Join us for a stress-free travel experience! Our trip leaders will be with you every step of the way, from meeting you at the airport on arrival day to ensuring a safe transfer on departure day, and everything in between. We’ve got you covered!

*Reserve your spot with a nonrefundable deposit today!

 🌄 Attention all adventurous educators! Prepare to embark on a remarkable journey to the breathtaking landscapes of Peru. 🇵🇪 Immerse yourself in the mysteries of Machu Picchu, savor the flavors of Peruvian cuisine, and connect with fellow teachers while discovering the vibrant culture of this South American gem. Whether you're fascinated by ancient civilizations, captivated by stunning natural wonders, or simply seeking inspiration, this trip promises an educational adventure that will enrich your teaching and invigorate your spirit. 🎉 Secure your spot now and get ready for an experience that will leave you with memories to treasure forever. 🌟🚀 

Professional Development: You will have the opportunity to visit schools and meet local educators. Please note, when we offer school visits, we are not guaranteeing you will be in your exact grade level.  Learning about a new culture and making connections with educators provides an authentic learning experience for you to reflect on and bring back to your classroom.

You will be given a professional development certificate for 20 hours of professional development.

Terrain:  Difficult at times/Altitude changes

Trip Leaders:

Mark Butler

Krissie Butler

Alicen Arnold

Additional Questions?  Please visit our Bookbag Tours FAQ page.

Arrival in Lima: Welcome to Peru! Upon arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our Bookbag Tours Leaders. They will assist with your transfer to the hotel and provide a brief orientation about the upcoming trip.

Welcome Meeting: Join us for an introductory meeting where you’ll meet your fellow educators and tour leaders. We’ll provide an overview of the exciting journey ahead, distribute informational packets, and answer any questions you may have.

Suggestions of things to do if you are arriving EARLY 

If you are interested, you can book these activities or others on Viator. These bookings are made on your own and BBT is not responsible for any arrangements. You will pay the fee on Viator and you are responsible for the details of attending the activity. 

- Lima Cooking Class (4hrs)

- Chocolate Making Workshop

Additional Notes: If you book the Lima Cooking Class it does not include extra time in Lima and we highly recommend booking pre-trip accommodation. You will be picked up from your hotel at approx 10:00 (10:30 from Aug-Dec) and taken to a local market and restaurant to prepare and enjoy a traditional Peruvian meal. You will return back to your hotel around 13:00.

Overnight in Faraona Grand Hotel (or similar)

Arriving early? Let us help you plan your early adventure! Fill in this form on the website.

OR  Choose your own activity.  Click Here!

 Today we will explore Lima together as a group!

Group Activities:

• Main Square (Plaza Mayor): Start your day at the heart of Lima, surrounded by historic buildings such as the Government Palace, the Cathedral of Lima, and the Archbishop’s Palace. Learn about the colonial history of the city and its role in Peru’s development.
• San Francisco Museum: Explore the stunning architecture and catacombs of this historic monastery. The museum houses a vast collection of religious art and artifacts, and the catacombs offer a glimpse into Lima’s past burial practices.
• Numismatic Museum: Discover the history of Peruvian currency and its evolution over the centuries. The museum features a fascinating collection of coins, banknotes, and other monetary artifacts.
• Wall Park (Parque de la Muralla): Stroll through this park that features remnants of Lima’s ancient city walls. The park also offers beautiful views of the Rimac River and the surrounding cityscape.
• Magic Water Circuit: End your day with a visit to this spectacular park, home to the largest fountain complex in the world. Enjoy a dazzling display of water, light, and music, with interactive fountains and nightly shows that are sure to captivate visitors of all ages.

Meals Included: Breakfast 

Overnight in Faraona Grand Hotel (or similar)

Enjoy some free time in the Morning to explore more of Lima.

Flight to Cusco: Depart Lima at about 5pm and arrive in the historic city of Cusco. The flight offers stunning views of the Andes Mountains.

When we arrive in Cusco, we will settle into our hotel and then go on a walking tour together. 

Walking Tour: Acclimate to the altitude with a leisurely walking tour of Cusco’s charming streets, plazas, and markets. Highlights include the Plaza de Armas, the Cusco Cathedral, and the vibrant San Pedro Market, where you can sample local delicacies and shop for traditional crafts.

Meals Included: Breakfast 

Overnight in Hotel San Agustin International  (or similar)

Today we will visit a school and do some sightseeing together!

