Adventure Tours in South America

Visit two of South America’s most iconic countries—Peru and Ecuador—and discover the lost lands of the Incas! Start your adventure in South America with intensive Spanish lessons, then step up the adventure with an epic trek across the Andes to Machu Picchu on the remote Salkantay route—over icy mountain passes and through mysterious cloud forests to the remains of a fallen civilization. Then, it's time to explore Ecuador's natural beauty. From surfing and whitewater rafting to hiking and exploring volcanoes, Ecuador has it all! For your second project, you will spend three weeks deep in the Ecuadorian rainforest and complete vital conservation work. Get face-to-face and hand-to-paw with rainforest inhabitants while volunteering at a rescue center for wild animals. And learn the secrets of life in the rainforest directly from an Indigenous community while staying at an eco-lodge. Finish your epic journey with a visit to one of the most famous national parks on Earth, the Galapagos Islands! Hike, sail, and snorkel your way around the islands made famous by Charles Darwin. You will then return to Quito for the final trek to the center of the world!

A country known for its welcoming attitude, intersectional cultures, and abundant natural wonders, Colombia offers a host of opportunities to expand your worldview. Here, in the second most biodiverse country in the world, a vibrance for life is reflected in its people, history, and environment. Colombia’s diverse lifestyle is influenced by its indigenous, African, and European heritage. Venture off the tourist track to experience a view of the culture through the eyes of a host family in the mountains of Popayán. You and other students will explore dynamic culture, starting with the ornate churches, colorful markets, and fascinating archeological sites of Popayán! You will also have the chance to venture into lush natural landscapes and take part in activities like horseback riding and hiking. By living with a local host family, you will truly become a part of Colombian daily life as you share conversations and cultural insights around the dinner table. Round out your cultural experience with fun activities like dance lessons, nature walks, and city bike tours. You might even spot a condor – a gigantic bird native to the Andes Mountains – soaring overhead!

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally—from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 147,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back—it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

IMA Safaris Africa and South America, an initiative of International Medical Aid, offers student travel programs, treks, and educational tours across Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Peru, Ecuador and beyond. Blending learning with adventure, these experiences build cross-cultural competency and a global perspective while encouraging meaningful engagement with local communities. In Africa, highlights include the Masai Mara, Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, Victoria Falls, and Watamu Marine Park. In South America, signature experiences include the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu Trek, Rainbow Mountain, the Sacred Valley, and other Andean cultural and outdoor excursions that highlight natural beauty and regional history. Many programs are offered in collaboration with colleges and universities and are often led by faculty, creating a structured, supportive learning environment. Participants benefit from 24/7 US-based and in-country support, plus comprehensive accident and travel medical insurance—ensuring a safe, ethical, and memorable experience that supports personal growth, strengthens your resume, and inspires a lasting commitment to global citizenship.

Join Maximo Nivel work-study-travel programs in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru. We have been a leading educational travel and study abroad provider since 2003. - Volunteer Abroad - International Internships - TEFL Certification & Paid Teaching work - Native Spanish Program - and more... Volunteer abroad and get involved! Volunteer projects include Working with Kids, Construction, Animal Care, Conservation, Eco-Agriculture, Teaching English, and Medical and Healthcare placements. International internships provide excellent work experience abroad. Internship placements are available in Education, Special Education, Hospitality and Tourism, Human Rights, Micro-Business, and Medicine. TEFL Certification is your ticket to traveling and teaching anywhere in the world, and getting paid for it! Intensive teaching certification programs are available on-site in Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Peru or via our online TEFL program. Native Spanish Programs immerse you in the language and takes your skills to the next level. All Maximo Nivel Spanish programs emphasize oral communication and integrated skills development to truly help build your Spanish language proficiency.

Embark on a 30-day adventure through Ecuador, combining culture, adventure, and meaningful volunteering. You’ll start in Quito, exploring its historic streets and vibrant atmosphere before heading to the Andes to marvel at breathtaking landscapes like Cotopaxi Volcano and Quilotoa Crater. Along the way, you’ll learn Spanish, dance salsa, and enjoy thrilling activities such as mountain biking and zip-lining in Baños. In Puyo, you’ll make a difference by volunteering at an Amazon rescue center and caring for wildlife. Finally, unwind on the coast in Montañita with yoga, surfing, and beachside relaxation. This trip is your chance to connect with Ecuador’s beauty, culture, and people in a small international group of travelers hosted by a local tour guide.

