June 29: Departure Day, Miami to Cusco
In support of program and student safety, all details regarding specific travel and accommodations are available in the parent/guardian digital locker under Essential Information.
June 30: Pisac
Upon landing in Cusco, transfer via chartered bus to Pisac, approximately one hour from the Cusco airport. Get settled in at your residence and relax the first day as you acclimate to the altitude. Visit the world-renowned craft market and explore the imposing Pisac ruins to familiarize yourself with Inca history and culture.
July 1 – 5: Qenqo
From Pisac, head deeper into the valley to the picturesque village of Qenqo, our home for the next two weeks. Work together with the host community to complete a series of construction, education, and agricultural projects. Evenings are spent immersing ourselves in the local culture through activities and events such as learning to cook a traditional Andean meal, playing futbol with our local friends or hiking remnants of ancient Inca footpaths in the surrounding mountains. Throughout your time in the village, engage in an independent project of your choosing to learn more about a particular aspect of local culture and life.
July 6 & 7: Ollantaytambo
With its cobblestoned roads and massive Inca ruins, the small village of Ollantaytambo is the best remaining example of Inca city planning. Spend a weekend visiting indigenous markets and meet with Andean artisans in their workshops. Explore the nearby ruins at the Temple of Ollantaytambo and relax in the town’s central plaza as you practice your Spanish with local kids.
July 8 – 13: Qenqo
Continue on your work together with the host community to complete a series of construction, education, and agricultural projects. Finalize your independent project and prepare to present to the rest of the group. Finish your time here with a goodbye party and dinner together with the community.
July 14 & 15: Aguas Calientes
Board a scenic train to Machu Picchu through the spectacular Sacred Valley. Learn about the lifestyle of the Inca people as you visit the fascinating ruins. Spend time exploring this ancient citadel and discover its maze of temples and dwellings. Hike the surrounding slopes for different perspectives on the site.
July 16 & 17: Cusco
Cap your program with an excursion to Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Cusco is still a vibrant Andean city, where campesinos from neighboring mountain villages converge to sell their goods at the city’s extensive markets. Marvel at the confluence of ancient and modern as you take in the colonial architecture and nearby ruins, such as the golden temple of Qoricancha or the colossal fortress of Sacsayhuaman. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try eating “cuy,” a traditional Peruvian delicacy more commonly known in English as guinea pig.
July 18: Travel Day
Prepare for your journey home and travel to the airport for your group’s overnight return flight.
July 19: Return Day, Cusco to Miami
In support of program and student safety, all details regarding specific travel and accommodations are available in the parent/guardian digital locker under Essential Information.