DAY 1

VISIONS students arrive at the Lima airport, where VISIONS leaders meet participants and fly with them to Cuzco. After a quick call home, students are greeted by our professional driver and project coordinator, Nico Jara. We then make the gorgeous hour-long drive into the Sacred Valley and our homebase in Urubamba. 

Once we’re settled, we dive into orientation, explore town with a fun scavenger hunt, and hold our first Circle meeting. That evening, we gather for a Welcome Dinner cooked by Neyda, complete with music and laughter to kick off the adventure.

DAY 2

Our primary project includes building irrigation canal networks in the rural community of Yanahuara. This is more than mere construction; it’s about preserving an agriculture-based livelihood for communities of the Sacred Valley. 

A memorable start to the day is the Pachamama ceremony, which is a tribute to the Earth and brings the community together to begin work. Students also rotate onto homebase crew, preparing meals, cleaning, and market shopping. 

DAYS 3 – 5

Service continues with Quechua neighbors and progress on the canals. Afternoons highlight cultural exchange and some of the Sacred Valley’s treasures:

• A trip to the Chinchero, impressive and expansive Inca ruins, which also hosts one of the largest artisan markets in South America. 
• Stargazing near Maras, where you’ll see thousands of stars in the dark night sky.
• Options to explore Urubamba for “Bamba time,” a pickup soccer game, and chocolate-making workshop.
• Spending part of a day with a host family. Partnered with another VISIONS student, you step into daily life and discover how bonds form even across language differences.

Read more about daily life on VISIONS programs.

DAY 6

We rise early for the train to Aguas Calientes, gateway to Machu Picchu. After winding through the Sacred Valley, we ascend to the legendary citadel for a guided tour of temples, terraces, and breathtaking views. 

Before the return train, there’s time to explore the Aguas Calientes markets for souvenirs and handmade crafts.

DAYS 7 & 8

We pack up and travel to Cuzco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We tour the historic center, explore markets, and visit ruins before heading to the airport for a group flight to Lima with leaders who see each person off for their flight home. 

You will carry friendships, cultural understanding, and pride from meaningful high school community service in Peru. 

Day 8: Arrival home (if you’re in the U.S.), regardless of late-night flight or departure the following morning.

Until next time, Hasta la próxima!