Peru: Sacred Valley Service

Peru: Sacred Valley Service

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Questions? Call (440) 975-9691 for an admissions counselor

2024 Program Dates

July 16 – July 27, 2024 Limited Start Here

Understand life in rural communities of the Peruvian Andes by exploring the issues of clean water infrastructure, education, and access to public services. Get to know local families, contribute to sustainable service projects, and learn about the former capital of the Inca empire. Hike through majestic mountains, bike down into Ollantaytambo, and visit Machu Picchu.

Students love getting immersed in village life and experiencing authentic Peruvian culture!

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Packing the right gear (and the right amounts) is the first step to an incredible travel experience. Follow these tips to pack like a pro:

Travel light. Pack only the essentials. You’ll need less than you think!
Consider no checked bag. We strongly recommend that you consider packing only a carry-on size bag. This prevents your luggage getting lost or separated from you, keeps your bag manageable, and helps you be more mobile on your travel day.
Bring the right clothes. Pack clothes that are culturally appropriate for your destination and acceptable for service projects. This means bringing long shorts (think Bermuda and basketball shorts), t-shirts with sleeves to cover shoulders, and appropriate footwear.
Leave your valuables behind. While traveling, it’s easier for things to get lost, stolen, or damaged. Keep any prized possessions safe at home.
Check with TSA. Make sure your luggage complies with TSA regulations, especially your carry-on. Useful tip: Pack an empty water bottle and fill it up after security.
Extra paperwork? If you need additional forms filled out to get credit for your service hours, no problem! Bring these forms with you so they can be completed in-country.

Daypack

A school backpack is ideal as it will be used for daily activities and outings.

  • Passport
  • Photocopy of passport
  • Wallet/money
  • Book and/or journal
  • Pen
  • Phone
  • Camera
  • Chargers
  • Ear buds
  • Change of clothes
  • Water bottle
  • Medication
  • Additional community service forms
  • Consent to Travel Letter (for students under 19, recommended by the US State Dept but not required)
  • Travel Documentation
Main Luggage

A 40-50 liter duffel bag or backpack is ideal.

Clothes

It is winter in the southern hemisphere and we’ll be spending significant time at high altitude and outdoors. Come prepared for cold winter nights. Think of how you can pack for wearing layers to allow you flexibility depending on how warm or cold it is.

  • Socks (12)
  • Underwear (12)
  • Thermal base layer (1 set)
  • Pants/capris/leggings (2)
  • Athletic shorts (1-2, one pair of knee length)
  • Jeans (1)
  • T-shirt (3-5)
  • Long-sleeved shirt (5-7)
  • Pajamas
  • Swimsuit
  • Soft shell jacket
  • Micro puff jacket (evenings can be very cold at these altitudes)
  • Fleece/hoodie
  • Strappy sandals (like Tevas or Chacos)
  • Sneakers
  • Hiking boots
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat (for sun)
  • Winter hat
  • Winter gloves/mittens
  • Quick dry towel

Toiletries

(travel sized in ziplock bags)

  • Shampoo (biodegradable, like this)
  • Conditioner
  • Body wash (biodegradable, like this)
  • Face wash
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Oxybenzone-free sunscreen (reef-safe)
  • Bug spray
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Contacts
  • Contact solution
  • Foam earplugs
  • Personal med kit
  • Deodorant
  • Wet Wipes
  • Razor/shaving cream

Miscellaneous

  • Headlamp/flashlight
  • Sleeping bag rated to 15 degrees Fahrenheit (consider one rated to 0 if you get colder when you sleep)
Important Reminders
  • *Community Service Appropriate Attire includes T-shirts and tank tops with no visible undergarments and shorts with a 3” or more inseam.
  • Don’t forget the Big Five: Water Bottle, Sunscreen, Bug spray, Rain jacket, Closed-toe shoes.
  • Students must bring additional hand sanitizer and one disposable mask per day of the program, or three hand-washable masks.
  • Students will need to use a face shield in many indoor locations, including airports.