Puerto Rico 2-Week
Cultural Exchange & Service Adventure
Itinerary
Days 1-6: Cerro Gordo and Villa del Rio Community
During the first week of our adventure we will be staying in a homey ‘camp-like’ lodge just blocks from the gorgeous beaches of Cerro Gordo. After a day of orientation, we'll be ready to dig into our work at the nearby community of 'Villa.' This close-knit village is comprised of relocated families that are building their homes and are thrilled to have students come join them in work and play. Most mornings and afternoons we'll spend fixing up homes, working on education projects with local kids, and sharing home cooked meals and laughs with community members. In the late afternoon and evenings we'll enjoy group activities such as relaxing at local beaches, enjoying a Puerto Rican beach barbeque, hosting a pool party with local families, and participating in various cross-cultural activities. On our final day we will take a day excursion to the Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park and enjoy the most extensive and reputable zip line tour in Puerto Rico.
Days 7-11: Patillas and El Yunque Rainforest
The next segment of our adventure will be spent at an eco-lodge located just outside the quaint town of Patillas in the southeastern region of the island. This amazing group lodging facility is located among acres of rainforest and is only minutes away from the beaches of the Caribbean. Our group will continue to work on housing projects as well as environmental projects in El Yunque Rainforest. Learn about the ecology of the rainforest and swim in hidden waterfalls. Evening activities include salsa dance lessons with live musicians and a jewelry making workshop led by local artisans.
Days 12-15: Luquillo Beach and Old San Juan
Next we will travel to the northeast corner of the island and find out why this is the Caribbean's hotspot for beautiful beaches and a laid-back vibe. As a reward for all our hard work, we'll spend the last few days at a lovely guesthouse right near the beach. We'll have the opportunity to spend a few mornings boogie-boarding or challenging ourselves with surf lessons taught by professional surf instructors. The wave conditions in Luquillo provide the perfect opportunity for all levels to hang ten! One afternoon we'll enjoy a guided catamaran excursion to the beautiful and desolate Icacos islands. On the last day of our trip we'll head into Old San Juan where we'll visit the historic fortresses and artisan markets. In the evening we will bring our action packed journey to a close, sharing our experiences and memories at a heartfelt farewell dinner.