Perú

Secrets of the Sacred Valley

$4,695

Tuition

*Airfare for group flight from Miami additional

14 Days

Trip duration

9th – 12th

Grades

14 Days

Jul 18 - Jul 31, 2025

Miami, FL

Arrival & Departure

$4,695

Tuition

14 Days

Trip duration

Jul 18 - Jul 31, 2025

9th – 12th

Grades

*Airfare for group flight from Miami additional

Overview

Set out on a two-week journey through the heart of the Sacred Valley, immersing yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and rich traditions of the Andean highlands. From the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu to the colorful peaks of Rainbow Mountain, this program offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and community service. Along the way, you’ll work with local Quechua communities, learning about sustainable agriculture and the ancient role of llamas in Andean life. As you explore the stunning scenery of Peru, you’ll also dive into its history, cuisine, and vibrant traditions, gaining a deeper understanding of Incan heritage and modern-day Peruvian culture.

Highlights

Explore the Ancient Wonder of Machu Picchu
Hike the Vibrant Rainbow Mountain
Support Sustainable Communities by Working with Llamas
Walk Through History in the Sacred Valley, Following the Footsteps of the Incas
Experience Traditional Peruvian Agriculture and Farming Techniques
Wander the Historical Ruins and Cobblestone Streets of Ollantaytambo and Cusco
Master the Art of Peruvian Cooking with a Local Chef
10 Hours of Service Learning

Get the itinerary

Want to learn more about traveling with ARCC or have more questions about this program?

Schedule a Call with Amy Coolidge

Explore Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley

Step into history as you explore the iconic ruins of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Take a guided tour through this ancient Incan city, learning about its architecture, spiritual significance, and the intricate engineering that allowed it to thrive in the Andean mountains. Beyond Machu Picchu, journey through the Sacred Valley, where you’ll wander the ancient streets of Ollantaytambo, visit traditional agricultural terraces, and hike to hidden Incan sites that reveal Peru’s deep connection to the land. This journey through the Sacred Valley offers an unparalleled exploration of Incan history and culture.

Explore

Llama Herding and Andean Conservation

Experience life in the high Andean villages of Urubamba as you engage in hands-on work with local llama herders. Learn how these traditional pack animals are being reintroduced to help sustain fragile mountain ecosystems and support the livelihoods of indigenous communities. As you guide llamas through the rugged hills, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how sustainable farming practices can preserve both the environment and local culture. This immersive experience connects conservation efforts with cultural heritage, fostering a unique bond between people, animals, and the land.

Culture

Rainbow Mountain Adventure

Set off on a thrilling hike to the summit of Vinicunca, the famous Rainbow Mountain. Known for its vibrant, multi-colored ridges, this natural wonder offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and vast valleys below. As you ascend to the 17,000-foot summit, you’ll learn from local guides about the geological and cultural significance of the mountain, and its importance to the indigenous Quechua people. This challenging hike rewards you with some of the most breathtaking vistas in the Andes and provides a perfect blend of adventure, cultural insight, and natural beauty.

Adventure

Common Questions

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Is the cost of airfare separate from program tuition?

All food, lodging, transportation, and activities are paid for with your trip tuition. Group airfare is additional and the cost depends on the program.

In order to be sure there are enough seats available on international group flights, ARCC books the international tickets in advance and families are invoiced for the cost of the international airfare.

Families are also responsible for booking flights or arranging transportation for students to meet their leaders and other group members at the program’s arrival airport. The leaders and students then fly internationally together as a group.

What should I pack?

Each program has a specific packing list that has been designed to fit the program’s activities, length, climate and cultural differences. This thorough list will be made available in the Pre-Trip Welcome Packet.

What is the weather like in Peru?

We travel to Peru during the dry season, though there can be occasional showers. The climate will vary from warm and sunny during the day (60 – 70 degrees) to cooler temperatures at night (30 – 40 degrees). Since Cusco’s elevations is over 11,000 feet, the sun is strong during the day and it tends to cool down significantly at night.

Is there a community service element on this program?

ARCC has three main foci when creating our programs. Peru: Secrets of the Sacred Valley is a cultural immersion program in which we commit our time to activities that give us the opportunity to experience an array of experiences within this dynamic country. Therefore, this program does not include community service.

What kind of health precautions should I take before traveling to Peru?

Peru is a relatively clean and safe place to travel. However, ARCC does recommend that you take some health precautions before your trip. When you enroll in the program, you will receive more complete information on pertinent travel vaccinations and immunizations. Please also refer to the Traveler’s Health section of the CDC website. Our leaders carry a full first aid kit, and are all certified Wilderness First Responders (WFR).

Where will we sleep?

During this program, we sleep in a variety of accommodations: simple hotels, hostels, homestays, and a village community house.

What is the transportation like once we are in Peru?

While in Peru, we will travel by train and private bus with a professional driver.

What is the food like?

We will have the opportunity to sample traditional Peruvian cuisine such as chicken, rice, beans, soups, and fresh fruit. ARCC works with local partners and restaurants to accommodate dietary restrictions

Students should inform ARCC of any dietary needs before the start of the program.

How much spending money should I bring?

For the Peru program, ARCC recommends that you bring an additional $75 of spending money for each week of travel. Most cash should come home, but you will want some personal money to pay for airline baggage fees at the airport, souvenirs/gifts, laundry, extra snacks, and emergencies (lost items, clinic visits, etc.). Most students opt to bring a small amount of cash, as well as personal debit or credit cards.

As with any international program, we strongly recommend talking to your bank about its international withdrawal policies to avoid any surprise fees or card freezes.

Do I need a passport?

Yes, all students traveling to Peru need to have a valid passport. Please make sure the passport expiration date is at least six months after you travel. Passport applications are available at the post office. If you do not already have a passport, you should apply for one as soon as you enroll in this program.

Do I need a visa?

No. US Citizens do not need a visa for this program.

What is the time difference between Peru and the USA?

Peru is GMT-5 which is the same as Central Time in the USA.

Do I really need to bring a backpack, or can I bring a rolling suitcase on this program?

Although you will not be doing traditional backpacking on this program, it is important that you bring a backpack or duffel with should straps as your main piece of luggage. During the program, the group will be navigating through airports, on and off buses, up and down stairways, and taking short hikes on unpaved paths. Everyone must be able to carry all of their own belongings which is more comfortable and efficient with a backpack.

Do I need to speak Spanish to join this program?

No. You will be able to participate in all the activities even if you do not speak any Spanish. However, if you study Spanish in school, you will have many opportunities to practice your language skills with the locals you encounter during your program. Having some basic conversational skills will enable you to form stronger bonds with the local people you will be meeting and helping.

What kinds of goods and supplies can we bring to donate for the people we meet?

We have the chance to live amongst some people who have the very basics for survival. With education being a tool to better their lives, basic school supplies are welcomed with open arms. Pens, pencils, notepads, and books are widely accepted. Soccer balls are also an incredible way to cross the cultural border and share smiles. Because of limited space, ARCC would ask that every person bring no more than a gym bag of goods to donate.

Have questions? Speak to one of our Program Directors, give them a call at (415) 332.5075 , they love talking about their trips!