Day 1: Arrival in Lima
Greetings and welcome to Lima! You will meet your amazing Group Leader at the airport who will then accompany you to your accommodations to settle in. After meeting your group for an orientation and safety overview, you will all embark on a fun walk to explore the beautiful Miraflores. This sounds like an incredible way to start your trip!
Day 2: Lima Reality Tour & Flight to Arequipa
Today’s morning will be dedicated to practicing conversational skills in a language lesson that revolves around daily life. Following that, we will embark on an exciting adventure to visit some of MEDLIFE’s partner communities. This will be a unique opportunity to learn about poverty and global health while having fun practicing Spanish with community members.
We’ll take a break for lunch and then come back together to reflect on our day before heading out to catch our flight to Arequipa later in the day. Let’s get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Day 3: Arequipa
Today, we are up for a full day of exciting activities in Arequipa. In the morning, we will have an interactive Spanish lesson where we will master history-related terms. Your journey begins with a visit to the Santa Catalina Monastery, an active nunnery that resembles a city within a city. The monastery has a maze-like layout, secret courtyards, and beautiful gardens.
Afterwards, head to the scenic Colca Valley as you traverse the Salinas y Aguada Blanca National Reserve where you will observe vicuñas in the wild and will be able to pet alpacas. On the different stops admire the majestic volcanoes of Arequipa. Arrive in Chivay and settle.
Day 4: Colca Valley
Early in the morning visit the Cruz del Condor and after a little trek, enjoy the flight of the biggest flying birds in the Andes! In the afternoon, you will experience an interactive language lesson about Peru’s native people.
Day 5: Puno
Travel to Puno and take a boat excursion to visit the Luquina community located on the shimmering deep blue Lake Titicaca. According to Andean beliefs, Titicaca is considered the birthplace of the sun. This lake is the largest in South America and the highest navigable body of water in the world, situated at almost 12,500 feet above sea level.
Titicaca is an enchanting and unique place, and it has been home to highland cultures that have preserved their old ways and traditions for centuries. When you arrive, you’ll receive a warm welcome from the Luquina community, which will offer you a unique insight into their enduring customs and way of life.
Day 6: Lake Titicaca
Learn conversational Spanish and food-related terms through interactive lessons. Stay in a local family guesthouse in Peru for a unique and safe experience with stunning views and genuine interactions. Enjoy a peaceful kayaking adventure on Lake Titicaca.
Day 7: Return to Puno
On the tour, you’ll explore art-related terms and visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Taquile Island. There, you’ll witness a weaving demonstration and explore ancient pre-Incan pathways. You’ll also visit the Uros Floating Islands and experience their unique way of life. Your journey will end in Puno, where you’ll return enriched with the artistic heritage and historical insights of these remarkable places.
Day 8: Departure
In the morning, explore the Sillustani archaeological site with a local guide. Fly to Lima and enjoy the city’s culture and history at your own pace. Or take a bus to Cusco for an optional extension.
OPTIONAL
Day 9: Cusco
Begin your day with a morning Spanish lesson led by your local Group Leader, then transfer to the Pisac Market, where you’ll have free time to browse traditional Andean handicrafts and keep testing your Spanish skills!
After enjoying lunch, return to Cusco, making a stop at Mirador de Cusco for a memorable photo opportunity. Engage in a fun scavenger hunt, and in the evening, gather with your group to reflect on the day’s events, discuss relevant global issues, and practice your Spanish skills further.
Day 10: Machu Picchu
In the morning, embark on a train journey to Aguas Calientes, setting the stage for an unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu, the legendary “Lost City of the Inca” and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. After exploring this ancient marvel, board your evening train to Ollantaytambo, followed by a transfer to Cusco City.
Day 11: Departure
Take a flight to Lima and enjoy some final free time to explore or relax. Conclude your adventure with a reflection session, gathering insights and memories, before transferring to the airport for your return flight home.
Please contact us if you would like to request a detailed itinerary.