Service
Through Mobile Clinics and Development Projects you help bring accessible medical care, health education and safer homes to the communities you visit.
Overview
Not charity — a service learning trip
Service Learning Trips are retreats where you disconnect from distraction, reconnect with purpose, and learn the mindset and skills required to serve ethically and sustainably. They are the beginning of a lifelong journey, not the end.
Environment
Trips are designed with sustainability in mind — in Lima you may join an environmentally friendly project such as a public park or an eco-bathroom.
Education
Learn the historical, political and economic factors shaping families' realities, and deepen your global-health knowledge by shadowing professionals.
Life-changing
Eye-opening experiences and human connection renew your passion for a world free from the constraints of poverty.
Flip the switch — same week, two very different mindsets
VoluntourismMEDLIFE Service Learning
MEDLIFE Service Learning
Listening to community needs and acting responsibly to support sustainable, culturally sensitive and community-led change.
- Communities define the project; we follow their lead
- Students support licensed local professionals, never replace them
- Follow-up visits, patient records and long-term projects
Voices from students
What students say about their SLT
Hear from students, teacher and parents who have already been in the field with MEDLIFE.
“It's very eye opening to see all these communities and it's something that's going to stick with me my whole life. Given the opportunity, anyone should do the same.”
Sasha
SLT Director, Canada
“Listening is the most important part of healthcare. After the first clinic week that I experienced last year, I decided I wanted to go to med school.”
Sammy
SLT Coordinator, Binghamton University
“As someone living in the United States, water is a resource that we really take for granted and we don't realize it's actually a big blessing.”
Sara
President, MEDLIFE chapter at Penn State Harrisburg
“It's going to be the best experience of your life. You make so many friends, so many connections. Doing these mobile clinics are so eye opening.”
Emily
VP, MEDLIFE chapter at the University of Pittsburgh
Quick check 1 of 3
What are the three pillars of every MEDLIFE Service Learning Trip?
About LIMA, PERU + RIOBAMBA + GALÁPAGOS,
Where you're going
This Immersion SLT spans two countries. Week 1 is based in Lima, Peru's coastal capital and MEDLIFE's headquarters, working in the “pueblos jóvenes” (human settlements) on the city's steep, sandy hillsides. You then fly to Quito and continue by bus to Riobamba for a second week of mobile clinics and a community development project in Indigenous highland communities, where the MEDLIFE Movement began. After the Riobamba week, travel overnight to Quito for an included full day at the Middle of the World, then fly to the Galápagos for a five-day island-hopping extension before flying home.
Week 1 — Lima
Central Pacific coast of Peru · roughly sea level · Peru's capital and MEDLIFE's headquarters city.
Population: 9,674,755
Open larger mapLanguage
Spanish
Quechua is also spoken by many families who migrated from the Andes.
Altitude
Sea level · coastal desert
No altitude adjustment needed in Lima.
Climate
Mild, humid · grey “garúa” mist
Bring a light jacket; hillsides are dusty and sunny at midday.
Currency
Sol (S/.) · $1 ≈ S/. 3.49
Carry small bills; cards are rare in the communities.
Time zone
PET (UTC−5)
Same as US Eastern in winter, no daylight saving.
Context
~26% of Lima/Callao in poverty
Many families live in precarious housing without running water or electricity.
Week 2 — Riobamba, Ecuador
Chimborazo Province, central Andes of Ecuador · roughly 2,754 m (9,035 ft) above sea level · about a 4-hour bus ride from Quito, the capital.
Ecuador population: 17.5 million · Riobamba city: ~225,000
Open larger mapCapital
Quito
You fly into Quito (UIO) before travelling to Riobamba.
Language
Spanish & Quechua
Many patients in the surrounding Indigenous villages speak Quechua.
Currency
US Dollar ($)
Ecuador uses the US dollar — carry small bills; cards are rare outside the city.
Altitude
2,754 m / 9,035 ft
Altitude sickness is common the first couple of days — hydrate and rest.
Climate
Cool year round · 55–70ºF (14–22ºC)
Rain falls year round; August is wettest, February driest. Sun is intense at altitude.
Context
One of Ecuador's poorest provinces
Where the MEDLIFE Movement began, in the mountains around Riobamba.
Where we work
Where we work in Lima
We partner with local leaders in the human settlements on the outskirts of the city, supporting community-led initiatives that strengthen infrastructure, health, education and opportunity.
