PERU'S CHALLENGE

The mountain range of the Andes in Peru is a breathtakingly beautiful destination; however, amongst the beauty, life for many Peruvians is tough.

For this reason, Jane Gavel from Australia and Selvy Ugaz from Peru created the Peru's Challenge volunteer program which supports the Peruvian charity Reto Peru (means Peru´s Challenge in Spanish).

The Peru's Challenge Program allows volunteers to work in rural schools and communities. Tasks range from helping with lessons in English, Art, Sport and music; working with local community members on construction projects such as building classrooms, houses, toilet blocks, sports areas and water reservoirs; working with our local social worker and doctors to improve health and hygiene levels; helping to develop microfinancing within the communities and set up small businesses.

Volunteers can join the program for three to nine weeks and also enjoy included tours to Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail, the Sacred Valley of the Incas and Lake Titicaca.

Join a Peru's Challenge volunteer and travel program and you will:

• Create opportunities for the children of Peru: basic education, healthy food and fresh running water
• Travel in one of the most magical and picturesque locations on Earth
• Live in Cuzco, the oldest inhabited city in the western hemisphere
• Explore sacred ruins of the mighty Inca civilisation and trek to the holy 'lost city' of Machu Picchu
• Surround yourself in the language and culture of the indigenous mountain people of Peru

Peru's Challenge Program was recommended by Lonely Planet as one of the five best volunteer destinations.

Watch the episode that Australia's travel show, Getaway, featured on the Peru's Challenge Program - click here.

PERUse This Blog: Read about first-hand Peruvian experiences and Peru's Challenge stories: the travels, the culture, the funny, the facts on why we need your help--the Cuzco (and beyond) life. Click here.

Local kids in traditional dress.

The famous ruins of Machu Picchu.