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Internships in Cusco, Peru

Are you ready to enter a time-machine, back to the days of the Inca Empire? Well, you might not want to go that far back in time, but Cusco is nonetheless a great place to gain professional experience! Located in the Peruvian Andes and known worldwide as the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco is full of jobs and internships within the tourism, hospitality, arts, and outdoor adventure sectors. If you have a desire to travel and a love for people or the outdoors, an internship in Cusco might just be the perfect fit.
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54 Internships in Cusco, Peru

MAXIMO NIVEL

9.24

46

Intern Abroad in Latin America | Top-Rated Internships

Do your international internship with Maximo Nivel - get international work experience in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. - Education (K-12) - Special Education - Micro-Business - Hospitality & Tourism - Human Rights - Medical Please take note of these qualifications: - Interns should be fluent in English. - Spanish language skills are only required for Micro-Business and Medical internships. - Interns should be enrolled or have completed a Bachelor's Degree in a related discipline. - Medical interns must present proof of their medical training. Since 2003, Maximo Nivel has been a leader in educational travel and study abroad. Our work-study-travel programs host more than 4,000 people per year. We are a professional, ethical, and hard-working organization that is completely dedicated to providing a great experience to every participant, student, traveler, and client! Every day, we strive to set ourselves apart and provide the best internship, education, and cultural experiences in Latin America along with top-notch client service and great home base facilities. Live it!

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Asia Internship Program

2

1

Internship in Peru - Asia Internship Program

Situated on a 1.285 km2 elevated plain that is 5102 feet above sea level, Peru is renowned for its breathtaking and awe-inspiring nature. This South American country is abundant in vast and vibrant mountains, valleys, canyons, and lakes; mineral wealth; and numerous historical landmarks. AIP’s award-winning international internship program ensures you meet your career goals and career aspirations as a result of a customized placement tailored to your needs and desires. Interning in Peru allows you to grow your professional network of business contacts as well as expose you to an international work environment. AIP partners with a wide range of companies, from multinational corporations to rapidly growing startups and charitable NGOs, giving the assurance there is a placement opportunity available for anyone! Our experienced placement team makes sure to accommodate your needs. Apply today and take advantage of this incredible internship opportunity in Peru!

Intern Abroad HQ

9.18

74

Intern Abroad HQ - Affordable Internships From Just 2 weeks!

Are you a student or young professional looking to enhance your career prospects through international work experience and hands-on learning? At Intern Abroad HQ, we help students and young professionals turn career aspirations into reality. We organize affordable internships in 20 destinations across 24 career fields that are tailored to meet each individual’s academic, professional, or personal requirements. With over 200 internship programs across Europe, Asia, Africa, Central America and South America to choose from, and options to intern from 2 weeks to 6 months either full-time or part-time, in-country or virtually, we facilitate career-enhancing experiences that work for you, not just the host organization. Intern Abroad HQ is proudly brought to you by the team behind International Volunteer HQ. We have collectively supported over 120,000 program participants since 2007 and are the only B Corp certified provider in our field.

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GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

9.5

4

Peru - Amazon Conservation and Machu Picchu Expedition

Embark on a six-day volunteering trip at an ecological reserve in the extremely dense and diverse Amazon rainforest combined with guided tours around the southern region of Peru! For those who are interested in rainforest conversation and experiencing the wonders of Peru, this is the perfect trip for you. Just two of the exciting activities that will take place are exploring Maras and Moray on a four-by-four motorbike tour and training to the entrancing ruins of Machu Picchu. The volunteer work you will engage in is work at an ecological reserve under the supervision of nature experts and biologists in the area. Tasks may include but are not limited to assisting the animal rescue center, conducting biodiversity research, assisting in turtle repopulation efforts, and maintenance of rescue center trails. There are many exciting travel highlights to consider such as a tour of the Valley of the Incas and a visit to Machu Picchu!

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International Medical Aid (IMA)

9.96

167

Global Health & Pre-Medicine Internships Abroad | IMA

IMA offers an opportunity to enhance your medical and healthcare knowledge with International Medical Aid's Pre-Med and Health Fellowships. Crafted for pre-med undergraduates, medical students, and high school students, these fellowships offer a unique chance to engage deeply with global health care in East Africa, South America, and the Caribbean. Shadow doctors in underserved communities, and immerse yourself in diverse healthcare systems through our extensive network of public and private hospitals. IMA, a nonprofit organization, is deeply invested in the communities we serve, focusing on sustainable health solutions and ethical care practices. You'll be involved in community medical clinics, public health education, and first responder training, addressing the root causes of disease and illness alongside local community leaders. Beyond clinical experience, explore the beauty of your host country through cultural excursions and adventure programs during your free time. Join IMA's fellowships developed at Johns Hopkins University and step into a role that transcends traditional healthcare learning, blending clinical excellence with meaningful community service.

