As a medical volunteer in Peru, you’ll get firsthand experience and a unique insight into the country’s healthcare system. Plus, PMGY’s volunteer programmes in Peru are a fantastic opportunity to boost your Spanish skills. We work with a variety of public and private clinics across Cusco, and the stronger your Spanish, the more you’ll be able to engage with local doctors and nurses. This means you’ll gain even more from your time as a medical volunteer!
Medical Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 3 For Improved Health
- Gain Clinical Experience Across Local Clinics & Healthcare Centres In Cusco
- Observe Local Doctors, Patient Care, Consultations & Medical Procedures
- Explore More Of Peru With Weekend Trips To Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca
- Experience Peruvian Culture Through Salsa, Local Cuisine & Fruit Tasting
Background to the Medical Program
Since the mid-1990s, there has been a significant effort to improve healthcare provisions across Peru. This initiative followed the devastating Cholera outbreak, which claimed over 9,000 lives, prompting government officials to prioritise healthcare reforms.
In response to the epidemic, the Peruvian government invested millions of dollars to expand healthcare access nationwide. One of the most notable developments was the construction of 15 hospitals across the country, aiming to ensure that healthcare facilities and providers were accessible to all. These efforts aimed to improve patient care numbers by 40%. Over time, government-led programmes and insurance options have helped Peru's medical system continually evolve and improve.
The healthcare system in Peru is divided into public and private sectors. Similar to many Western countries, it is supported by an insurance-based model. This model is split into two systems:
Seguro Integral de Salud (SIS): This system primarily supports underprivileged populations, including individuals from rural and urban areas living in extreme poverty. Approximately 18% of the population is covered by SIS, which also provides care for pregnant women and impoverished men over the age of 17.
EsSalud: This employer-contributed insurance scheme covers working families, retirees, and their dependents, accounting for roughly 20% of the population.
For those who do not qualify for either SIS or EsSalud, the Ministry of Health (MINSA) offers alternative health services. In Cusco, much of the healthcare is provided within city hospitals, supported by financial assistance from MINSA. These hospitals and clinics aim to deliver care regardless of patients' insurance coverage.
Despite these efforts, many Peruvians experience long waits for medical care due to limited resources, funding, and healthcare professionals. To address these challenges, some clinics are managed privately or locally, specialising in specific areas to streamline care and referrals.
This is where your role as a medical volunteer abroad in Peru becomes invaluable. Clinics in Cusco often see patients queuing as early as 5am to consult with a doctor or nurse. Your support can help alleviate the strain on these facilities, improving the care and experience for local citizens.
Volunteer opportunities in Peru through PMGY offer you a unique platform to gain exposure to medicine and healthcare within a new cultural context. Many of the procedures, practices, and operations you observe will differ significantly from those in your home country.
As a medical volunteer in Peru, effective time and skill management will be key to making the most of your project. This approach ensures you maximise your learning opportunities and contribution during the programme.
For volunteers seeking alternative or additional experiences, our medical volunteer projects in India are a standout choice. These programmes provide extensive exposure and involvement across diverse placements and project settings.
Medical Volunteer Placement Examples
Centro de Salud Picchu La Rinconada – The primary healthcare centre in Cusco, Centro de Salud Picchu La Rinconada, provides free care for unemployed individuals. Its services cover general practice, psychology, gynaecology, dentistry, and laboratory work, treating over 200 patients daily.
As a medical volunteer in Peru, you’ll observe and assist doctors with general practices such as taking vitals, performing sugar tests, and handling documentation. Medical students can gain exposure to consultations, women’s health, minor surgeries, community projects, and immunisations.
Long-term volunteers may assist in the laboratory or support the "Niño Sano" initiative, where nurses record children’s weight and height and administer vaccinations. Additionally, the clinic organises community programs, enabling volunteers to participate in health campaigns and make meaningful contributions.
Learn More...
The 02 Medical Network – A private healthcare provider, the 02 Medical Network offers a range of services including inpatient care, home support, air-medical transportation, hyperbaric treatment, trauma care, and medical home visits. The majority of patients are travellers dealing with issues such as altitude sickness, motor-vehicle accidents, tropical diseases, dehydration, minor surgery, and dental care.
