The Best Medical Electives in South America (2026 Guide)

Considering a medical elective in South America in 2026? 

South America is a wonderful continent full of breathtaking natural wonders, including the Amazon rainforest, the Andes Mountains, and Iguazu Falls. With rich cultural experiences, unique traditions, and delicious cuisine, it’s an enticing place for anyone considering applying for a medical internship abroad. 

Interning abroad provides the opportunity to gain real-world experience and global insights while making a meaningful difference. There are plenty of medical electives to choose from, so you definitely won’t be short of options. Our guide highlights the best medical electives in South America for 2026 to help you choose the right path for your future. 

Medical Electives in Peru

Peru is the heart of South America, offering a taste of everything this continent has to offer. The Pacific coastline, lush Amazon rainforest, and high Andes Mountain peaks are just a few of the magnificent sights you’ll be able to explore during your healthcare internship in Peru. 

Our electives are based in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Known for its incredible views and wonderful sense of community, this country offers interns a uniquely enriching setting to learn about healthcare delivery in other cultures. 

Med Trips always strives to provide our interns with a comprehensive, well-rounded experience. From gaining hands-on exposure to observing in a private practice and public medical centres, you’ll be able to shadow specialists, build confidence for your future career, and build a strong network of professionals to enhance your learning. 

We invite our interns to experience authentic Peruvian culture firsthand by staying with a local host family. You’ll share a room with other interns, giving you the chance to explore the country together, lean on each other during intern responsibilities, and make lifelong connections. All homes are equipped with basic necessities, and you can utilize our 24/7 in-country support if you have any questions or concerns during your stay.

Best Medical Elective Placements in Peru for 2026

If you’re considering Peru for your internship, there are several elective options that Med Trips offers to choose from:

• Medical Elective

Suitable for interns who are currently enrolled in, or who have recently completed, a medical degree from a university. You have a choice of specialist placements, including:

• Radiology
• Pulmonology
• Physiotherapy
• Dentistry
• Cardiology
• ENT (Otolaryngology)
• Obstetrics
• Traumatology
• Laboratory
• Pharmacy
• Ophthalmology

You’ll get the choice to intern in community health centers in Cusco, private clinics, and participate in community projects. Get hands-on medical knowledge, learn from specialists, and push healthcare awareness campaigns. 

• Pre Medical Observation Elective

Designed for students who aren’t currently enrolled in a medical or nursing degree, but who have some prior knowledge and/or experience in the medical sector. Ideal if you’re hoping to get real-life insight into the medical profession before starting university studies. You’ll observe different departments and specialties, including:

• General Medicine
• Dentistry
• Nursing Services
• Urgent Care Center 
• Obstetrics
• Pharmacy

Peru provides free healthcare services to all its citizens through public hospitals and community health centers, and you’ll help provide essential care and knowledge to diverse populations. 

• Dental Elective

Tailored to dentistry students looking to boost their practical skills by working alongside experienced local dentists. You’ll be able to participate in medical camps and lead oral hygiene awareness campaigns in underserved communities. 

You’ll also visit public schools and kindergartens, conducting dental check-ups while teaching children the importance of oral care in fun and engaging ways. Expand your knowledge in specialized areas, such as Periodontology, to improve your specialist skills and garner real-world experience to aid your future career.

While intern responsibilities will keep you busy throughout the majority of your time in Peru, you’ll get a couple of days off a week to make your own. Peru offers some of the most unforgettable experiences in the world, so make the most of it! 

Some of the most exciting recommendations are: 

• Machu Picchu: One of the seven wonders of the world, this iconic Inca citadel is a must-visit. Trek the Inca Trail or take a scenic train from Cusco to Aguas Calientes for once-in-a-lifetime views. 
• Sacred Valley: Explore the picturesque towns of Pisac and Ollantaytambo, along with ancient ruins, local markets, and incredible mountain landscapes. 
• Rainbow Mountain: Hike to the multi-colored Rainbow Mountain, which is a whopping 5,000 metres above sea level! While challenging, the end result of the hike is well worth it - spectacular views and a natural wonder underfoot! 
• Lake Titicaca: Found on the border of Peru and Bolivia, Lake Titicaca is the world’s highest navigable lake. The floating Uros Islands are available to visit, and you can even learn about the communities that live on them. 
• Amazon Rainforest: Of course, you can’t visit Peru without visiting the Amazon Rainforest. Take a short flight from Cusco and explore to your heart’s content while staying in eco-lodges for a weekend getaway. 

Why Choose a Medical Internship in South America? 

There are plenty of amazing countries that require assistance from medical interns, so why choose South America for your placement? Not only will you get the chance to learn a new language, immerse yourself in a new culture, and expand your network, but there are also lots of other benefits to consider, including: 

You’ll Learn Patience, Skill and Global Experience

The healthcare system in South America operates differently from many other places in the world, so you may not be accustomed to the processes and treatments you’ll encounter. Not only does this offer you global experience and the opportunity to broaden your medical skills, but you’ll also be able to practice patience, empathy, and creative problem-solving. These are skills that you can take with you into your future medical career and use for many years to come.

Shine During Future Job Interviews

The medical field is saturated, meaning there are going to be plenty of other applicants going up against you for your dream role, placement, or class. Participating in a medical internship abroad is an excellent way to make your resume stand out from the crowd and boost your shine during the interview process. An abroad internship gives you real-life experience to talk about rather than simply studying. 

Earn Exposure to Unique Medical Challenges

South America faces a mix of healthcare challenges rarely seen anywhere else in the world, so this is a chance to come face-to-face with medical issues that other doctors at home might never experience. These include various tropical and infectious diseases, rural health disparities, and concerns related to limited resources. You’ll have the chance to shadow doctors and observe how they adapt and provide care under these unique circumstances. 

Meet Friends From All Walks of Life

One of the amazing things about participating in internships abroad is that you’ll get to meet other interns travelling from all over the world. You’ll be able to create lifelong friendships with other interns and coworkers, leaning on each other in times of difficulty, helping one another overcome challenges, and exploring South America together. The bonds you form during placement run deep, so your new global network will last much longer than your internship. 

Make a Real Impact in Underserved Communities

Many internships are based in public hospitals, private practices, and rural clinics, where resources are often limited and healthcare is underfunded. During your internship, you’ll be able to learn while making a tangible difference - whether that’s through assisting doctors, nurses and surgeons, participating in outreach programs, or supporting local healthcare initiatives. You can come home knowing that you’ve made a meaningful difference to the local community you spent the last weeks or months living in. 

Ready to Plan Your Medical Internship Abroad? 

Deciding to participate in a medical internship abroad is an incredibly exciting and selfless venture, and Med Trips is here to help you every step of the way. Shadow some of the best healthcare professionals in the world and earn a deeper global perspective through our programs, and experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity before your medical career kicks off and becomes too busy. 

Ready to take the jump and get the ball rolling on your new adventure? Check out our medical electives abroad opportunities to find the best fit for you and your goals today.