- San Juan de Miraflores (Pamplona)
- Villa María del Triunfo (Nueva Esperanza, Tablada de Lurín)
- Villa El Salvador
- Pachacamac (Manchay)
- Ate (Huaycán)
- San Juan de Lurigancho
- Ventanilla
Common health issues we see
Parasites living in the intestinal walls, mostly affecting children. Commonly caused by unclean water, fecal-oral transmission and skin absorption.
Viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, spread by contact with nasal secretions or contaminated objects; more frequent in cold or wet weather.
Viral or fungal infections of the urinary tract, often linked to hygiene habits and lack of contraceptive use; may recur.
Fungal infection of the skin caused by environmental and physiological conditions; higher risk with weakened immune systems.
Degenerative, chronic breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone, common among elderly people.
Back pain involving muscles, nerves and bones, from a dull ache to sharp pain, believed to result from repeated sprains or strains.
Quick check 1 of 3
What are the hillside communities on the outskirts of Lima commonly called?
Your week
What we'll do together
1Engaged Education Reality Tour
Learn directly from local leaders about the social, cultural and systemic factors shaping their communities.
2Mobile Clinics
Shadow licensed local professionals and gain real-world insight into community-centered healthcare.
3Development Project
Work alongside locals on a hands-on community project — installing fuel-efficient stoves, building safe homes, or renovations — then celebrate the results at an inauguration with the community.
4Reflect & Connect
Evening discussions that deepen understanding of global health, equity and ethical service.
5Galápagos Cultural Extension
A week-long island-hopping extension through the Galápagos: snorkel with sea lions, hike volcanic trails, spot giant tortoises and marine iguanas, and learn how conservation and community coexist on the islands.
Sample itinerary
This itinerary is a sample and may change based on community needs, weather, and logistics.
Day 1 · Saturday
Arrival & Transfer in
Arrive in Lima and settle in — a MEDLIFE representative will meet the group at the airport.
- REVIEW THE TRANSFER TIMES BELOWTransfer in
Day 2 · Sunday
Orientation & Walking Tour
Meet your MEDLIFE Trip Leader and fellow participants for an orientation covering the week's schedule, safety recommendations, transportation, Mobile Clinic expectations, and important information for your stay in Lima. Depending on the group's schedule, the day may also include a walking tour or introduction to the surrounding area, followed by free time to settle in and explore. Meals are not included today.
- 9:00 AMWelcome meeting & orientation
- 11:00 AMWalking tour
Day 3 · Monday
Reality Tour
Visit MEDLIFE partner communities in Lima's urban settlements to learn about the social, economic, and geographical realities families face. Explore how rapid urban growth, migration, informal housing, limited infrastructure, and barriers to public services affect health and quality of life. Through community visits and conversations with MEDLIFE staff and local leaders, gain the context needed to understand the week's Mobile Clinics and development projects. Return to the accommodation for a MEDLIFE presentation and Mobile Clinic station assignments.
- 7:00 AMBreakfast
- 8:00 AMReality Tour begins
- 1:00 PMLunch, then return to the hotel
- 6:00 PMDinner
Day 4–6 · Tuesday
Mobile Clinics & Development Project
Throughout the week, rotate between Mobile Clinics and a community development project according to the operational schedule. At the clinic, help unload supplies, organize the space, and receive training before rotating through different stations. Assist with non-clinical tasks, health education, patient flow, and clinic organization while observing locally licensed professionals provide care. Other participants may work alongside community members on projects such as staircases, public parks, roads, or retaining walls. Evening post-clinic activities connect the day's experiences with broader public health and development topics. Expected Patients: 60–150 per clinic
- 6:00 AMBreakfast
- 7:00 AMDepart for the community (1–2 hour bus ride)
- 8:00 – 9:00 AMUnload supplies, training & clinic begins
- 11:40 AMLunch on the bus
- 12:00 PMSecond station rotation
- 2:00 – 3:00 PMPack up & return to the hotel
- 5:00 PMPost-clinic activity
- 6:00 PMDinner
Day 7 · Friday
Final Clinic/Project Activities & Inauguration
Spend the first half of the day supporting either a Mobile Clinic or the community development project, according to the week's rotation. Participants at the clinic will continue assisting local healthcare professionals, while those at the project site help complete the final hands-on activities. Later, all participants will gather at the project site for an inauguration celebration with the community, followed by a final debrief and reflection.
