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Program Cost: $6845

July 2^nd- July 27^th

(Dates subject to change)

Amid the Peruvian Andes, Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands and the Amazon Rainforest students on this amazing journey of South America find themselves in the perfect environment to study many complex and fragile ecosystems. Students will have hands on opportunities to witness the relationship between humans and the effects of their activities on the environment, the issues of environmental degradation, the need to protect our natural environment and resources, and the benefits of sustainable development at work!

Our journey first takes us to Ecuador and The Galapagos Islands to experience a country that is home to more biodiversity per square kilometer than any other place in the world! Our group will be guided through the colonial old town of Quito, surrounded by massive mountains and then into the colourful local markets of Otavalo giving you time to explore, shop, discover the historic sites and truly experience the culture of this amazing part of the world.

Continuing through Ecuador we travel through Andean Valleys, in the high altitude grasslands, and visit some of the largest volcanoes in the world. Our adventure continues on to explore the Amazon rainforests and relax in the hot springs - experiencing the diverse species and geographical nature of the country. Enroute we visit local communities to meet school children and farmers for an authentic introduction to the history, culture and political-social organization of the region.

Although students will find themselves surrounded by lush tropical greenery, teachers and naturalists will discuss the issues around the jungle’s destruction - a major concern for indigenous populations who use its species medicinally and who have inhabited the area for centuries.

Next you will be transferred to The Galapagos Islands, known as the "Enchanted Islands", considered to be a ‘living laboratory’, home to species that are not found anywhere else on the planet. They encompass one of the most important National Parks in the world, with 97.5% of the land area devoted to conservation. Home to unusual and beautiful birds such as the red and Blue-Footed Boobies, the Albatross, Marine Iguanas, enormous Sea Lions, and Giant Tortoises - you will find each island quite unique – some barren, some with black craggy shorelines and white silky sand, and some with lush vegetation.

Finally, we head to Cuzco, Peru, the cradle of the Incan Empire and home to several indigenous populations. Here you have the opportunity to explore century old streets of Cuzco, our base before heading into Machu Picchu, an Andean city still shrouded in mystery.

While in and around Cuzco, we visit several key archaeological sites including fortresses and temples, explore traditional Indian markets and visit cathedrals built after the Spanish Conquest. And on our way to Machu Picchu you will learn about the history of the Incas and how attuned they were to the earth and its elements; you will hear about the Spanish conquests and the subsequent decline of the Incan empire, and listen to the tales surrounding the fascinating discovery of the trails and sacred valleys leading to this amazing UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Join us for a spectacular adventure and an unforgettable journey with breathtaking views, thunderous waterfalls, and lush vegetation – surrounding ancient Incan ruins where local communities still exist today.