Home Peru Medical Volunteer Program in Peru – Cusco

Medical Volunteer Program in Peru – Cusco

Volunteers working in medical volunteer program in Peru make a genuine contribution to staff working within Peru’s health clinics, medical centers and understand the Peruvian healthcare system

Peru
country
1-24 Weeks
duration
from $605
price
18 years+
min age
Highlights
  • Medical Volunteer Abroad in Peru is an opportunity to understand the country’s healthcare system and make a difference to the lives of the locals 
  • Work/Assist a professional doctor/nurse in local healthcare clinics
  • Responsibilities include suturing wounds, giving vaccinations, shadowing/observing doctors during operations, treatments, maintaining records
  • Duties also depend on Spanish level and prior work experience 
  • Weekends are free to explore the country and visit the heritage sites of Peru 

Join the Medical & Healthcare Volunteer Program in Peru for a transformative experience that not only enriches the lives of others but also deepens your understanding of the country’s healthcare system. As a volunteer, you’ll play a crucial role in supporting local healthcare staff at clinics and medical centers that serve underprivileged communities in Cusco.

Your proactive approach and cultural adaptability are key to making a real impact. Engage with the local staff, ask questions, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Cusco to enhance your experience. Depending on your medical background and Spanish proficiency, you may assist with various procedures, including suturing wounds, administering vaccinations, and taking patients’ vital signs. You’ll also be responsible for filling out essential forms and documentation to ensure smooth operations within the clinics.

This program is particularly suited for premed and medical students eager to gain hands-on clinical experience. As a volunteer, you’ll work alongside professionals, assisting doctors and nurses while making a genuine contribution to the health of the community. Embrace this opportunity to learn, grow, and make a difference!

Volunteer Roles & Responsibilities

As a volunteer, your primary role will be to shadow healthcare professionals and provide assistance wherever needed. Your specific responsibilities may include:

  • Depending on your skills and experience, you may have the opportunity to perform tasks such as suturing wounds, administering vaccinations, and assisting doctors during critical surgeries and operations.

  • Become actively involved in the daily routines of the clinic by participating in ward rounds, maintaining patient files, and conducting routine checkups, including measuring blood pressure and checking for fever.

  • Engage with patients to help provide comfort and support, making their healthcare experience as positive as possible.

  • Assist with filling out medical forms and maintaining accurate records to ensure efficient clinic operations.

Your involvement will be tailored to your expertise and proficiency in the Spanish language, making communication essential. Embrace this unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a meaningful environment, where your contributions will make a significant impact on the lives of those in need!

Requirements & eligibility

Volunteers must be 18 years or older at the time of joining the project. Participants should have an open mind and flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment. The volunteer should bring energy and enthusiasm to make a difference. Medical volunteers must provide a clean criminal background check report, CV as well as other documents pertaining to their qualifications prior to joining the program. Pre Medical, Medicine and Nursing students are welcome to join the program. Students must have an intermediate level of Spanish to join the program.

Volunteer work schedule

A typical day

  • Sunday –  Arrival in Cusco, Peru

  • Monday – An orientation session will be conducted by the local coordinator, informing the volunteers about relative topics such as safety, culture, language, places to visit, behavior, food, and other suggestion over things to do in Peru.

  • Tue to Fri – Volunteer Work.

  • Weekends: Free to explore the city/ Head out for Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley etc.

  • Breakfast – 07:00 am to 08:00 am

  • Working hours at the placement – 09:00 am to 01:00 pm and 02:00 pm to 03:00 pm (The second shifts depends on the requirement at the placement)

  • Lunch – 01:00 pm to 02:00 pm

  • Dinner – 07:00 pm to 08:00 pm

The same volunteer work schedule continues from the second week onwards.

Note: Please note, the schedule may vary depending on the particular project the volunteer is participating in.

Living

Accommodation & meals

Airport Transfer
As soon as you land at Cusco Airport, our friendly local coordinator or representative will be there to greet you. If you’re travelling overland or are already in Peru, we’ll arrange a convenient pickup at a designated meeting point or bus station. You´ll see the VolSol logo and your name at the airport door.

Orientation
Get ready for an exciting journey with our orientation! Our local staff will introduce you to key aspects of life in Peru, covering topics like culture, greetings, transportation, safety, and your volunteer placements. This session will help you feel right at home!

Accommodation
Experience authentic Peruvian culture by staying with a local host family! You’ll share a cozy room with fellow volunteers, giving you the chance to bond and make new friends. Most host families have two bathrooms equipped with hot showers, and the accommodations are clean and comfortable. Many homes also offer Wi-Fi and cable TV for your convenience.

Meals
Enjoy delicious home-cooked meals with your host family, served three times a day from Monday to Friday. The menu varies daily and typically includes mouth-watering soups, fresh salads, rice, potatoes, refreshing juices, and delightful desserts.

During your Free Time
During your free time, feel free to explore, shop, or relax! Most weekends, volunteers seize the opportunity to visit the breathtaking Sacred Valley or the world-renowned Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas. In Cusco, take a leisurely stroll around the Plaza de Armas, discovering local restaurants and vibrant shopping areas along the way.

Dates

Start dates

Weekly start dates, year-round — pick any week across the next two years.

AvailableFilling fastFully booked
Costs

Program fees by duration

A one-off application fee ($249 / £179 / €229 / AU$350) is charged in addition to the program fee — valid for one year, during which you may enrol in multiple programs. A 5% international banking fee applies to credit-card payments in USD or AUD.

DurationProgram fee
1 week$605
2 weeks$755
3 weeks$905
4 weeks$1,057
5 weeks$1,345
6 weeks$1,534
7 weeks$1,723
8 weeks$1,932
Each additional week+$425 / week

Indicative conversion — your booking is charged in the currency you choose at checkout.

✓ What you're paying for

  • 24 hrs Assistance and support from VS Staff
  • Comprehensive Pre- Departure Information
  • Pickup from Cusco Airport or Bus Station
  • Orientation 
  • Accommodation in a homestay
  • Meals from Monday to Friday
  • Insurance (Provided at an extra cost)
  • Certificate Of Completion (Upon Request)

Not included

  • Airfare 
  • Visa and Visa extension fee 
  • Return airport drop and airport taxes
  • Local Transportation
  • Any personal expenses
Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Application & getting started
When should I apply?

Apply as soon as your dates are decided — spots are limited. The application fee is valid for a full year, so you can apply early to secure your place.

How do I apply and when do I pay?

Fill in the online application form and pay the application fee. The program fee can be paid later, even in instalments, but must be complete 45 days before the program starts.

What are the requirements?

Participants must usually be at least 17 (families welcome with younger children), with an open mind, good health and respect for local customs. A clear criminal background check is required from all adults.

Accommodation, meals & support
Where will I stay and what about food?

You stay in a volunteer house or with a host family, with meals provided. Private-room upgrades are usually available.

Is there support while I'm there?

Yes — a local coordinator gives you an orientation on arrival and is available 24/7 throughout your placement.

Health, safety & visa
Do I need insurance and vaccinations?

Valid travel-medical insurance is mandatory (available from us at a nominal cost). Consult your travel doctor for recommended vaccinations; your pre-departure pack covers the details.

Do you help with the visa?

Yes — all enrolled participants get visa-requirement information in the pre-departure manual, and your point of contact can answer questions.

Verified reviews · Reviews.io

From volunteers in Peru

Undecided?

Schedule a meeting with a programme advisor

We're here to help — a 20-minute one-on-one with detailed info, expert advice and application guidance.

Book a free meeting