- 7:00 – 8:00 AMBreakfast
- 8:00 – 9:00 AMDepart for the community / Final clinic-project activities begin
- AfternoonInauguration celebration with the community
- 2:30 – 4:00 PMReturn to the hotel for debrief & reflection
Day 8 · Saturday (flexible)
Flexible Saturday — Ica Optional or Travel to Riobamba
The day after your Lima week is flexible. You can fly to Quito, or add an optional cultural add-on in Lima (such as the full-day Ica & Paracas Desert Escape: Ballestas Islands boat tour, Huacachina Oasis dune buggies and sandboarding, and local vineyards — lunch included) and travel to Riobamba on Sunday instead. The Lima → Quito flight (about 2h) is booked and paid directly by MEDLIFE. A MEDLIFE representative will be waiting in International Arrivals with a MEDLIFE sign, and the bus will take the group to the hostel in Quito.
See the optional Ica & Paracas itinerary- Option AFly Lima → Quito — check in & rest
- Option BOptional Ica & Paracas full day in Lima; travel to Riobamba on Sunday
Day 9 · Sunday
Arrival in Riobamba & Welcome Meeting
After breakfast, travel approximately four hours from Quito to Riobamba, enjoying views of the Andes and rural communities along the way. After arriving, settle into the accommodation and enjoy some free time to explore Riobamba’s main square. Later, attend an orientation covering the week’s schedule, safety recommendations, service activities, and what to expect while working in rural communities. Meals are not included today.
- MorningTravel to Riobamba (flight Lima → Quito + bus, approx. 3–4 hours)
- AfternoonLunch & free time at the main square
- AfternoonWelcome meeting & orientation
Day 10 · Monday
Engaged Education Reality Tour (Riobamba)
Explore the historical, cultural, and healthcare realities of Andean Ecuador. Visit the Iglesia de Balbanera to discuss Spanish colonization and the influence of Catholicism in the region. Continue to a medical center in Llinllin de Columbe to learn about public healthcare access and local health conditions. Then, visit the San Martín community to participate in rural activities, connect with community members, and learn about Indigenous culture and events such as Ecuador’s Agrarian Reform. Through community visits and conversations with MEDLIFE staff and local leaders, gain the context needed to understand the week’s Mobile Clinics and development projects. Return to the accommodation for a MEDLIFE presentation and Mobile Clinic station assignments.
- 8:00 AMReality Tour begins · Iglesia de Balbanera
- Late morningMedical Center in Llinllin de Columbe · San Martin community
- 1:00 PMLunch, then return
Day 11–13 · Tuesday – Thursday
Mobile Clinics & Development Project
Travel to a different rural partner community each day. Depending on the rotation, support a Mobile Clinic or participate in the community development project. At the clinic, help unload supplies, meet local professionals, receive station-specific training, and rotate through two assignments. Assist with non-clinical tasks, health education, patient organization, and clinic logistics while observing consultations. Project groups may work on bathrooms, school renovations, home construction, or community stairs. Evening post-clinic activities provide additional opportunities for learning and reflection. Expected Patients: 40–100 per clinic
- 6:00 AMBreakfast
- 7:00 AMDepart for the community (1–2 hour bus ride)
- 8:00 – 9:00 AMUnload supplies, training & clinic begins
- 11:40 AMLunch on the bus
- 12:00 PMSecond station rotation
- 2:00 – 3:00 PMPack up & return to the hotel
- 5:00 PMPost-clinic activity
- 6:00 PMDinner
Day 14 · Friday
Final Clinic/Project Activities & Inauguration
Spend the first half of the day supporting either a Mobile Clinic or the development project. Participants at the clinic will continue assisting local professionals, while the project group completes the remaining hands-on work. Later, all participants will gather at the project site for an inauguration celebration with community members, recognizing the collaboration that made the project possible, followed by a final debrief and reflection.
- 7:00 – 8:00 AMBreakfast
- 8:00 – 9:00 AMDepart for the community / Final clinic-project activities begin
- AfternoonInauguration celebration with the community
- 2:30 – 4:00 PMReturn to the hotel for debrief & reflection
- EveningOvernight bus to Quito (approx. 3–4 hours)
Day 15 · Saturday
Quito Full Day — Mitad del Mundo (included)
Included full-day excursion in Ecuador's capital: explore Quito's UNESCO-listed colonial center and stand on the equator at the Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) monument, with a guide throughout.
- MorningGuided tour of Quito's historic center
- AfternoonMitad del Mundo (Middle of the World)
- EveningReturn to the hostel in Quito
Day 16–20 · Sunday – Thursday
Galápagos Island-Hopping Extension (included)
A five-day island-hopping extension through the Galápagos, operated with a MEDLIFE partner and expert naturalist guides. Fly from Quito to the Galápagos on Sunday, then hop between islands to see giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions and blue-footed boobies, with snorkelling, beaches and highland hikes along the way. On Thursday, fly back to Quito and continue home. Remember only carry-on luggage is included, and the islands charge an entry fee and transit control card on arrival.
