Hola, everyone! My name is Veronica, and I am the Program Manager for all internships in Cusco, Peru. Being from Colombia, Peru was my neighboring country for many years but for some reason I never visited, and - let me tell you - I was missing out! After visiting our internships in Peru, this intern abroad destination immediately shot to the top of my favorite places I have ever been to!
What was it like getting to Cusco?
Our internships in Peru are all hosted in the stunning city of Cusco. To get to Cusco, most likely you will need to take a short flight from Lima (although some international cities also have direct flights, like Bogotá or La Paz).
There are several daily flights from Lima to Cusco, but make sure you allow enough time for your connection in Lima since you will need to collect your luggage, go through customs and immigration, and then check the luggage again for the national flight to Cusco. The Lima airport was renovated in June 2025, and is incredibly large so take this into account too.
Once you land in Cusco, to commence your intern abroad experience, your host family will be waiting for you at the airport, to greet and welcome you, and transport you to your accommodation. From there, you can rest, settle in, and get ready for the adventure to begin!
💬 ”This experience was far better than I ever could have imagined! From the wonderful homestay to the amazing things that I got to learn/do in the clinic, I couldn’t have asked for anything better! My host family was extremely nice and supportive the entire time. They went above and beyond to make me feel included in Peru. I feel like I learned so much in the clinic and working with the national track team of Peru. I will definitely use all of these skills in my job in the future! Thank you so much for this wonderful opportunity!” - Kathleen, Physical Therapy intern in Peru
What were your first impressions of Cusco?
The first thing that struck me about Cusco is how charming the city is! It’s like a gem preserved in time - full of cobblestone streets, Andean music, and colorful outfits. One of my favorite things to do every evening was choosing a cafe at the iconic Plaza de Armas, right in the heart of Cusco, having a coffee or a refreshing chicha morada (their traditional drink made of purple corn!) and enjoying the people watching and the incredible Peruvian food.
When you are there, make sure to try the papas a la huancaina (potatoes in a mildly spiced sauce), lomo saltado (their version of a beef stir-fry) and of course, the traditional Ceviche. The options for good food are endless in Peru, so make the most of it!
Cusco is also very walkable, but because of the altitude, it is common to be short of breath. Taxis, Uber, and buses are also all very easily accessible and affordable there to get you anywhere.
Most interns use the buses to get to and from their internship placements, which costs 1 Sol per ride (about US$0.30), or the taxis, which cost approximately 10 to 15 Soles (US$3 to US$5) depending on the route. A weekly budget of approximately US$50 should be more than enough for transportation. You will also receive information about the best ways to move around Cusco on your orientation.
💬 ”Overall, Cusco is an amazing city. I am so glad I took the opportunity to travel before working and got to experience all of this these past three months. I will definitely miss this place. I learned so much about myself by being away from home and on my own here in Cusco. I loved all the weekend trips to places with the best views and best company. The mountain views were the best part. I will miss seeing these everywhere I look. I have met so many people from different parts of the world and it’s amazing how close we all have become. Sad days are ahead because I will be leaving this beautiful city and my beautiful friends. Thankful x100”. - Erica, Medical intern in Peru
What should interns prepare for in advance?
It’s good to have some advance understanding of the altitude - sitting on the Andes at 3,400 meters above sea level (approximately 11,150 feet!), it can be a different experience to visit Cusco, if you’re usually based closer to sea level.
High altitude locations have less oxygen in the air, due to lower air pressure. This is what can cause “soroche” (altitude sickness). Cusco natives have adapted genetically to carry more oxygen in each blood cell (they produce higher concentrations of the haemoglobin protein). However, visitors need to allow themselves some time to take it easy, so that you can acclimate during your visit.
I strongly recommend being prepared! Rest assured, Cusco is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations for good reason. There are plenty of options to help you feel fit and well for your trip. For example:
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You can speak with your doctor in advance, to obtain altitude medication for your trip. This can help to prevent and treat any symptoms.
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If you’re anaemic, or concerned about your iron levels, you might consider taking some extra iron supplements. Iron is key to ensuring that oxygen is moved around your body.
3.3 You can buy altitude sweets that are abundant everywhere in the city (and extremely affordable) and also drink the local tea, as these may also help to alleviate symptoms.
In general, you’ll want to take care during your first couple of days in Cusco. Go slow, stay hydrated. Consider bringing powdered electrolytes with you.
As Cusco is so welcoming to travelers in general, the city is extremely well-equipped to care for its visitors. Many places have oxygen masks readily available for those who might need a little extra pick-me-up.
💬 ”Best decision I made - I was in Peru for four weeks and worked in a physiotherapy setting. The clinic I worked at was only a 15-minute walk from my home stay and was very convenient and safe. The program descriptions matched with what I did at the clinic, so there were not any surprises. My program coordinator with Intern Abroad HQ was always so quick to respond if I had any questions, however the Program Guide has a lot of the information you need prior to departure. The only mistake I made with booking with Intern Abroad HQ was that I did not stay long enough. I learned so much and will definitely be doing another internship with them in the near future.” - Manal, Physical Therapy intern in Peru
What can you tell us about the internship placements in Peru?
