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Peru Gap Year Programme

Andes + Amazon

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Itinerary Options

What's included?
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Looking for more flexible dates?See our current dates

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Depart

Itinerary Options

What's included?
Let's go

Looking for more flexible dates?See our current dates

Let us know your details below and we'll be in touch with options?

Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain and Amazon

This is the ultimate blend of breathtaking landscapes, thrilling adventures, and meaningful contribution.

Get ready to discover a land where stunning geography meets deep history, a destination that will ignite your sense of adventure. Imagine soaring over the mystical heights of Machu Picchu, marveling at the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain, and immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of the Amazon rainforest. Our exhilarating 3-week Peru programme is your ticket to an unforgettable off-grid experience that combines iconic sights with meaningful community impact.

Over your first two weeks, you’ll dive into the heart of the Andes in the Sacred Valley. Here, life moves to a different rhythm – one where ancient traditions thrive. Picture yourself wandering through fields sown by hand, meeting women in bowler hats, and getting up close with llamas as tame as family pets. Your days will be filled with a mix of community projects, exploration, and adventure. Stand in awe before the legendary Machu Picchu, conquer the heights of Rainbow Mountain, and immerse yourself in authentic Peruvian culture as you live alongside one of our warm-hearted host families.

For your final week, the adventure shifts dramatically as you plunge into the lush, steamy Amazon jungle. Glide by boat down the Madre de Dios River to your jungle haven at Lake Sandoval. From there, paddle through the jungle's labyrinth of tributaries, exploring the dense rainforest in search of rare wildlife and dazzling birds.

lama and backpaker

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Peru's Programme Itinerary

This is a journey to introduce you to remote Peruvian communities tucked away from the tourists' eye, high in the Andes, who will welcome you into their family and value your contribution to help preserve their heritage, before exploring the depths of the Amazon.

The following is a sample itinerary.

Overview

Andes and Amazon

Wks 1- 2 Andes
You'll start your journey in a pretty little town called Calca, nestled amongst the mountains in the Sacred Valley, high in the Andes. It's at 9,600 ft above sea level, on the Urubamba River, known for its temperate climate, checkerboard fertile fields, and towering mountains, such as Mount Pitusiray – considered one of the most sacred places in the valley. Calca is very central which makes it a great location from which to explore Cusco and the other historic towns in the Sacred Valley.

Wk 3 Amazon
Your last week will be spent exploring the Amazon for 4 days, 3 nights, via the entry point of Puerto Maldonado. The plan is to hike and canoe into both the primary and secondary rainforest and around the beautiful Lake Sandoval, seeking out the magical birdlife and wildlife.

You will be looked after by our partners - a dynamic NGO, called the Andean Alliance for Sustainable Development (AASD), who need your help to implement their projects aimed to enhance and preserve the ancient livelihoods of remote Andean Communities in the Sacred Valley. They are a great team and will show you the real Peru.

Accommodation

In Calca you will live with a gorgeous local family and be treated as a family member. You will have your own room, shared bathrooms and all eat together which will give you an amazing cultural experience. In the Amazon you will stay in a jungle eco-lodge.

Food

3 meals a day provided.

Wk 1

Sacred Valley Community Connection + Hands-On Projects + Acclimatizing Adventures

Week 1: Dive into the Sacred Valley – Community, Culture, and Contribution

Welcome to Calca, nestled in the Sacred Valley at 9,600 feet, where you'll begin your transformative journey surrounded by stunning mountain views and the peaceful Urubamba River.

Making an Impact in the Andes

Partnering with the Andean Alliance for Sustainable Development (AASD), you'll engage in meaningful projects to help high-altitude communities combat the effects of climate change. At EcoHuella Farm, you'll be hands-on with sustainable farming, from harvesting crops to aiding reforestation efforts, gaining insight into local life and the power of innovation.

Cultural Immersion

Afternoons include tranquil walks along the Vilcanota River and a powerful documentary on Julio Hancco, an inspiring potato farmer. You'll also contribute to the Urco Youth Association's*jewelry workshop, empowering local youth with valuable skills.

Spanish Lessons and Coffee Experience

Daily Spanish lessons at the AASD office will help you connect with the locals. Plus, the Coffee Workshop which will be a deep dive into the coffee trade, ending with a delicious cupping session led by local experts.

By week's end, you'll feel fully acclimatized, culturally enriched, and inspired, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure of impact and discovery.

Food

3 meals a day provided.

Wk 2

High Altitude Communities and Machu Picchu Trekking and exploration

Week 2: High Altitude Adventures & Machu Picchu Magic

This week is all about the stunning high Andes, connecting with remote communities and experiencing the magic of Machu Picchu. Starting with a journey to the Q'engo community, where AASD's greenhouse technology has transformed the village into a thriving producer of flowers and strawberries. After a petal ceremony by the sacred "Lake of Gold," you'll help with their reforestation project and take in stunning views.

