In Peru, explore a land of flourishing ancient empires and cities of gold. Visit remote villages once inhabited by the Incas and arrive at the threshold of Machu Picchu with the rising sun. Immerse yourself in the lives of villagers as you help families build clean stoves for everyday use in the home. Wander lush hillsides of the Peruvian Andes and roam the famous archaeological ruins, making your way to the heart of the famed Sacred Valley. Enrich lives of others while teaching English at a school for underprivileged children in Cusco. Raft the whitewater rapids of the legendary Urubamba River and ride the “zig-zag” train route to Cusco to explore its vibrant cobblestone streets. Improve the quality of life of traditional Peruvian communities and bond with the locals over the important contributions you make. Experience Peru’s hidden wonders through this unique South American journey.
“It would be an understatement to say that this trip was the BEST experience of my life.”
— Lindsay P., Deerfield, IL
Exploring the Sacred Valley & Clean Stove Service Project
We begin our adventure in Miami and travel together as a group to the Spanish colonial city of Cusco. We explore Cusco’s cobblestone streets, visiting the Inca’s Sun Temple, an ancient stone ruin overlooking the colorful rooftops of this mountainous town. We begin our journey into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, making our way through rural villages before we arrive at a very special service project. Welcomed into an indigenous Quechua community, we work directly with families of the community to improve their brick and ceramic stoves. Our work helps alleviate health and environmental problems by reducing smoke in the homes and creating better air quality in the surrounding area. We also have the opportunity to engage with community members by teaching English, swimming in the nearby lake and playing soccer with local children.
Discover Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas
Upon completion of our service project, we travel through lush green cloud forests, emerging through the peeks of the Andes mountain range. We arrive at Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, Machu Picchu is a labyrinth of mysterious stone palaces, towers, and temples for us to explore. We take in the breathtaking panoramic view of Machu Picchu’s majestic structures before riding the historic railway train back to Cusco.
Rafting the Urubamba River & Cusco Service Project
After a layover day in Cusco, we are well rested for our next service project, working at an ecological school for underprivileged children. Here we teach English classes and contribute to children’s education. Tasting typical Peruvian dishes, and learning traditional dancing with the locals also make for an unmatched cultural experiences. Our adventure ends with a thrilling day on the Río Urubamba, where steep canyon walls and giant boulders surround us, and non-stop Class III+ rapids mark our way downstream. We celebrate our accomplishments with a farewell feast and say goodbye to our Peruvian friends before catching our flight home the next day.