See the Galápagos itinerary- SundayFlight Quito → Galápagos; arrival & check-in with the local partner guide
- DailyGuided island visits, snorkelling & wildlife walks
- EveningsFree time in Puerto Ayora / Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
- ThursdayFly Galápagos → Quito & transfer out / depart home
Quick check 1 of 3
Which activity happens on Day 2, before the mobile clinics start?
Mobile clinic
Clinic stations
Stations may vary with community needs and group size. Patients return to Education between specialists, and Pharmacy is always last.
Tr
Triage
The first station patients visit. Here we collect contact information, basic medical history and vitals for the physicians to use during consultations.
What will I be doing?
- After the triage nurse does patient intake, take the patient history form and fill in the vitals section.
- Measure height (Talla/HT), weight (Peso/WT), blood pressure, heart rate (FC/HR) and temperature (TC/Temp). BMI is optional.
- Blood pressure is NOT taken for children (any patient with a niño history form).
- Star the patient's information if diastolic pressure is above 90, or temperature is above 38°C (100°F).
- Guide patients to the waiting area at the Education Station and hand the form to the Education participant.
Recommendations
- Divide and conquer: one person on BP and heart rate, one on temperature, one on height and weight, one escorting patients.
- Spanish speakers can ask the triage nurse whether help with intake is needed.
Useful phrases
| English | Spanish | Quechua |
|---|---|---|
| Blood pressure | Presión arterial | Presionnekyta |
| Arm | Brazo | Maki |
| Bag | Bolso | — |
| Hat | Sombrero | — |
| Shoes | Zapatos | Sapathuykita |
| Jacket | Chompa | Chompaykita |
| Scale | Balanza | Janp'ar Turajjchana |
| Tape measure | Cinta métrica | Tupu |
| Thermometer | Termómetro | — |
| Alcohol | Alcohol | — |
| Cotton | Algodón | — |
| Medical record (adult / child / dental / OB) | Ficha médica de adulto / niño / dental / OB | — |
Ed
Education
A space for health education on oral health, and more. It also serves as the waiting room between stations.
What will I be doing?
- Stamp every history form with the education stamp — a form must be stamped before the patient is seen at a medical station.
- Keep patients and their forms in order of arrival, using the number written at the top of each form.
- Redirect patients returning from a specialty station who still have other consultations.
- Support the education nurse by recording laboratory test results when applicable.
Recommendations
- Patients with high blood pressure or fever from Triage are prioritized to see the doctor immediately.
- Never send a patient to Pharmacy until every consultation circled on their form is complete.
- Families are treated as a single unit — all members finish their consultations before Pharmacy.
- The nurse leads the actual education sessions; your main job is order and patient flow.
Useful phrases
| English | Spanish | Quechua |
|---|---|---|
| Educational brochures | Trípticos | — |
| Stamp | Sello | Suñari |
| Urine test | Examen de orina | Hispay Qawanapaq |
| Blood test | Examen de sangre | Yawar Qawanapaq |
Dr
General Medicine
The major station where doctors address individual medical issues and identify patients who need follow-up care.
What will I be doing?
- Listen and observe the patient's needs; MEDLIFE staff circulate to translate diagnoses and treatment plans.
- Spanish speakers may be asked to assist with translation.
- Stay attentive to the education area where patients wait for an available doctor.
- Guide patients back to Education if they have other consultations, or to Pharmacy only when all consultations are complete.
Recommendations
- Wait until the consultation is finished before asking questions.
- Be cordial with every patient and avoid side conversations.
- These are private medical consultations — no photos allowed.
Useful phrases
| English | Spanish | Quechua |
|---|---|---|
| Tongue depressor | Bajalengua | — |
| Flashlight | Linterna | K'anchay |
| Stethoscope | Estetoscopio | — |
| Pharmacy receipt | Recetario | — |
| Medicines | Medicinas | Hampi |
Dn
Dental
Offers fillings and extractions. Dental professionals will ask you to assist with a range of hands-on duties.
What will I be doing?
- Assist the dentist: organize instruments, hold the flashlight or suction tube, mix filling paste.
- Complete odontograms and patient paperwork following the dentist's instructions.
- Help prepare patients before their consultation.
