PERU
PRE-MED FIELD EXPERIENCE
Explore traditional and modern approaches to medicine in rural Peru. Visit Quechua villages to support mobile clinics and contribute to public health projects that have real impact.
Program Overview
On this program, you’ll step into the world of global health in Peru’s Sacred Valley, where modern medicine meets centuries-old healing traditions. During this immersive two-week program, you’ll support mobile clinics in rural Quechua villages, learn from doctors through case discussions and contribute to community-driven public health initiatives.
Along the way, you’ll connect with local medical professionals, engage with Andean communities and deepen your understanding of rural healthcare and career pathways in the health sciences.
Outside the clinic, your adventure unfolds across the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes. You’ll take in the awe-inspiring ruins of Machu Picchu, visit the Maras Salt Mines and explore Cusco. Round out your journey with a dance class, a music class and adventure activities like rafting through mountain rivers.
On GLA’s Peru: Pre-Med Field Experience program you will:
- Support mobile health clinics in remote Quechua villages, tackling real public health challenges alongside experienced local doctors
- Learn from Clinical Case Discussions & earn 70 observational hours focused on medicine and public health
- Experience local life firsthand through traditional art, music and vibrant markets
- Whitewater raft through a stunning river valley
- Take a scenic train ride to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu
Program Menu
PERU
PRE-MED FIELD EXPERIENCE
Sample Itinerary Coming Soon!
Let’s take a sneak peek at what your program experience might look like this summer! Please note that the order of activities may differ for each program session. The details provided here represent a general outline of what you can anticipate, though community service projects and activities are subject to change based on the needs of our local community partners, cultural celebrations and traditions, weather conditions and the specific requirements of the student group.
PERU
PRE-MED FIELD EXPERIENCE
Program Details
Dates & Tuition
2027 Session Dates
July 09 – July 22, 2027
What's Included in Tuition
In-country transportation
Lodging
3 meals per day
Professional full-time staff and experts
24/7 parent support hotline during program
Secondary medical and evacuation insurance
Cultural activities, lectures and excursions
Pre-departure materials and support
Educational materials
to hold your spot on-program.
Program at a Glance
Important Note on Machu Picchu Permits: Entry to circuit routes inside Machu Picchu is strictly managed by Peru’s Ministry of Culture. Because permits are booked upon enrollment on a rolling basis, students may be split across different entry groups or route circuits. Prompt enrollment and submission of a passport copy with at least six months of validity are required to book your entry.
Guaranteed Experience: Regardless of the specific route assigned, every student will enter Machu Picchu and experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Every GLA Program is Backed by our 5-Point Safety System™
GLA HOME BASE:
SAFE & SECURE LODGING
CARING SUPERVISION &
EXPERT LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
SAFE
TRANSPORTATION
HEALTHY FOOD
& PURE WATER
24/7 SUPPORT &
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
Local Partner Spotlight
MEDLIFE Peru
Our partner for this internship, MEDLIFE, began operations in Cuzco, Peru in 2005. MEDLIFE is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that partners with low-income communities in Latin America and Africa to improve their access to medicine, education and community development projects. Their mission is to build a worldwide movement empowering the poor in their fight for equal access to healthcare, education and a safe home. MEDLIFE empowers students and volunteers to become advocates for change.
The Program Experience
Career Exploration
Gain intensive, real-world clinical experience through full-day mobile clinics in underserved Quechua communities. Working alongside experienced local professionals, you will tackle pressing public health challenges, observe dynamic patient interactions and deepen your understanding of community-based medicine and medical Spanish in action. Through active participation in daily clinical case discussions, you will sharpen your clinical reasoning and analyze how geographic, socioeconomic and systemic factors directly influence patient care.
This program delivers 70 full hours of high-impact clinical experience designed specifically for university-level students. Completing this volume of direct field shadowing in an international setting provides a distinct advantage for your graduate school applications demonstrating proven clinical dedication, cross-cultural competence and practical health systems insight for pre-med, nursing and public health pathways.
Service Learning
Bridge healthcare access and public health through meaningful community service across the Sacred Valley. Assist in mobile medical clinics serving rural Quechua villages with limited access to care, supporting local providers with patient intake, basic health assessments and community health education. Collaborate directly with local leaders to plan and implement hands-on public health initiatives tailored to address pressing health challenges within the community.
Adventure
Explore the vibrant Cuzco region, filled with bustling traditional markets, quiet cobblestone stone corridors and sweeping Andean mountain views. Journey through the historic Sacred Valley to discover ancient Incan agricultural terraces and sites like Maras and Moray. Take an unforgettable trip to iconic Machu Picchu: the ancient mountain citadel that has fascinated travelers for centuries. Cap off your outdoor adventure by rafting down the steep-walled, scenic river valleys of the Andes.
Country Spotlight
Discover the vibrant spirit, deep-rooted traditions and legendary gastronomy of the Peruvian highlands.
Lodging: Stay in an exclusive hotel block located in the Sacred Valley just outside of Cuzco. Students share comfortable, gender-segregated rooms with roommates and have private en-suite bathrooms with warm and cold water, along with ample common spaces for group learning and social time.
Meals: Savor authentic Peruvian cuisine prepared fresh by Home Base staff! Enjoy simple traditional breakfasts of eggs, fresh rolls and jam, followed by wholesome lunches and dinners featuring fresh fish, rice, native potatoes and local fruits like cherimoya, lucuma and pineapple. Enjoy national favorites like Pollo a la brasa (Peruvian roasted chicken) alongside the vibrant, fresh sauces and dips essential to every Peruvian table.
PERU
PRE-MED FIELD EXPERIENCE
Photo Gallery
PERU