Peru In the Footsteps of the Incas

Journey from the Atacama Desert coast to the snow-capped Andes and learn from Peruvian artists, dancers, musicians, and historians in the Land of the Inca.

Orientation in Lima

Spend your first three days in Peru using your Spanish in artisan markets, meeting with local students, and exploring Lima’s diverse neighborhoods. Visit the National Museum of the Archaeology, Anthropology, and History of Peru; engage in a photographic exploration of Lima’s art and architecture; and learn to play the traditional cajón.

Homestay in Trujillo

Travel north to the capital of Peru’s La Libertad region, known as La Ciudad de la Eterna Primavera for its temperate climate and sunny weather. Surrounded by adobe ruins and pyramids, multicultural Trujillo becomes your home for the next two weeks. Living with a Peruvian family gives you intimate access to a community rich in art, history, and archaeological wonder.

Sample activities:
Visit pre-Columbian archaeological sites and the adobe pyramids of Huacas del Sol y de la Luna; learn about the ancient Moche and Chimú cultures; spend a day on the Huanchaco beach; attend sporting events with host siblings.

Arts and Community Service

In Trujillo, you meet local artists, dancers, musicians, and historians to learn about the unique culture, Afro-Peruvian rhythms, and artistic heritage of the region. Your Spanish language improves as you work with local residents on a meaningful volunteer project.

Sample activities and projects: Learn the Marinera, Tondero, and Huaylas folk dances with a Peruvian dancer; meet with musicians from the National University of Trujillo; work with a local nonprofit serving the community of Otuzco; spend time with children at a local orphanage; paint and repair community buildings.

CUZCO AND MACHU PICCHU

Your Peruvian Experiment concludes with an exciting week in the dynamic city of Cuzco and magnificent Machu Picchu. Considered the archaeological capital of the Americas, Cuzco is a fascinating mix of pre-Columbian and colonial history, art, and architecture. Whether you’re exploring shops along the Plaza de Armas, participating in local festivals, or meeting Quechua-speaking residents in outdoor markets, the narrow cobblestone streets and vibrant culture of Cuzco come alive.

Then, hike the steep mountain passes to Machu Picchu, the “Lost City of the Incas,” to experience one of the most treasured historical and archaeological sites in the world.