Intern Abroad HQ collaborates with a range of different host organizations, who welcome and support our international interns. We have a great degree of flexibility when matching interns with their placement. I am confident that we are able to find just the right internship fit for you in Cusco!
For example, for Medical internships in Peru, I visited a clinic that is highly underfunded and underresourced, providing Medical interns with deep insight into the struggles that marginalized Peruvian communities face on a daily basis. Interns have scope to make a real tangible difference while enhancing their personal and professional development.
Then, I visited another clinic, which is very modern and has the latest, state-of-the-art equipment. This Medical internship placement is suitable for those who wish to have an experience where they can learn about the latest technology.
Of course, interns can also diversify their experience by spending time across a range of medical placements, to learn more about the delivery of healthcare services across the spectrum. Our team of coordinators in Cusco will always support, to the utmost of their ability, to ensure that learning experiences for interns are as beneficial, helpful, and enriching as possible (for both the interns and the clinics alike).
Similarly, for Veterinary internships, interns can be placed at several vet clinics or even a wildlife sanctuary.
For Education internships, we collaborate with several kindergartens around Cusco, as well as after-school programs.
💬 “One of the best experiences… I had the most amazing time when I travelled to Peru with Intern Abroad. The family that I stayed with was so nice and caring and helpful. I did one of the medical projects and got to work at a local mom/baby clinic and travel to other local schools to work with kids. Everyone who helped organize the program was really great and could answer any questions I had. Overall, my experience was so much fun and I would definitely use Intern Abroad HQ again.” - Samantha, Medical intern in Peru
Do you have to speak Spanish for internships in Peru?
Depending on your chosen internship experience, the Spanish language requirements vary. In general you should ideally have an intermediate level of Spanish language proficiency, in order to make the most out of your Peruvian internship experience. I found the Peruvian accent to be very neutral and easy to understand. Locals are warm and welcoming, so they will be happy to help you understand and develop your skills in a patient and friendly manner.
Our coordinating team in Peru will have a video call with new interns, in advance of their travel, to assist with preparations. They will gain an understanding of your current Spanish level and then place you accordingly. You also have a range of options to enhance your Spanish language skills, both before and during your internship abroad, with online and in-person classes available.
💬 “My sole purpose of going to Cusco was to learn Spanish. For anyone looking to improve their Spanish, Cusco is the place to go! The Spanish is very easy to understand, and the locals are always willing to help you out. My private Spanish lessons helped me a lot to gain more fluency and proficiency as well as talking with my host family every day. Now quit reading this review and go apply for an internship with Intern Abroad HQ. I promise you will have an experience of a lifetime!” - Alex, Marketing & Communications intern in Peru
What are the accommodations and meals like for interns in Cusco?
Interns in Cusco are provided accommodation with host families. During my visit, I had the pleasure of staying with a delightful host mom, who made sure I was being very well taken care of. Her apartment was in downtown Cusco, making it a very convenient location for me to get to the local team’s office and the Plaza de Armas (it took me approximately 25 minutes walking, and 5 minutes by taxi).
The apartment had WiFi and hot water, and my host mom made sure to give me plenty of blankets as it could get pretty chilly in the night. I really enjoyed my stay with her, and she was a true embodiment of the hospitality that Peruvians are well known for. I also had my own private room, which will be the case for most interns in Cusco as well.
Your host family will provide three daily meals during your time in Cusco. Breakfast often consists of eggs, bread, and avocado, with tea or coffee, and lunch and dinner were often Peruvian takes on staples like chicken, beef, soups, pastas and vegetables. I was especially fond of my host mom’s spiced chicken - simple but full of flavour!
💬 “During the internship, I had an amazing experience with my host family - Ana Maria and Carlo. They welcomed me into their home from the very first day. Living with a family that was not my own was a scary thought, but I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. I felt safe and comfortable in the home, and they were very supportive and accommodating to my needs. They are the type of people who truly want to give students an immersive cultural experience by living with a host family, and l am truly going to miss them. Words cannot describe how much I enjoyed my experience in Peru!” - Angelica, Medical intern in Peru
Who is working in-country to support and host interns in Peru?
When you intern abroad in Peru, you’ll be supported by Enrique and his team - they are terrific hosts and highly engaged with all interns. The Internship Coordinators and team of local Support Staff are eager for interns to experience Peruvian culture and food, and enjoy their time as much as possible. They are always happy and available to assist and recommend the best places for anything you may need during your stay.
During your orientation, the team will cover all the information you will need for your time there, including transportation, safety, the best things to see and do, local customs, and what to do in case of an emergency. They will also introduce you to your internship placement and take you there on your first day.