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RealStep

9.55

11

Nursing and Medical Internships Abroad

A medical or nursing internship with RealStep offers a transformative experience blending hands-on clinical training with meaningful cultural immersion. By choosing our placement, you’ll have the opportunity to work in diverse, underserved communities across the globe, from rural areas in Malawi and Indonesia to local hospitals in Peru. Each program is designed to provide valuable field experience, whether you’re participating in awareness campaigns in Africa or assisting local doctors in Peru. This real-world exposure enhances your medical skills as you contribute to vital healthcare initiatives aligned with the UN’s goal of universal access to healthcare. You’ll not only earn university credits but also build connections with a global network of healthcare professionals and fellow interns. Gain insights into different healthcare systems and practices, enriching your understanding and opening doors to future opportunities. Whether collaborating with local doctors in Bali or addressing health needs in Nepal, become equipped with the expertise and experience to make a significant difference in the world while advancing your career in medicine or nursing.

Volunteering Journeys

9.47

15

Medical Electives and Internships Abroad

Sign-up for our medical volunteering programs abroad if you are a medical or healthcare student who is aspiring for a medical career but needs real-time training and mentoring. You don’t necessarily have to have a medical degree, as requirements are different for each program. There are even pre-med volunteer abroad programs specifically for school leavers who are considering studying medicine in the future. We also offer customised placements for those seeking medical electives or medical internships abroad. Most of our medical electives abroad placement require that you spend 5-7 hours at our partner hospital or clinic as an observer of the daily routines of medical staff. You will be assigned a doctor or a department who will mentor you and may call upon you to assist with basic tasks such as taking vitals and treating minor wounds under the supervision of the local doctors. Our medical electives are offered in developing countries such as Philippines, Vietnam, India, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Peru and Costa Rica.

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Kaya Responsible Travel

0

0

Special Needs Therapy Internship in Peru

Become part of this incredible project abroad if you have a background in special needs. For 4–12 weeks or longer, you will gain practical experience while helping children with disabilities. The placement is in a special education center in Cusco that hosts around 75 kids and individuals between 5 and 35 years old. You will deal with a range of impairments and disabilities—intellectual, mental, physical, and communication, amongst others. The center’s staff comprises qualified professionals in a range of fields, including social, psychology, and physiotherapy. You will assist in their daily tasks as well as help the patients in all capacity, from living their daily life to improving their psychomotor skills. Depending on your skills and interests, you can also contribute to the center’s primary and secondary school, assisting students and implementing activities or programs. No particular skills are required to participate in this project. However, participants with a background in childcare or special needs are greatly appreciated. A basic level of Spanish is required (level A1 Basic User of CEFR) to enable you to communicate and make the most out of this placement.

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International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

9.55

806

Worlds #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 155,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back; it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

Volunteer World

0

0

Best Psychology Internships Worldwide

Psychology internships abroad are the perfect opportunity for psychology students to gain some work experience while traveling abroad. Mental health is a topic that is often overlooked, especially in developing countries, so the help of skilled and dedicated volunteers is very much needed. Whatever your skills are, plenty of psychology internships are available for graduates and undergraduates. Join a clinical psychology program and shadow doctors in their daily work. If you prefer working with children, join a mental health initiative in schools and daycare centers.

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Projects Abroad

9.41

296

Global Leader In Meaningful Travel. Trusted By 140,000

At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose. Since being founded in 1992, more than 140,000 volunteers have traveled to over 20 destinations around the world. Our programs will help you to step out of your comfort zone and build your confidence alongside new friends from across the globe. You’ll work alongside local communities on sustainable initiatives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. We provide a level of support and security that is second to none. You’ll receive 24/7 assistance from our trained teams, plus best-in-class safety planning, so you can focus on your journey. Choose a programme you’re passionate about. We offer several ways to get involved, including: → Medical Internships: gain clinical experience in professional settings. → Childcare & Community: support local education and development. → Conservation: protect unique ecosystems and wildlife. We offer programs starting from one week in over 20 stunning destinations across Europe, Latin America & The Caribbean, Africa, Asia, and the South Pacific. Ready to make a difference? Follow the link to visit our website!