Recommendations
- Take initiative — work quickly and communicate well with the dentist.
- If unsure of your task, simply ask the dentist what needs to be done.
Useful phrases
| English | Spanish | Quechua |
|---|---|---|
| Tooth / teeth | El diente / los dientes | — |
| Dentist | Dentista | — |
| To the left | A la izquierda | — |
| To the right | A la derecha | — |
| Flashlight | La linterna | — |
| To clean | Limpiar | — |
| Dental chair | Silla dental | — |
| Cavities | Caries | — |
| Fillings | Curaciones | — |
| Extraction | Extracción | — |
Ob
OB/GYN
Addresses gynecological issues including breast exams and cervical cancer screenings. Only female students over the age of 18 attending a Classic SLT may shadow this station. This is a service offered (but not shadowed) during High School SLTs.
What will I be doing?
- Help set up the consultation room, create a private space and sanitize the bed and area.
- Direct patients to the chair, protect their privacy and assist with changing into a gown.
- Observe the gynecologist during exams — students are not licensed and will NEVER perform Pap smears.
- When asked, hold the flashlight, hand over speculums, swab sticks and slides.
- Accompany patients to Education or Pharmacy afterwards, and alert Education when the room is free.
Recommendations
- Many women have never seen a gynecologist and may feel nervous or embarrassed — be polite and reassuring.
- Maximum 2 students in the room at a time; rotate if three are assigned.
- Exams can be graphic. Be mindful of your reactions.
- Always knock before entering and keep the door closed at all times.
Useful phrases
| English | Spanish | Quechua |
|---|---|---|
| Pap smear | Papanicolaou | — |
| Breast exam | Examen de mamas | Qawasunki / Ñuñukita |
| Speculum | Espéculo | — |
| Spatula | Espátula | — |
| Specimen / sample | Muestra | Qawana |
| Fungus | Hongos | — |
| Swab | Isopo | — |
Ph
Pharmacy
The final station, where prescriptions are filled. Data collected here helps MEDLIFE track medication and enroll patients in the Patient Follow-Up Program.
What will I be doing?
- Collect medical history forms in the order received and store them where the pharmacy nurse indicates.
- One person records EVERY medication dispensed so stock can be replenished for the next clinic.
- Read the doctor's receipt and fill prescriptions: each medication in its own labelled bag, all bags into one larger bag for the nurse to verify.
- Keep the line orderly so the nurse sees one patient at a time.
- Alert the nurse immediately if a prescribed dose differs from what is available.
- Make sure patients leave with the handwritten prescription and instructions.
Recommendations
- Read the data collection process as soon as you arrive at the station.
- Watch the medication form — some come as both pill and paste.
Useful phrases
| English | Spanish | Quechua |
|---|---|---|
| One patient at a time | Un paciente a la vez | Ch'ullach'ullamanta |
| Please give me your prescription and registration form | Por favor, deme su receta médica y su ficha de registro | Maymy Recetaiky |
| These are your medicines | Estas son tus medicinas | Keymi Hampiquna |
| Thank you for coming! | ¡Gracias por venir! | Allinmy Jamuranky |
| Vitamins | Vitaminas | — |
| Prescription | Receta médica | Hanpi Papil |
| Syrup | Jarabe | — |
| Pill | Pastilla | — |
| Paste / creme | Pasta / crema | — |
| Bottle | Botella | Porongo |
Tb
Toothbrushing
Teaches children aged 3 and up about dental hygiene. Children need no history form, and this is the only station without a medical professional — be proactive.
What will I be doing?
- Set up a table and tent outside, away from the other stations, with toothbrushes, cups, toothpaste and fluoride.
- Keep an empty bucket for children to spit into and find a tap to fill your water bucket — never use the boxed drinking water.
- Register every child (name and age) on the registration sheet; exact spelling doesn't matter.
- Hand each child a toothbrush with paste and a cup, and demonstrate brushing with the giant mouth and toothbrush props.
- Offer fluoride: no food or drink for an hour and no milk for the rest of the day. Never apply fluoride to children under 3.
