Gap Year Volunteering - Tips for Peru

A Partnership That Opens Doors

One of the things that makes Peru so special is our partnership with the Andean Alliance for Sustainable Development (AASD).Thanks to this long-standing relationship, you'll experience a side of Peru that most travellers never get to see. Rather than simply passing through the Sacred Valley, you'll spend time with local communities, visit innovative sustainability projects and gain a genuine insight into life in the Andes.

From helping at EcoHuella Farm and visiting remote mountain villages to learning from local farmers and community leaders, you'll experience first-hand how traditional culture and modern innovation are working together to create new opportunities for future generations.

It's these authentic connections, combined with iconic experiences such as Rainbow Mountain, Machu Picchu and the Amazon Rainforest, that transform this from a holiday into a truly memorable adventure.

Accommodation and Food

During your time in the Sacred Valley, you'll stay in a cosy, locally run hotel in Calca, looked after by our trusted local team. Surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery, it provides a comfortable base from which to explore the Andes, with easy access to local communities, project work and the many adventures that await.

The hotel quickly becomes a home away from home, with shared experiences, team meals and plenty of opportunities to relax after busy days exploring the Sacred Valley.

In the Amazon, you'll stay in a welcoming hostel in Puerto Maldonado before heading deeper into the rainforest to an eco-lodge surrounded by jungle. Falling asleep to the sounds of the rainforest and waking up amongst one of the world's most biodiverse ecosystems is an experience you'll never forget.

Meals throughout the programme are simple, fresh and plentiful, with a mix of traditional Peruvian dishes and familiar favourites to keep you fuelled for the adventures ahead.

What Makes This Adventure Special

Peru combines some of South America's most iconic sights with experiences few travellers ever get to access.

Through our partnership with AASD, you'll spend time with local communities in the Sacred Valley, learn about sustainable farming initiatives and gain a deeper understanding of life in the Andes. Alongside these meaningful connections, you'll trek through spectacular mountain landscapes, explore the legendary Machu Picchu and venture deep into the Amazon Rainforest.

The result is an adventure that blends challenge, culture and contribution in a way that feels authentic, rewarding and unforgettable.

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Peru Essentials

Communication

Spanish is the language of Peru, and you’ll find local people generally don’t speak English, therefore it’s helpful to learn a few key phrases before you arrive.

We will offer translation during all planned activities, and informal Spanish lessons will be available in your first week.

Phones + Wi-Fi

Many phone plans have international options. Check with your provider for costs before coming to Peru. Peruvian SIM card are readily available.

Wi-Fi is available in your homestay and in many of the cafes around town.

Weather & Travel Times

Your adventure will take you through two of Peru’s most iconic and contrasting regions: the Amazon Rainforest and the Andes Mountains. This diversity means you’ll encounter a weather conditions, so it’s important to be prepared for everything naturehas to offer.

‍The Andes: Day times are typically mild and sunny, but temperatures drop sharply at night.
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‍The Amazon: Expect warm, humid conditions with frequent rain showers.

Visas & Entry Requirements

No Visa Needed: EU and US passport holders can stay in Peru visa-free for up to 90 days.

Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months.

Proof of Exit: You’ll need to provide proof of onward travel, such as your return ticket or evidence of departure by air or land.

Flights

You’ll fly into and out of Cusco Airport, with exact dates dependent on flight availability. Please do not book any flights independently - wait for our admin email, which will include your recommended flight itinerary.

We coordinate flights through Trailfinders, the UK’s most trusted travel brand, offering ATOL-protected "flight only" bookings (ATOL number T1458).

Insurance

For UK Residents: We recommend Campbell Irvine Ltd who have designed a policy specifically with our projects in mind. We suggest you purchase your travel insurance at the earliest opportunity, so you are covered for any insurable reasons in the unlikely event you must cancel having committed to your itinerary or paid for flights.

‍USA Residents: We recommend Inext who can combine with your exiting medical cover. Most Leapers buy the Platinum Policy.

Vaccinations

The following list is a general guide, please consult your GP or a travel health clinic for personalised medical advice based on your health history and travel plans.

Vaccinations commonly recommended for travel to this region may include:
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Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid.
Yellow fever if you intend to travel into Central America after the programme.

Money

Local currency is called SOL. We recommend bringing a combination of a debit card and a Revolut (or similar) card for convenience and security.

ATMs are widely available, making it easy to withdraw money as needed. Peru is very good value for money and there will be multiple opportunities to buy souvenirs.

Feedback from our recent groups was that they spent on average about £150 per week as they went into Cusco. Food Budget: $15 USD per meal for meals out, hostels in Cusco $15 per night.

What to Pack?

Clothes

Please note when packing – you are at high altitude so temperatures can get cold, especially at night. The key message for Peru is you need lots of layers. It can go from hot to cold to rainy in a few hours, plus you will need light weight clothes for the Amazon.

A selection of trousers, jeans, and shorts
Light weight long sleeved shirts and trousers for the Amazon
Tracksuit bottoms/trekking trousers
T-shirts – long and short sleeved
A couple of hoodies for cooler evenings
A lightweight, waterproof jacket
A warmer down jacket for the nights
1 pair trainers
1 pair of walking boots and walking socks for the treks
1 pair flip-flops
1 pair casual shoes
Sun hat with brim
Warm ‘going out gear’ for when you’re off out in the evenings, especially if you go to Cusco at the weekends
Swimming gear for the hot springs
Warm pyjamas - past volunteers slept in thermal layers

Equipment

80 litre rucksack - No hard-shell SUITCASES
25 litre day rucksack
Head torch
Water bottle
Sunglasses
Plug adapter required - they have American stye plugs
Towel/sarong
Blow up travel pillow (optional, for long journeys)
Portable phone charger
Cozy ugg-style slippers for home stay

Toiletries & Medical

Basic everyday toiletries
Sun cream/after sun
Travel wash
Hand sanitiser
Insect repellent
Antibacterial spray/cream for open wounds
Rehydration powders
Savlon
Antihistamines
E45/Sudocrem
Immodium
Mediplasters
Personal Medication: Bring extra supplies, know the generic names of your medication, and ensure you can manage allergies (e.g. carry an epipen if necessary)

Gap Year Programme

Peru Good to know

Ancient Cultures • Epic Treks • Amazon Exploration

A Partnership That Opens Doors

Accommodation and Food

What Makes This Adventure Special