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Globalteer

10

1

NGO Assistant Internship with UK Charity

Globalteer is an international charity working with communities in developing countries, focusing on the areas of child care, education, sports, and social services. We also have conservation and animal rescue projects. This program comes with housing and food. Requirements for this internship are: Fluent in spoken and written English Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal Numerate and well-organized, with excellent attention to detail Flexible team player with the energy and enthusiasm to work in the charity sector A commitment to Globalteer’s Code of Conduct and Child Protection Policy At least 18 years old Comfortable working independently Key duties and responsibilities: Assisting the project manager at our Picaflor House community project Teaching classes as assigned to support teaching staff Working with individual students who need extra guidance Working with international volunteers during classes when they are on the project site, eating together, and carrying out a monitoring and evaluation process for the program 37.5-hour work week Other duties as assigned in support of Globalteer’s charitable objectives

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Involvement Volunteers International

0

0

Human Rights Internship in Cusco, Peru

Community organizations, NGOs, and government agencies typically host human rights internships. Interns collaborate with social workers and change agents committed to empowerment and social justice. Responsibilities as a part of this program often include community outreach, education, research, and fundraising. This immersive experience provides firsthand insight into how culture, social values, and the dynamics of politics, religion, gender, and ethnicity shape communities. Specific duties: Update websites, manage social media, and create promotional materials Conduct interviews with potential beneficiaries Collaborate on projects or organize events Translate or edit documents Develop presentations for proposed initiatives Attend organizational meetings Assist with daily office tasks Deliverables: Interns must submit weekly journals and a final deliverable. Practicums (<8 weeks): A 10–20-page paper or a 1-hour PowerPoint presentation Internships (8+ weeks): Both a paper and a presentation Spanish Language Requirement: Local organizations primarily operate in Spanish. An intermediate level is required; a phone interview will assess your proficiency before joining the program.

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Impact Gap Year

0

0

Global Entrepreneurship Gap Year

Explore your entrepreneurial spirit and travel the world! This gap year program lets you intern with businesses and learn about different cultures in Zambia, Peru, and Argentina. You'll work with professionals, gain new skills, and make friends abroad! In Zambia, you will partner with an NGO to create positive change in education, health, family support, women's empowerment, and conservation. You will gain experience in NGO management, project facilitation, fundraising, and marketing. In Peru, provide microfinance services to local communities, especially in rural areas. You will assist with community visits, loan assessment, financial management education, and administrative tasks. Also, you will join a non-profit supporting entrepreneurs in Argentina. You will assist with establishing startups, connecting with resources, and participating in networking events to help accelerate the growth of Argentina's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Build your resume, experience different ways of life, and have an amazing adventure!

A Guide to Internships Abroad in Cusco

What you need to know to Intern in Cusco

Cusco is a charming, albeit famous, tourist city. It’s easy to understand why Cusco hosts nearly 2 million visitors each year. This is the starting point to multiple Inca trails, Machu Picchu, colonial Spanish archaeological remains, Cathedrals...the list goes on and on. And with tourism, comes plenty of internship opportunities!  

Popular types of Internships in Cusco. As a tourist city, expect to find internships in the tourism and hospitality industries. Tourism agencies like to hire native English speakers to assist with the variety of tours and be a relatable guide for visitors. Gaining experience within a hotel is also an option, with native english speakers providing tourists with a sense of ease and comfort. For students with an interest in the arts, history, or archeology, internships can be found in conservation or as a history or archeology guide.     

Short term internships and summer internships vs. long term internships in Cusco. If you are looking to gain professional experience in the hospitality or tourism industry, longer term opportunities will be available. It is also important to note that the tourism season is from May to September. Thus, a summer internship might be a great time to work, when the need is the greatest. The months of December to March are less popular due to the rainy season, but you can find short and long term internships this time of year, too.

Unpaid vs. paid internships in Cusco. An internship in Cusco with a travel agency or hotel will likely be paid, because this is professional experience. For those looking for an internship geared towards academics in archeology or history, a paid internship may be harder to find. However, don’t discount the valuable experience of potentially working near one of the seven wonders of the world!

Latest Program Reviews

A Drop to a Ripple: How My Pre-Medical Internship in Kenya with IMA Changed My Perspective

