For years Peru has been known to international travelers as home to some of the world’s greatest ancient wonders, including the Inca ruins of Machu Picchu and the Nazca Lines.
As a student in Peru, you will have the opportunity to mix with local people, and to see Peru through their eyes. You will discover a country of amazing physical beauty, home to nearly a tenth of the world’s rainforests, a long coastline along the South Pacific Ocean, and the Andes Mountains.
You’ll learn a lot about the country and people when studying here. The history of the Incas and Peru’s many struggles make for a fascinating story. More than fifty distinct indigenous peoples still live in Peru; recently, many of them have moved to the cities. The population of Peru, like the rest of Latin America, began to change in the 1940s with massive waves of migration. This shift of population from rural to urban has enlivened Peruvian cities, such as Lima, with a new sense of diversity, while the Quechua culture remains strong in the Peruvian Andes.
There are beginners and advanced courses available to join in cities like Lima and Cusco. So what are you waiting for, go improve your Spanish in Peru and discover the highlights of the country in your spare time.
Popular Places to Study
Lima
Peru’s largest city is the perfect place to practice your Spanish. Sing a duet with new friends at a karaoke bar downtown, or join in with the local kids as they splash around in the fountains of the Parque de la Reserva. Once you’ve toweled off, be sure to hang around for the nightly light and water show that starts after dark.
Cusco
Cusco is more than just the gateway to Machu Picchu and a convenient stop on the way to the Amazon; it’s also an incredible historical and archaeological treasure. Visit Choquequirao to explore the ruins of this small Incan City, then head back to town to check out Spanish cathedrals and chow down on some of the amazing cuy – guinea pig, a Peruvian delicacy. Take a photo or two of the “White Christ” statue watching over the city with arms outstretched.
Urubamba – The Sacred Valley
If you want peace and quiet, and to get away from the main cities, you might want to consider Urubamba as your destination. Located in the heart of the Sacred Valley this town is surrounded by beautiful country side, mountains and tiny villages. Here you will find the Plaza the Armas and a traditional market. There are affordable schools where you can take classes, study and also make new friends. During your stay you can take advantage of various activities like going for a picnic, horse riding, hiking or rafting on the Vilcanota river. Close by you will find fascinating places such as Chincheros, Ollaytantambo, Pisac, Salineras and Moray. Note as this is only a small location we can’t guarantee that lessons will be able to book all year round.
Types of Courses
Ages
Everyone is catered for, from adults, students, teenagers and seniors.
Levels
If you are a complete novice then beginner courses will appeal to you. Intermediate and advanced courses are also available.
Class size
Group, one-to-one and private lessons are available depending on your requirements and budget.
Duration
You can book short and long term courses all year-round. Summer and winter are popular times of the year to book.
Intensity
Most schools offer full and part time courses which can be all day, mornings, afternoons or evenings.
Studying in Peru FAQ
Teachers
Peruvian Spanish Schools make learning fun and offer the opportunity to go sightseeing and mixing with local people and learning more about the country and ancestry. Most teachers are qualified professionals and usually Peruvian. They have a wide knowledge of the country, history and the local way of living.
Arrival
Most schools can arrange for you to be pickup from Cuzco/Lima airport or transport hubs and a school representative will take you to your accommodation.
Accommodation
Homestays and private accommodation are available to book.
Optional Activities
Most schools organise social activities, sometimes free or for a small cost. These can include: Peruvian dance classes: African and Andean, cooking classes for Peruvian food, Peruvian instruments lessons, Ceramics, Quechua language lessons (the original Inca language), local hikes with guides and also volunteering. City sightseeing tours can also be booked which are a fabulous opportunity to see the Inca ruins and other sites cities like Cusco have to offer.
Cultural Activities and Free Time
Miraflores Artisan Market
At the traditional Inca market in Miraflores, you can purchase alpaca socks (or alpaca anything, really), along with artisan goods from all over the country. Have fun practicing your Spanish skills while bargaining for a better price (don’t be shy; it’s expected!)