 |
 |
 |
 |
Peru: People, Places and Poverty
June 9–22, 2009
WAIT LISTED
| Itinerary |
Download and print program description.
Program leaders: Ted Johnson, professor of biology and director of biomedical studies, and Michelle Johnson, medical technologist
Peru, with its spectacular scenery and rich Incan heritage, is a remarkable place to visit. Incan culture and history and the current health care system provide the framework for our exploration of several areas of Peru. Our journey starts at 11,000 feet in Cusco, the ancient capital of the Incan empire. It is home to narrow cobblestone streets, historic majestic cathedrals and the Incan ruin Sacsayhuaman. We will have opportunities to learn from the wonderful Peruvian people and optional service-related visits to orphanages and hospitals.
We travel to the lush Urbamba sacred valley and visit the Ollantaytambo fortress and the Willoq people in the Urbambo mountain village. The Willoq people with their colorful textiles are thought to be direct descendents of the Incan rulers. We ride the rails to Machu Picchu, lost city of the Incas. Nestled in the clouds, Machu Picchu is a breathtaking wonder with its mysterious origins and the stunning architecture of its granite-carved ruins.
Returning to Cusco, we fly to Juliaca and take a private coach to Puno. There we enjoy a cruise on the high altitude Lake Titacaca with a visit to Reed Island, home to the Uros people. On our way back to Lima we visit Arequipa with its magnificent Spanish architecture, inactive volcano and deep canyons. These sites provide a fitting end to rich cultural experiences immersed in the history, geography and people of Peru.
Program Leaders
Ted Johnson, professor of biology and director of biomedical studies, and Michelle Johnson, medical technologist at the St. Olaf Health Center, are veteran travelers and program leaders. Ted and Michelle led the St. Olaf Global Semester in 1998, the Environmental Studies in Australia Semester in 2004 and the Term in Asia in 2006. Ted has led students on an Interim study service program in Peru multiple times in the last four years.
A graduate of Augsburg College, Ted received M.S. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Illinois. He has taught in the biology department at St. Olaf for the past 30 years, primarily teaching courses in microbiology and immunology. He has been chair of the Health Professions Committee and advisor for many students interested in health professions.
Michelle graduated from Millikin University and received a masters degree in English from Mankato State University. Ted and Michelle have three children. They are excited about sharing their interests in traveling and Peru with the participants in this Study Travel program.
Program Fee
The program fee is $4,675 per person. Based on double occupancy, it includes:
- Seminars by Ted Johnson
- Assistance by Michelle Johnson
- Roundtrip airfare from Minneapolis/St. Paul
- Accommodations
- Breakfast daily and several other group meals
- Group tours
- Admissions for group activities
- Ground transportation and internal flights
- Gratuities
For single occupancy, add $450. The “land only” reduction (making your own flight arrangements to and from Lima) is $1,200. Payment schedule
Participant Requirements
We will spend a majority of our time at high elevations, such as Cusco (11,000 feet), Machu Picchu (8,000 feet) and Lake Titicaca (13,000 feet). You should discuss the itinerary with your physician prior to registering for the program. If you have cardiac-related problems, high blood pressure or respiratory disorders, you should undergo a medical examination before traveling to Peru. A disability that limits mobility will not allow individuals to participate fully in the experience. Travel will be by plane, bus, train and boat. You should have an open mind about the variety of people you will encounter in Peru and should be tolerant and respectful.
Weather
Peru has two distinct weather zones: the coast and the Andean highlands. We will experience both. On the coast, the climate is cool and may be misty in June. The highlands, including Machu Picchu, are less likely to be rainy in June. Cusco’s average high in June is 66 degrees Fahrenheit and the average low is 32 degrees. (Be prepared for some chilly mornings, as we start out around 8 or 8:30!) Puno will be quite cold, especially at night when the temperatures can dip well below freezing. The sun is very strong at this altitude, so a hat and sunscreen are needed.
Continuing Education Units
Approximately 33 hours of continuing education are available.
Add your name to the wait list.
Call us toll free at 866-255-6523 or contact us to add your name to the wait list. No deposit is due until a space becomes available.
Traveler Profile
Download and print the traveler profile for Peru.
