Peru – Sanitation and rural housing improvement The small rural community in Moray is extremely poor with no basic sanitation or sewerage. You’ll get involved with projects such as renovating houses and constructing toilet blocks in each of the houses in the village, providing families and vulnerable elderly residents with proper sanitation facilities. UN Sustainable Development Goals No poverty End poverty in all its forms everywhere Good health and well-being Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages Clean water and sanitation Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all
Peru – School improvements Over the years we are proud to have made some real improvements to the school in the community, and that is work that is still going on. Dining rooms, toilet facilities and improving classroom infrastructure is our focus. The community also has difficulties with water supply and sanitation, and we are working with the community in those areas. UN Sustainable Development Goals No poverty End poverty in all its forms everywhere Good health and well-being Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages
How long has Camps International been running expeditions to Peru? Camps International was founded in 2002 and opened Camp Peru in 2015. We have been delivering school expeditions to the Sacred Valley for a decade, building long-standing partnerships with Quechua communities and local partner organisations. That sustained presence ensures our work creates genuine lasting impact in one of the world’s most remarkable cultural landscapes.
What community project work will students do on the Sacred Valley Peru Expedition? Students take part in community project work to improve school infrastructure and support sanitation, which could include building toilets for households in the community. Project work may also involve plastering, painting and low-level construction alongside local skilled tradespeople. All projects are co-designed with local community leaders and our long-term Peruvian partner organisations to address genuine locally identified needs and create sustainable lasting change.
What is the Salkantay Trek and how challenging is it? The Salkantay Trek is one of the most celebrated high-altitude trekking routes in South America. The route passes through the spectacular Andes mountains, reaching altitudes of around 4,600 metres at the Salkantay Pass, before descending to Machu Picchu. It is a demanding multi-day trek requiring a good level of fitness and mental determination. All routes are led by experienced local guides and students will have already spent time at altitude earlier in the expedition, significantly aiding acclimatisation before the trek begins.
Will students visit Machu Picchu and Cusco on the Sacred Valley Peru Expedition? Yes. Students spend time in Cusco, the ancient Inca capital, exploring its streets and handicrafts stores. After completing the Salkantay Trek, students arrive at Machu Picchu for a dedicated visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What cultural immersion is included in the Sacred Valley Peru Expedition? Cultural learning runs throughout the programme. Students learn about traditional Peruvian community life through cooking and traditional dancing alongside local people, and take a short trek into the surrounding hills for an early introduction to the Andean landscape and altitude. Project work is conducted alongside local skilled tradespeople, providing direct cultural exchange, and time in Cusco adds a deeper understanding of Peru’s Inca heritage and living culture.
How fit do students need to be for the Sacred Valley Peru Expedition? A good level of general fitness is important throughout the expedition. The Sacred Valley sits at high altitude, typically between 2,800 and 3,500 metres above sea level, and students will acclimatise gradually before the Salkantay Trek, which reaches around 4,600 metres at the Salkantay Pass. Project work involves physical activity including plastering, painting and construction. No technical climbing skills are required, but students should prepare physically before departure.
Is the Sacred Valley Peru Expedition safe for school students? Yes. Camps International has operated at Camp Peru since 2015 and brings over 23 years of experience running international school expeditions safely. Our Peru programme is delivered by experienced locally based in-country teams who are knowledgeable about altitude safety and local conditions. Comprehensive risk assessments are reviewed before every departure, 24/7 in-country emergency support is in place throughout and we follow Smartraveller guidance (smartraveller.gov.au).
What is included and excluded in the Sacred Valley Peru Expedition cost? Included: international flights, accommodation across all camp phases and city stays in Cusco, all meals, in-country transport, project materials, leadership and staff costs, travel insurance, orientation and language lessons, 24-hour emergency support, Salkantay Trek with experienced local guides and entry to Machu Picchu. Not included: personal spending money, visas and vaccinations.