Useful phrases
| English | Spanish | Quechua |
|---|---|---|
| Toothbrush | Cepillo de dientes | Maqchey Kiruta |
| Toothpaste | Pasta dental | — |
| Cup | Vaso | Ukyana |
| Water | Agua | Yaku |
| Fluoride | Flúor | — |
| What is your name? | ¿Cómo te llamas? | Iman Sutiqy |
| How old are you? | ¿Cuántos años tienes? | Jahik'a Huataiky |
| Take a toothbrush and a cup | Toma un cepillo y un vaso | Japy'hi Cepilluta / Kerutayan |
| Brush your teeth in a circular form | Cepíllate los dientes en forma circular | Kiruta Maylliy |
| Rinse your mouth | Enjuágate la boca | Muqch'iy Simikita |
| Don't drink the water | No tomes el agua | Ama Ñilpuyunquichu Unuta |
| Spit out here / there | Escupe aquí / ahí | Keypy Ttokaykuy |
| Wash your toothbrush | Lava tu cepillo | Maqchey Cepilluikyta |
| Now we will place fluoride on your teeth | Ahora pondremos flúor en tus dientes | Hampita Churasaiky |
| Open your mouth wide | Abre la boca bien grande | Kychay Simikyta H'atunta |
| Don't eat or drink anything for an hour | No comas ni tomes nada por una hora | Ama Mijunkychu |
| Don't drink milk for a day | No tomar leche por un día | Ama Hujankychu Lechita |
Quick check 1 of 3
Where does a patient go first when they arrive at the mobile clinic?
Conduct & health
Rules and recommendations
Face masks
Beyond local laws and regulations, masks must be worn during Mobile Clinics.
Compulsory safety briefing
Upon arrival, all students attend an extensive safety briefing.
Illness during the trip
If you feel unwell or show symptoms of any illness, advise your Trip Leader immediately so you can get medical care.
Wash and sanitize hands
Hand-washing stations and hand sanitizer are available at every Mobile Clinic.
Respectful behavior in communities
- No photos during medical care or inside the clinic — patients are receiving medical attention.
- Do not leave your station. Alert your Trip Leader if you need a break so your spot is covered.
- The Trip Leader announces lunch and station rotations. Lunch is approximately 20 minutes long.
- Report missing utensils or materials from your station to the Trip Leader.
- Do not pet or feed animals — we cannot know if they carry disease or have a poor temperament.
General recommendations
- Do not drink tap water — it can make you sick.
- Be cautious with street food, especially meat; make sure it is boiled or cooked. Avoid street-sold juices, the water is not safe.
- Throw toilet paper in the trashcan provided. Local plumbing cannot handle paper and will clog and flood.
Quick check 1 of 3
Before taking a photo of a patient or community member, you should:
Preparing
Get ready for LIMA, PERU + RIOBAMBA + GALÁPAGOS,
A short checklist so you arrive confident, covered and connected before the clinic doors open.
Documents, visas & vaccinations
- Passport requirements
- Passport must be valid for at least 7 months after your arrival date (some destinations require this for entry)
- Visa requirements
- If you are not traveling with a U.S. or Canadian passport, you may need a visa to enter certain countries. It is your responsibility to determine whether a visa is required and make the appropriate arrangements before traveling.
- Vaccinations
- MEDLIFE follows CDC recommendations. No specific vaccinations are required, but you should follow all CDC guidance and consult your doctor. View CDC travel recommendations
Be sure to confirm any required visas or fees involved in your flight layover based on airport as well.
Flight information and timeframes
The attendees of the SLT are responsible for buying their own airfare. However, our team can help you in this process by providing a flight quote for your group. You can request a flight quote by emailing info@medlifemovement.org. Once your flight is booked, please make sure to add your arrival and departure information to your booking.
Airport: Jorge Chávez International Airport (LIM)
Peru & Ecuador — recommended timeframes
Arrival in Lima (LIM): Saturday of week 1.
Internal flights: Lima → Quito and Quito → Galápagos (both booked by MEDLIFE).
Departure from Quito (UIO): after the Galápagos week — one-way ticket home.
If attendees arrive outside of the set time frames, they will be responsible for covering the cost of transportation to their site. If your flight arrives outside the timeframes listed please email info@medlifemovement.org. Remember that any additional nights and transfers that are added before/after your trip because of early or late arrival are not included in the Service Learning Trip donation goal, and will be at the cost of the student.
We highly recommend purchasing trip cancellation insurance, which will allow you to cancel for any reason. You can contact info@medlifemovement.org for more information about our insurance options.
Note that this type of insurance must be purchased within a short number of days of your initial registration, and cannot be added in the days leading up to your departure — reach out as soon as possible to access this opportunity.
Accommodation
MEDLIFE books your stay in Lima for week 1 and in Quito and Riobamba for week 2. Galápagos accommodation is arranged by the partner operator. Save the addresses and phone numbers in case you need to reach reception.
What's included
- Materials & ResourcesFor the Mobile Clinic & Project.
