Peru Summer: Sacred Mountains

I had an amazing experience on this program! I spent four weeks traveling through the Andes of Peru, gaining experience with new foods and cultures, city exploration, backpacking and camping, Spanish, and independent travel in South America.
From the beginning, our incredible instructors outlined the stages of our trip: orientation, skill-building, application, X-Phase, and transference. As we learned safety skills and strategies, we were given more and more independence to explore cities and navigate challenges on our own.
During X-Phase, a three-day camping trek on Ausangate Mountain, the students were responsible for planning the route, transportation, and food, preparing meals, packing, and looking out for one another. That experience taught me a lot about independence and leadership, especially while being completely without my phone. Many of these skills have stayed with me and transferred into my everyday life.
Beyond the practical skills, our group frequently discussed ideas that came from our experiences. I came home with new perspectives on consumerism, where our food comes from, and the challenges faced by Indigenous communities. Overall, this program pushed me outside my comfort zone and gave me skills and perspectives that I will carry with me long after the trip.

The program’s structure encouraged us to embrace challenges, both physically as we trekked through the Andes and culturally as we engaged with local communities. Staying with homestay families felt like a warm reunion with the people and lifestyle. I was able to put my Spanish skills to good use, communicating and learning from our hosts in a way that felt authentic and natural. It was heartwarming to share meals and stories, gaining a richer understanding of Peruvian life and traditions.

The program instructors brought out the best in us by encouraging respect, open-mindedness, and curiosity. They guided us through conversations about Peru’s environmental challenges and taught us to approach each experience with mindfulness and a sense of purpose. We discussed sustainable practices, participated in community projects, and learned what it means to be responsible travelers.

For anyone looking for a life-changing adventure, Peru: Sacred Mountains is a truly transformative experience.

My experience with wheretherebedragons was extremely transformative. Not only did it exponentially improve my Spanish speaking, but it challenged me to become a better version of myself. I was pushed both physically and emotionally during the trek, and emerged a stronger and more resilient human because of it. Being away from technology was particularly impactful, as it challenged me to refocus my priorities and reflect on my core values. My instructors were incredible, and I bonded closely with all of my peers. I would 100% recommend this trip for any young adult, not because it was “fun” or “easy”, but because it taught me more about different cultures, people, and myself.

The dragons Peru program is truly inspiring. It provided me with a multi faceted experience in understanding and enjoying the astounding nature and intellectual depth of Peru. We first had an introduction period for everyone to get to know each other in a family resort near Urubamba. We had sessions on gender equality and ice breaking games, which effectively fostered a sense of unity in the group. As the only Chinese in the group, I felt included and cared by others. This create a huge contrast to my worries of being neglected by the group due to cultural differences. I actually felt being a part of the family with the dragons. After the intro session, we went on a three days trek and ended up in an hot spring resort. Though the journey was challenging physically and mentally, but it was worth it! The nature of Peru was unbelievable. From the plantations to the crystal clear river streams, it is the heaven for travelers and photographers. With a little break in a hostel in the town, we were sent to our homestay families. The experience was unforgettable. The family that I stayed with is the Gustavo family. We have formed strong relationships and had a great time together. During the home-stays, we as a group also had the opportunity to explore the town and explore the language of Spanish. Since, you guys won’t bother to read a whole long essay, I will summarize the story later in short. We explore the rich history of the Spanish style Cusco, stood at the peak of the Machu Picchu, and learned about the current political and economic climate in Lima. The this is a once a life time experience. Therefore, I must advocate for this program and everyone should go!

This experience was absolutely fantastic! The Spanish lessons were super helpful and informative, and the home stays we did were such a good way to become completely immersed in the culture. The Sacred Valley is a beautiful location and the outdoors and natural aspects of the landscape are mind blowing! All the instructors were fantastic and super helpful when we needed some extra support and advice. The program is not for the faint of heart though. It will definitely come with its trials! Would highly recommend this program to anyone.

This experience was one of the most unique experiences I've ever had. I had such an amazing time that I dont even think that if I went back, it would be the same. Regardless of which program suits you, you will, no doubt, receive amazing instructors and meet new people that you wont forget for the rest of you life. And where ever you choose to go, WTBD will make sure that you get the most unique experiences that place has to offer. On these programs, you get to look back into the history and understand why the ground you're standing on is the way it is today. When I went to MachuPicchu, I learned that this mountain we call "Big Mountain" in the local language, doesnt actually have a name. I highly recommend going on a program with WTBD, it will be an experience of a lifetime.

HI! I did the Peru 6-week program with Where There Be Dragons in the summer of 2017, and I found it to be one of the best experiences of my life. I came back with increased knowledge about who I am, what the world is, and how the two fit together. I have noticed these changes every day in the way that I interact with my family, my friends, nature, my health, my patterns as a consumer, and anyone that I meet who is from another culture. I can not recommend this program highly enough.

I loved this program. It introduced me to some of my best friends. It gave me an opportunity to speak a language I love. It allowed me to photograph beautiful landscapes. It gave me three amazing leaders from three different continents. It brought me out of my comfort zone on innumerable levels.
My experience was unique because of these components. I don't think you could gain these types of connections with people, places, and yourself through any other program. I never would have believed I could do something like this program, yet it was one of the most influential and memorable things I have done in my life. Therefore, I've realized you are only uncomfortable doing something until you learn to be comfortable instead.
I have been and lived around the world but this type of travel is very different. It was nothing like anything I've done before, and probably is unlike anything I will have the opportunity to do again. I would would love to relive it (but bring a warmer sleeping bag this time)! Thank you Dragons for such a unique opportunity.
HS