Registration
1. How do I apply/?
Simply complete our registration form to apply. We will contact you within 24 hours to confirm your registration.
2. How do I book my services?
After we have approved your registration, we will send an invoice with a deposit amount. After we have received your deposit, your services are officially booked.
3. How will I know you have received my payment?
Please allow 3-5 business days for international transactions. Once we've received your deposit, you will get an email from us with confirmation of the deposit and more information about your program and Cusco.
Travel
1. When should I arrive to Cusco?
Spanish classes and projects run from Monday-Friday. If you can, try to arrange your flight to arrive on the Saturday or Sunday before your first week of classes or projects. This way you have a day or two to rest, adjust to the altitude, and get acclimated. If you cannot arrive on a weekend do not worry; we are always flexible.
2. Do I need a visa?
Upon entry to Peru, tell the customs desk how long you will be in Peru. The maximum amount of time on a tourist entry is 183 days. Citizens from the European Union, U.S., and Australia don’t need a visa. Citizens from other countries need to check with their Peruvian embassy regarding visa requirements.
3. What should I do if my luggage is lost?
In the unlikely case that your luggage has not arrived, please don't worry. Fill out a luggage claim form at the airline counter. Please tell our staff member or host family that picks you up and they can assist you. Fill out all the necessary papers and write in the school's address as well as the contact information of your host family.
We will help you to get your luggage and assist as your translator if you are not yet fluent in Spanish. Always pick-up your luggage in Lima. Your luggage will not go straight to Cusco, so be sure to pick up your luggage in Lima, go through customs and check in for your flight to Cusco.
Spanish Courses
1. What if I want to change my course or dates?
If you encounter any troubles holding on to the dates you booked, or if you desire to change the type of your course, please send us an e-mail or come see us in the office and we will do our best to meet your wishes!
2. What if I want to take a group course but there aren't enough people for a group?
In the rare event that you sign up for a group course but we don't have a group available, we will offer you the same rate as a one-on-one individual class. You will just take 1 hour less per day.
Projects
1. How old do you have to be to volunteer or intern?
As long as you are responsible, mature, and able to give a parent or guardian's permission, you can never be too young to volunteer! The majority of our volunteers are between 18-30 years old, however we have had volunteers from 13-83.
2. How will I get to meet other volunteers and interns?
During your time with us, you will get to interact with other volunteers and interns a bunch. We host a weekly dinner where you can meet and exchange stories, discuss culture shock, and get to know other people. We also host Free Weekly Activities like salsa lessons, cooking classes, and game nights. If you stay with a family, you will most likely live with at least one other volunteer or intern. In a shared flat, all of your flatmates will be volunteers and interns of Proyecto Peru.
Accommodation
1. Is my family/apartment located near Proyecto Peru?
We are centrally located in the historic center of Cusco. Some of our families are located in downtown Cusco, and are therefore within walking distance of the school. The majority of our families live around the city centre and are within a short bus ride (usually not more than 10-20 minutes). Our apartments are located a short bus ride away.
2. Will other people be staying at the family's house with me?
Especially if you come to Cusco during the high season (May-October), you will most likely be sharing your host family with at least one other volunteer/intern of Proyecto Peru.
3. I'm vegetarian/vegan. Can the family accommodate me?
Yes. It should be noted that the typical Peruvian diet consists of a lot of starchy foods like potatoes, corn, beans, rice, and pasta. Fresh fruits and vegetables may be somewhat limited compared to what you're used to. It is always smart to budget a bit for extra foods, snacks, fruits, and veggies in case you're missing them. There are also lots of yummy vegetarian and vegan restaurants you should plan to try while you're here :)
Tours
1. Do I have to book my tour in advanced?
If you are planning on going to Machu Picchu, we recommend booking in advance. Spots can fill up quickly. The most popular trek is the Inca Trail, which can be booked up to 6 months in advance during the high season (May-October).
2. How do I book my tour?
All tours to Machu Picchu should be booked in advance, through email. They require a scanned copy of your passport and a deposit of 100% of the amount of your tour. All other tours can be booked here in the office after you arrive.
3. I'm a student. Can I get a discount on the Machu Picchu entrance fee?
If you are currently enrolled in a university and have a Student ID card, you may be eligible for a government-issued discount. You card will need to include the following: Your name, The name of your university, a photo, and an expiration date WITHIN THE SAME YEAR OF YOUR TRIP.
4. What's a Boleto Turistico? Do I need one?
The Boleto Turistico, or Tourist Ticket, is an entrance ticket the government issues for access to Inca sites such as Moray, the historic cathedrals, and the Sacred Valley. It costs 130 soles, or 70 soles for students, and is valid for 10 days. It can be purchased during your first stop to any site that requires the Tourist Ticket.