Group Activities:

• 8am- Visit a School in Inquilpata: Engage with local educators and students, sharing experiences and learning about the Peruvian education system. This visit provides a unique opportunity to understand the challenges and successes of education in rural Peru. (Feel free to bring gifts for teachers or students. There are 35 students and 3 Educators)
• 10:15am- On our return to Cusco, we will visit Huaypo Lagoon: Enjoy the serene beauty of this high-altitude lagoon, perfect for a peaceful retreat. The area is ideal for bird watching, photography, and simply soaking in the natural surroundings.
• 1pm-  Visit to a school near Cusco (San Marcos School – San Jerónimo)
• 2:30pm- 3:30 - Lunch with Peruvian teachers 
• Return to hotel after lunch
• Dinner on your own
• 6:30pm- Leave hotel for Dance Show- Center Quosqo of Native Art (7-8:15pm)

Meals Included: Breakfast 

 Overnight in Hotel San Agustin International (or similar)

Today we will do some sightseeing and visit a school within the Matinga community together.

Group Activities

• 8AM- 
  • City Tour Saqsayhuaman: Explore this impressive Inca fortress with its massive stone walls and panoramic views of Cusco. Learn about the engineering marvels of the Inca civilization and the historical significance of this site.
  • Qenqo: Visit this archaeological site known for its labyrinthine passages and ceremonial altars. The site offers insights into Inca religious practices and their connection to the natural world.
  • Alpaca Farm: Learn about the importance of alpacas in Andean culture and enjoy the opportunity to interact with these gentle animals. The farm visit includes demonstrations of traditional weaving techniques using alpaca wool.
  • Matinga Community: Engage with the local community, learning about their traditions, crafts, and daily life. This visit provides a deeper understanding of rural Andean culture and the resilience of its people.
• 6pm- Dance Show

Meals Included: Breakfast 

Overnight in  Yawar Inka Hotel  (or similar)

Today you have a free day in Cusco to venture out on your own or relax in the hotel.

Some suggested activities below offer a variety of ways to explore and enjoy Cusco, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience on your free day. 

Below are some SUGGESTIONS that you can check out on your own!

 If you want to book any of these, go to this link & type in Peru in the search bar (to book on your own)

1. Temple of Qorikancha- Visit the Temple of the Sun, once the most important temple in the Inca Empire. The site now houses the Convent of Santo Domingo, offering a fascinating blend of Inca and colonial architecture. Explore the temple’s history and its significance in Inca cosmology.
2. Chocolate-Making Workshop- Unleash your inner chocolatier with a hands-on chocolate-making workshop. Learn about the history of cacao in Peru, the process of making chocolate from bean to bar, and create your own delicious treats to take home
3. Textile Dyeing and Weaving Workshop-  Participate in a traditional Andean textile workshop. Learn about natural dyeing techniques and the intricate process of weaving from local artisans. This activity provides a deep appreciation for the cultural significance of Andean textiles1.
4. Inca Museum (Museo Inka)- Explore the treasures of the Incas at this museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts, including pottery, textiles, and mummies. The museum offers a comprehensive overview of Inca history and culture1.
5. Hatunrumiyoc Street and the Twelve-Angled Stone- Stroll down Hatunrumiyoc Street to see the famous Twelve-Angled Stone, a testament to the incredible masonry skills of the Incas. The street itself is lined with impressive Inca walls and offers a glimpse into the city’s ancient past1.
   Coca Museum- Learn about the cultural and historical significance of the coca plant in Andean society. The museum provides insights into the traditional uses of coca and its role in contemporary Peruvian culture1.
6. Planetarium Cusco- Enjoy a night under the stars at the Cusco Planetarium. Learn about Inca astronomy and the importance of celestial bodies in Inca culture. The planetarium offers guided stargazing sessions and educational presentations1.

Meals Included: Breakfast 

Overnight in Hotel San Agustin International (or similar) 

Today we will explore the Sacred Valley together and board the train to Aguas Calientes!

SACRED VALLEY

(06:30 a.m.)

Places: Chinchero,

Moray, Salineras de

Maras and

Ollantaytambo.

(19:00 p.m.)

Group Activities:

• 6:30AM Sacred Valley 
• Chinchero: Explore this charming village known for its traditional weaving and vibrant market. The village is also home to a beautiful colonial church built on Inca foundations.
  • Moray: Visit the unique circular terraces of Moray, believed to have been an agricultural research station. Learn about the Inca’s advanced agricultural techniques and their understanding of microclimates.
  • Salineras de Maras: Marvel at the ancient salt mines, where salt has been harvested since Inca times. The terraced salt pans create a stunning visual landscape and offer a glimpse into traditional salt production methods.
  • Ollantaytambo: Discover this well-preserved Inca town and its impressive archaeological site. The town’s layout and structures provide insights into Inca urban planning and architecture.
• 7pm Train Connection in Ollantaytambo
• Arrive in Aguas Calientes
  • We will board the train and travel through the scenic Sacred Valley to the town of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. The train journey offers breathtaking views of the Andean landscape.

Group Meeting and end of day briefing 

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Overnight in  INTIWATANA El Tambo  (or similar)

Today is the day! We will head to one of the wonders of the world, Machu Picchu!

Group Activity:  

• 8:30am- Machu Picchu: Spend the day exploring the iconic Inca citadel with a guided tour that delves into its history, architecture, and significance. This immersive experience offers educators a wealth of knowledge to share with their students.