Dive into the vibrant life of Buenos Aires with Mente Argentina's diverse range of short programs designed to offer both adventure and learning. Whether you're passionate about dance, gastronomy, or the arts, our programs provide a unique window into the rich culture of Argentina, paired with optional Spanish lessons to enhance your experience. Why Choose Adventure Travel with Mente Argentina? Mente Argentina offers more than just travel; we provide experiences that engage and educate. Each of our programs is designed to offer a deep dive into a specific aspect of Argentine culture, facilitated by experts and locals. Combined with the option to learn Spanish, these programs allow you to fully engage with the community and gain a profound understanding of the local lifestyle. Embrace the spirit of adventure in Buenos Aires with Mente Argentina, where every program promises not only learning and fun but also an authentic connection to this dynamic city.

Seamester is the educational adventure of a lifetime! For more than 40 years, we have offered unparalleled educational voyages where students spend a semester at sea sailing between islands, countries, and even continents. We design our programs to provide engaging learning experiences with real outcomes in ways that are impossible to replicate in the traditional classroom. Living as part of a close-knit team on an ocean-going vessel, our students learn fundamental lessons beyond academics: teamwork, leadership, and personal responsibility. They receive academic credit from the University of South Florida, along with PADI scuba certifications and IYT sailing certifications. Our programs are designed to inspire students to realize that it’s the journey, not the destination, that matters the most.

Based in El Chaltén for 12 weeks, participants will embrace the endless glaciers within Los Glaciares National Park and the towering peaks, including Fitz Roy, while advancing their hiking and rock climbing skills. With a unique structure of alternating weeks between rock climbing and hiking and a comprehensive outdoor first aid course, this program offers a well-rounded adventure travel and outdoor education experience. Expert in-country IFMGA program instructors will guide you as you travel through remote landscapes in Patagonia and navigate new challenges. Experience amazing rock climbing routes and world-famous hiking trails while participating in cultural activities like horse riding and traditional Argentine BBQs. Enjoy a small group tour in Patagonia with highly skilled local guides.

On the Ecuador: Galapagos & Andean Service Adventure program, immerse yourself in a meaningful homestay with local families on mainland Ecuador. Participate in impactful community service and cultural exchange. Work alongside community members, as well as visiting and learning from an indigenous community. Then, explore the biodiverse and historic Galapagos Island. Snorkel with penguins, sea lions, marine iguanas, and colorful tropical fish. Learn about the conservation efforts of a unique ecosystem! Hike one of the largest volcanic craters on earth at Isabella Island. Visit and interact with a giant tortoise breeding center. Traveling to Ecuador is truly the adventure of a lifetime!

Stand in the shadows of the majestic Andes mountains, connect with warm-hearted indigenous peoples and their culture, and take a selfie with a llama! Peru offers the opportunity to trek majestic trails, explore ancient ruins, visit rural villages, and engage in meaningful community service and genuine connection with the locals. Sacred Valley Service – Step into the past and marvel at the breathtaking landscapes and architectural wonders of Machu Picchu. Plus, engage in service projects that contribute to the well-being of local communities in the Sacred Valley. The Andes to Amazon – From Machu Picchu to the Amazon Rainforest, discover ancient civilizations, connect with the locals in small mountain communities, and give a helping hand to service projects that will benefit rural areas long-term. Andes to Amazon College Program – This is the college version of Andes to Amazon, open to students ages 88-22.

Travel to the southern tip of South America and experience the rugged beauty of Patagonia on this winter exploration program. Begin in vibrant Buenos Aires, discovering local neighborhoods, music, and cuisine before flying south into snow-covered wilderness. Trek through silent forests, snowshoe across frozen terrain, and witness massive glaciers spilling from remote mountain peaks. Hike beneath the iconic summits of Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre, and finish your adventure skiing and snowboarding at Cerro Castor, the world’s southernmost ski resort. Along the way, connect deeply with Patagonia’s dramatic landscapes and seasonal rhythms.

Embark on a transformative 19-day service-learning program in Ecuador, where we delve into the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon and the unique ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands. Our adventure kicks off with hands-on conservation efforts, including participating in an Amazonian reforestation project aimed at restoring critical habitats. We’ll gain firsthand experience in wildlife rescue, collaborating with local NGOs to rehabilitate endangered species and contribute to vital environmental initiatives. As we explore the lush landscapes, we’ll whitewater raft down the Río Napo and zipline through the Mindo Cloud Forest, soaking in the natural beauty around us. Our time in the Galápagos will be extraordinary, as we snorkel alongside sea lions and other marine life, while engaging in essential land rehabilitation projects to combat invasive species and preserve native flora. With 25 hours of community service dedicated to protecting Ecuador’s ecosystems, we will develop practical conservation skills and cultivate a deeper appreciation for biodiversity. Join us for this unforgettable journey filled with adventure, learning, and meaningful contributions to the environment!

