Peru – Global Health Projects

Recommended for premed, medical, dental, or nursing students, doctors, nurses, dentists, and those who have previous experience in the healthcare field. This Quest is an opportunity to provide healthcare to some of the poorest populations in Cusco. Volunteers will be placed at state-run hospitals or smaller clinics, and may work in a number of different fields, including dentistry, pediatrics, emergency care, maternal care, or psychiatry. Possible tasks for volunteers include helping medical staff by administering first aid, cleaning and sterilizing instruments, doing paperwork, teaching about hygiene, and measuring blood pressure, height, and temperature. Volunteers without a medical background will observe doctors and assist nurses.

Available Dates: Quests start every Sunday, year-round
Minimum Stay: 2 weeks; 4 weeks highly recommended
Requirements: At least 18 years old, intermediate to advanced Spanish

Recommended for volunteers with medical experience. Volunteers work with elderly populations who are living in extreme poverty. These individuals are free to visit the center whenever they want. Possible tasks for volunteers include providing medical care and physical therapy, feeding, helping with bathing, and organizing dynamic and recreational group activities. Volunteers may also listen to and share their stories with the elderly, as well as read to them. Please note that the primary task for students is observation. Volunteer tasks will vary depending on the volunteer’s level of medical expertise and Spanish ability.

Available Dates: Quests start every Sunday, year-round
Minimum Stay: 4 weeks, depending on project
Requirements: Intermediate to advanced Spanish, at least 16 years old (18+ June – August)

• Lodging at a local homestay
• Two home-cooked meals per day
• 8+ hours of Spanish or Quechua lessons
• Cultural activities and excursions
• Online pre-departure training with our Boston staff
• In-country airport transportation
• Emergency medical and travel insurance
• 24/7 in-country support and supervision
• A United Planet t-shirt

United Planet provides emergency travel and medical insurance for all volunteers. All Peru staff members participate in extensive health and safety training, and are available at all times by 24-hour phone line. Upon enrollment, you will receive a full emergency contact list. In addition, we register all of our volunteers with US Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). We recommend booking a doctor’s appointment or visiting a travel health clinic a few months out to update your vaccinations.  Read more about health and safety.

Due to varying airline prices, United Planet does not arrange or cover the cost of flights to and from Peru. However, we arrange all ground transportation to and from the airport in Peru and will ensure that you arrive safely at your host house in Cusco. Public transportation to and from your project is cheap and easy with Cusco’s public transportation system or by taxi. Daily commuting costs are covered by volunteers.