You'll also explore the rich textile traditions of Chauwatire and visit the Pisac ruins. Hike the iconic Rainbow Mountain, marveling at its vibrant colors and breathtaking landscapes. Venture to Quishuarani village, hike the Seven Waterfalls trail, and relax in the Lares Hot Springs.

Caping off the week with Machu Picchu, exploring the ancient citadel and soaking in the awe-inspiring beauty of one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

This week's adventures will leave you deeply connected to the landscapes, communities, and culture of Peru.

Accommodation

Homestay in Calca  and hostel in Ollantaytambo.

Food

3 meals a day provided.

Wk 3

The Amazon Adventure and exploring

Your last week will be spent exploring the Amazon via the entry point of Puerto Maldonado. Here you will spend 4 days at an eco-lodge from which you will explore this stunning environment with the help of local guides and the lodges resident naturalist.

Every day will be different, but all will involve canoeing down the Madre de Dios River to reach the stunning Lake Sandoval. From here you will explore the primary and secondary rainforest to seek out the Red Bellied Macaws as they return to the forest at night (this flock is currently the largest reported in the world - approximately 500-800 macaws), rare black caimans, parrots, parakeets, and monkeys galore.

On your final day you will head back by boat to Puerto Maldonado and return to Calca for your last night, before flying home or further afield.

Accommodation

Jungle eco-lodge.

Food

3 meals a day provided.

Peru Gap Year Programme

Did you know?

Onward travel has never been so easy

Book a programme with us and you will receive a complimentary 12 month subscription to our Backpacking Advice Hub. This Hub is your one stop shop for all things travel advice, itineraries, handy insider hints and tips to really get the most from your travels. It is a must-have resource for independent travel post-Leap.

Our teams never want to come home post-programme and choose to add on a phase of independent travel with their new found friends - making the most of their gap year. Peru is perfectly placed to add on a phase in Bolivia, Colombia and Ecuador.

Sunset in the Amazon
The view from the Andes in Peru.
peru lady
Working the local farmers on their organic farms.
Lake Sandoval in Peru

Peru's Programme Details & Costs

Max team size of 12 per departure - so book in early.
Please note you need to be 18 years old or over at the time of travel.

Download Itinerary

Options and costs

2025: February
Start date 14th Feb 2025

3 weeks
Andes and Amazon

£3090

Book Now

Whats included?

Included
  • Pre-departure briefing on all aspects of the programme
  • 24-hour emergency back-up, management and support by UK and in-country team
  • Safety and induction course on arrival
  • Accommodation throughout
  • Food throughout
  • Safe drinking water
  • Airport transfers for team flight
  • All transport to and from projects and Amazon phase
  • Leap T-shirt
  • 4 x 1 hour Spanish lessons
  • All activities described in the itinerary including Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Pisac, Amazon permits
Not Included
  • Flights, travel insurance, medical expenses (reclaimable through travel insurance), soft drinks/beer etc
  • Food and accommodation if away from the project location and any excursions not listed above
  • Laundry fees
  • Private transfers to and from the airport if you do not arrive on the main team flight

Smaller Teams

You will be part of a tight team of between 5-10 like-minded volunteers, who will be on your journey from start to finish.

Off the Beaten Track

Access places that backpackers couldn't normally get to on their own through the NGOs we partner with.

Cultural Exchange

Through living and working beside indigenous communities you will experience traditional Peruvian life and make extraordinary friendships.

Physical Challenge

A journey across Peru which includes trekking, exploring, contributing, and reaching the heady heights of Machu Pichu.

Working Hours and Time Out

Each phase will vary in terms of project hours. Rural communities tend to start work very early and finish in early-afternoon, giving you time to explore in the afternoons.

Andean Alliance for Sustainable Development (AASD)

AASD was created in 2010 to support community-led agriculture projects in the highlands of Peru. Ecohuella is their (Ecological Footprint) farm. Co-founded by three siblings, Ecohuella, can also be considered a speciality school for campesino farmers because they provide hands-on trainings and workshops that respect the Quechua language, local learning styles, and traditions.

The spectacular landscapes of Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu form the backdrop for this program in this larger-than-life country, but look beyond the stunning environment and you will find evidence of long gone empires and current cultures who are just managing to adapt to the demands of globalization without losing their values and cultures.

Watch our videos

Peru Gap Year Programme

What to expect from our Peru programme

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"You are amazing organising it all"

How exciting for them!! - Trip of a lifetime. Inigo has been stuck at home since last March as I suppose they all have - so what a wonderful, exciting, fun and not to mention horizons broadening time they will have. You are AMAZING organising it all - I don't know how you do it. Huge thanks for everything


- Rose (mum)

"​Thank you guys SOOOO much"

Thank you guys SOOOO much for the whole experience I have LOVED it all and couldn’t thank you enough for all the effort you have put into the trip my heart is so full from everything you have helped us achieve!! Enjoy your well deserved break :)

" I recommend this trip to anyone who is thinking about doing it!​"

One of the best experiences of my life!! I met the most amazing people and experienced so many incredible things. The trip is so well organised and you get a mix of everything Costa Rica has to offer! Lizzie and Carmen were the most incredible group leaders and this made such a difference, I recommend this trip to anyone who is thinking about doing it!