This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language skills, GoBeyond will immerse you in a new culture where you can make a meaningful difference while on the journey of a lifetime. Our high school community service summer programs proudly serve in many under-resourced communities and environments throughout the world. Explore our journeys in the British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, Galapagos & Ecuador, Peru, Iceland, Spain, China, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, and Australia. Beyond experiencing the adventure of a lifetime and creating lasting memories, we believe our community service summer trips enable lasting positive change in the world. For over forty years, we’ve been transforming communities, environments, and students’ lives through meaningful, collaborative adventures and service that develop skills and a more sophisticated worldly outlook—ultimately shaping the person you become.

Peru Service is one of our most spectacular trips for teens finishing grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. It offers the opportunity to perform meaningful service helping the local communities of Misminay and Urubamba while exploring the most iconic sites of this South American gem! Your rewarding days of service will be spent on projects ranging from aiding in construction projects and farming to teaching English as a second language. The rest of your time will be nothing short of transformative as you experience the unique atmosphere of the Sacred Valley. Drink in the mountain culture of Cusco as you see the mix of Inca and Colonial architecture around the Plaza de Armas and the temple of Coricancha. You will also peruse vibrant handicraft markets and marvel at the mesmerizing Inca city of Machu Picchu. Service, culture, incredible sights, and adventure. What more could you ask for in a Peruvian summer?

Track a tapir and Andean bears in a cloud forest. Study primates and rainforest ecology in the Amazon. Then get ready to explore the Galápagos, one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world, on this 20-day adventure for high school students 16 and up. Tropical ecosystems exhibit an amazing degree of biodiversity and species richness, and this program brings you into the heart of it all - the Andes Mountains, the Amazon Rainforest, and the Galápagos Islands. Conduct biological surveys while you track Andean mountain bears, jaguars, and the elusive tapir. Head into a remote part of the Amazon jungle where the world's most biodiverse region is right at your fingertips. Snorkel and explore the pristine islands of the Galápagos Archipelago, home to the widest array of flora and fauna on the planet. We are offering two sessions for 2026 (while space lasts): June 22 - July 11, 2026 July 13 - August 1, 2026

Join this hands-on internship and help low-income Indigenous communities access clean drinking water through education and infrastructure projects. THE CHALLENGE Safe drinking water is a human right, yet nearby communities face contamination, deforestation, and poor storage and filtration. Many rely on open streams carrying soil and chemicals from uphill farming. With no filtration and little storage, gastrointestinal issues are common, and water shut-offs occur during summer or pipe breaks. THE SOLUTION Addressing this water crisis requires a comprehensive approach—from public health initiatives to domestic filtration, reforestation, and infrastructure improvements. With the guidance of our experienced team, you’ll engage with the local community to identify and implement sustainable solutions that ensure long-term access to clean, secure drinking water. OUR METHODOLOGY Our internships use Design Thinking to co-create solutions with local partners. You’ll learn to observe, ideate, and prototype in real contexts, building skills while driving sustainable change. On weekends—or before and after your stay—you can explore Ecuador, from the Amazon to the Galápagos.

At Projects Abroad, we’re passionate about travel with a purpose. Since being founded in 1992, more than 130,000 volunteers have traveled to over 20 destinations around the world. Our programs will make you step out of your comfort zone and engage with your new friends from around the world. These are long-term projects, led by local people and aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. By taking part in our programs, even for a short time, you will be contributing towards a sustained effort to support the communities that host us! We believe no other provider offers the safety and security to their volunteers and interns that we do. You'll receive 24-hour staff support from our trained staff, alongside a gold standard of safety planning of your trip - so you don't have to worry about a thing. Choose a project you are passionate about from working with children to medical internship, conservation, and wildlife volunteering. We offer projects starting at one week in over 20 stunning destinations across Asia, Africa, Latin America & The Caribbean, South Pacific & Europe. Ready to make a difference? Follow the link to visit our website!

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

Explore the richness of Lima, the colors of Cusco, and the exotic heights of Machu Picchu! Join us for a Peruvian journey like no other! Follow the history of the Inca starting in Lima, the modern-day capital of Peru, and culminating at the heights of majestic Machu Picchu. This program includes community service while in Lima, where you’ll explore the historic center and the pre-Hispanic ceremonial sites of the Inca. Boat to the islands off the striking Pacific coast and travel to the desert oasis of Huacachina. Visit the mysterious Nazca Lines and then head to magical Cusco. This program includes the flight from Lima to Cusco, the former capital of the powerful Inca Empire. Delight in the archaeological feats and with Inca ruins, the stunning sacred valley and charming colonial architecture. Our journey will take us to the heights of Machu Picchu and the Peruvian Andes.