As a medical volunteer in Peru, you’ll typically join this clinic in the mornings or afternoons, depending on your schedule and interests. Your activities may involve assisting doctors or nurses with patient care, laboratory analysis, and, for volunteers with intermediate Spanish, translating for patients.
The medical staff often speak English, providing an excellent learning environment. However, volunteers with a better grasp of Spanish will enjoy a more immersive experience.
Escuela Especial San Juan de Dios – This placement is based at Escuela Especial San Juan de Dios, one of four special education schools in Cusco. It supports children aged 3–20 with mental and/or motor delays, with their abilities ranging up to the equivalent of 6th-grade students (13 years).
As a volunteer in Peru, your primary role will be to interact with older children, assisting in occupational workshops. These workshops equip the children with skills to support themselves or contribute to their family’s income.
With only one physiotherapist attending to 10–15 children daily, one-on-one support from volunteers is invaluable. Your involvement in occupational therapy sessions will greatly assist local teachers and enhance the care experience for the children.
Student Elective Opportunities
PMGY offers specialist elective placements for students in Peru, providing a unique opportunity to gain invaluable international experience. Whether you’re pursuing a career in medicine or nursing, our programs allow you to learn directly from health professionals in distinctive medical settings. As a medical volunteer in Peru, you can specify your desired clinical elective during the online application process. Simply highlight your preferences in the ‘Special Requirements’ section, and the PMGY Peru team will organise everything to ensure your elective placement runs smoothly.
Medical – Experience your Peru medical elective in a clinic-based setting, assisting healthcare professionals and engaging in community health programs. These clinics are made up of various small departments where you can observe doctors during consultations and treatments. A strong grasp of Spanish will allow you to communicate better with doctors and build rapport, enhancing your experience. You’ll gain firsthand involvement with tasks such as monitoring blood pressure, administering immunisations, conducting health screenings, and participating in community awareness programs.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day
When you undertake volunteer work in Peru, you’ll have the opportunity to assist in both community health programs and clinical settings. Clinics in Cusco typically consist of small departments, including paediatrics, general practice, maternity, and dentistry. Unlike large government hospitals, these clinics operate on a smaller scale, offering a more intimate setting for gaining exposure across a variety of departments.
As a Peru medical volunteer, most of your time will be spent observing in the clinics. However, in some cases, hospital staff may offer you the chance to get involved in basic hands-on tasks such as checking blood pressure, administering immunisations, conducting health screenings, and participating in community awareness programs.
Your level of Spanish plays a crucial role in how much you’ll be able to contribute and learn. The better your Spanish, the more effectively you can communicate with doctors and nurses, building their trust and enhancing your overall experience as a medical volunteer in Peru.
Learn More...
To reach your medical volunteer placement, you can enjoy a scenic 45-minute walk through the heart of Cusco or opt for a 30-minute bus ride. Bus stops are conveniently located near the host family or Spanish school. The local team will ensure you’re familiar with the routes, making your commute to and from your placement smooth and straightforward.
Other Things to Consider as a Medical Volunteer in Peru
Return Airport Transfer - Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Alternatively, ridesharing apps are a common and cost-effective option. Many participants travel during their final days and may not return to the airport directly from the accommodation. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants.
Spanish Requirements - For the medical program in Peru, it is strongly recommended that you have a conversational level of Spanish. Communication is essential for a productive experience at the project. Speaking Spanish and showing a passion to improve your skills will greatly enhance your overall experience, as English is not widely spoken at the project. Without a sufficient level of Spanish, communicating with healthcare professionals may prove challenging, resulting in a frustrating and unproductive experience.
PMGY also offers Online Spanish Lessons before your trip, providing one-on-one classes with trained Spanish teachers via Zoom.
Additionally, you can enrol in our learn Spanish in Peru program, which includes 20 hours per week of Spanish lessons. Both options can be added during the online application process and are highly recommended to help you make the most of your volunteer work in Peru.
Once in Peru, you can arrange additional lessons with the local team. However, volunteer feedback suggests that balancing language lessons with your Peru volunteer programs can be tiring. For this reason, we recommend only extending your Language Immersion Program if you wish to focus on improving your Spanish skills.
