Download printable version (.PDF file)

Student Fees





DAY ONE - International Flight to Lima Peru
International flights arrive in the evening. Greeting by Interact's Foreign Representative in the airport lobby. Transfer to your Miraflores Lima hotel.

DAY TWO - Cusco / Hotel / Stargazing
Flight to Cusco, the archaeological capital of South America. The Incas called this place "the Navel of the World." It's a picturesque location with all homes bearing red-tiled roofs by law. Later, explore the vibrant Plaza de Armas, surrounded by historical landmarks, shops, and restaurants. Conclude with a fascinating evening visit to the unique planetarium, where you'll learn how the Inca interpreted the stars and southern skies constellations. Weather permitting, conclude with an amazing stargazing experience through professional telescopes.

DAY THREE - Sacred Valley
The Sacred Valley traces its winding, astonishingly beautiful course to the northwest of Cusco. It's easy to see why the Incas considered the valley as a special place. In the upper sector, the stupendous ruins of Pisac dominate the broad alluvial valley floor. Stroll through its famous native market before continuing to Ollantaytambo, a magnificent little town overwhelmed by a great temple-fortress that clings to the sheer cliffs across the river valley. Upon your return to Cusco, meet your host families. Dinner with families.

CUSCO HOMESTAY: live with host families who live in middle class residential neighborhoods, approximately two miles from the Centro Historico. Homes are American-style and are more comfortable than most can imagine. Host families are interviewed, carefully selected and monitored by our resident director. Everyone speaks Spanish in the homes. Students share with one to three other group members of the same general language ability.

MONDAY-FRIDAY - Daily Language Classes:
EXCEL is strategically located within the Centro Historico and is accredited by the Ministry of Education of Peru. Their language programs are based on the Natural Approach, which focuses on the development of proficiency in the four basic communication skills. Small groups of 2-6 students meet for four hours daily with certified Spanish teachers. Each participant receives a Tourist Ticket, valid for the entire week, which allows entrance to many of Cusco's main attractions such as the Cathedral, San Blas Church, Regional History Museum, and Santa Catalina Museum.




The following half day activities are included:

  • Cusco City Tour visits the most important sites in and around Cusco. Explore Koricancha, the Temple of the Sun and the Cathedral, home to over 300 paintings from the colonial era. Next, drive to the fortress of Sacsayhuaman overlooking the city. Take some great pictures of the city and valley below. Continue to the smaller sites of Tambomachay, Qenq'o and Puka Pukara. Conclude with a visit to an artisan shop with artwork, handmade Alpaca sweaters, blankets and typical souvenirs.
  • Participate in our exclusive SOMOS humanitarian total experience. You'll receive a list of the most needed items and visit a local 'super', where you'll have an opportunity to purchase those supplies (budget $15 each). Complete your SOMOS experience as you interact with the children while painting, gardening, etc.
  • Dance Salsa!
  • Choco Museo , make your own chocolates.
  • Friday: Presentation of official certificate of participation, documenting the level achieved.
DAY NINE - Machu Picchu
Experience a fascinating train experience from Cusco to Machu Picchu. Your early morning rail trip and zig-zag bus ride up the mountain brings you to the wondrous outpost of MachuPicchu, a remote fortress city abandoned by the Inca. Machu was reclaimed by the jungle and hidden from view until it was rediscovered in 1911. With altars, temples, staircases, and terraces, this is one of the world's most extraordinary sacred sites.

DAY TEN - LIMA / USA
Depart Cusco for your connecting flight in Lima. Transfers and/or touring are based upon available time and traffic conditions. Lunch and dinner are on your own today. The airport food court is always open. Later, board your overnight international flight to the USA, arriving Tuesday.


DEPARTURES
FRIDAY OR SATURDAY
10 days/9 nights
NIGHTS
Lima/Miraflores Hotel
Cusco Hotel
Cusco Homestay

1
1
7
MEALS
All meals are included from breakfast on Day Two through breakfast on Day Ten