- Maggie Calder

"They have the gap year formula spot on"

Speaking only for our experience with Costa Rica, The Leap know and understand the country so well. The team communicated brilliantly-they were always pro active and accessible, nothing felt like too much trouble and they never made you feel like your question or concern was a silly one.

They have the gap year formula spot on. All the reassurance that parents need whilst safely delivering the freedom and adventure that the volunteers want-and all through a Pandemic (!)

My daughter had the absolute time of her life with them and I’m sure has made friends for life, I wouldn’t hesitate in giving them the very highest recommendation possible.

- Frances (mum)

"This experience was life changing."

Although this is from a personal point of view, I wanted to share the great personal development this trip gave me. I believe travel and unknown/unusual environments affect and shape any individual.

It altered my being in a way i find hard to articulate, it changes you and challenges you that no 9-5 working existence ever could.

- Olivia

"​Amazing, emotional and I would do it all again "

Communication was very good before and during the trip, it was nice to know that the leap would reply quickly plus I felt very safe, the 24/7 security relaxed and settled me in. Stella, Matias and Jimmy were amazing, they made my trip!

The programmes and schools we visited were life-changing and made me appreciate what I have. The fact that we actually made a difference by raising money for an orphanage to build a well is so exciting and rewarding! And the relationships I made with the children and the other leapers I will never forget.

- Bethany

"I had the best month with The Leap"

I had the best month with The Leap. It was made so special by our amazing leaders Lizzie and Carmen who were always attentive but made sure everyone was having so much fun. As well as this everyone who I did the trip with was so incredible it was great how well we all got along and how fun we made every experience for each other, from building a shower in Cocal to laughing on a coffee tour in Monteverde to endless blissful beach days in Sámara. I would highly recommend The Leap to anyone looking to travel in a big group and enjoy moving from place to place at a really nice pace.

- Maddy Jones

"Easy Peasy with The Leap"

You guys always answered questions so fast! Zoe is outstanding!! Made travelling during a pandemic easy peasy

- Hanna

"Quite an extraordinary responsibility"

Thank you, Milly. You've been an absolute star - quite an extraordinary responsibility and you're doing it admirably. Great friend of ours, has signed up for Namibia in March after hearing about Skye's adventures ahead...


- Katie Turnbull

"Steady hands on the tiller "

So grateful to you all at The Leap. It’s been the most amazing experience for Ella and we can’t compliment you and Milly enough for all your friendly and efficient organisation and your very steady hands on the tiller in choppy waters throughout this last month!


- David

"THANK YOU"

My Leaper is just having the BEST BEST BEST time. She was so anxious about going as it is the first time she has been abroad on her own. The lovely friends she has made and the fantastic team leaders that are there, combined with the incredible experiences that you are giving the team meant that worry very soon dissipated.

Everything sounds perfect, from the location of their "houses", the delicious food, the stimulating and varied activities, the fun evenings, in fact from dawn to dusk (and well beyond) is just so brilliant.

Thank you.

- Sara

"So reliable"

In one of the most complicated spaces in time, Milly and team stresslessly organised the trip to Costa Rica and Guatemala giving our son a wonderful opportunity and set of memories he would otherwise not have had. And when the regs changed again while they were out there the well oiled machine that is the Leap just reconfigured and continued!

I simply can't recommend them more highly!

- Henry

"You felt prepared"

The daily schedule was always written out at the start of the day, so you felt prepared for what was happening when.

- Mimi

"One of my favorite memories from my trip to Costa Rica was the first time I released a baby turtle into the ocean"

I was immediately lucky because most baby turtles crawl out of their nests in the dead of night, so you don't get to enjoy the sight of seeing them walk to the water when it's so dark out.

When I saw my first baby turtle it was just before the sun went down, so it was still incredibly bright out! Watching all the babies push their little flippers against the sand as they fight to get to the water is something else. They are so excited to be alive! It's something so wonderfully inspiring that I will always remember.

- Madison

"Hand on my heart it's been the experience of a life time"

I've just been having THE best time here! It's gone so quickly, but I feel like I've been here forever at the same time.

We've done a lot of work already, so I feel like we've made a big difference. Through this work we've all learnt a lot, but it's mostly given us a good sense of liberation and generally put a lot of things in perspective. And of course, we now understand how difficult it is for these communities to get just essential amenities!

But the main thing is that I am very happy with the programme, and I can put my hand on my heart when I say it's been the experience of a life time, and I can't wait to continue for the 2nd half of it!

- Peter Blake

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Here at The Leap we can help both team traveller through our programmes and/or the backpacker.

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