- Accommodation8-nights dorm room accommodation for 6 to 9 people, exclusively with MEDLIFE participants.
- Meals3 meals a day are provided Monday–Friday, along with breakfast provided on the weekends.
- TransportationTo and from the airport (within the established schedule), and to SLT activities.
- English-speaking Leader
- Safety equipment
- Travel health insuranceThe insurance requires a $250 payment as a deductible for coverage.
What's not included
- Flights
- Tips
- Pre-Post accommodation
- Optional excursions
- Weekend meals
- Cancellation insurance
- Room upgrades
- Transportation outside provided timeframes
What to pack
You'll pack for three climates: Lima is mild, humid and at sea level; Quito and Riobamba are cool, sunny by day and cold at night at 2,750–2,850 m; the Galápagos are hot, sunny and humid, so bring swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen and a hat. Pack layers, and remember only carry-on luggage is included on the internal flights.
- Clothing
- Light layers — a jacket or fleece for cool, humid mornings, breathable shirts, long pants, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Modest clothing for community visits.
- Clinic wear
- Closed-toe shoes (required for clinic stations), a lanyard for your badge, and clothes you don't mind getting dusty.
- Altitude & health
- Lima is at sea level, so altitude is not a concern. Bring a reusable water bottle, sunscreen (SPF 50+), lip balm, hand sanitizer, insect repellent, and basic personal medications.
- Documents & money
- Passport (7+ months validity), travel insurance info, $250 USD cash for the deductible, a credit card, and copies of key documents.
- Extras
- Power adapter (Peru uses Type A/B), portable charger, a towel, and a small backpack for clinic and project days.
What to donate
Many families travel hours to reach our clinics. Donations are handed directly to community members and stations — bring what you can, packed in your checked luggage.
- Vitamins and nutritional supplements for children and adults — new, unopened, and within their expiration date.
- Dental supplies: floss, fluoride, and child-sized toothbrushes for the Toothbrushing station.
- Hygiene kits: toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, and feminine hygiene products.
- Over-the-counter medicines (in original, sealed packaging): pain relievers, antacids, and oral rehydration salts.
- If you’re unsure what to bring or have items you’d like to donate that aren’t listed, please email info@medlifemovement.org and we’ll be happy to help.
Join the WhatsApp group
About 3–4 weeks before your trip, MEDLIFE adds you to a WhatsApp group with your Trip Leader and fellow students. It's where we share daily logistics, meeting points, weather notes, and reminders.
If you have not received a WhatsApp invitation at least 2 weeks before your departure, email info@medlifemovement.org with your name and trip dates so we can add you right away.
info@medlifemovement.orgImportant considerations
- How the three weeks fit together
- Week 1: full Service Learning Trip week in Lima, Peru.
- Saturday: flexible — fly Lima → Quito and bus to Riobamba, or add the optional Ica & Paracas add-on in Lima and travel on Sunday.
- Sunday: everyone travels to Riobamba; welcome meeting in the afternoon.
- Week 2: full Service Learning Trip week in Riobamba.
- Friday evening: overnight bus to Quito.
- Saturday: included full day in Quito (Mitad del Mundo).
- Sunday – Thursday: five-day Galápagos island-hopping extension, then fly back to Quito and home.
- Immersion SLT travelers join the existing scheduled SLT groups in Lima and Riobamba.
- Immersion SLT price & savings*
- Immersion SLT price $6,799 — versus $7,193 if the same components were purchased separately ($1,983 Lima SLT + $1,983 Riobamba SLT + $215 Quito full day + $600 Lima→Quito flight + $1,812 Galápagos extension + $600 Quito→Galápagos flight). Student savings: $394 (~5.5%). *Flight prices may vary by season. For the most up-to-date pricing, contact info@medlifemovement.org.
- International flights — important
- This Immersion SLT needs two separate one-way international tickets: arrival into Lima (LIM) and departure from Quito (UIO).
- It is not a round-trip itinerary — do not buy round-trip tickets.
- Payment schedule
- Non-refundable $300 deposit due at registration.
- Full payment due 60 days before the trip start (Lima SLT start date).
- Travel dates & availability
- Summer 1: May 15
- Summer 2: June 5
- Summer 3: July 3
- What's included
- Two full Service Learning Trip weeks (Lima + Riobamba).
- Full-day Quito excursion (Mitad del Mundo).
- One-week Galápagos extension.
- Lima → Quito flight, booked and paid directly by MEDLIFE (up to $600).
