Gap Year Volunteering - Tips for Peru

Project Background

In the breathtaking highlands of Peru, where the majestic Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu form the backdrop, a quiet revolution is underway.

Our partners at the Andean Alliance for Sustainable Development (AASD) are championing the survival of high-altitude farmers whose livelihoods face increasing threats from globalisation and environmental challenges.

Founded in 2010, AASD is dedicated to empowering these resilient communities through sustainable, community-led agricultural projects. At the heart of their efforts is Ecohuella (Ecological Footprint) Farm, a unique training centre co-founded by three siblings. Here, campesino farmers receive hands-on workshops and guidance tailored to their needs, all while respecting the Quechua language, traditional practices, and local learning styles.

This programme goes beyond stunning landscapes, uncovering a story of cultural preservation and innovation. Through our partnership with AASD, you’ll gain insight into the struggles and triumphs of Peru’s highland farmers as they fight to sustain their way of life and thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Accommodation

One of the most enriching aspects of this programme is the rare opportunity to live with local Peruvian families, immersing yourself fully in their culture and daily life. This isn’t just accommodation - it’s a heartfelt connection to the people and traditions of this incredible country.

Calca

In Calca, you’ll stay with our beloved host families, who have been welcoming Leapers for years. Each of you will have a private room, and you’ll share breakfast and dinner with your hosts, enjoying delicious, home-cooked meals.

Gleny and Edmundo: Hosting since 2017, Gleny runs a small bodega selling fresh produce, honey, and cacao. Known for her care, she’s always ready with herbal remedies for altitude sickness. Edmundo, a trusted taxi driver, ensures everyone gets where they need to go safely.

Maritza and Lucho: Hosting since 2012, this wonderful couple are both teachers in the Calca. They’ll make you feel right at home and their young daughter will be around to help you.

Amazon

In the Amazon, you’ll stay in a hostel and an eco-lodge, surrounded by the lush rainforest. These tranquil retreats combines comfort with nature, offering an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.

Food

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as part of your three-week programme, with all meals (3x a day) provided throughout. This is your chance to savour the vibrant and diverse flavours of Peruvian cuisine, renowned for its fresh ingredients, bold spices, and rich cultural heritage.

Expect to try traditional dishes and don’t be surprised if a local community treats you to cuy (guinea pig), a revered delicacy in the Andes - an experience as unique as it is authentic.

For those with dietary preferences, rest assured that vegetarian and vegan options are always available.

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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

community development + high andes + amazon exploration

Project Background

Accommodation

Calca

Amazon

Food

Peru Essentials

Communication

Phones + Wi-Fi

Weather & Travel Times

Visas & Entry Requirements

Flights

Insurance

Vaccinations

Money

What to Pack?

Clothes

Equipment

Toiletries & Medical

Kickstart your Gap Year

Download itinerary / brochure

Thank you

Gap Year Programme

Peru Good to know

community development + high andes + amazon exploration

Project Background

Accommodation

Calca

Amazon

Food

Peru Essentials

Communication

Phones + Wi-Fi

Weather & Travel Times

Visas & Entry Requirements

Flights

Insurance

Vaccinations

Money

What to Pack?

Clothes

Equipment

Toiletries & Medical

Kickstart your Gap Year