Programme details
| Programme length | Start | End | Price | Age on departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AFS year programme (academic year) | February 2010 | January 2011 | $12,500 + visa | 15 - 18 |
| AFS year programme (academic year) | September 2010 | July 2011 | $12,500 + visa | 15 - 18 |
The word “Peru” is derived from an Inca word meaning “land of abundance.” Once the heart of the great Inca Empire and cradle of many other ancient civilizations, Peru appeals to anyone with a passion for history, anthropology, archeology, nature or simply travel. Located in the west central part of South America, its terrain embraces the Andean peaks surrounding Machu Picchu, lush tropical rainforests, Amazonian jungles, sandy beaches, deserts and remote farmlands and fishing villages.
Likewise, Peru’s people are as diverse as its spectacular landscapes. Nearly half the population is made up of Quechua Indians, descendants of the Incas, who live in the highlands of the Sierra. Mestizos, whose heritage is part-Indian and part-European, comprise another segment of Peru’s populace, while 10% are of Spanish ancestry.
In addition, Peru enjoys the influences of African, Chinese, Arab, Italian, European and Japanese people. While each group remains true to its customs and lifestyles, all Peruvians are known for their warmth and spirit.
Family life
Parents tend to be protective of their children and may expect you to ask permission to go out with friends and abide by any curfews they set. Peruvians’ sense of privacy differs from some other cultures, and Peruvian host families may feel unappreciated if you wish to be alone while they are together, even if they simply gather to watch TV after dinner.
They also have different expectations for their sons than for their daughters. Boys are usually allowed more autonomy than girls. While customs are changing, household chores are divided along traditional lines. “Women’s work” includes cooking, cleaning, washing, sewing and other everyday tasks. Men take care of household repairs and “outside jobs,” such as paying bills.
School life
The academic year begins in April and ends in December, with a two week holiday in the summer. Peruvian students attend classes Monday to Friday. Students have the same classmates through the school year and the same schedule as well. Students study Spanish literature, maths, English, Peruvian history, economics, arts, handicrafts, social sciences, chemistry, physics and more.
AFS Peru does not accept vegetarians or smokers and participants must have pre-existing Spanish language skills.
