An Amazing Andes Adventure

  Peru

• Cusco: 
Cusco

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks and 5-8 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: Based on your availability

Description: This is a unique opportunity for a group (or an individual) to customize their own experience in the southern Andes of Peru, from Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas and beyond to Machu Picchu. Activities in your Amazing Andes Adventure can include any of the following elements: home stays, language training, community service, visits to cultural & historical sites, exploration of ancient Incan ruins, trekking on the Inca Trail into Machu Picchu, ceramics classes, weaving demonstrations, dance or cooking classes, village visits and much more.

Our customized programs for individuals and groups are based on their special interests, time available and budget. With the long-standing relationships that we have cultivated with our associates Cusco, we are able to create unique programs of any focus, any length of time and any time of the year. In addition, we employ all local staff on our programs. We believe that their knowledge of the area and ability to introduce participants to the subtleties of the culture and customs will enhance the overall experience of our programs. For the variety of experiences that we create, we employ local staff that consists of a Program Coordinator who is surrounded by a competent team of host families, language instructors, cultural interpreters, guest speakers, service project supervisors and others in the communities where we run our programs.

In addition to attentive phone support prior to departure and ICA's informative Pre-Departure Packet, all our programs include an in-country orientation and education to the local culture. We strongly believe that all participants must gain an understanding and awareness of local customs and the culture prior to beginning their volunteer community service. For customized programs, the length, location and specific activities of this orientation are dependent on the interests and desires of the participants themselves.

Highlights: Your group has the ability to design the ideal experience. Whether you are seeking to immerse yourself in the Spanish language, participate in community service, trek the Inca Trail in to Machu Picchu or learn about ancient cultures of the past, ICA will develop a unique travel program that combines a rich experience of local cultures with a focus on your interests. With nearly a decade of experience and expertise, ICA can help you tailor a program to fit the time you have available and the activities you enjoy. We create affordable adventures, from as little as ten days to three months or more, with as much support as you need.

Qualifications: For the majority of community service projects that we can organize, no special qualifications or skills are necessary to serve, only an interest and willingness to give your time and energy. Some projects in medicine and healthcare do require specific skills of varying levels. Foreign language skills are not necessary to participate on any of our programs. However, for this Peru program, Spanish language is useful and will provide participants with many more opportunities to get involved.

ICA is committed to assisting a variety of individuals, non-governmental organizations and other associations in the communities where we organize our custom programs by providing capable and energetic individuals for volunteer community service. Special relationships have been formed that allow ICA to offer unique and meaningful service experiences for participants on any of our programs. Participants are encouraged to choose a service project that harmonizes with their interests and skills. ICA strives to align the interests, skills and background of each participant with the needs of the organization hosting the service project. for your customized program.

Cost in US$: Contact us for more information

Salary / Pay: unpaid

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: We are looking for group leaders, a student, teacher or member of a special interest group, such as a Spanish Club or class, or a History Club, who wishes to customize their own program of any length given their specific interests and budget. Participants are seeking unique opportunities to acquire new perspectives on their life and gain a greater understanding of our global community by immersing themselves in the local culture. Participants are respectful, mature and culturally sensitive.

Age Range: 16 and up

This Program is open to American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Peru in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups of up to 16

Application Process Involves:

• Phone Interview
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

International Cultural Adventures's Mission Statement: Since 1996, International Cultural Adventures has been creating extraordinary cultural, educational and volunteer service experiences in Asia and South America. Our Custom Design Programs allow you to create a truly unique intercultural experience. Gain deeper insights into local cultures, enjoy rugged outdoor adventures, explore your own special interests, or combine them all in one enriching journey it's up to you! The Cultural Immersion Experience (CIE) is our comprehensive program offering participants a uniquely intimate and profound intercultural experience through home stays, cultural seminars, language training, educational excursions, village visits, adventure trekking, community service, and more. The CIE is for you if you feel motivated to gain a deeper understanding of a very different culture and of yourself! by living as a member of a local family, participating in experiential learning activities, and actively engaging with the local culture through community service. Our extended or short-term adventures take you into some of the most breathtaking areas on Earth including Peru, India, and Nepal. Explore our programs and explore the world!

Year Founded: 1996