March 14, 2026by: Min Ji Cha - United States

Program: Global Health & Pre-Medicine Internships Abroad | IMA

10

This internship was an amazing once-in-a-lifetime experience that I am very grateful for. I have met so many wonderful people, including all of the program staff, interns, and hospital staff. Safety was a major concern for my family and me before my internship, but the program mentors and staff were very informative and cautious, so I felt very safe throughout my stay. The accommodations and food were also beyond what I expected. I have learned so much not only clinically, but culturally as well, and I would love to go back once more in the future. My internship this past winter with International Medical Aid in Mombasa, Kenya has opened my eyes to different perspectives and has given me a glimpse of what life is like in a place that is more than 10,000 miles away from my home. I have learned so much in not only medicine but in culture as well. Through the cultural treks and language classes provided by this program, I was able to learn about the history of the Swahili people, how the Kiswahili language came about, along with the traditions and practices of the culture of the people of Kenya. This opportunity has allowed me to gain meaningful experiences and relationships that I will forever cherish. I spent my internship at Coast General Teaching & Referral Hospital, where I had the opportunity to shadow both medical and clinical officers who play a large role in healthcare in three major departments: Emergency Medicine, Pediatrics, and General Surgery. Alongside these healthcare providers were nurses who play a critical role in patient-centered care and whom I came to befriend. Every day of my three weeks of this internship contained precious moments and learning points that have only furthered my passion for the medical field. Even through a slight language barrier, sincerity shines through, which is something that I will always carry into my practice as a future healthcare provider in the United States. If there is anything that has had a profound impact on my view of life, it is the realization that there is a limit to what I am able to control. From my experiences so far, whether in a medical setting or daily life, there is only so much I am capable of doing for people. This realization crossed my mind countless times as I thought about ways in which I could do more because in my current position, I have no say or control in a life-or-death situation, regardless of how dear someone may be to me. Especially as an intern and student, I was limited to speaking words of encouragement as I watched patients suffer, or simply waiting and hoping for good news. The desire to be able to do more than that has sparked my passion to pursue a career as a medical professional. The healthcare system I experienced in Kenya is notably different from the United States in terms of access to care, disease burden, and health coverage for patients. From the medical officers, clinical officers, nurses, and patients that I spoke to, I found that many patients do not seek care due to long distances and lack of transportation. Although hospitals are scattered throughout the country, they may not be evenly distributed throughout each region or neighborhood. Furthermore, some patients live closer to private hospitals but cannot afford them because they charge much more than public hospitals, which many patients are also unable to afford. This relates to Kenya’s poverty rates, with about one-third of the population living below the national poverty line in 2019 (World Bank, 2023). Additionally, the disease burden in Kenya is very high, with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which can develop into acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), being one of the major communicable diseases. As for non-communicable diseases, major ones include cardiovascular disease (CVD) and metabolic diseases such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and hypertension, all of which contribute to the high disease burden in Kenya. The need for non-communicable disease services to be expanded has been recognized, with guidelines supporting these provisions in patients with HIV, but coverage still remains low (Smit et al., 2019). Additionally, during the Global Health Lecture Series presented by Dr. Shazim during our internship, we learned that the high burden of HIV and AIDS in Kenya accounts for about 29% of annual adult mortality, 20% maternal mortality, and 15% mortality in children under the age of five, which are much higher than mortality rates in the United States. Similarly, non-communicable diseases contribute to more than 50% of inpatient admissions and 40% of hospital mortality, which is also linked to a financial burden for these patients that is further connected to nationwide poverty. With a high disease burden in Kenya also comes a high financial burden, with a major issue being health coverage. Informal sector workers, a population that drives a significant portion of employment in Kenya, have a low rate of national healthcare insurance (NHI) enrollment. This may be due to existing socioeconomic inequalities and barriers they face, including limited access and having to pay NHI premiums out-of-pocket (Wamalwa et al., 2025). This contributes to increased morbidity and mortality due to inequitable access to care, as high out-of-pocket costs prevent patients in this population from seeking care. Studies suggest strategies such as using a tax-based system or expanding subsidies to support NHI enrollment among populations like this, though more research may be needed. Diving deeper into the healthcare system in Kenya showed me the existing gaps that prevent patients from receiving the care they need and ultimately contribute to mortality. My first thought when I learned about the healthcare system in Kenya was that these gaps seemed almost impossible to close. However, it made me think about how these gaps could be reduced, even slightly—whether by addressing health disparities through a health equity lens, focusing on advocacy, or working as a healthcare provider in a hospital setting. This led me to ask further questions, which eventually instilled in me a desire to contribute to making a difference. Although my role as an intern may have seemed insignificant in terms of what I was able to practice, I built many meaningful relationships with various people there and I would like to believe that I made a difference in at least one person’s life. Even though I cannot change the world, brightening one person’s day may feel to them as if something meaningful has changed. This could be the drop that turns into a ripple and has a lasting effect. If one drop can turn into a ripple, I can only imagine what numerous drops can do. I believe International Medical Aid is a wonderful example of how gaps in Kenya’s healthcare system can begin to close. Each intern interacts with numerous patients and healthcare providers and brings back a piece of their journey home to share their stories. Each intern may have also offered words of consolation, encouragement, and hope to the patients they encountered, giving them strength during what may have been the lowest points of their lives. I learned that the smallest acts can accumulate and become something deeply meaningful that touches people’s lives. Each person’s life holds immense value, and I want to be part of something that gives people the opportunity to value their own lives—whether by providing treatment options or simply being there to reassure and brighten their days. I want to be someone who brings joy into people’s lives, a shoulder to cry on when they are hurt, and a source of peace for those in their final moments of life, because that is what I would want if I were in such a position. I want to bring good news to families of patients who have recovered, console them when unexpected things occur, reassure them when they express concerns, and be someone not only patients can trust and rely on, but someone their families can rely on as well. My perspective on life has changed, and for that I am eternally grateful.

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