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The focus of this program in the Peruvian Andes is a homestay and service project in the Andean village of Vicos. The people of Vicos have had little to no interaction with outsiders and have maintained their traditional customs as well as their language, Quechua. However, the popularity of the region for alpine climbing and its close proximity to Huascarán National Park are bringing change to the area. In an attempt to create community-based sustainable development, the people of Vicos are interested in setting up locally owned and operated ecotourism programs, and they have invited Crooked Trails to assist them.
During our homestay we will eat and live in the local way. The conditions are simple yet comfortable, and the food is locally grown and nourishing. Our days in the village will be spent hiking with locals helping them develop maps of the proposed trekking region, offering English classes, and working on tourism projects for the area. In addition, the local shaman will teach us about medicinal plants and traditional healing. Evenings will be spent on Quechua language lessons, music, and dancing. Other activities will include studying traditional handicrafts such as basket weaving and embroidery and relaxing with your host family.
This program will also explore many of Peru’s major sights, including the magnificent ancient capital of Cuzco with its narrow streets and rich history. We will spend several days in the Sacred Valley of the Inca exploring ruins and visiting colorful markets. We will also hike a portion of the Inca Trail to visit the spectacular ruins at Machu Picchu. The hiking is at high altitudes and can be challenging, but anyone in good physical condition with a willingness to try can easily make it with the support of our local guides.
Return to Peru |
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The Andes
and the Sacred Valley
Program length: 18 days
Dates:
09 May to 26 May, 2009
06 Jun to 23 Jun, 2009
Grade: Moderate
Price: $2,825 plus airfare
Sample Itinerary (PDF)
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for Sacred Valley! |
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Highlights!
Village homestay
Sustainable tourism project
Hike the high Andes
Trek to Machu Picchu
Sacred Valley of the Incas
Weaving with Inca artisans
Discovering ancient cultures
Historical tour of Lima |
