Travel is more than seeing new places—it’s about building deeper understanding. This is especially true on our immersive trip focused on the indigenous people of Peru. From community engagement to cultural exploration, students have the opportunity to go beyond surface-level experiences and truly connect with local traditions, history, and social impact projects.
This nine-day journey through Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu offers both education and action. Here’s a closer look at what your days will look like—and what you’ll take away from this transformative adventure.
Exploring the Heart of Cusco and Learning its Indigenous Roots
You’ll arrive in Cusco, a city layered with stories—both ancient and modern. A short orientation walk helps you get your bearings, but the real discovery starts the next day. We dive into major historical landmarks like Sacsayhuaman and Tambomachay, key sites in Cusco Peru history that reveal the architectural and spiritual brilliance of the Inca civilization.
The day ends at the Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo, where students witness vibrant cultural performances that share traditional dance and music passed down through generations.
Cultural Challenges and Conversations That Matter
Learning can be hands-on and fun. Day 3 brings a unique cultural scavenger hunt through Cusco—testing your teamwork, creativity, and cultural knowledge. It’s a lighthearted way to explore before shifting gears on Day 4 with a visit to Secsencalla, a rural Andean community.
There, students participate in an Engaged Education Roundtable focused on safe housing—an issue deeply tied to the daily lives of the indigenous people of Peru. This isn’t just an observation; it’s an exchange of ideas, perspectives, and real dialogue. And yes, there’s also time for soccer with the locals.
Rolling Up Your Sleeves With MEDLIFE
On Day 5, you’ll join MEDLIFE’s Healthy Homes Development Project. This means working side-by-side with community members to improve housing and sanitation through tangible projects like building greenhouses and installing efficient fuel stoves. This work is meaningful, rooted in need, and has a direct impact on local families.
Hiking Through Beauty: Rainbow Mountains of Peru
No trip to this region would be complete without visiting the Rainbow Mountains of Peru. On Day 6, you’ll hike among colorful, mineral-rich landscapes, meet alpacas and llamas along the way, and take in views of Ausangate Mountain, one of the most sacred peaks in Andean belief.
This physical journey is a chance to reflect on everything you’ve learned—and how the land itself shapes the identity of the people who live here.
Engaging the Sacred Valley and the Legacy of the Incas
The Sacred Valley, just a short drive from Cusco, is filled with moments that blend past and present. At the Sounds of the Andes Interpretation Center, you’ll dive into the art of crafting clay instruments—an ancient Inca tradition still practiced today. There’s a hands-on workshop where students can create their own pieces.
Later, explore the Pisac Archaeological Site, one of the most impressive examples of Incan architecture and ingenuity.
Capping It Off at Machu Picchu
Day 8 is the big one—Machu Picchu. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a bucket-list destination, but our visit goes deeper. With an expert guide, students learn the history behind the site, its spiritual significance, and the role it played in the resilience of the indigenous people of Peru.
It’s more than a photo opportunity—it’s a final chapter that brings the entire trip together.
Engaged Education - Transformative Educational Travel Experiences
This trip isn’t just about travel. It’s about connecting, understanding, and engaging with the world in a way that leaves a lasting impression. The indigenous people of Peru have rich traditions, deep wisdom, and a history that still shapes the present. With Engaged Education, you’ll experience that firsthand—and come home changed. Download the brochure
