CUSCO, PERU

Cusco is a city of 300,000 inhabitants, and it has a rich and colorful history. Located at an altitude of 11,000 feet in a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains, it is the former capital of the majestic Inca Empire, called by the Incas "The Navel of the World." It is a picturesque place, with all the buildings by law bearing red tile roofs. The central square, the Plaza de Armas, is a lively place with vendors, historic churches, and many restaurants offering local dishes. Night life is active with clubs and bars. The city itself is considered a living historical monument, as a short stroll down a street will reveal original Inca walls incorporated into the present day buildings.

Alternative Location: SACRED VALLEY, PERU

An alternate site for your study is the village of Taray, which lies in the Sacred Valley of the Incas about 60 km. from Cusco.

With a climate a little warmer than Cusco due to lower altitude, it is an excellent starting point for excursions to other picturesque places. The school is located in a beautiful building surrounded by a large garden and is divided into a sleeping and study/teaching area. Teachers rotate between the two locations, giving students varied opportunities.

A traditional Inca village and the bustling activity of Cusco introduces students to two very different aspects of Peruvian culture. Accommodation is in the school itself. All meals are included. Transportation to arrive is included. Students do their own return by inexpensive bus. Many students combine locations. Your study can be split up with various weeks in Cusco and one week Sacred Valley. Two weekly excursions are included in Sacred Valley. You must book your week in the Sacred Valley in advance, and you must study in Cusco for at least one week prior to your study in Taray. If you are doing group classes in Taray, there is a minimum number required for the program to be offered that week. If this number is not reached (rarely), the school may reschedule your week.

MANU RAINFOREST BIOSPHERE LOCATION

There is a one week program held in Manu National Park, internationally acclaimed as one of the most biodiverse areas on earth. Both the wildlife and the journey to arrive are amazing. You travel to the park over the Andes mountains, past pre-Inca ruins and then down through virgin cloud forest into the rainforest itself. Accommodation is in a lodge. This is an amazing opportunity to experience the wonders of a tropical rain forest, all the while continuing your Spanish study.

Cultural Activities And Excursions

The school offers daily cultural activities which are offered at no cost. These can range from dance classes to indigenous languages. Also offered are excursions to explore this fascinating part of Peru. Trips to Machu Picchu are not included in your study unless you do the special package. Other trips can be easily arranged. Please be alerted that if you want to hike the Inka Trail, these reservations must be made at least six months in advance.
 

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