Project Commitment – There is a minimum three-week commitment for the medical program. Unfortunately, school leavers or individuals without medical experience are not eligible, and exceptions cannot be made.
University Students Only – This program is specifically for university students studying medicine, healthcare sciences, or nursing. Applicants not enrolled in these fields cannot join.
Hands-On Involvement – The level of hands-on involvement at medical volunteer abroad projects depends on several factors, including your medical background, the length of your program, and your willingness to participate. The medical staff overseeing your work decides upon the extent of your involvement, ensuring all procedures are carried out responsibly.
Some previous participants in the medical volunteer in Peru program have been allowed to administer IV injections, dress wounds, and perform other basic tasks. However, hands-on involvement cannot be guaranteed, regardless of your experience. Volunteers without medical training typically take on observational roles, while those pursuing medical studies may have the opportunity for more direct participation under supervision.
Trained Professionals – This program is not designed for trained professionals looking to practise medicine overseas. It is specifically tailored for medical students who wish to learn about healthcare systems abroad and gain experience in a supportive environment.
Photos – Please note that photography is not allowed in clinical areas. Patients are often in vulnerable situations, and taking photos can compromise their privacy and dignity. Even if you witness something memorable or medically interesting, capturing images is not appropriate. You are welcome to take general photos outside of clinical settings, but always follow local guidance and respect the privacy of staff, patients, and the wider community.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Embark on a breathtaking 2-day journey from Cusco to the world-famous Machu Picchu. Travel through the lush Sacred Valley by scenic train or choose a picturesque drive that lets you see more of local life. Spend the night in the charming town of Aguas Calientes, surrounded by mountains and rivers, before enjoying a guided tour of the ancient Incan citadel and its magnificent terraces and temples.
Getting There
• 2 hours from Cusco
• Scenic Train – 370 USD
• Car – 200 USD
Where to Stay
• Accommodation in Aguas Calientes – Included
Things to Do
• Explore Aguas Calientes – Included
• Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Included
The Salkantay Trek is a stunning five-day adventure through Peru’s most dramatic landscapes. You’ll journey from snow-capped peaks and alpine passes to cloud forests and subtropical valleys, reaching the 4,630m Salkantay Pass for breathtaking views of the glacier. Along the way, you’ll pass remote villages, waterfalls, and coffee farms before arriving at Machu Picchu for a guided tour and return to Cusco.
Getting There
• Start – 4 hours from Cusco
• End – 3 hours from Cusco
• Private Tour Bus
Where to Stay
• Glamping in the Andes – Included
Things to Do
• Hike Through Mountain Landscapes – Included
• Visit Scenic Viewpoints – Included
• Guided Tour of Machu Picchu – Included
A full-day trip from Cusco takes you to the spectacular Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), where colourful mineral layers paint the Andean slopes. Enjoy a scenic drive through highland villages before hiking to the summit at over 5,000 metres. Alternatively, visit Palccoyo Mountain for a less crowded, easier hike with equally beautiful rainbow hues and sweeping views of the Andes.
Getting There
• 4 hours from Cusco
• Private Tour Bus
Where to Stay
• Day trip option from Cusco
Things to Do
• Hike Over Rainbow-Coloured Mountains – Included
• Take Photos with Alpacas – Small donation
• Traditional Buffet Lunch and Dinner – Included
Experience Peru’s rich culture on a two-day trip from Cusco to Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake. Travel overnight to Puno before setting off by boat to explore the floating Uros Islands and Amantani Island, where you’ll stay with a local family. Enjoy home-cooked meals, stunning views, and a lively evening of traditional music and dance before returning to Cusco.
Getting There
• 8 hours from Cusco
• Tourist Night Coach
Where to Stay
• Local Homestay – Included
Things to Do
• Visit Reed Houses on the Uros Islands – Included
• Sunset Hike on Amantani Island – Included
• Assist With Traditional Cooking – Included
• Try on traditional dress – Included
• Enjoy local music and dancing – Included
Discover the beauty and history of the Sacred Valley on this full-day trip from Cusco. Visit ancient Inca sites like Ollantaytambo, Pisac, and Moray, explore vibrant artisan markets, and see the stunning Maras Salt Mines carved into the mountainside. Learn about Andean culture, local weaving traditions, and Incan agricultural ingenuity on this immersive and scenic tour.
