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GLA Peru Programs for Teens
Home to the incredible Andes Mountains, Peru features a diverse landscape, plus traditions and culture that have survived for centuries. GLA offers several programs for teens in the Cuzco and Sacred Valley areas, focusing on volunteer and educational opportunities and cultural exploration. From treks in the highlands to a day with llamas to river rafting adventures, there's something for everyone ...
Home to the incredible Andes Mountains, Peru features a diverse landscape, plus traditions and culture that have survived for centuries. GLA offers several programs for teens in the Cuzco and Sacred Valley areas, focusing on volunteer and educational opportunities and cultural exploration. From treks in the highlands to a day with llamas to river rafting adventures, there's something for everyone here. Depending on the program you select, you'll experience different activities and work toward separate learning objectives. - Service Expedition in the Sacred Valley (14 or 21 days): Lend a hand on various projects that improve the lives of those who call the Sacred Valley home. - Foundations of Global Health (14 or 21 days): Assist with public health initiatives in rural highland communiti...
Program Highlights
Stroll through colonial Cuzco's cobblestoned alleys and artisan marketplaces.
Spend the day at Machu Picchu (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and learn about it's mysterious history from a knowledgeable guide.
Engage in hands-on projects alongside members of the community.
Hike the colorful Rainbow Mountain or go on an overnight trek through the Andes (depending on your program).
Snap a pic at the impressive and ancient Maras salt mines, which have been in use for centuries.
Quick Details
- Ollantaytambo, Peru
- 1-2 Weeks
- 2-4 Weeks
- Summer
- Community Service & Volunteering
- Experiential Learning
- Language Immersion
- All Nationalities
Awards




Program Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
My favourite thing to talk about
by: ruby forsyth - CanadaProgram: GLA Peru Programs for TeensSaying I loved my GLA experience is an understatement. I would say it has been my most life-changing, impactful and unique experience to date, and I find myself reminiscing and reflecting on it often. I was reluctant to go at first, I’d never travelled alone or been to South America, I wasn’t a sleepaway camp kid either, so this was very out of my comfort zone. From the very first dinner we had together, my leaders were welcoming, supportive, and authentic, they made me feel so included and comfortable with a new and unfamiliar environment. My local leader was knowledgeable about the area, and answered all the questions I had which allowed me to have a new perspective on my environment. Throughout the 2 weeks I was on the program, we spent 4 days in clinics, shadowing medical professionals, visited Machu Picchu, went whitewater rafting, and explored Cusco. My favourite part was the clinic days, although I wish we could’ve done more than just 4 days. This was where I could do my most hands-on work, and see the impact I was making in real time. Connecting with patients I was treating - despite our linguistic and cultural differences – was so special, it truly changed my life. While I was initially worried about the language barrier, I was quickly shocked at how easy it became to collaborate with others despite linguistic barriers. The doctors and patients were flexible and patient with me, and tried their best to help me when I was confused. At the end of the 2 weeks, I was shocked at the amount of spanish I had learned, including complex medical related phrases too! When I got home I was able to show off my skills to my whole family who were all pleasantly shocked at how much I’d learned. I also had the wonderful opportunity to spend lots of time with the children of the villages, who were so funny and kind. They welcomed us into their homes so graciously, played games with us, and gave me the most loving goodbye hug I’ve ever received. Talk about amazing, Machu Picchu was breathtaking. We had a knowledgeable guide to share his insight with us, which made the experience so unique and special. On our journey to Machu Picchu, we got to explore the towns of Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes. On top of all the amazing planned experiences, we also had plenty of time to explore Cusco and all it has to offer. Some evenings, if we weren’t too tired from the day’s activities, we would go on a walk around the city. We wandered the streets, markets, and town square. These activities gave me time to bond with others in my group, and build friendships. Some of my favourite memories come from these impromptu outings. In 2 short weeks, I made some of the best friends I’ve ever had, and to this day I wear a matching bracelet bought at San Pedro, Cusco’s famous market, with my best friend from the program. I am endlessly grateful for the learning, growth, and experience I had with GLA, it was truly life-changing in the best way possible.

Formative
by: Kinsey Hunkins - United StatesProgram: GLA Peru Programs for TeensThis was my daughter's first trip out of the country by herself. I was nervous. GLA staff was patient and helpful. We read all the materials and spoke to alumnae. On faith, we sent her on her way. The experience was eye-opening, character-building, fun, busy, productive, impactful and powerful! At the end of her trip, we picked her up at the airport and one of the first things she said is, "I want to go again." She made lasting connections with peers and mentors and had experiences that could not be replicated here. I am grateful to GLA staff for their dedication to safety, quality of programming, focus on culture and leadership and personal development. I highly recommend this program.

Staff so good
by: Hardin E. Program: GLA Peru Programs for TeensMentors were awesome. Always super helpful and supportive through the entire trip. There were a few days that I was unwell. They were all amazing when helping me out. Cesar was amazing and a great guide through this amazing country. Fernanda was exceptional, she was always there for us for moral support or just to have a great meaningful conversation with.
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Ollantaytambo, Peru
Types and Subjects
- Focus Areas
- Community Service & Volunteering
- Experiential Learning
- Language Immersion
Availability
Years Offered: 2025, 2026
- 1-2 Weeks
- 2-4 Weeks
- Summer
Age Requirement
14-17
Guidelines
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Solo, Group
Cost per week
Program Cost Includes
- Tuition & Fees
- Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
- All Program Activity Costs
- Medical / Accident Insurance
Accommodation Options
- Group living
Qualifications & Experience
- High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
- Some high school, no diploma
Application Procedures
- Online Application
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