Peru

Living Conditions & Daily Life 

Students participate in structured classes and field activities on weekdays (typically 8 AM–5 PM), with evenings and most weekends free. A daily curfew is enforced throughout the program, except during two designated free weekends and mid-semester break, when the SFS Center is closed, and independent travel is required. Students may choose to remain at the center on free weekends, in which case all center policies and curfews still apply. 

Housing is shared (4–6 people per room), with weekday and Saturday meals provided by program staff. Students are responsible for preparing their own meals on Sundays. While a student kitchen is available, regular meal prep is not feasible due to the program schedule. 

Physical Readiness 

Fieldwork includes hiking (1–3 hours) in tropical rainforests, cloud forests, and mountainous regions at elevations up to 12,000 feet. Activities also include visits to farms, Indigenous communities, and conservation sites. Students should expect uneven terrain, steep inclines, and rapidly shifting weather—from high humidity and rain to cooler temperatures at altitude. The SFS Center is located on steep terrain with inclines and steps, limiting accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments or certain health conditions. 

Travel & Transitions 

The program is based in Tarapoto, with weekly travel to field sites via bus or plane. Travel often involves long, winding bus rides and occasional overnight stays. Students also visit Cusco and other locations, requiring flexibility and adaptability to new environments and altitudes. 

Program Location & Natural Environment 

Tarapoto is a vibrant ecotourism hub in north-central Peru. Students have easy access to local amenities—markets, cafes, pharmacies, and shops—just a 10-minute walk or tuk-tuk ride from the center. Field sites offer daily sensory immersion in Peru’s lush ecosystems, with routine encounters with monkeys, reptiles, spiders, scorpions, and other local fauna. 

Cultural & Linguistic Differences 

Peruvian culture blends Indigenous traditions and a strong Catholic influence. Dress is typically conservative, and students should dress respectfully in the community. Spanish is the primary language; English is less common in rural areas. No prior Spanish proficiency is required, but basic skills enhance daily interactions. Language classes are provided for beginners through advanced learners. 

Allergies & Dietary Preferences 

Peruvian cuisine often features starches (potatoes, rice), fruits, vegetables, and proteins like chicken and pork. Students with allergies or dietary restrictions should communicate their needs early, especially since rural alternatives may be limited. Food providers outside the program typically do not speak English. A student kitchen is available, but self-catering is not practical for most meals due to time constraints. Cross-contamination is possible, so students with severe allergies must consult studentlife@fieldstudies.org prior to applying. 

Required Vaccinations & Health Care 

Students must receive the Yellow Fever vaccination and Rabies pre-exposure series before arrival. SFS recommends consulting a travel medicine professional before departure. 

Access to medical care in remote areas may be delayed up to 24 hours. Basic medical services are 10 minutes away; advanced care is approximately two hours away. In severe emergencies, students may be evacuated to Lima. 

Routine medical and counseling services are not available during the program. Students must bring a full supply of any prescription medications, including psychotropic drugs, for the entire duration of the program, as local refills are typically not feasible without prior arrangements.