Sacred Valley Adventure

Sacred Valley Adventure

Sacred Valley Adventure

11 Days

Peru

Sacred Valley (7), Cusco (2)

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. This 11-day program invites students and educators to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture and history of Peru. Experience the daily life of rural communities, contribute to meaningful service projects, and explore iconic sites like Machu Picchu and Cusco. Hike through majestic mountains, bike down to Ollantaytambo, and paddle on pristine mountain lakes. From engaging with local families to discovering ancient Inca ruins, this adventure offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion, hands-on learning, and thrilling outdoor activities. Join us for a transformative experience in the heart of Peru.

Route Map

Sacred Valley Adventure

Highlights

  • Experience Machu Picchu and marvel at the iconic Inca citadel on a guided tour
  • Discover the rich history of Cusco, from its 16th-century cathedrals to ancient Inca temples and colonial streets.
  • Engage with local families in the Sacred Valley, learning about their daily lives and traditions.
  • Participate in meaningful community service projects, such as assisting with potable water initiatives and supporting local schools.
  • Enjoy thrilling activities like paddling on a pristine mountain lake, biking through the Andean hills, and climbing a Via Ferrata with zip-lining.

Itinerary

It’s time to head to the airport for an evening flight to Lima. You’ll arrive at Jorge Chavez International Airport (LIM) early the next morning, where you’ll meet your tour director who will accompany you throughout the program.
Overnight: overnight flight to Peru

Upon arrival in Lima, you’ll catch a short connecting flight to Cusco. As you descend into the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, take in the breathtaking views of the Andes Mountains. After grabbing your luggage and boarding the bus, you’ll take a private bus to enjoy a light lunch. Continue your drive into the Sacred Valley, stopping for scenic views along the way. Once settled into your hotel, your tour director will provide an orientation on the history and culture of Peru.
Overnight: Sacred Valley

Explore the vibrant market in Pisac, a central trade hub for villagers and artisans that offers a deep understanding of local life. Visit a museum dedicated to pre-Inca cultures before touring the famous Sacred Valley. Later, you’ll head to your host village, where you’ll meet your host families and settle in for the night.
Overnight: Sacred Valley

Hike to rural communities, explore Inca ruins, and experience life in the Andes. For the next two days, this will be your new home! Participate in a meaningful service project that in the past have included assisting on a potable water project and helping at a girl’s dormitory. In the evenings, play soccer with local families, practice Spanish and Quechua with your host families and feast on delicious Peruvian cuisine.
Overnight: Sacred Valley

Today marks the culmination of your community service work. Celebrate your achievements with a farewell event featuring a traditional Incan meal and local dances. You’ll also have the opportunity to try the regional specialty, guinea pig, either with your host families or during dinner in Ollantaytambo.
Overnight: Ollantaytambo

Today you will see a completely different side of this beautiful region. Wake up and enjoy an early morning morning paddle on a pristine mountain lake. With views of the surrounding glaciers, this will be a morning that you will never forget. Bike through the rolling hills to the site of our picnic lunch before arriving to explore the historic salt terraces that have been producing salt for the region since the pre-incan cultures populated these the area.
Overnight: (Hotel, Sacred Valley)

Start your day with a picturesque train ride through lush valleys and rugged mountains to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you’ll ascend to the iconic ruins, where a guided tour awaits. Your guide will share the fascinating stories and secrets of this ancient Inca citadel, revealing the architectural marvels, religious significance, and daily life of the Incas. Take in the panoramic views from the terraces, capturing the sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and the Urubamba River below. This is your moment to appreciate the grandeur of Machu Picchu, a site that has inspired and awed travelers for generations. After a day of exploration and wonder, descend back to Aguas Calientes and reflect on your experience during a leisurely train ride back to Ollantaytambo.
Overnight: Ollantaytambo

Start the day with an exhilarating challenge of scaling the rocky valley walls on a Via Ferrata. Harnessed in, the group will ascend hand over hand up an iron ladder attached to the granite walls. From the top enjoy incredible views of the Sacred Valley, and zip line back down. Truly a unique and thrilling experience. After lunch we will ride to Cusco and with a stop in Chinchero for a workshop on the traditional methods of weaving and dying that the area is known for. Then make your way to Cusco for the final portion of your adventure.
Overnight: Cusco

Immerse yourself in Cusco’s rich history by exploring its 16th-century cathedrals, ancient Inca temples, and colonial streets, all part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit a chocolate museum, where you can make your own chocolates from Peruvian cacao.
Overnight: Cusco

Spend your final morning visiting the local San Pedro market to taste local fruits and vegetables and bargain for last-minute gifts. After a final lunch and reflection on your journey, head to the airport for your flight to Lima and then make your connecting flight home. We hope you had an incredible time exploring Peru and will come back soon!
Overnight: overnight flight home

This Trip Includes

  • Round-trip airfare
  • All accommodations on program
  • All transportation in-country
  • All meals on the program
  • All activities as outlined in the itinerary
  • A Tour Director available 24 hours a day from when you arrive until you depart
  • Sightseeing tours and excursions led by local guides as specified
  • Airport transfers and transportation between destination cities
  • Travel insurance for all participants
  • 24-hour worldwide emergency assistance
  • Support from GEC representatives abroad

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