Overview of our Peru Trips for Teens

Get ready to step into a real-life adventure movie! Peru is a land of incredible contrasts, from the dizzying peaks of the Andes Mountains to the dense, biodiverse jungle of the Amazon Rainforest.

Most famously, Peru is the heart of the ancient Inca Empire, home to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World: Machu Picchu. But your trip with Travel For Teens goes far beyond the bucket-list ruins. You’ll explore bustling, colorful cities like Cusco, hike through the Sacred Valley to visit stunning agricultural terraces and salt mines, and get up close with friendly llamas and alpacas.

Whether you’re learning to cook the world-renowned Peruvian cuisine in Lima or white-water rafting on the Urubamba River, every day is a new challenge and a new discovery. Pack your bags and get ready to be amazed—Peru is waiting!

Show Me All The Peru Programs

What makes a trip to Peru with Travel For Teens so special?

The Ultimate Machu Picchu Experience 

Seeing the lost Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is the pinnacle of any trip. With Travel For Teens, you won’t just see it—you’ll experience it with a deep understanding of its history. We approach this incredible site having spent days exploring the Sacred Valley, visiting other major Incan ruins, and understanding the culture of the people whose descendants still live there today. This preparation makes the final reveal of Machu Picchu an even more powerful, once-in-a-lifetime moment.

Community Service

Our Peru programs include a focus on giving back. You’ll partner with local organizations to engage in meaningful service and conservation projects that allow you to earn community service hours. This is your opportunity to work alongside locals, speak Spanish, and leave a positive impact on the communities and local initiatives that make Peru so special.

A Culinary Journey in the Food Capital of South America

Forget everything you think you know about South American food. Peru’s cuisine is internationally famous, blending Indigenous ingredients with Spanish, Asian, and African influences. In Lima and Cusco, we’ll dive into the local food scene, trying fresh ceviche, learning to make traditional sauces, and joining a chocolate-making workshop to create our own treats “bean-to-bar.” You’ll be eating like a local and bringing home recipes, not just souvenirs.

Authentic Cultural Exchange

Our trips are designed for meaningful engagement, not just quick stops. We partner with local communities in the Andes to provide service opportunities, where you can help with things like school projects or sustainable farming. You’ll meet Quechua-speaking people, learn about their traditions (like traditional weaving and dyeing), and experience the genuine warmth of Peruvian hospitality. These connections make the history of Peru truly come to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

See all FAQs

What is the altitude like, and will I get altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is common, but our itinerary is carefully designed to minimize the effects. Most of the highlights, like Cusco and Machu Picchu, are at high elevations (Cusco is over 11,000 feet). We dedicate the first few days to a slow, gradual acclimatization in the lower Sacred Valley, which dramatically helps your body adjust before tackling the higher sites. Our staff is trained to monitor for symptoms and carry necessary resources to ensure your comfort and safety.

What is the primary language spoken?

The primary language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Cusco and Lima. Knowing some Spanish phrases is always a plus, and our local guides will help you navigate. We encourage teens to practice their basic Spanish skills when ordering food or buying souvenirs—it’s part of the fun of cultural immersion!

 

 

What currency does Peru use?

Peru uses the Peruvian Sol, but US dollars are often accepted in major tourist centers and hotels. It’s best to use the Sol for small purchases, markets, and local vendors. We will help you exchange currency safely and teach you how to manage a budget while traveling.

 

 

What should I pack for the changing environments (mountains and cities)?

You should pack for layers, as you’ll be traveling through several different climates. The key is light layers (T-shirts, sweaters/fleeces) and a waterproof outer jacket, as the mountain weather can change quickly. Bring comfortable hiking shoes, sunglasses, and a hat. For modest settings like churches or small villages, it’s respectful to have clothing that covers shoulders and knees.

Authenticity is ingrained in everything we do. Eat, stay, and travel like a local.

Check out what past travelers have to say about our Peru programs and discover why we are consistently winning awards for Top Youth Travel Organization.

 

 

 

"TFT gave me such an incredible opportunity to experience personal growth, meet inspiring people, challenge my comfort zone, and form long-lasting bonds with families and students that live across the globe from me. It was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity that I wouldn’t trade for anything. I went on the Peru, Ecuador, and Galapagos service trip that I can honestly say changed my life. From working with local preschoolers, living with host families, and picking up trash from sustainable farms to exploring Machu Picchu and swimming off the shores of beautiful white sand beaches in the Galapagos, I had an unforgettable experience. All the people I had met, both in my travel group and locals, have become dear friends and people I will forever share a special bond with. TFT is one of the most amazing programs I have ever been a part of, and I am sure you will discover the same."

Cate R. Seattle, WA

"Thank you for such thorough updates. As we’re sure you have heard from others, it feels like we are right there with you. With the exception of feeling the indescribable waterfall you mentioned. We are so thrilled that Max has another opportunity with Travel for Teens this year. So far Japan, Peru and now Iceland. His feedback to us is that he’s surprised with all the beauty of the country. He knew it would be beautiful but not to this extent. Thank you so so ...much for making his journey pleasant and delightful. With our experience of your company we don’t expect anything less. Thank you for choosing this path, with your true passion and enthusiasm, you must know that you are changing teens lives forever. The ripple effect is hard to speak of and write."

Holly and Mac A. Anahola, HI

"TFT offers a life changing experience for the teens. I think it played a crucial role in my daughter's development over all these years. We will be looking forward to continue traveling with TFT next summer. She loved everything but especially Community service at Misminay village and Machu Picchu. The program was really well organized, we felt that our daughter is safe during the whole time of the trip. The whole group had a strong bond. I've heard nothing but wow-impressions from Peru and all activities they did. Valery and Josh were absolutely amazing. My daughter always felt their support and care. They demonstrated great leadership qualities and were always there for the group members. Thank you."

Yana P. Tampa, FL

"We just wanted to drop you a quick note to thank you for everything. We finally managed to settle down and read all the emails and we are soooo pleased (and a little jealous). Obviously the children are having a blast. We also spoke to Yousef yesterday and he was ecstatic. He only had good things to say about the supervisors, trip organization, local people, other students, experiences and the FOOD! He also told us about his new friend (Rifie a three year old Peruvian boy). We can’t thank you enough for everything."

Rafik and Rana H. Hawally, Kuwait

Get a Free brochure

Questions For Us?

Loading