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Yanapuma's Cultural
Exchange programs offer "volontourism" or "proto-tourism," the
opportunity to visit developing communities as a volunteer/guest for a
week or more and engage in activities with members of the community
(includes limited guide services), see the attractions, and help as
appropriate. But mainly you wil be there to encourage the development of their new community-run tourism
project and to offer opportunities for cultural exchange.
Visitors on this program will have the opportunity to experience life in
an indigenous community, off the beaten tourist path. You will live with
a community for at least one week or more, sharing in the daily life of
the community in various ways, receiving some guidance to explore the
local attractions, and learning about their culture, history, beliefs,
and relationship to the environment. You will have options to contribute
as a volunteer, but these are not seen primarily as volunteer
placements. Rather, your presence in the community acts as encouragement
to their developing tourism project, and offers them the opportunity to
learn about other cultures and the needs and preferences of foreigners.
Thus, this program is about cultural exchange and mutual learning and
sharing. It is ideal for individuals, small groups or families wishing
to experience and learn about the reality of a way of life that is under
threat.
The program has a set price, and a list of extra
options and costs is posted on our website (eg rent horses or extended
guided hikes) and will be available in brochure format both in our offices and in each of the communities in which we offer the Cultural Exchange program. Thus, you can either enjoy just the basic program, or you can choose additonal activities at extra cost.
Departure
dates and length of stay are flexible, and there are a range of
communities and cultures to visit. This option will also suit older
individuals and families with younger children. At least basic Spanish
will be necessary, and it will be possible to arrange for either an interpreter, or teacher to
accompany visitors to the community to give classes.
Cost per
week: $150.00.
Visitors
will be responsible for their own transport which varies from $4 - 20
each way depending on the distance to the community and the modes of
transport needed.
List of Cultural Exchange Options
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