Fall 2006, Volume 3 Number 2, p.77

Adventurous volunteers seeking an off-the-beaten-path encounter in a culturally rich environment should look no further. Globe Aware’s Road Less Traveled Andean Village Experience offers all of this and more. High in the mountains, a couple hours north of Lima, Peru, is the secluded village of San Pedro de Casta. Its inhabitants are campesinos (peasants) who, like their ancestors, make their communal living by farming the terraced land of the surrounding mountains. The project’s goal is to broaden the options in life for the children of these villagers. Volunteers instruct young children in English, computer basics (sending email, using word processing programs), hospitality, first aid, and other practical skills. Those so inclined also may assist in building simple Lorena stoves (which greatly reduce fuel consumption and produce less smoke) and help with community projects and repairs. A set itinerary is created, though personal preferences for certain projects are easily accommodated. Comfortable-yet-rustic quarters are provided for volunteers in the central village lodge. Leisure pursuits include hiking or horseback riding up Markawasi, excursions to nearby fortresses and temples, or the capital city of Lima, Andean cooking lessons, spectacular stargazing, and medicinal nature hikes. But don’t expect bright lights and big city nightlife – volunteers will feel transported to a Peru from ages long past. 1-877-588-4562 www.globeaware.org/Content/trips/peru/peruprogram.php#2