Field research can benefit medical students' learning through experiential engagement with research and personal exposure to foreign health systems. However, the off-campus nature of the activity raises challenges for teachers. This article presents a case study that illustrates the benefits and challenges of organising a field research project for intercalating undergraduate medical students in foreign, lower income countries. Data for the 2009/10 and 2010/11 academic years were collected from students, supervisors and project hosts. Findings show the tension involved as students navigate the research ethics standards of the sending institution and the foreign fieldwork location. The project hosts report mostly positive aspects of the field research. Robust procedures and support will help to ensure that students have a safe and healthy fieldwork experience. Field research is not a neutral activity, and the benefits for student learning need to be weighed against the challenges raised for module organisation, research ethics, relationships with project hosts and health and safety.