Medical Elective Placement in Peru

The Medical Elective in Cusco, Peru is designed for students who are currently enrolled in, or have recently completed, a medical degree from an university. A prior academic or professional background in the medical field is mandatory to participate in this program.

This is the main criteria to qualify for the medical elective placement. Participants with medical work experience but who are not currently enrolled in a medical university will not qualify for this program and should instead apply for the Pre-Medical Observership Program.

In addition, interns can choose to do part of their internship with specialist with placements available in: Radiology, Pulmonology, Physiotherapy, Dentistry, Cardiology, ENT (Otolaryngology), Obstetrics, Traumatology, Laboratory, pharmacy and Ophthalmology.

This internship provides invaluable insight into the practical realities of medicine, while allowing interns to experience the cultural richness of Cusco, a city known worldwide for its history, traditions, and proximity to Machu Picchu.

Sample Placement Profile

Community health centers in Cusco – Placement in some of the largest community clinics in the region, with exposure to multiple wards including, First aid room, obstetrics, dentistry, vaccination, maternal and child health, general medicine and pharmacy services.
Private Clinics (Specialist Placements) – Opportunities to shadow medical specialists across diverse fields such as Radiology, Pulmonology, Physiotherapy, Dentistry, Cardiology, ENT (Otolaryngology), Obstetrics, Traumatology, Laboratory, pharmacy and Ophthalmology.
Community Projects – Involvement in healthcare awareness campaigns, preventive health workshops, and local initiatives to promote well-being in underserved communities.

Requirements & eligibility

The program is open to current students of medicine or those who have recently qualifies and completed their medical studies.

Additional Requirements:

Minimum age: 18 years.
Have basic or Intermediate level of Spanish (to communicate with staff and coordinators).
Open-mindedness, cultural sensitivity, and willingness to adapt to the realities of healthcare in a developing country.

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Life on the programme

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 Med Trips 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 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 participants, 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, participants 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 Currency

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.

Duration	Program fee
1 week	$819
2 weeks	$1,089
3 weeks	$1,359
4 weeks	$1,633
5 weeks	$2,151
6 weeks	$2,491
7 weeks	$2,831
8 weeks	$3,208
Each additional week	+$576 / week

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

✓ What you're paying for

24 hrs Assistance and support
Comprehensive Pre- Departure Information and support from Med Trips team
Pickup from Cusco Airport or Bus Station
Orientation
Accommodation in a homestay
Meals from Monday to Friday
Medical Insurance
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

Booking & getting started

What does the Medical Elective Placement in Peru cost, and what is included?

The exact price for each duration is shown in the Dates & costs section above, in your local currency. Your fee covers the project placement, accommodation, meals as listed, airport pick-up and 24/7 in-country support in Peru — international flights, travel insurance and visa costs are separate.

When should I apply?

Apply as early as you can — places on the Medical Elective Placement in Peru are limited and confirmed in the order they come in. Your application fee stays valid for a full year, and the balance can be paid in instalments up to 45 days before you start.

Your placement in Peru

Who can take part, and is there an age limit?

The minimum age is 18 years. Most nationalities are welcome — you just need an open mind, reasonable fitness and respect for local customs in Peru. A clear background check is required for any role working with children.

Where will I stay in Peru?

You stay in a shared student house or with a vetted host family in Peru, with meals provided as listed for your programme. Private-room and upgraded-accommodation options are usually available on request.

How long can I do my elective for?

This programme runs for 1-12 Weeks. If you would like to stay longer or combine it with another project in Peru, our team can tailor your itinerary.

Safety, health & visa in Peru

Is it safe to do an elective in Peru?

Yes. Our local coordinators in Peru meet you on arrival, run a full orientation and are reachable 24/7 throughout your stay. We only place students in areas our in-country team knows well and visits regularly.

Do I need a visa or vaccinations for Peru?

Most students travel to Peru on a standard tourist visa; you will receive full visa guidance and a recommended-vaccination checklist in your pre-departure manual. Valid travel-medical insurance is required and can be arranged through us at a nominal cost.

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