- Quito → Galápagos flight, booked and paid directly by MEDLIFE (up to $600).
- Insurance coverage for the full three-week duration.
- Only carry-on luggage is included — checked baggage is at the student's own expense.
- In the rare case a fare exceeds its cap, the student covers the difference.
- Immersion SLT pricing applies only when the same traveler completes every leg. Lima + Riobamba without the Galápagos is available but priced separately.
- Group size
- SLT weeks (Lima & Riobamba): no separate minimum — Immersion SLT travelers join the existing scheduled group (the standard MEDLIFE minimum of 15 applies to the week as a whole). Galápagos extension: minimum of 2 travelers, operated through a third-party partner. A chapter that wants its own dedicated SLT group instead needs a minimum of 15 travelers.
Quick check 1 of 3
You haven't received your trip WhatsApp group invite two weeks before departure. What do you do?
OUR PROTOCOLS
In case of emergencies
Save these numbers before you fly. If MEDLIFE staff aren't nearby, call or WhatsApp the ECUADOR emergency line.
In destination or in transit
+51 932 036 509
Peru Emergency Phone · WhatsApp, call or SMS
Calling from North America
1-844-633-5433
MEDLIFE HQ Phone
What to do, step by step, if something goes wrong
- Contact your local emergency authorities.
- For non-urgent matters contact your Chapter, MEDLIFE HQ, or info@medlifemovement.org.
- Contact the ECUADOR Emergency Phone.
- Find your Trip Leader or the MEDLIFE Representative at your hotel.
- Speak to reception.
- Contact the ECUADOR Emergency Phone.
- Find your Trip Leader.
- Clinic nurses and doctors are available to attend to you.
- Find your Trip Leader.
- Contact the ECUADOR Emergency Phone.
National emergency numbers
Police
105Tourist Police (WhatsApp)
+51 980 122 335Fire brigade
116Medical emergency
106Civil Defense (earthquakes, disasters)
119Peruvian Red Cross
01-266-0481
Clinics & police
Clínica Anglo Americana (Lima)
C. Alfredo Salazar 350, San Isidro 15073
+51 1 6168900Tourism Police Peru (Lima)
Jr. María José de Arce 268, Magdalena del Mar 15076
+51 1 4601060Clínica Moderna (Riobamba)
Juan Lavalle, Riobamba
+593 98 747 9097Police Station UPC Condamine (Riobamba)
Juan Lavalle, Riobamba
911Hospital Metropolitano (Quito)
Av. Mariana de Jesús s/n, Quito 170521
+593 2 399 8000Tourist Police — La Mariscal District (Quito)
Roca y Reina Victoria, Edif. Relaciones Exteriores
+593 2 2543 983Trawick International (insurance)
Inside USA: 833-425-5101 · MEDLIFE staff can assist with claims in-destination
+1 603 952 2686
Nearest embassies
Embassy of the United States (Quito)
Av. Avigiras, Av. Eloy Alfaro E12-170, Quito 170124
+593 2 398 5000Canadian Embassy (Quito)
Av. Río Amazonas, Quito 170135
+593 2 245 5499British Embassy (Quito)
Av. de las Naciones Unidas, 14th Floor, Quito 17-17 830
+593 2 397 2200
Insurance & cash
Emergency medical and evacuation insurance up to $250,000 USD with a $250 USD deductible once on a trip.
A doctor's visit to your hotel can be arranged if you feel unwell — typically $50–$100 USD, usually less than the $250 deductible. Staff or hotel reception can coordinate.
Bring $250 USD in cash beyond your spending money to cover the deductible, plus a credit card for emergencies if you have one.
Trawick International · 833-425-5101 (inside USA) · 603-952-2686 (outside USA)
Quick check 1 of 3
In an emergency during the trip, who do you contact first?
After your trip
Keep the momentum going
Take your experiences from the field and put them into action at home through MEDLIFE activities all year round.
Moving Mountains
Our fundraising campaign supporting day-to-day work in medicine, education and development. MEDLIFErs run Power Hours inviting contacts to donate — often with wild fundraising challenges.
Grow the Movement
Refer friends at other schools to start a MEDLIFE Chapter, encourage others to travel on a Service Learning Trip, and recruit new members for your Chapter.
Leadership activities
Volunteer locally with your Chapter, run for an E-Board position, or become a MEDLIFE Ambassador or Active Member to unlock discounts on your next trip.
Keep in touch
Follow us on social media and the blog, send photos and stories to media@medlifemovement.org, and tag us when you share what you saw.
Discover more of MEDLIFE
