Group Information
See the listings below if you are committed to coming with one of the groups, and fill out the registration forms.
If you want to bring a group, contact us and let's get started.
For information on what to bring and Peruvian currency, please see the list below.
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What to Bring
While this list may not include everything you may need, please carefully read through the information below to ensure you are prepared for your trip.
01
Travel Documents
Valid passport (original document, not a copy) with an expiration date of at least 6 months beyond the end of the trip.
Check with your international carrier to ensure airport fees are included in your flight cost.
Immunizations: Hepatitis A & B, Yellow fever Tetanus (required to be current), childhood immunizations should be up-to-date, and a preventative measure against Malaria -- Doxycycline (recommended).
Travel insurance that covers medical, hospitalization, evacuation, lost luggage, lost passport & trip cancellation, etc.
03
Gear
Sleeping pad (foam or small self-inflatable type) and lightweight blanket for overnight stays in the jungle.
Toiletries (brush, comb, shampoo, soap, toothbrush & paste, deodorant, etc.), towel & washcloth, adequate supply of personal medications, hand sanitizer, insect repellent, and sunblock.
Snacks such as trail mix and dried fruit for traveling, granola bars, and camera and memory cards.
Peru runs on a 220 volt electrical system, but our outlets are the same as the US. Your camera, laptop and cell phone already have a converter built into the power source, so you are good to go in that department. IF you need a blow dryer or some other similar device, find a cheap one that has a dual current switch. 110/220 sometimes it says 120/240. That is much easier and more practical than carrying a converter with you.
02
Appropriate Clothing
Clothing appropriate for the work day such as jeans, light-weight pants or shorts, t-shirts/tank tops, and a light, water-resistant windbreaker for rainy evenings. For church services, bring skirts and blouses (ladies) and long slacks and short sleeve dress shirts (guys). Consider bringing clothing to trade for souvenirs or leave with the people in Peru. Leave extravagant jewelry at home and bring inexpensive sunglasses, bandanas, t-shirts, watches, etc. for gifts or trade. Swimming suit (large enough to cover all strategic areas), comfortable shoes (running shoes or lightweight hiking shoes, sandals, or shower thongs).
04
What Not to Bring
We are an Alcohol, Tobacco and Drug free organization. As in any culture, there are individuals in Peru who have turned to substance abuse as an escape from the realities of life, at the expense of their families. Because of our emphasis on healthy life styles and avoiding the destruction that we see every day that is caused by substance abuse, we do not want to confuse the population that we work with or dilute our position on this topic.
People of Peru Project is a high profile organization in the city of Iquitos. The local people know who we are and who our volunteers are. As a host organization, we reserve the right to be represented that way and keep the theme of our health and social services message consistent. Thank you for your cooperation.
The currency in Peru is called "soles". The exchange rate is about 3.40 soles for every 1 US dollar. 100 centavos (or pennies) make up 1 sole. The coins are worth different amounts: 1 sole is worth 34 cents, 2 soles are worth 68 cents, and 5 soles are worth $1.70. The bills are worth even more: 10 soles is worth $3.40, 20 soles is worth $6.80, 50 soles is worth $17.00, and 100 soles is worth $34.00.
When exchanging money, which we will do for you in our office in Iquitos, it is important to bring US dollar bills in good condition, without any tears or writing on them -- otherwise they will not be accepted. We ask you to bring 20s, 50s, and 100 dollar bills.
It is also recommended to bring a Visa debit card and memorize the pin number for secure access to money, just make sure to inform your bank that you will be traveling.
Traveler's checks will not work.
The exchange rate changes almost daily and we will get a better rate form the people we do business with than you will in the airport. The airport advertises a higher rate but then, they charge you a fee (Gotcha) just wait and we will change money in the office the day you arrive. The airport in Lima takes credit cards, debit cards and US currency.
Peruvian Currency
Please read this carefully!
Register Your Volunteer Group
Volunteers are the lifeblood of People of Peru Project. If you or a group want to get involved and join us down in Iquitos, fill out the form!