7pm Train to Ollanta

Bus to Cusco: Travel back to Cusco in the evening, reflecting on the awe-inspiring experience of visiting one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites.

Meals Included: Breakfast 

 Overnight in Hotel San Agustin International (or similar)  

*Note: Educators not only enjoy a memorable visit to Machu Picchu but also gain valuable insights and resources to enrich their teaching and inspire their students. 

Inca Society and Culture:
Details: Explore the role of Machu Picchu in Inca society, including its function as a royal estate, religious site, and agricultural center. Learn about the daily life of the Inca people, their social structure, and their advanced agricultural practices.

Educational Takeaway: Teachers can create lessons on the social and cultural aspects of the Inca civilization, comparing it with other ancient societies. This can include discussions on governance, religion, and the ingenuity of Inca engineering and agriculture.

Architectural Marvels:
Details: Examine the sophisticated architecture of Machu Picchu, including its terraced fields, intricate stonework, and advanced drainage systems. Understand the significance of key structures such as the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana stone, and the Room of the Three Windows.

Educational Takeaway: Educators can highlight the architectural achievements of the Incas, emphasizing their engineering skills and sustainable practices. This can be integrated into STEM lessons, focusing on ancient engineering, architecture, and environmental adaptation.

Bringing the Experience Back to the Classroom:

• Multimedia Presentations: Use photos, videos, and personal anecdotes from the visit to create engaging presentations for students. Visual aids can help bring the history and beauty of Machu Picchu to life.
• Interactive Projects: Develop interactive projects such as model-building, map-making, and virtual tours to help students explore Machu Picchu in a hands-on way.
• Cross-Curricular Connections: Integrate the knowledge gained from the visit into various subjects, including history, geography, science, and art. This holistic approach can provide a richer learning experience for students.
• Cultural Exchange: Share insights from interactions with local guides and communities, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange and understanding. Encourage students to appreciate and respect diverse cultures and histories.

Relax and enjoy a free day in Cusco or join an included activity. 

Group Activities- 

There are 2 activities today happening at the same time. These are included. Choose one activity to attend in We Travel or you are free to do your own thing.

Lunch is included on the trip 

Option 1 **THIS IS A RIGOROUS MOUNTAIN HIKE**

4:30AM- Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)- Embark on a hike to the stunning Vinicunca, also known as Rainbow Mountain, famous for its vibrant, multi-colored slopes. The trek is challenging, taking you to an altitude of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), but the breathtaking views of the colorful mountain and surrounding landscapes make it well worth the effort.

• Educational Takeaway:  
  • Geology and Natural Sciences: Educators can learn about the geological processes that created the unique mineral layers responsible for the mountain’s striking colors. This knowledge can be brought back to the classroom to enhance lessons on geology, mineralogy, and earth sciences.
  • Environmental Awareness: Discuss the impact of tourism on natural sites and the importance of sustainable practices. This can lead to classroom discussions on environmental conservation and responsible travel.
  • Cultural Significance: Understand the cultural importance of Vinicunca to the local communities and how it fits into the broader context of Andean traditions and beliefs. This can be integrated into lessons on cultural geography and anthropology.

Option 2

4:30 AM- Humantay Lagoon Tgrek to the beautiful Humantay Lake, a glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The hike offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of the Andes and the tranquility of the high-altitude lake. The trail is moderately challenging and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

• Educational Takeaway:  
  • Glaciology and Climate Change: Learn about the formation of glacial lakes and the effects of climate change on glaciers and high-altitude ecosystems. This information can be used to teach students about glaciology, climate science, and the environmental challenges facing mountainous regions.
  • Biodiversity and Ecology: Explore the unique flora and fauna of the Andean highlands. Educators can bring back insights into the biodiversity of the region, discussing the adaptations of plants and animals to high-altitude environments.
  • Physical Education and Wellness: Highlight the physical and mental benefits of hiking and outdoor activities. Encourage students to engage in physical fitness and appreciate the mental health benefits of spending time in nature.

Or Any other sightseeing activities on your own

Meals Included: Breakfast 

 Overnight in Hotel San Agustin International (or similar)  

Free Morning in Cusco 

3pm Flight

We will head to the airport and fly back to Lima together.

Free Evening in Lima

Enjoy a free evening at your leisure to explore Lima’s attractions, shop for souvenirs, or relax before your departure. 

Meals Included: Breakfast 

 Overnight in Farona Grand Hotel (or similar)  

Say goodbye to Peru and your fellow educators as you head to the airport for your flight home. Reflect on the enriching experiences and new connections made during your journey. 

Transfers to the Lima airport included, if leaving on this day.

Meals Included: Breakfast 

Extending your stay? 

Let us help you plan your next adventure. Fill in this form on the website.

OR  Choose your own activity.