Peru 2026

When our Peru Crew departed Australia, they set off on far more than an overseas trip. Over 15 unforgettable days, 24 Wangaratta High School students and staff embarked on a life-changing journey of service, cultural immersion and personal growth, experiencing the breathtaking landscapes of Peru while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

After months of planning, fundraising and preparation, the group travelled from Melbourne through Chile before arriving in Lima. Their first days were spent exploring Peru's vibrant capital, including Plaza Mayor and the famous San Francisco Catacombs, while beginning to appreciate the country's rich history, culture and traditions.

One of their earliest and most memorable experiences came in the Villa Maria community, where students were warmly welcomed by local families. They learnt about the community's resilience following the devastating 2020 fire, shared a traditional meal and enjoyed games of soccer and volleyball with local residents. Despite language barriers, genuine friendships quickly formed, reminding everyone that kindness and connection transcend words.

The adventure then took the group to one of the world's most iconic destinations – Machu Picchu. After travelling through the spectacular Sacred Valley by panoramic train, students explored the ancient Inca citadel surrounded by the towering Andes Mountains. Guided through the remarkable site, they discovered not only the incredible engineering and history of the Incas, but also reflected on lessons of leadership, resilience, community and legacy. A relaxing visit to the local hot springs afterwards gave everyone time to reflect on what many described as one of the highlights of the entire journey.

From the mountains, the crew ventured deep into the Amazon rainforest, where another unforgettable chapter unfolded. Travelling by boat along the Tambopata River, students encountered giant river otters, capybaras, caimans, toucans, macaws and howler monkeys, climbed above the rainforest canopy, participated in Indigenous Ese Eja storytelling, explored the jungle by night and learnt about traditional ethnobotany from local Elders. They also visited the Infierno Community, where cultural performances and hands-on workshops provided a deeper understanding of Indigenous traditions and the importance of protecting both culture and country.

Perhaps the most powerful experience came in the remote Andean community of Ccorccor. Welcomed with music, dancing and open arms, students lived alongside local families, sharing meals, planting potatoes, making adobe bricks, learning traditional weaving techniques and experiencing a way of life centred on gratitude, generosity and community. It was here that many students discovered that the greatest lessons were not taught in classrooms, but through shared experiences, mutual respect and human connection.

The heart of the journey was service. Working alongside local families in the earthquake-affected coastal region of Chincha, students helped construct two homes for Lisseth and Majory and their families. The project challenged students physically and emotionally while reinforcing the values of teamwork, compassion and giving back. Watching the homes take shape was an incredibly rewarding experience and one that left a lasting impact on everyone involved.

Throughout the expedition, students recorded their experiences in their X-Factor-Ed journals, reflecting on the challenges they faced, the friendships they built and the new perspectives they gained. Before leaving Peru, each student also wrote a gratitude letter to someone who had helped make the experience possible, providing a fitting conclusion to a journey built on service, generosity and appreciation.

This remarkable experience would not have been possible without the support of our dedicated staff, families, sponsors, the wider Wangaratta community, our Peru expedition team and the many wonderful people throughout Peru who welcomed our students so warmly.

As one student reflected after handing over the completed homes:

"I will never complain about not having something... ever again."

We are incredibly proud of every member of our Peru Crew. They embraced every challenge, represented Wangaratta High School with humility, courage and compassion, and returned home with memories and life lessons that will stay with them forever.

Student Reflections

Rosie

Being in Peru with my school has been one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Every day has brought something new, from exploring ancient history and learning local traditions to seeing breathtaking landscapes. It has been an amazing experience; a culture so different from my own. One of the highlights from the trip was learning about Peruvian culture. We explored ancient sites like Machu Picchu, tasted delicious local food, and discovered traditions that go back for many generations. Another unforgettable part of the trip was seeing Peru's amazing wildlife. We spotted alpacas and llamas in the mountains, colourful macaws soaring by and even a whole family of howler monkeys! Peru is home to such an incredible variety of wildlife, and it is such a privilege to have experienced it with my friends.

Mia

Peru has been a dream. If you were to ask me to visualize the things I would be experiencing, I would be at a total loss. If I had any expectations, they would be completely surpassed from the moment I arrived. I've enjoyed connecting with people on this trip and also from the communities that we have visited and stayed with. My favourite moments were dancing with the community in Ccorccor and the Infierno community, celebrating my birthday, and these last few nights in the jungle. I've really enjoyed the solitude of the night in the jungle, listening to the sounds around me. This whole trip has been an unforgettable experience and I have LOVED every moment of it.

Andrew

Harry's resort is amazing. The rooms, restaurant and food are great. There is also a great pool.

Thomas

Peru has been one of the best places I've been to! The culture is amazing, and it was so special to live with a family who doesn't have as much as we do. My top three favourite things were dancing with the community we stayed with, visiting Machu Picchu and exploring the Amazon jungle. The sunrise from the tower was a huge highlight, and one of the best moments was when our group leader put on some Aussie music during a bus trip to keep the good vibes going.