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Gap Year Programs in Peru

Hola, chicos. In awe by alluring green jungles and tall mountains that span for miles? Want to explore hidden caves along the Inca Trail that have still been undiscovered by man? I bet you’re in search of a Spanish oasis where you can practice the language with dozens of locals in streets so colorful they put your box of 96 crayons to shame. If this is on your loooong bucket list, a gap year in Peru is just your pill! But take it from us, you need to get there now. Here’s why:

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Seamester

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Impact Gap Year

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MAXIMO NIVEL

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Latest Program Reviews

The Key to a New Beginning

by: Alyssa Galdamez - United StatesProgram: EF Gap Semester: 10-Week Programs in Multiple Destinations
9

Being part of the first ever Voyager semester in Fall 2023 was an experience I was unprepared for, and the best decision I could’ve ever made. Little did I know that by embarking on this endeavor, I would unlock a part of myself that I didn’t know existed until then. My semester with EF Gap Year taught me self-love, self discovery, and the importance of being uniquely myself. Never did I think it was possible to be able to afford this trip of a lifetime, but I was left with so much satisfaction and so much pride that I had set this goal and I achieved it. This semester taught me that I can do anything I set my mind to and no goal is too big or too impossible. I flew to the other side of the world by myself and saw glowing blue oceans in Thailand that I never thought I’d be able to witness in my lifetime. I learn pieces of languages from each country I spent time in. I connected with people I would’ve never met without this experience and found with locals who had so much passion for their homeland and wanted to share it with me. Was I prepared for this transformation and self growth? No, and only because it was more than I could ever ask for. To anyone who is scared to take such a leap of faith, do it anyway. I haven’t met one person who regretted doing this for themselves, or thought it was a waste of time or money. Dream big, and you will reach the stars.

A Guide to Gap Year in Peru

Popular Locations

Why the rush into your Peru gap year? The country is full of the most welcoming people, mouthwatering food (like hot cuy and fresh quinoa), and home to one of the ancient wonders of the world, Machu Picchu. Peru is still a developing country, yet it’s VERY affordable to live there. You’ll be living like a king in paradise! 

Lima. Curious about spending your Peru gap year in the country’s vibrant capital of Lima? Let your curiosity run wild as you take over the hidden exciting streets of the city. Enjoy low key moments, sitting the middle of plaza, people watching with a hot cup of cafe con leche (coffee and milk)? You can do that here in Plaza Mayor. Have a fascination for century old churches? With the majority of the population practicing on the Catholic religion, Lima is home to some of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world, like the Monastery of Santo Domingo. It’s the perfect homebase for lots of meaningful learning and growing on your gap year.

Cusco. You’ll never be disappointed when spending your gap year in Cusco, Peru. It’s the launching point of the Inca Trail, but also offers a whirlwind of culture to uncover. It even hosts plenty of Incan tribe architecture—take to the high ground on your gap year programs in Peru to the sight of Saqsaywaman. Not only is the location on to the best views of Cusco, but it’s a great example of an Incan fortress. Walk along the stone walls of this structure and question how the Inca Tribe perfected this beauty with manual labor. These are just some of the discoveries you’ll make on Peru gap year programs!

Machu Picchu. The famous Inca Trail that you can hike for four days will lead you to the jaw-dropping sight of Machu Picchu. If you don’t want to hike it, no worries! You can also wear your high heels / take a train or bus. Machu Picchu hosts over 20 million visitors a year, and the number is growing. Unfortunately, those numbers are too hard to handle, and the city of ruins is actually getting… well, ruined. Since the country can’t afford to protect this classic beauty, talks are being had about closing it from public viewing. Gap year programs in Peru can help you cross this off your bucket list before it’s too late! VAMOS.

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