Congratulations on your acceptance to International Medical Aid’s (IMA) Internship in Peru! This guide outlines key details about your placement, program requirements, and travel preparations.
Internship Placement
You will primarily complete your internship at Hospital Nacional Adolfo Guevara Velasco–EsSalud, a 250-bed teaching and referral facility serving Peru’s Cusco region, with a population of approximately 1.2 million people.
The hospital includes major departments such as Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Obstetrics/Gynecology, and Geriatrics. This environment is fast-paced and under-resourced compared to Western hospitals, providing a valuable and immersive learning experience. Flexibility and adaptability will be essential. IMA mentors will be available to provide support and guidance throughout your program.
Program Dates & Fees
Your official internship dates and department assignment will be confirmed in your acceptance email. The program fee is due before your start date, with flexible payment plans available to assist with budgeting.
Pre-Departure Preparation
To help you prepare for your internship, please review the following resources:
Flights
All interns must fly into Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ) in Cusco.
Arrival: Program start dates are on Saturdays. Orientation will be on Sunday, and your first day in the hospital will be Monday.
Pickup: An IMA staff member will meet you at the airport, assist with luggage, and accompany you to the Program Residence.
Departure: Your last day in the hospital will be on your program’s confirmed end date. If you choose to participate in the Inca Trail or other treks, your departure date may differ.
Flight Booking Tips:
Book early to secure the best fares.
Use comparison tools like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Momondo.
Search in private/incognito mode (CTRL + SHIFT + N in Chrome) to avoid fare increases.
After booking, upload your complete flight itinerary using this link.
If you need assistance, contact your Program Mentor with your departure city and date ranges.
Entry Visa Requirements
Citizens of the U.S., Canada, and most European countries do not require a visa for visits under 180 days.
If a visa is required for your country, apply under tourism (your placement is considered an educational tour).
Confirm your requirements in advance to ensure a smooth entry and you may view additional information here.
Arrival and Program Residence
Interns will stay in secure, gated program residences located in safe neighborhoods in Cusco.
Residence Features:
Shared rooms (2–3 interns per room)
Common areas with WiFi, kitchen, dining area, and lounge space
Housekeeping and laundry support provided by IMA staff
Vaccinations
Refer to the CDC’s Vaccination & Health Information for Travelers to Peru for updated recommendations. Common vaccines may include Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and routine immunizations.
Hospital Uniform Requirements
All interns are required to wear IMA-branded scrubs during clinical rotations and outreach activities.
If you haven’t already, please purchase your IMA-branded scrubs using this link. Your scrubs will be ready for you upon arrival in Peru.
Intern Contact Information
For collaboration and networking, IMA shares names, emails, and program dates with other interns in Cusco. If you prefer to opt out, notify IMA support before your program begins.
Optional Adventure Treks
In addition to your internship, IMA can help organize excursions and cultural experiences during your stay in Peru. Local activities in Cusco—such as visiting The Cathedral, Qoricancha (Temple of the Sun), Sacsayhuaman, Quenco, Puca-Pucara, and Tambomachay—are included in your Program Fee.
For longer treks, we partner with trusted guides and tour companies that follow ethical labor standards. You can view some of our offerings on our website. We do not recommend booking independently or using public transportation, as safety and service levels may vary.
Featured Treks
Inca Trail & Machu Picchu Trek
Embark on the iconic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, a trek that intertwines physical challenges with an exploration into the storied landscapes of the Andes. Journey through ancient Incan ruins, vibrant cloud forests, and rugged mountain passes, climaxing with the breathtaking sight of Machu Picchu, the "Lost City of the Incas."
Discover what to expect with this Sample Itinerary.
Rainbow Mountain Trek
The Rainbow Mountain Trek invites you to experience the breathtaking striations of colored minerals that make this mountain a photographer's and hiker's paradise. This one-day trek will take you through some of the most secluded and untouched nature in Peru, offering a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that complements your medical internship.
Discover what to expect with this Sample Itinerary.
Sacred Valley Tour (Cusco Region)
If cultural exploration is what you seek, the Sacred Valley Tour is your gateway to the heart of the Incan empire. This day tour will guide you through ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and stunning landscapes, all while providing insights into the rich history and traditions of the Incan people.
Discover what to expect with this Sample Itinerary.
Note: These treks require planning ahead, so please let us know early if you’d like to participate.
Questions or Support
If you have any questions or need clarification, you can:
Schedule an Informational Call.
Contact your Program Mentor directly.