Language Programs in Peru

Peru has a variety of cities, towns, and villages offering plenty of opportunities to improve your language skills. Whether you want to live in a populous city like Lima or immerse yourself in a rural community like Urubamba, there are many different places to brush up on your Spanish skills or learn the indigenous language of Peru.

Lima is the capital of Peru and rests upon the country’s Pacific coast. It is the second driest metropolis in the world, after Cairo, Egypt, and can therefore be recognized by its barren hillsides. Known for its cuisine, Lima hosts an annual food festival that should not be missed as well as an impressive farmers market showcasing a range of fresh ingredients. Once your stomach is full and you’ve learned the names of every possible dish, you’ll be able to visit Lima Plaza Mayor, the Lima Cathedral, or the Government Palace to practice your Spanish language skills outside the classroom.

Cusco is a city in the Peruvian Andes and the gateway to many famous sites and regions throughout the country. As a well-known world heritage site, Cusco is the most visited city in Peru. Though it has a very different landscape than Lima, Cusco provides an equally vibrant and colorful experience for language study in Peru. Well-preserved colonial architecture and Spanish influence can be seen in juxtaposition to the Inca culture in Cusco. Whether you are interested in learning Spanish or Quechua, Cusco is a city that will allow you to improve your language skills immensely.

Urubamba. Located in the Sacred Valley, Urubamba is just an hour from Cusco along the Urubamba River. Home to sacred ruins, not the least of which is the infamous Machu Picchu, Urubamba is no stranger to international travelers. Despite being a popular travel hub, Urubamba remains a small village that doesn’t feel much like a tourist destination. With a strong influence from indigenous groups, Urubamba is a popular choice for language study in Peru among those who want to experience the Peruvian way of life in a tranquil, traditional setting.