Peru Project Frequently Asked Questions
You will find below answers to many frequently asked questions. If your question does not appear then please click
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01. Is Peru safe?
As in most countries there is a possibility of theft. Violent robberies are rare and the most common problem is pickpockets. Thieves look for the easiest target, if you carry a wallet that is sticking out of your back pocket then you are asking to be the target. Be careful in crowded areas such as markets and bus terminals. You can plan before you go by purchasing a money belt that goes underneath a T-shirt, or even a belt that has hidden zip pockets.
By travelling with Globalteer you have an advantage over the thousands of other tourists that visit Cusco. You will be collected from the airport and given an orientation by our Volunteer and project coordinator. Here you will be given advise on many things including safety and all your questions will be answered. Thousands of tourists visit Peru every year and have no problems whatsoever, don't be paranoid, just take the basic precautions and you will have an amazing and trouble free trip.
02. What languages do I need?
The common language for Globalteer staff and volunteers at this project is English. Peru is a Spanish speaking country so it is beneficial, but not required, to be able to speak some Spanish. Many of the children are from rural areas where their first language is Quechua.
03. What are the living conditions?
Volunteers will stay in a comfortable 3* hotel. The hotel is well situated about a 10 minute walk from the main square. Rooms are single occupancy or can be shared if volunteers are travelling together. The rooms are clean and comfortable, each with private toilet, shower or bath tub. The facilities include hot water, cable TV, free basic breakfast and Wi-Fi.
04. What type of food is available?
Cusco has a variety of international restaurants in the city. The local food will be typical Peruvian meals including beef, pork, chicken or fish - with rice, fried banana, beans, eggs and salad with a fantastic variety of fruits and juices. Vegetarians will find many options in Cusco. Globalteer do not provide meals at this project.
05. Will I have time for extra activities?
Yes, in fact we actively encourage it! Peru is a beautiful country and we wish you to experience it's culture, history and people. You will have two days free per week which can be spent in the city or away at another location in Peru. Long term volunteers can arrange extra time off with the volunteer coordinator. People visiting Cusco do so to see Machu Picchu, although your motivation is different we encourage you to take a look at one of the wonders of the world.
06. How many hours will I be volunteering?
You will be volunteering for approximately 6 hours per day, 5 days per week. We can be flexible with your time as required - for example you may wish 4 consecutive days trek the Inca trail or to explore another city in Peru. Volunteers who are also here to study can work less hours. All this can be arranged with your volunteer coordinator in Peru.
07. Do I need to be qualified to teach?
No, English classes are basic English in small groups of children. Volunteers follow teaching books and have access to further resources such as DVD's and educational games.
08. How do I get to the project?
If you arrive at Cusco international airport then we will meet you there and take you to the hotel. If you arrive overland then we will supply you with directions to the hotel and you will need to make your own way there.
09. Is there access to internet, telephone and post?
The hotel has Wi-Fi internet access. There are many internet cafes in Cusco. Telephone services are cheapest in the internet cafes for international calls. The main post office is only a short walk from your hotel.
10. What vaccinations do I need for Peru?
We recommend that our volunteers consult a doctor for up to date advise about vaccinations. Do this as soon as possible as some vaccinations take time to be effective. General advice is to be up to date with tetanus and diphtheria, Hepatitis A & B and typhoid. A yellow fever jab may also be advisable for Amazon jungle visits.
11. Do I need a visa?
On arrival in Peru, the immigration official will stamp your passport with a free 30, 60, 90 or 180 day visa (this is entirely at the officials discretion). If you require an extension of your visa whilst in Cusco then it is sometimes possible to visit the immigration office and pay US$1 per day for the time you wish to stay over your original visa. Another extension option is to take a timely trip to Lake Titicaca and cross the Bolivian border, re enter Peru the following day for a new free visa. Note: As visa requirements can change and are different for nationalities, it is the volunteers responsibility to arrange entry visas.
12. What cultural differences must I consider?
Peruvians are very friendly and often interested in you as someone different. In Cusco, the people are very used to tourists. At the projects you will be working with people that rarely get to see or speak with foreigners, you will be an ambassador for your country.
13. When is the best time to go to Peru?
Cusco is sunny and warm during the day but cold at night, with a main temperature of 15°C (59°F) the temperature drops at night in winter (June to September) to around 6°C (43°F) . The rainy season is from November to March, however, it usually rains for only a couple of hours during the day.
14. Can I drink alcohol and smoke?
Of course, but we request that you use common sense. Alcohol is not permitted whilst with the children and smoking must be done out of their sight as you are role models and influential to the children. There are many bars and clubs in Cusco for you to indulge when away from the children.
15. Is there a dress code?
Peruvians dress similarly to people in the US or Europe so your normal clothing will be suitable for this project.
16. Do I receive training and orientation?
Yes, on arrival you will receive orientation from our project coordinator, giving local information and advice. Basic training will be given to ensure you achieve the project objectives.
17. What is the criteria of a volunteer?
Volunteers will be assessed on the information provided during the application process.
18. Should I bring presents for the children?
The greatest gifts you can give the children are love, respect and an education. Being part of this project is the best way to help the children in poverty and their community. Giving beggars money is not a sustainable activity and full information will be supplied during your orientation. Globalteer provide a list of items to consider bringing from home before the volunteer arrives.
19. Do I need travel insurance?
We require all volunteers to have travel insurance arranged before arrival.
20. Who usually volunteers at your projects?
The majority of volunteers are from the UK, United States, Canada and Australia. We also place volunteers from Holland, Germany, Ireland, Japan and New Zealand although all nationalities are welcome. The majority of volunteers travel alone to the projects, although we also accommodate couples and groups.
21. Where does my money go?
A full explanation of where your money goes can be found on a link from the Globalteer home page including our full independent accounts as confirmed by the UK Charities commission.