Peru has a variety of great Spanish-language programs in Lima, Huaraz, Cusco, Urubamba, Arequipa, Huancayo, and Puerto Maldonado. These programs offer either private instruction for US$7–15 per hour or much cheaper group classes that last between a week and a month.

Many of these programs will also set up homestays, hikes, classes, and other activities. The schools vary in quality, so we recommend asking the school for email addresses of former students in order to contact them. Many of the schools also engage in volunteer projects, which is a great way to immerse into Spanish. When choosing a school, think carefully about what situation will provide the most immersion. We recommend a homestay where you will not be able to speak English and a city where there are few foreigners.

Council on International Educational Exchange (www.ciee.org) organizes study-abroad programs and has links to a variety of programs.

BSES Expeditions (U.K. tel. 0207/591-3141, www.bses.org.uk) runs annual science expeditions for British teenagers, though Americans also sign up. The trips usually include science “base camps” in unusual areas of Peru, along with trekking, rafting, and other adventure activities.