Spanish Immersion for families
Family Travel is an excellent opportunity to explore new destinations and immerse yourself in a new culture. If you want to learn Spanish with your children, why not combine your family travel plans with a Spanish language learning experience for the whole family and make a trip to Peru? There are many benefits to learning Spanish in Peru, and it’s an exciting and affordable destination for families with kids of all ages. Let’s explore the option of a Spanish Immersion for families!
There are many advantages of learning Spanish in Peru as a family. Are you ready for a language trip adventure? Here are recommendations for families planning a trip to this South American gem. You can book a Spanish course for the family (as a group), a Spanish course for kids, and a Spanish course for teens while the adult attends the standard Spanish group classes for adults.
Why Learn Spanish in Peru?
There are several compelling reasons why learning Spanish in Peru is an excellent choice for families, and Cusco is a great choice. Of course, you can study in Lima too, but Cusco is perfect for family travel: the city is small, there is much to do, and it is easy to explore and move around. You quickly contact and talk to the friendly locals, and last but not least: there is the Sacred Valley, and there is Machu Picchu!
AMAUTA Spanish School in Cusco offers a Spanish for families course combined with leisure-time activities to provide total immersion in the Peruvian language and culture. The Family Program is a tailor-made course for families with fixed and flexible starting dates (Spanish for Kids, Spanish for Teens). This is perfect if you want to learn Spanish in Peru or Latin America while spending quality time together.
Reasons for Spanish Immersion with the family in Peru
- Cultural Immersion: Peru is a country with a rich and diverse culture that spans thousands of years. From the ancient Incan ruins of Machu Picchu to the picturesque streets of Cusco, there’s no shortage of opportunities to explore and learn about Peru’s unique history and traditions. By studying Spanish in Peru, your family will have the chance to immerse themselves in the local culture and gain a deeper understanding of the country and its people.
- Language Skills: Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, with over 580 million people worldwide speaking it. Learning Spanish in Peru is an excellent opportunity for your children to develop their language skills and gain confidence in speaking a foreign language. Moreover, learning a new language is a valuable skill that can benefit your kids in many areas of their lives. And what is the best way for a family to learn Spanish? A Spanish immersion program in a country where the language is spoken is, without a doubt, the best way for your family to learn Spanish and make great memories.
- Career Opportunities: In today’s global economy, being bilingual is a valuable asset that can open doors to many career opportunities. By learning Spanish in Peru, your children will be better equipped to communicate with Spanish-speaking colleagues and clients, which can be a significant advantage in many fields.
- Adventure and Fun: Peru is an exciting and adventurous destination that offers something for everyone. From hiking the Inca Trail to sampling delicious Peruvian cuisine, there’s no shortage of fun activities for families to enjoy. By combining a language learning experience with a trip to Peru, your family will have the opportunity to create lasting memories and bond over shared experiences.
- Are you on a workcation, or are you a digital nomad, do your partner and kids have free time while you are working? Cusco is an excellent place for digital nomads and remote work. Plan your workcation in Cusco while your partner and/or kids are learning Spanish in Cusco!
Is Peru a Safe Destination for Families?
Safety is one of the biggest concerns for families considering a trip to Peru. Is it safe to travel to Peru? While it’s true that Peru, like any other destination, has its share of risks and social unrest in January 2023, Peru is generally a safe and welcoming destination for travelers of all ages.
In recent years, Peru has significantly improved its infrastructure and safety measures, particularly in popular tourist destinations like Cusco and Lima. Moreover, the Peruvian government has implemented several measures to promote tourism and ensure the safety of visitors, such as increased police presence in tourist areas and establishing a tourist police force.
While exercising caution when traveling is always important, there’s no reason to believe that Peru is any less safe than other popular tourist destinations. Your family can enjoy a safe and memorable trip to Peru with proper planning and preparation.
Spanish Course for Kids and Teens
While it is possible to study as a family in one group with one teacher, we only recommend this option if everyone has the same level of Spanish and the same interests and learning goals. In this case, the teaching will be targeted at children’s way of learning, and parents are encouraged to participate actively in the lessons. However, to obtain the best results from the Spanish Immersion for families, we recommend the following setup in Cusco:
- Parents: Parents are in their own Spanish group class and placed according to their level.
- Teens (12-17yo): Teens are placed together in the same class, according to their level of Spanish. If no other students are at their level, they receive private lessons (reducing the total number of hours), or they can study in an adult class (or kids class, depending on the age)
- Children (5-11yo): Children have their own classes with an age-appropriate curriculum. Our teachers have experience with children and include fun activities like games, songs, painting, roleplays, and practice on the streets with the locals.
- Babies – Toddlers (0-4 yrs): If you travel with a small one, we will try to help you organize a nanny service if you want. The nanny will take care of the kids, play with them and do activities emphasizing Spanish vocabulary- all while the older siblings are in class.
Spanish Immersion for families is perfect for families with primary school-age children and teens! And if you want to start learning Spanish before arrival, we also offer fun online Spanish lessons (group or private Spanish classes for children and yourself). The Spanish Family courses are dynamic, interactive, and imaginative, emphasizing spoken communication. Lessons aim to develop the main aspects of the target language and improve general language skills in a relaxed and pleasant setting.