Their office is conveniently located in the heart of town, only a few blocks away from the Plaza de Armas. It was less than 30 minutes walking from my homestay, and with very easy access to buses and taxis, which you can take from right outside their door.
💬 ”I would 100% recommend an internship abroad to anyone! Often when these opportunities arise, it is too easy to turn them down and convince yourself that going somewhere unknown is just too hard. But once you’re there, it is easy to understand why pushing yourself is worth it. I have such a better understanding of other cultures, perspectives and relationships and an even greater passion to learn and grow. Take a chance and go in with open eyes. The relationships I made with my colleagues, other interns and host family was a massive highlight. The Latin American culture is so welcoming and the people I met really became family. Wherever I felt homesick, everyone’s support really made Cusco feel like a home away from home.” - Jackson, Physical Therapy intern in Peru
What kind of adventures can you have while you’re in Peru?
My favorite thing about Cusco is undoubtedly all the once-in-a-lifetime sightseeing opportunities it offers: in my short one-week visit, I had the chance to visit Machu Picchu and the Rainbow Mountain, and I cannot recommend these experiences enough!
For Machu Picchu, you definitely need to book as soon as you can, as there are only a limited number of guests allowed in every day and most tickets are sold out months (yes, months!) in advance. I bought mine two months in advance, and was only able to find tickets for Circuit 3 (there are three different “circuits” or routes inside Machu Picchu, and Number 2 is the most traditional one). Therefore, as soon as you decide on Peru, if Machu Picchu is on your list of to-do activities, book those tickets immediately.
The Rainbow Mountain tour requires a moderate level of fitness, as you are driven up to 4.600 meters above sea level, and then you trek for 3km (just under two miles) reaching an altitude of 5.035 meters. However, the view from the top is absolutely worth the effort! I took my time and before I knew it I reached the summit and was rewarded with the most incredible view of a mountain that, thanks to the minerals found in its soil, displays seven different colors!
For those with more time and a thirst for adventure, you can even do the Inca Trail or the Salkantay tours, which are fully immersive experiences that will see you trekking the Andes, with picturesque landscapes the entire way, until you reach Machu Picchu.
Once you have confirmed your participation for your internship in Peru, you will be able to book your chosen tours and activities via your internship portal, and I’m always more than happy to help you find the ideal fit for you!
💬 “If you are an adventurer, Cusco is calling your name. The Cusco area is beautiful. There are so many cool places to explore. I promise you won’t have enough time to see it all. Plan your weekends ahead of time because in a blink of an eye they will be gone!” - Alex, Marketing & Communications intern in Peru
Ready to plan your own internship in Cusco?
All too quickly, my time in Peru came to an end, but it was an experience I will cherish for a lifetime, and I have no doubt that you will too. If you want to see a truly marvelous corner of the world that will leave you speechless, while boosting your CV at the same time and enhancing your language skills, I highly recommend that you intern abroad in Cusco. I can’t wait to share more about this experience and help you plan your internship in Peru!. Reach out to Intern Abroad HQ to get started!
Our step-by-step guide on how it works provides you with more information on how to get started. The process is user friendly - just submit your application to begin. It doesn’t cost anything to apply and won’t take more than 5 minutes. However, your formal expression of interest provides the foundation for us to help you take the next steps.
I look forward to hearing from you!
FAQs
If you’re a student or recent graduate seeking to build your resume, enhance your career readiness, develop Spanish language proficiency and cross-cultural communication skills, then you are welcome and invited to apply!
All applications are received as a formal expression of interest. It doesn’t cost anything to apply, so anyone is welcome to submit an application, if they wish to learn more about the intern abroad experience. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you’ll receive guidance on how to confirm your participation.
You should have some basic experience - for example, prior studies that are relevant to your chosen internship field, and a desire to develop your career in that particular field or industry. You don’t have to be a graduate yet and you don’t have to be an expert - the internships can be provided to people at different levels of experience. The whole point of joining an internship is to get more experience, build your confidence, and develop skills.
The minimum duration requirement for internships in Peru is just 3 weeks. The maximum duration is 24 weeks. Most participants choose to do an internship for around 4 to 8 weeks. If you’re seeking to gain academic credit, then - depending on the number of credits you wish to achieve - this might inform the duration that you choose.
The program fee for internships in Peru covers your airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, and meals, in addition to the internship placement arrangement, plus comprehensive pre-departure and in-country support services.
Intern Abroad HQ offers rolling admissions - there is no set deadline to apply, as our team of Program Managers are constantly and continuously accepting applications, providing you with details as soon as your application review is complete. Once you have been accepted, you’re encouraged to confirm your participation as soon as possible. The earlier you book, the sooner you can start your internship plans and take advantage of services such as Flexi deposits and Program Fee Payment Installments. Submit your application to get started!
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