Description

Whether you are a student, on a career break or retired there is a placement to suit your level. Those entering the medical profession will find volunteering in a developing country invaluable and inspiring. You will see what it is like not to have top level facilities and equipment available to you. Placements available range from hospitals, rural field clinics, house visits, nutrition, health education and public health research.

*Work in Rural and Urban Medical Clinics in Peru

Become a volunteer in Peru and bring health care access to disadvantaged and underserved Peruvian communities by working in public hospitals and local medical clinics. Depending on your level of Spanish you will either be working in an urban clinic or hospital in Cusco or a rural clinic in Calca. In Cusco you will help to serve the poor residents of communities by providing preventative healthcare and education and offering free and low-cost health services. In Calca you will be providing much needed support to a small NGO clinic which has fast become one of the best facilities available for the poor residents to access quality doctors for a very nominal cost. Local doctors and nurses assist volunteers in learning about the practice of medicine in resource-poor settings, as well as provide an invaluable perspective regarding the unique health-care needs and concerns of the surrounding communities.

Highlights

Known as the 'Land of the Incas,' Peru, with its geographic and cultural diversity, is a must-go destination at any time of year. Explore the jungles, beaches and ancient Andean trails whilst living amongst the Incan descendants, and join effective projects which help thousands of South America's poorest people.

*Sandboarding on Huacachina:
Sandboarding is a fast-growing activity around the globe with strong roots in Peru. This is one of the best locations in the world for sandboarding as Peru boasts the largest sand dune in the world, Cerro Blanco, which stands at 2070m. Flying down the slopes with tremendous speed you are guaranteed an adrenaline rush and a thrilling experience.

*Mountain climbing/Canyoning/Rappling:
The most exciting experience available near Cusco, the sport of canyoning introduces you to the beautiful countryside within the archaeological complex of Pisac while delivering an inimitable adrenaline rush. At Pisac a canyon cuts into the Vilcanota River valley from the NE. The gorge is 100 meters deep. This is wet, upside-down climbing on some beautifully sculpted river rocks.

*Manu Biosphere Nature Reserve:
Manu National Park is one of the largest natural protected areas in the world. To see biodiversity on such an unparalleled scale is such a special experience. This UNESCO world heritage site contains about 15,000 species of plants, 250 varieties of trees, 800 species of birds and 200 species of mammals, including the endangered Jaguar.

Volunteers help the communities economically develop and take care of their natural environment. Furthermore, you provide health and social awareness trainings to the Peruvians to assist them in enriching their personal values.

Qualifications

Experience and passion for working in the community and interacting with the people are needed. Participants must also possess enthusiasm and a willingness to learn about the environment and the place's culture.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Please visit the website for more information.

Cost Includes:

• Excursions
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Language instruction
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Registration fees

Program Fees Include:

* Accommodation: Single or shared room in a home-stay
* Food: 2 meals a day in Calca, 3 meals per day in Cusco
* Airport pick up and drop off
* Training: Pre-departure pack, On-site Orientation and project induction provided.
* Language classes: Five hours of language classes provided
* Support: 24 hour support from on-site coordinator
* Excursions: Staff can help to arrange extra excursions (at additional cost) for your spare time

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Typical Volunteer

A Kaya volunteer shows enthusiasm, spirit and life to stimulate and bring something new to the residents; love, patience and a listening ear for the people; and a good motivator with a positive and optimistic attitude.

Age Range

Must be more than 18 years old

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network

Kaya Responsible Travel's Mission Statement

Kaya's mission is to promote sustainable social, environmental and economic development, empower communities and cultivate educated, compassionate global citizens through responsible travel.

Year Founded

2008