The Spanish lessons for kids and teens in Cusco include classroom lessons and many activities in and outside the school building such as games, painting, music, visit to the shop, to the market, preparation of a Peruvian dessert or salad, visit to the chocolate museum, and many other fun activities. Read more: Spanish for kids Course page.
Tips for Traveling to Peru with Children
Spanish immersion for families
AMAUTA’s Spanish immersion for families offers the opportunity to learn a new skill and share the experience of a Spanish language immersion program in Peru. Spanish immersion for families is perfect if you and your family like to combine holidaying, and family travel with the experience of learning a new language. The Spanish classes are designed so that you can take your Spanish lessons at the same time as your children, in nearby classrooms, or even in the same classroom if you like to study as one group with one teacher. Or, whilst your child is in class, you enjoy some time to yourself, or you work in Cusco.
Of course, we also offer additional cultural activities for children and teenagers to get involved in after class. Not only does this aid in language development and improve cultural awareness, but it also allows children to socialize with students from all over the world! Parents are welcome to join their children in the activity program or spend the afternoon exploring independently.
Here are some tips to help you plan a safe and enjoyable trip to Peru with your family:
Research Your Destination:
Before traveling to Peru, research your destination and speak with your travel agent or Spanish School for up-to-date information.
Book your tours
Some tours need to be booked in advance, like, e.g., a tour to Machu Picchu. Machu Picchu tickets can be sold out a few weeks in advance, and also train tickets to Machu Picchu need to be booked on time. We are happy to help!
Pack Appropriately:
When packing for your trip, make sure to include appropriate clothing and gear for the activities you have planned. Be sure to pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.
Stay in Safe Areas:
When choosing your accommodations, opt for reputable hotels in safe areas. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in areas that are unfamiliar or poorly lit. Feel free to ask our advice when you are considering an Airbnb rental to make sure it’s at a good location. Of course, you can also opt for living with a local guest family for a full cultural immersion. We are happy to arrange accommodation for the whole family! With plenty of options to choose between, we are sure to find something that suits your family’s requirements.
Use Reliable Transportation:
When traveling around Peru, use reliable transportation options: licensed taxis and reputable tour operators. Avoid using unmarked or unofficial taxis, particularly at night.
Be Prepared for Altitude:
Cusco is located at 3400 above sea level. Be prepared for altitude sickness by drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcohol, and taking it easy for the first few days of your trip. Read about altitude sickness: how to combat altitude sickness.
Embrace the Peruvian Culture:
Peru is a country with a rich and diverse culture, and embracing it can make for a more meaningful and enjoyable trip. Learn a few key phrases in Spanish, try the local cuisine, and participate in cultural activities like dance or music performances.
Take Advantage of Tourist Services:
Peru has a robust tourism industry, and the Spanish school runs a travel agency within the building! There are many services available to help make your trip safe and enjoyable, with reputable tour guides and reputable tour operators. We are happy to help you and organize your trips through our reputable in-house tour operator Dos Manos Peru Travel.
If you are planning a trip through different parts of Peru after your Spanish immersion in Cusco, we recommend you read this article about family travel in Peru, with many suggestions about what to do in Peru with kids for of travel tips for families.
Why Cusco is a Great Destination for Families
Cusco is one of Peru’s most popular tourist destinations, and for a good reason. This ancient Incan capital has many historical sites, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine. Moreover, Cusco is a safe and family-friendly destination with plenty of opportunities for exciting tours and activities. A few of the top attractions and activities to enjoy in Cusco with your family:
- Machu Picchu: This ancient Incan city is one of the most iconic destinations in the world, and it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Peru. Many tour operators offer family-friendly tours to Machu Picchu, including options for hiking or taking the train. Reading tip: Visit Machu Picchu with Kids.
- Chocolate Museum: If your family loves chocolate, visit the ChocoMuseum in Cusco. This museum offers interactive exhibits on the history and production of chocolate and workshops where you can make your own chocolate.
- Sacred Valley: The Sacred Valley is a beautiful place to spend time and enjoy the nice weather and the outdoors while you relax in the former spiritual base of the Incas. Enjoy the beautiful villages of Pisac, Calca, Urubamba, and Ollantaytambo and meet the friendly descendants of the Incas.
- Sacsayhuaman: This ancient Incan fortress is outside Cusco and offers stunning city views. It’s a great place to explore with kids, as plenty of open spaces exist to run and play.
- Plaza de Armas & San Blas: This central square in Cusco is a hub of activity and a great place to people-watch. There are often live music, dance performances, and plenty of vendors selling local crafts and souvenirs. San Blas is Cusco’s bohemian neighborhood next to the Plaza de Armas. You will find many lovely hostels, cafes, souvenir shops, restaurants, and more here. You can find AMAUTA Spanish School in the heart of San Blas, at a stone’s throw from the Plazoleta San Blas.
- Outdoor: depending on the age of your kids, you can explore Cusco and its surroundings in many ways: hiking, biking, river rafting, quad biking, paragliding, horseback riding, and more!
Are you ready for your Spanish Immersion for Families?
Traveling to Peru with your family and learning Spanish is a fantastic way to create lasting memories and immerse yourselves in a rich and diverse Peruvian culture. As with every family travel, with some planning and preparation, your Spanish immersion trip to Peru will be safe, enjoyable, and educational. From the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu to the vibrant streets of Cusco, there’s no shortage of adventure and fun in this South American gem.
Feel free to contact us and ask for advice to plan a Spanish Immersion for families.
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