Getting There
• 2 hours from Cusco
• Private Tour Bus
Where to Stay
• Day trip option from Cusco
Things to Do
• Explore Chinchero, Moray, and Maras Salt Mines – Included
• Visit Local Weaving Communities and Markets – Included
• Leisurely Afternoon in Ollantaytambo – Included
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- A group of friends celebrating their mountain hike adventure amidst stunning views and lush Peruvian landscape.
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- Three hikers celebrate their achievement atop Perus vibrant Rainbow Mountains, surrounded by colourful geological formations and stunning mountain views.
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- Four friends enjoy stunning views of Cuscos cityscape, mountains, and vibrant culture during a joyful trip.
Accommodation - Shared & Comfort Options Available
Host Family
During your time on our Peru volunteer programs, you will stay with a local host family in Cusco. Staying with a host family provides a comfortable base for your time in Peru while giving you the opportunity to experience everyday local life and become more immersed in Peruvian culture.
Host families have their own routines and living spaces, but volunteers are welcomed into the home and have the opportunity to interact with their hosts throughout their stay. It is a great way to learn more about life in Cusco and, for those learning Spanish, provides plenty of opportunities to practise the language in a natural setting.
Both shared and private room options are available across our host families. Rooms include single beds, bed linen and space for your clothes and personal belongings. You will also have access to the communal areas and facilities available within your individual host family home.
Our host families are located across central Cusco and the surrounding residential areas, with your accommodation arranged according to your volunteer project and local logistics. If you would like to stay with another PMGY participant, please mention this on your online application and we will do our best to accommodate your request.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option is a great choice for volunteers who enjoy a more social living experience. Rooms are same sex and shared with other PMGY participants, giving you the opportunity to get to know other volunteers while also experiencing life with a local host family.
Bathroom facilities are shared within the host family home and include a shower and western style toilet. This is our standard accommodation option and works particularly well for volunteers who enjoy the social side of sharing their experience with others.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room Upgrade 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer more personal space, our Comfort Option provides a private bedroom within a local host family home. This gives you your own space to relax and unwind while still enjoying the interaction and cultural experience that comes with staying with a host family.
You should expect bathroom facilities to be shared within the host family home. As these are private family homes, facilities are generally comfortable and shared between a relatively small number of people. Some of our host families do have private or ensuite bathrooms available, and where possible we may be able to arrange one, but this is subject to availability and should be considered an added benefit rather than a standard feature of the Comfort Option.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 3 (Shared) or 1 (Comfort)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
15 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
10 Minute Walk
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Peru, international volunteers receive breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by your host family. Breakfast and dinner are served at the homestay, while lunch is provided as a packed meal or pre-cooked option that can be reheated at the Spanish school. Boiled and filtered water is also available at the homestay for volunteers.
Meals are typically traditional Peruvian dishes, which can be quite carb-heavy. Peruvian cuisine often features rice or quinoa as staples, with chicken being the primary meat. Due to the high altitude, you’ll notice smaller portions for breakfast and dinner, with lunch being the largest meal of the day. It may take a few days for your body to adjust to these changes, but this traditional eating style supports better digestion in Cusco’s altitude.
Common meats include chicken, fish, and alpaca, but there are also several vegan, vegetarian, and international dining options around Cusco. Restaurants and western-style food outlets are just a 10-minute drive from the homestay, offering some home comforts if you’d like to explore. Vegan and Indian cuisine are also available, and the local team will provide recommendations during your orientation.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Eggs, Bread, Porridge, Fruit, Coffee, Tea
Lunch
Chicken Sandwich, Rice, Vegetables, Salad
Dinner
Pasta, Vegetables, Chicken, Pork, Rice, Plantain
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes medical volunteers in Peru of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all volunteers need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in Peru will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a Peru medical volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the medical projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation! However, please note that medical and healthcare projects often require additional documentation before participation begins in-country.
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Peru medical program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Saturday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Peru, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Peru medical volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Many of our Peru medical volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Peru medical volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Peru medical volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
