Description

This summer program gives you the chance to experience Peru's incredible cultural, social and environmental diversity. Immerse yourself in Spanish; volunteer and homestay with local families; bike and trek an Inca jungle trail to Machu Picchu; explore Mediterranean-like islands at 12,000ft on Lake Titicaca; wander the ancient cobbled stones streets, plazas and markets of Cusco and Arequipa; hike into the spectacular Colca Canyon; visit mysterious Nazca; sand-board the dunes at Huacachina; and head off-shore to Ballestas Island.

This summer abroad program is suitable for high school graduates, gap year students, university students and graduates, ideally 18 - 23 years.

Peru is a "land of contrasts" vibrantly alive with enchanting and heart warm friendly people, many of whom are descendants of the Incas and retain rich traditions of language, colorful dress and lively music. It has stunning, diverse landscapes, from the highest snow dusted peaks of the Andes to the lush Amazon jungle. The food is fantastic. The language is surprisingly easy to pick-up. Wild life abounds - you're sure to see flamingos, condor, llamas and the elusive vicuna.

Pacific Discovery programs combine sustainable educational adventure travel, cultural immersion, experiential education, volunteer and community service projects, personal and leadership development, and tons of fun! For gap year and college students, the opportunity to combine this with transferable academic credit gives you an unbeatable study abroad or gap year travel experience.

Since 2001, Pacific Discovery has taken hundreds of students and graduates on unique travel study programs abroad, utilizing a staff of experienced and qualified program leaders and faculty.

If you have a thirst for adventure, to explore places you've dreamed of, learning through hands-on experiences and making friends for life, then join us for a life-changing journey.

Highlights

* 1 week of Immersion Spanish Language. All levels catered for.
* Homestay with local families in Cusco to enhance your language acquisition.
* Volunteer afternoons during language week with organizations in Cusco supporting orphans and disadvantaged youth.
* Explore historic Cusco, former capital of the Inca Empire.
* The Inca Jungle Trail - mountain biking and trekking through the jungle to spectacular Machu Pichu
* 3-day white water rafting trip down the Apurimac River, camping on the riverbank.
* Homestay with indigenous islanders on Amantani Island in the middle of Lake Titicaca.
* Condors, camping and hiking in Canyon Del Colca (twice the depth of the Grand Canyon)
* Soak up the charms of beautiful Arequipa.
* Mysterious Nazca - pre-inca cemetery and the option to fly over the Nazca lines
* Sandboarding at Huacachina
* Ballestas Islands boating
* Very personalized small group experience (compare with other programs of up to 40 in group)
* Fantastic program leader supported by great local guides

Travel Types

• BackPacking Abroad
• Homestay
• Language Immersion
• Nature Tours
• Overland Tours
• Rafting
• Student Tours
• Trekking
• Volunteering
• 4th World Studies
• Eco Tours
• Environmental Studies
• Heritage Tourism
• Native Culture Studies
• Photography
• Tours

Degree Level

Bachelors Degree (Undergraduate)

Qualifications

No experience needed, but we like participants to have a positive attitude, be enthusiastic, open to new experiences and other cultures.

Minimum Education

High School

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Subject Areas

Cost in US$:

4,750

Cost Includes:

• Excursions
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Language instruction
• Registration fees
• Travel while in host country
• Written materials abroad
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

* Visa on arrival
* All program transport in Peru, including one internal flight
* All program accommodation
* Most meals
* All excursions, activities and adventure travel described in the itinerary, including Spanish lessons and volunteer projects
* Experienced Pacific Discovery program leader supported by local guides
* Assistance booking international flights to/from Lima, Peru

Credit Available

yes

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

• Education
• Grassroots Organization
• Orphans
• Youth

Age Range

18-24 ideal

This Program is open to

Worldwide, American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi and South African Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

in Groups of 12

Scholarships are Available

Pacific Discovery does not provide scholarships, but we are happy to support you with any information required if you would like to pursue your own indepdent scholarship application.

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

2-3 days

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad

Pacific Discovery's Mission Statement

Through meaningful and challenging experiential travel, we assist participants in gaining the skills, confidence and insight to realize their potential in an increasingly global society; develop empathy for other cultures; further understanding of international issues; and heighten appreciation for the earth's wilderness and diversity.

Year Founded

2001