Andean Cultural Immersion - 90 Days

This semester-long immersive program is designed to give participants a profound experience of the people and places of the Andes – from the cultural heritage site of Cusco to the famous “Lost City” of Machu Picchu. During the course of this program, you will live with local families; attend interactive educational seminars to learn about the history, customs, and general culture of the region, in both an urban and rural setting; visit cultural and historical sites of Incan significance; work alongside families and farmers in the Sacred Valley of the Incas; participate in volunteer service within the community; and trek to Machu Picchu along the Inca Trail!

Elements of the Andean culture and history are transmitted to program participants via various interactions and connections to the people and places of the region. This program is truly a cultural immersion experience!

The Andean Cultural Immersion Experience is particularly appropriate for those who want to deeply immerse themselves into the culture of the Andes, and experience something on a level beyond ‘tourist’. It also provides a great opportunity to improve one’s Spanish in a practical way. This semester-long educational and service-oriented program is popular among  gap-year students.

Day 1
Phase # 1: OVERLAND JOURNEY

Lima, Paracas, Ica, Nazca, Arequipa, Puno & Cusco

11 days

Day 2
Phase # 2: CULTURAL ORIENTATION & URBAN EDUCATION

Arrival and Introduction to the Heart of the Andes: Cusco

13 days

Day 3
Phase # 3: CULTURAL ORIENTATION & RURAL EDUCATION

Service in the Sacred Valley of the Incas: Ollantaytambo

8 days

Day 4
Phase # 4: COMMUNITY SERVICE

The Magic of Sharing: Cusco

48 days

Day 5
Phase # 5: ADVENTURE EXPERIENCE

Trek to Machupicchu: On the Inka Trail

5 days

Day 6
Phase # 6: FINAL DAYS & PREPARING TO RETURN HOME

Departure from Cusco: Return Home

6 days

INCLUDES

  • Everything written in the program
  • Private guide and transportation
  • Train tickets
  • Bus tickets
  • All entrance fees
  • All meals mentioned
  • Accommodation
  • Personal attendance

DOES NOT INCLUDE

  • Airplane tickets
  • Other meals not mentioned
  • Tips or gratitudes for guide, driver and assistant
  • Travel and health insurance
  • Extra expenses

    Trip Facts

    • up to 20 individuals
    • Highest elevation, Cusco at 3,400 m (11,200 ft)
    • Bus, train