Machu Picchu CUENCAS Medical Dental OPTOMETRIC MISSION, PERU

APRIL 20 - 26, 2025         

The purpose of this mission is to serve communities situated high up in the remote basins (cuencas) surrounding the town of Santa Teresa, Peru, only a short distance from the lost citadel, Machu Picchu. We will deliver medical and dental care to three communities deep in the cloud forest that lack basic healthcare options.  There is time set aside for you to visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Machu Picchu and Cuzco, as well as a free day to rest or explore on your own in Santa Teresa.

We are seeking physicians, dentists, optometrists, ophthalmologists, translators, nurses and other medical professionals to help run free clinics for all. Although diagnoses and treatments will only be provided by qualified professionals, a medical background is not required to participate. Non-medical and/or student support is greatly needed and encouraged. 

This trip is shorter (7 days) than our typical mountain expeditions, involves no camping, and is at lower altitude. There is no trekking involved in this mission unless you decide to optionally. However, Cuzco rests at 11,152', and immediately upon arriving you will feel the height.  We will cross over high pass (one ~14,000') by bus, but we will quickly descend to lower elevations around the community of Santa Teresa (5,085') where we will spend most nights of the trip.  

To participate on this trip, it is important to apply early (up to a year in advance), and you will be required to raise, or pay on your own, a minimum donation.  As a convenience to you, we will provide you with materials for raising these funds on a crowd-funding website. The donation covers land travel costs, shared lodging and most meals once you arrive in Cuzco, Peru.  It also covers medicines and supplies associated with our trip. It does not cover overseas flights to Peru, optional side trips, tips to your guides, park entrance fees or other miscellaneous expenses. 

MINIMUM DONATION

$2495 for deposits received by October 20, 2024

$2695 for deposits received after October 20, 2024

All applicants must first schedule a conversation with the team leader before applying.   You may schedule a call by clicking request info below.