DAY 1

Students arrive at Lima airport, where VISIONS leaders greet everyone and fly together to Cuzco. After a quick call home, we meet our project coordinator, Nico Jara, and drive an hour into the Sacred Valley to our homebase in Urubamba at the base of the Andes.

We settle in, begin orientation, and share our first Circle meeting. That evening, we enjoy a Cena de Bienvenida with community members, an Andean folklorico band, and a meal prepared by our cook, Neyda.

DAY 2

We start with workshops led by local maestros, learning how to mix cement, lay adobe bricks, and use tools safely. These skills prepare us for building irrigation canals in Yanahuara and improving preschool facilities.

Our first day includes a Pachamama ceremony, a traditional Incan offering to the Earth that unites us with the community and sets the tone for the work ahead.

DAYS 3 – 5

Projects are in full swing and rotating homebase crews prepare meals, deliver laundry, clean our living space, and shop at local markets.

We also begin artisan workshops (talleres) in pottery, chocolate-making, carpentry and jewelry. Afternoons bring hikes, soccer, “Bamba time” in Urubamba, and games with local friends.

One evening we head to the Moray ruins for unforgettable stargazing.

Read more about daily life on VISIONS programs.

DAY 6

Paired with another student, you spend the day with a host family, experiencing Quechua life through meals, activities and conversation. Don’t worry about your level of Spanish, as the desire to connect will be the drive to understand each other. Host families continue to be part of the program and are often at worksites with us.

“I truly loved the homestay because I feel like I was able to go back to a time period when people journey around the world for education.” –Jocelyn Rockman

DAY 7

After a morning to sleep in, we visit the Moray archeological ruins, where Inca terraces form an amphitheater-like arrangement. The terraces are believed to have been an Inca agricultural laboratory for diverse crops.

We then hike downhill to Maras and the salt mines of Salineras, where thousands of ponds glisten across the mountainside. 

DAYS 8 – 11

Projects thrive as each day passes with a sense of purpose and community. Community members join us at worksites and ceremonies take place every time two canals come together. 

We also visit the ruins of Ollantaytambo and enjoy workshops, karaoke, and “Bamba time.” 

DAYS 12

We travel to the Pisac ruins, hike into town for lunch, and browse the famous artisan market. Later, we head to Cuzco to explore Saqsaywaman, Plaza de Armas, and winding colonial streets filled with shops and markets.

DAYS 13 & 14

Get ready for our Machu Picchu excursion! We hop on board a tourist train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. We explore town, stay overnight, and rise early the next morning for a sunrise hike and guided tour of the world-famous ruins.

DAYS 15 – 17

By now, you’re skilled at construction and working side by side with friends who speak little or no English. We wrap up projects and celebrate our shared accomplishments.

Afternoons and evenings include salsa lessons, visiting a renowned ceramicist, reuniting with host families, shopping at local markets, and our group Talent Show.

DAYS 18 & 19

We pack up, clean our homebase, and head to Cuzco for flights to Lima. Two leaders are with the group until everyone has safely departed Lima on late-night or next morning flights.

Back home, you carry with you the friendships, skills, and sense of purpose gained in Peru. 

Day 19: Arrival home (if you’re in the U.S.), regardless of late-night flight or departure the following morning. 

Hasta la próxima!