CAREER EXPLORATION IN STEM WITH FOCUS ON ENGINEERING & SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Arrive in Cuzco (CUZ), where our team will greet you and take you to the Sacred Valley, home to our base. Meet your fellow travelers and settle in, followed by a safety orientation and introductions.

Prepare for an in-depth orientation covering group goals, learning objectives, and cultural tips. Break into Mentor groups for icebreakers and activities before starting our first day of exploration. In the afternoon, we’ll meet the MEDLIFE leaders, the nonprofit we’ll be working with, and visit a highland village that benefited from a past water infrastructure project. Discover how access to water supports the community’s economy, ecology, and health.

Over the next three days, we’ll work with local residents and an engineer in an Andean community to provide sustainable water access for agriculture. You’ll learn key engineering principles, from topography analysis to calculations, while addressing critical water challenges. In the afternoons and evenings, we’ll focus on the internship curriculum, preparing you for your individual or group project. One evening, a water conservation expert will give an insightful talk.

Today, we’ll explore the Maras Salt Mines, marveling at Incan engineering, then head to Piuray Lagoon for a kayaking adventure to discover Cuzco’s water source. In the afternoon, we’ll arrive in Cuzco, enjoy a meal in the historical center, and stroll through the Plaza de Armas. The next day, we’ll tour the historical center and its charming cobblestone streets before returning to the Sacred Valley for some well-earned rest.

We’ll resume our project, collaborating with community members and engineers to enhance access to resources for local agriculture. We’ll also visit nearby communities to explore traditional backstrap weaving passed down since Inca times. In the evenings, dive into cultural activities like Peruvian dance and Andean music. We’ll also begin the internship project and curriculum activities. A guest speaker will share valuable insights on community, conservation, and sustainable development.

Today, we’ll visit a highland village to try molding clay ceramics and explore pre-Hispanic instruments, immersing ourselves in the local culture one last time. In the afternoon, we’ll tour the Pisac Archaeological Site, known for its agricultural terraces, ceremonial structures, and breathtaking Andean views. Marvel at the advanced Incan engineering, including preserved water channels and the strategic mountaintop location. Later, we’ll engage in leadership activities to reflect on our journey so far. Pack your bags and rest up for the Lares Trek and Machu Picchu tomorrow!

¡Vamonos! We’ll begin our journey to Machu Picchu by traveling to Lares, the starting point of our trek. We’ll hike through traditional farming communities and alpine meadows to our first campsite, where we’ll sleep under the stars. The next morning, we’ll continue on the Lares Trek, reaching the highest point of the pass and hiking alongside alpacas before descending into the Sacred Valley. We’ll then take a train to Aguas Calientes and settle in for the night, preparing for an early start the next day.

On Day 15, we’ll visit Machu Picchu! We’ll take a bus to the ruins to explore the Lost City of the Incas, where our guide will share the fascinating history of this UNESCO World Heritage site. After lunch, we’ll visit the local artisan market before taking the train back to Ollantaytambo and returning to our Home Base.

As we return to our project, we’ll focus on supporting local farmers by exploring sustainable water distribution solutions. In the afternoon, we’ll continue with our internship projects and engage in team-building activities. We’ll also hear from community leaders, who will share valuable insights as guest speakers. Since these are your final service days, take the opportunity to go the extra mile in giving back to the Sacred Valley community and connecting with those around you!

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the Southern Valley of Cuzco! Today, we’ll visit a Quechua community, cooking, sharing stories with local families, and immersing ourselves in authentic Andean culture while staying overnight in adobe homes. The next day, get ready for an exciting whitewater rafting adventure through Class II and III rapids, followed by a thrilling zipline experience. In the afternoon, we’ll return to our Home Base to relax and prepare for project presentations the next day.

Today, we’ll present our final projects to our nonprofit partner, showcasing everything we’ve learned over the past three weeks. The top proposals will be shared with the community for consideration on equitable and sustainable water distribution. In the afternoon, we’ll participate in a final leadership activity before our farewell dinner with local partners and hosts.

Before we know it, our Peruvian adventure has come to an end. Head to the airport today with memories that will last a lifetime! Staff will assist students with their check-in and accompany them until they have safely departed for their gates. ¡Buen Viaje!