this nature requires considerable effort. The volunteers primarily engage in outdoor activities amidst the refreshing country air. Various tasks are organized and allocated on a weekly schedule across different areas. The numerous animals require care, the horses need to be relocated and ...

    Typical day

    A farm of this nature requires considerable effort. The volunteers primarily engage in outdoor activities amidst the refreshing country air. Various tasks are organized and allocated on a weekly schedule across different areas. The numerous animals require care, the horses need to be relocated and trained, the vegetable garden demands attention, and assistance in the kitchen is also welcomed. Since 2025, the farm has been running its own organic shop, offering its produce along with homemade snacks and other products.

    Seize this exceptional opportunity to experience life and work on a farm in Uruguay. You can look forward to a pleasant working environment, friendly individuals, and numerous chances to discover the stunning landscape during your leisure time or on excursions.

    Farm stays with horses are among our most popular programs. Volunteers are not required to have previous horse experience; however, it is important to understand that your tasks will be limited according to your skills. Working with animals requires responsibility, patience, and respect for their well-being.

    Volunteers without horse experience will mainly assist with basic tasks such as feeding, grooming, cleaning stables, and helping prepare horses for rides. Those with more experience may also support in training sessions, groundwork, and guiding horseback rides with guests. In all cases, you will learn about natural horsemanship techniques and gain valuable hands-on experience.

    The subsequent tasks provide you with an understanding of potential activities during your agricultural work in Uruguay:

    Organic Gardening & Greenhouse Care
    - Plant, cultivate, and harvest seasonal organic vegetables
    - Support greenhouse care and maintenance for healthy crop growth
    - Contribute to composting and recycling efforts that keep the ranch sustainable

    Animal Care
    - Help feed and care for farm animals daily (horses, cats, dogs, rabbits, chickens, and more)
    - Ensure their living areas are clean, safe, and comfortable
    - Learn how to monitor animal health and well-being

    Horse Training & Handling
    - Learn natural horsemanship techniques based on respect and communication
    - Assist trainers with the handling and training of young horses
    - Gain hands-on experience in groundwork and gentle breaking-in processes
    - Feed, groom, and exercise the horses
    - Clean stables, tack, and saddles
    - Prepare horses for guest rides
    - Guide horseback rides with guests (only for volunteers with advanced riding skills)

    Organic Shop & Homemade Snacks
    - Support the ranch’s organic shop, helping with the presentation and sale of natural products
    - Assist in preparing and serving homemade snacks made with fresh ingredients from the garden

    Guest Relations & Farm Maintenance
    - Welcome and interact with guests during their stay
    - Assist in the kitchen and with meal preparation
    - Help with gardening, fence repairs, and general farm or household maintenance

    Living and working in the countryside has its own rhythm. It's not an office job with fixed working hours. Volunteers are engaged for a maximum of 40 hours each week, allowing for 1.5 days off to relax in the picturesque countryside, or they may organize excursions to explore more of this remarkable country. Typically, the morning starts early, with breakfast around 7 a.m., especially in the summer, to take advantage of the morning's freshness. Work begins around 8 a.m. After the morning shift, which lasts until around 12 p.m., there is a long lunch break, followed by a few more hours of work in the afternoon. Please note that this schedule is subject to change depending on the season, weather, and current demand.

    Free-time activities

    The farm is beautifully located approximately 70 kilometers north of Montevideo, which is the capital city of Uruguay. The journey to Montevideo takes around 1 hour. Punta del Este, a well-known seaside resort, is situated about 100 kilometers away, while Atlantida, located on the Atlantic coast, is ...

    Free-time activities

    The farm is beautifully located approximately 70 kilometers north of Montevideo, which is the capital city of Uruguay. The journey to Montevideo takes around 1 hour. Punta del Este, a well-known seaside resort, is situated about 100 kilometers away, while Atlantida, located on the Atlantic coast, is merely 30 kilometers distant. The closest town, San Jacinto, is a 15-minute drive and has a population of approximately 7,000 inhabitants.

    This region is heavily utilized for agricultural purposes. The primary crops include grains, wine, vegetables, and fruits, and there are also extensive farms that focus on livestock production.

    In recent decades, tourism in this region has gained significance, largely due to residents from the capital seeking peace and relaxation.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level) or Spanish (basic level)

    Required Documents

    CV and Volunteer Questionnaire

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Other Skills

    Riding skills are an advantage, but volunteers who are not familiar with horses can also participate.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 08:00 - 17:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    • Single or shared room on the farm (depending on availability)
    • Breakfast, lunch, dinner
    • Advice from our experienced staff
    • On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
    • Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
    • Your Farm Stay placement
    • Pre-departure information
    • Packing list
    • Country handbook
    • Intercultural guide
    • On-site volunteer coordinator
    • 24/7 emergency number
    • Advice on travel insurance
    • Certificate of participation

    Accommodation

    An important element of our volunteer program on the farm in South America is cultural integration. While participating in farm work in Uruguay, you will be housed in one of the two guest rooms located directly on the farm. Each guest room is equipped with two beds, allowing for a total accommodation capacity of four volunteers. We always strive to place volunteers in a single room whenever possible, depending on availability.

    The farm is equipped with running water, electricity, and internet access. It operates in a manner that is as sustainable and environmentally friendly as possible, which is why we request that natural resources (such as water and electricity) be utilized mindfully.

    The program offers full board, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Groceries are supplied so that volunteers can prepare their own meals. Additionally, there is a small shop located approximately 500 meters from the farm where volunteers can purchase extra groceries if desired. Occasionally, volunteers may also have the opportunity to share meals with the family residing on the farm.

    Food & Beverages

    Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. Special dietary needs can be accommodated but need to be communicated to us in advance.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Carrasco International Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Carrasco International Airport (MVD) in Montevideo. We assist you to find cheap flights to Uruguay. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Uruguay provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Uruguay you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Uruguay. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    This volunteer program is up and running year round. It can be started on any day. 

    The airport of arrival is located in Montevideo, which is the capital city of Uruguay. It is approximately one hour's journey from the farm. Detailed instructions for your arrival will be provided when we sent the booking confirmation. You have the option to use public transportation to get to the farm or request a private pick-up service for an additional fee.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $316 per week 2 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    2 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.


    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.7
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    2026
    Ich war zwei Wochen lang im Katze heim bei Xaviera und habe dort mitgeholfen. Am ersten Tag wurde mir alles super erklärt, Xavier spricht ...
    Fiona Schafferer

    Support a Cat Shelter

    Location

    Americas > South America > Uruguay > San Jacinto

    Meet your project coordinator

    Marion
    174
    reviews
    4.71
    Brilliant
    2003
    Founded

    Verified

      Good response rate
    Spoken languages: Spanish, English, German
    Travel safely by using Volunteer World for your communication and bookings. This way, you can benefit from the Flex Option, Refund Guarantee, and Resolution Support.

    You might also be interested in

    Contact Marion
      Good response rate
    Spanish, English, German

    Most volunteers ask about


    Do you have any more questions? Send a message to Marion
    Please don't share personal contact details for your privacy

    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

    Book with Flex Option!

    Choose new departure dates or change to a different volunteer program at no extra costs within 12 months.

    Complete Support for Every Volunteer

    This helps us run our platform and offer essential services like Comprehensive Support, Refund Guarantee, Flex Option without rebooking costs, and Price-Guarantee. This includes VAT.

    Price details