Program Info
Program Date: January 3rd- January 17th
Included in your experience
➞ 50 Hours of clinical shadowing under experienced physical therapists in Mérida, Yucatan
➞ Hotel accommodations in the heart of Mérida
➞ Arrival and Departure airport transport
➞ Daily breakfast at the hotel
➞ Welcome Package
➞ 2 group excursions
➞ 2-3 Team dinners at local restaurants
➞ Ongoing support from on-site program coordinators
➞ Certificate of completion
➞ Documentation of shadowing hours in PTCAS Form
➞ Travel Insurance
About Merida, Yucatan
Nomad Physical Therapy is a clinical shadowing program based in Merida, Yucatan. Students will have the opportunity to observe and learn from local experienced physical therapists while immersing themselves in the beauties of Mexico.
Mérida, the capital of Yucatán, is widely regarded as one of the safest cities in Latin America. It offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, vibrant culinary traditions, and ancient Mayan history—seamlessly combined with the comfort and convenience of a modern city.
Shadowing Experience
This immersive experience includes 50 physical therapy observation hours completed over two weeks. Participants will observe in their assigned clinics for four hours each weekday, Monday through Friday. Applicants will also have the opportunity to share their areas of interest, and our team will do their best to match placements accordingly.
Our program in Yucatán, Mexico provides students the opportunity to shadow experienced licensed physical therapists in a variety of clinical settings. All observation hours are logged using the official Physical Therapist Centralized Application Services (PTCAS) format, ensuring they are ready for submission with your PT school applications.
While many programs accept international observation hours, we strongly recommend that students verify with each individual school whether these hours will count toward prerequisite requirements or as additional experience.
A day in the life of a Nomad
As part of the physical therapy abroad program, students will shadow professionals at a local clinic from Monday to Friday, starting in the morning and finishing by early afternoon. This schedule gives students ample free time to explore Mérida at their own pace. Nomads can immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the city like a true resident.
What to expect:
Your day as a Nomad begins in a charming hotel nestled in the heart of Mérida, Yucatán—just steps away from the vibrant culture and colonial beauty of the city. Start your morning with a free complimentary Mexican-style breakfast before arranging your ride to your assigned clinic. Whether you choose a taxi or an Uber, the 10–15 minute trip will only cost you around $4–$7 USD. Once you arrive, you’ll dive into a hands-on learning experience by shadowing experienced physical therapists. This is your chance to ask questions, practice your Spanish in a real-world setting, and discover new therapeutic techniques and modalities.
By early afternoon, your time is yours to explore. Wander through Plaza Grande, take in the stunning architecture along Paseo de Montejo, or step inside the historic Mérida Cathedral. The city is full of culture and history just waiting to be discovered. On Saturdays, you’ll join your fellow Nomads for one of three unforgettable group trips planned during your stay—whether it's swimming in crystal-clear cenotes, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or relaxing on the coast at Progreso Beach. Sundays are yours to rest and recharge or set off on your own spontaneous adventure. Whether you’re unwinding in a hammock or hunting for local street food, every moment is a step deeper into the culture and rhythm of life in Yucatán.
Costs Outside the Program
➞ Daily transportation to clinics (Uber/Taxi)
➞ Personal meals/snacks
➞ Flights to and from Mérida
➞ Personal travel (outside of group activities)