Good to know

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.

Three Ladies standing on the edge of the Lake of Gold in Peru. Wearing traditional cultural clothing.

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 students for years. Each of you will have a cosy private room, and you’ll share breakfast and dinner with your hosts, enjoying delicious, home-cooked meals. This is your chance to practice Spanish, learn about local life, and even pick up a few words of Quechua.

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. Their son, Edmundito, is studying engineering in Cusco but might be around for a chat.

Maritza and Lucho: Hosting since 2012, this wonderful couple are both teachers in the Calca area. They’ll make you feel right at home, sharing stories and teaching you Quechua phrases. Their young daughter will brighten your day, and their older sons may pop by for a visit.

Meals

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 regional specialties from Cusco and beyond, with traditional dishes such as hearty soups, fresh vegetables, and locally sourced meats. 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, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy the incredible flavours of Peru.

Peru Essentials

Communication

Spanish is the language of Peru, and you’ll find that 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.

Your homestay, the AASD office and a few cafes around Calca have WiFi but phone reception is very poor so prepare for an off-grid experience.

Altitude Sickness

Cusco sits at 3400 m (11200 ft), with Calca being lower at 2,928 m (9606 ft). Symptoms of altitude sickness are common during the ﬁrst few days and you may experience a mild headache, tiredness and/ or loss of appetite.

Rest and patience are the best cures until acclimatized. The over-the-counter drug Diamox can be taken as a preventative a few days before your ﬂight to Cusco. You will reach about 4000m.

Weather & Travel Times

The weather can change rapidly in The Andes. Daytimes are typically mild and sunny, but temperatures drop sharply at night, especially at higher altitudes.

Be ready for crisp mornings, bright afternoons, and
chilly evenings, regardless of the season.

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 will need to fly into and out of Cusco. We aim for Midlifers to travel to Peru as a team, ideally on the same flight. We will also help to coordinate those who departing from somewhere other than England.

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 CampbellIrvine 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.

Vaccinations

The following list is a guide only. Your doctor will advise.
‍
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: $10 USD per meal for meals out, hostels in Cusco $15 per night.

Homestay Etiquette

Drinking water will be available at all times.
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It is common to share time together after a meal, especially dinner. It’s called sobremesa and is a time to share, connect, get to know your family, and practice your Spanish.

‍Take advantage of going to family gatherings and other places with yourhost family during your weekends and free time. It’s a very unique cultural andbonding experience.

Community Facilities

Many of the communities are more rural and rustic than Calca and, typically, they have limited restroom facilities.

In the most rural areas, you can expect to have access to a squat toilet in an outhouse type building. Please do not put toilet paper in this type of toilet. There is usually a wastebasket in the outhouse for paper.

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.

A selection of trousers, jeans, and shorts
Lightweight 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 the evenings w
Warm pyjamas - past volunteers slept in thermal layers

Equipment

80 litre Rucksack - NO hard-shell SUITCASES!
Head torch
Water bottle
Sunglasses
Plug adapter required - they have American stye plugs
Towel/sarong
Blow up travel pillow (optional, for the trek)
Portable phone charger
Ear plugs
Cozy ugg-style slippers for home stay

Toiletries & Medical

Basic everyday toiletries
Sun cream/after sun
Travel wash
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).

midlife Programme

Peru Good to know

community development + high andes + amazon exploration