Summer Agriculture Study Abroad Programs in Peru

I had the best experience with our Guide Michael for our Political Science Study Abroad. Michael was very easy to speak to in regards to personal matters and not once was there any judgement whatsoever. For my first experience on a study abroad program I’m glad that it was with someone as a guide so caring like him.

This experience has been one of the best of my life. The people of Costa Rica have given so much patience and gratitude for our work and that makes the long days totally worth it. My confidence has grown so much over this trip and it has given me so much clarity. I am forever blessed to have met the Maximo staff and everyone along the road.

this experience was truly amazing. We were paired with the best team, and learned so much right off the bat. After leaving this trip I now feel so much more confident in myself, and the future. I am so thankful for this experience and suggest that if you are fortunate enough to do it, you should!!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ My experience with Maximum in Costa Rica was absolutely amazing and unforgettable. This was my very first time studying abroad, and I could not have asked for a more welcoming, loving, and meaningful experience. From the moment I arrived, everyone at Maximum made me feel like family. The energy, kindness, accommodations, and overall atmosphere were so warm and uplifting. Every experience and visit touched my heart in a special way. From visiting nursing homes, substance abuse facilities, and the HIV clinic, every encounter was memorable and meaningful. Every person I met made an impact on me. Everyone was so welcoming and willing to take me under their wing—teaching me their language, sharing their culture, and allowing me to experience life from a completely different perspective. This experience opened my eyes and gave me a new appreciation for life. It allowed me to see the beauty in people, culture, and community in a way I will never forget. I truly felt the energy of such beautiful people, and if given the opportunity, I would come back and work here to continue making an impact just as we experienced during this journey. A very special thank you to Ellen, our leader and guide. She was absolutely amazing, and I am so grateful for the wonderful experiences and locations she selected for us. Her guidance and care made this trip even more special. I would also love to give a heartfelt thank you to everyone I had the pleasure of meeting: Hector, Karen, Victoria, Jax, Gabby, Kaylee, Maria Arias (thank you for the awesome chicken sandwich!), our amazing driver, Michael, Sharon, and so many others who made us feel welcomed and cared for. Special thanks as well to Dr. Alex, Dr. Tatiana, and Nurse Gerald for taking time out of their busy schedules to teach, guide, and share their knowledge and experiences with us. To every person who participated and made this journey possible: thank you from the bottom of my heart. You made a lasting impact on my life, and I will forever remember this experience. God bless you all!

We had an impactful experience during our study abroad trip. They planned a variety of meaningful experiences and provided tentative support during the entire trip. A special thanks to Ellen for her support and grace.

The service learning trip to Costa Rica instilled a greater love for agricultural and eco sustainability. I conquered one of my greatest fears by completing the hanging bridges hike. I highly recommend to everyone to see Costa Rica though the eyes of the local people. Pura Vita!

My experience was eye-opening. I enjoyed my time at the site and at Maximo Nivel. Everyone was kind and very helpful. The faculty at the healthcare facility was honest and open to answering questions. I would most definitely come again to experience the culture of Costa Rica.

I had the best time working with animals this week at the husky shelter. I learned so much about the people in Costa Rica and also the animals. I loved seeing the amount of love and care all the workers had for each of the animals.

I thoroughly enjoyed my time! I loved the different foods that our host family made for us. They always made sure we had enough food! I also really enjoyed my work site! I was able to see how to correctly interact with dogs! I loved the person that told us what to do everyday. She was so sweet!

It was amazing to see the realities of some of the children and their families and to learn and grow from that! I am so excited to continue my career in education and have this in my teaching background!

It was an absolutely great experience teaching English to the kids at Divino Niño, it showed that even though a lot of them come from backgrounds that are not great, it still showed their resilience and how they move forward in their lives.

My trip was awesome there’s some stuff I wish I could have done. But overall I had a very good time. I wanted to go to the beach but the rafting and activities were great. I had a great service site and thoroughly enjoyed it .

I felt supported throughout the program, and it was a great way to experience Peruvian culture. The housing location and free water were extremely helpful. Key tips: bring a hat, rain jacket, and sunscreen. A constructive note: managing food allergies (like my gluten allergy due to soy sauce in some Peruvian dishes) would have been very difficult without the assistance of a Spanish-speaking, gluten-free student. Overall, a genuinely valuable travel experience.

The directors were incredibly kind and helpful, actively encouraging us to speak Spanish and immerse ourselves in the culture. They made a great effort to ensure we met Peruvian people. A key benefit was connecting with students in my major and learning about Peruvian life. I highly recommend this program for studying abroad. A tip: Go to the beach and Paracas if you get the chance! Overcoming the challenge of speaking Spanish was worth it.

Cesar and Rodrigo were amazing! Cesar was extremely kind and helpful, and Rodrigo was fantastic, spending time with the group and making us comfortable. The biggest challenge was the language barrier, but it wasn't a major issue, as I was able to manage ordering and essential communication. The best benefit was the friendships made. I highly recommend Arcos for study abroad students. Live in the moment and enjoy the trip!

This program offers truly enriching experiences, including the opportunity to immerse yourself in another culture, language, and customs. I significantly improved my Spanish skills, allowing for basic conversations with native speakers. I highly recommend this program to prospective students. Tip: research attractions and seize every opportunity in Peru! Remember to bring toilet paper!

The Arcos directors were very nice and dedicated, caring for every participant. The housing was good, though the eggs looked slightly unusual. Be sure to bring your own toilet paper to Cusco and find altitude sickness pills. Altitude sickness was a challenge, but I valued the benefit of seeing my family again. This was a meaningful academic and cultural experience.

Cesar was very helpful, particularly when I felt sick en route to the airport. Rodrigo provided excellent advice and treated us like friends; the whole group thoroughly enjoyed his input and attitude. I highly recommend this experience for the new environment and great friendships you will make. Just be aware of the weather and consider using waterproof bags.

Arcos provided a perfect, immersive study abroad experience. The directors were excellent, even joining us on unscheduled events like the beach trip. While the language barrier was challenging at times, I strongly recommend reviewing Spanish beforehand. The program offered wonderful benefits, including meeting new friends and connecting with the local people.

I highly recommend this program! The Arcos directors Cesar and Rodrigo are fantastic. The biggest challenge was getting acclimated to Cusco, but the benefits of cultural immersion and learning more Spanish were invaluable, plus I earned course credit. I confidently recommend this for students seeking academic and personal growth. Tip: pack a laundry bag!