Our Hospitality & Tourism internship placements offer opportunities to work with locally owned hotels, hostels, tourist agencies, tour operators, or restaurants. Interns actively contribute to business operations, including sales, customer service, marketing, and daily tasks.
When selecting your placement, we consider your goals and interests to ensure a valuable experience. However, tasks assigned will depend on the business’s current projects and needs. You’ll receive support from our in-country coordinators but should be ready to work independently and take initiative.
Work Schedule
Internship hours vary but typically range from 4–6 hours per day, Monday through Friday. Additionally, you’ll attend a 1-hour Spanish class daily, with some planning or other tasks outside work hours. Weekends are free for relaxation, exploration, or personal activities.
Dress Code
Professional appearance is highly valued in Peru. Interns are expected to dress in business casual attire, avoiding revealing or extravagant clothing. Neat, clean clothing that covers shoulders and knees is preferred.
Transportation
Placements are based in the Cusco area, with travel times ranging from 10 to 60 minutes each way. Walking or taking the bus is the most affordable and convenient option. Local buses typically cost S/. 5 or less (about $1.75 per trip). Taxis are also available but more expensive.
On your first day, a representative will guide you on local transport, ensuring you understand your commute. Please note that interns are responsible for daily transportation costs. Budget around $5 per day for transport.
Spanish Classes
Daily 1-hour Spanish lessons are included in your program, Monday through Friday. Classes are tailored to your skill level and focus on work-related vocabulary. Our certified, native-speaking instructors use the immersive Communicative Method, ensuring all instruction is delivered entirely in Spanish.
Deliverables
Interns must submit weekly journals and complete a final project.
• Practicums (less than 8 weeks): Choose between a 10–20-page paper or a 1-hour PowerPoint presentation.
• Internships (8 weeks or more): Submit both a 10–20-page paper and a 1-hour PowerPoint presentation.
The final deliverable should include:
• An overview of your role and the organisation you worked with.
• A review of the organisation.
• A sector analysis in either the host or home country.
• An analysis of challenges faced.
• Outcomes or results achieved.
Tips for Success
Your internship’s success depends on your proactive engagement. Be prepared for cultural differences in work structure, management, and communication. Embrace challenges, take initiative, and immerse yourself in the experience to make the most of your time abroad.
Location
Cusco, Peru – easily one of the top 5 ancient civilization centers in the world, is also home to immense scenic beauty, bio-diversity and incredible culture. On this project, you’ll be situated in the outer regions of Cuzco, approx 15 min bus ride to central Cuzco where the volunteer center is located.
Project Tasks
- Assisting with sales, reservations, pre-arrival processes, and day-to-day operations.
- Promoting businesses through community outreach and updating promotional materials.
- Supporting online marketing, including website updates, social media, and review management.
- Managing client services, bookings, recommendations, and inquiries.
- Providing information about local attractions, dining, and travel options.
- Handling basic accounting tasks and assisting with stock and supply purchases.
- Maintaining high standards of guest or customer satisfaction.
