Peru is one of the world’s most culturally rich and geographically diverse destinations home to the ancient Inca Empire, the vibrant Cusco region, the breathtaking Sacred Valley, and the legendary Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Rustic Pathways’ Peru teen tours are designed for high school students seeking a balance of community service, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventure, supported by 24/7 expert leaders.
Staff meet students immediately after clearing customs at Lima (LIM), ensuring a smooth arrival from the very first moment.
Compare Peru’s Three Signature Teen Programs
Picking where you want to go in Peru is easier with a clear side-by-side comparison.
| Program Name | Focus | Duration | Ages | Cost (Est.) | Service Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peru: Sacred Valley Service | Deep service, culture, & village partnership | 12 Days | 14–18 | $4,193 + Airfare | ~20 |
| Peru: Andes to Amazon | Adventure travel + rainforest ecology | 15 Days | 14–21 | $5,995 + Airfare | ~10–15 |
| Spring to the Sacred Valley | Short service & immersion | 8 Days | 14–18 | $3,245 + Airfare | ~15 |
Not Sure Which Peru Program Is Right for Your Student?
Our advisors help families compare service levels, adventure intensity, and travel readiness.
Talk with a Peru Program Specialist
Rustic Pathways has operated student travel in Peru for more than two decades, with deep partnerships across Andean communities, certified leaders, and a proven safety framework trusted by families worldwide.
Not sure which trip fits best? Advisors help families choose based on interests, comfort level, and travel experience.
Families often ask how Rustic Pathways structures pricing for Peru teen travel programs. Our programs use an all-inclusive model so students can stay focused on cultural learning, service, and exploration.
All-Inclusive Value: What Families Actually Pay
Rustic Pathways offers transparent, all-inclusive pricing so students can focus on learning and exploring.
Included
- All accommodations (hotels, hostels, homestays)
- All meals + purified drinking water
- All ground transportation (private buses, trains, domestic flights)
- All activities & entrance fees, including guaranteed Machu Picchu entry
- 24/7 supervision with a 1:7 or better ratio
- Emergency Evacuation Assurance
- Community service project materials
Not Included
- International airfare
- Personal spending (~$30–$50/week recommended)
- Passport/visa fees (visa usually not required for U.S. citizens)
- Travel insurance
- Required medications or immunizations
Dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) are fully accommodated in coordination with local chefs.
Safety, Supervision & 40+ Years of Trusted Experience
Rustic Pathways has been operating in Peru for more than 20 years with long-term partnerships across the Sacred Valley and Amazon.
Staffing & Training
- 1:7 ratio with leaders housed onsite
- All staff certified in First Aid, CPR, and Mental Health First Aid
- Adventure programs include Wilderness First Responders
- Local guides included for cultural depth and language support
Health & Risk Management
- Altitude acclimatization protocols in Cusco & Sacred Valley
- Only vetted, licensed providers for rafting, zip-lining, and trekking
- Secure medication management
- Food allergies handled directly with chefs in Spanish or Quechua
Accommodation & Transport
- Gender-separated rooms with staff on the same floor
- Private, seat-belted vehicles only
- Leaders supervise all movement, no unsupervised time
- Airport pickup immediately after customs at LIM
Peru Teen Tour Deep Dive: Andes to Amazon
Rustic Pathways’ most adventure-driven program, showcasing Peru’s diverse landscape from glacial peaks to dense rainforest.
Phase I — Sacred Valley & Cusco
Locations: Ollantaytambo, Cusco, Pacchanta
Highlights
- Full-day guided tour of Machu Picchu
- Train ride through the Sacred Valley along the Urubamba River
- Bike to the Maras Salt Terraces
- Whitewater rafting on the Vilcanota River
- Via Ferrata climb + multi-line zip-lining
- Chocolate-making workshop in Cusco
- Visit the Plaza de Armas & local markets
- Explore Incan ruins and learn about the Inca Empire
Phase II — High Andes Expedition
Location: Base of Ausangate Mountain
Highlights
- High-altitude trekking above 13,000 ft
- Natural hot springs surrounded by the Andes
- Lakeside picnic lunches
- Learn from local farmers and guides
Phase III — Amazon Rainforest
Location: Madre de Dios region, jungle lodge
Highlights
- Sunrise visit to macaw & parrot clay lick
- Night caiman-spotting
- Guided ecology hikes through the greatest biodiversity region on Earth
- Learn about public health, food systems, and community life in remote Amazon villages
Students who choose this program also visit the Sun Gate, learning how it historically guarded entry to Machu Picchu during the Inca Empire.
Program Deep Dive — Sacred Valley Service (Flagship Service Program)
This program focuses on ethical, long-term community partnership.
Service Impact
Students work alongside local kids, local schools, and village leaders on:
- Light construction projects
- Painting & refurbishing classrooms
- Educational support activities
- Environmental initiatives
- Spanish language interaction with village residents
Projects are chosen entirely by partner communities.
Cultural Exploration
- Visit ancient Incan ruins around Ollantaytambo
- Learn traditional weaving and Andean agricultural practices
- Experience communal meals prepared with local ingredients
- Explore local markets and the daily rhythms of small Andean towns
Program Deep Dive — Spring to the Sacred Valley
A shorter introduction to service and culture during spring break.
Highlights
- ~15 hours of meaningful community service
- Guided visit to Machu Picchu
- Walk historic Cusco streets and the Plaza de Armas
- Learn Peruvian cooking and taste regional small plates
- Explore nearby villages and spend time with local families
Ideal for first-time travelers or students seeking a compact cultural experience.
What Students Actually Learn (Skill Outcomes)
- Cultural Intelligence: Respectful engagement, Spanish language basics, and understanding Andean culture
- Leadership & Responsibility: Working in groups, decision-making, and adapting to new environments
- Outdoor Skills: Trekking, navigation, and safe adventure readiness
- Service Mindset: Ethical community partnership and global citizenship
- Confidence & Independence: Navigating a different country with structured support
Ready for Your Peru Adventure?
Choose the Peru program that fits your goals—service, culture, or expedition.
View All Peru Program Dates & Prices
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