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.
Perú
Secrets of the Sacred Valley
14 Days
Trip duration
9th – 12th
Grades
14 Days
Jul 1 - Jul 14, 2025
Jul 18 - Jul 31, 2025
Miami, FL
Arrival & Departure
$4,695
Tuition
14 Days
Trip duration
Jul 1 - Jul 14, 2025
Jul 18 - Jul 31, 2025
9th – 12th
Grades
*Airfare for group flight from Miami additional
Overview
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
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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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.
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.
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.
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).
During this program, we sleep in a variety of accommodations: simple hotels, hostels, homestays, and a village community house.
No. US Citizens do not need a visa for this program.
Peru is GMT-5 which is the same as Central Time in the USA.
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.
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.
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!
